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It’s Pupusas And Boozy Horchata At This New Nedlands Spot
This new Nedlands eatery is serving up Latin American comfort food that hits the spot — pupusas, empanadas, tacos and a horchata cocktail moment.
You’ve heard of tacos. You’ve heard of empanadas. But have you tried a pupusa? If not, you’re about to ’cause Nedlands is getting a serious Latin American flavour fix with the arrival of Masa Mesa, opening Friday 13th February.
The new eatery is the long-time dream of Chef Erick Martinez (ex-Tiny’s, Duende, Andaluz Bar & Tapas and, most recently, private members’ club Lawson Flats) and his wife Lara, bringing together Erick’s El Salvadoran roots and Lara’s Argentinian heritage in a comforting menu and relaxed space both built for sharing.
Pupusas are the star of the show — golden griddled mesa (corn) tortillas stuffed with fillings like cheese and pork, or spinach and black beans, served with a tangy slaw and fresh salsa. You’ll also find empanadas, tacos, smoky asado-style meats cooked over a traditional Argentinian parrilla grill, plus churros and alfajores for dessert. Each dish is rooted in nostalgia, passion and heart.
“We were inspired by our childhood memories of rich, home-cooked food,” says Erick. “But we decided to go a step further by encompassing broader Latin American influences through Masa Mesa.”
“It can be tricky to track down these incredible but lesser-known dishes in Perth,” he explained. “We feel excited to share a taste of Latino culture with the community.”
“Our family’s heart and soul has gone into creating every element, down to engaging with local producers to source premium ingredients and fine-tuning recipes until they are perfectly balanced.”
The drinks list leans just as much into Erick and Lara’s Latin American heritage, with housemade horchata, agua fresca and Latin-inspired cocktails (including a boozy horchata number co-created with the team behind Spirit of Little Things).
“Horchata is originally from Spain, but in El Salvador they use a particular spice called Morro seed which gives it its own unique flavour,” explains Erick. “Toasted rice and ground spices are mixed with milk and paired beautifully with rum.”
Masa Mesa officially opens for lunch and dinner from Friday 13th February, just in time for a Valentine’s Day dinner.
45 Hampden Rd, Nedlands
