Cartel Taco

Cartel Taco, a stunning waterfront restaurant in Belconnen, came to life with the bold and lively essence of Mexico, brought to reality by Total Fitouts Canberra North through their commercial hospitality fitout. Designed to offer a vibrant yet relaxing atmosphere, the venue seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor dining areas, providing a memorable experience for guests. The restaurant’s concept was to create an inviting space that captures the fun and festive spirit of Mexico, making it a go-to destination for lovers of authentic Mexican cuisine.

The commercial hospitality fitout project was a transformation from an existing hospitality space into a modern, culturally rich venue that stands out. The challenge was to ensure that every element of the commercial design worked together harmoniously while also being highly functional for staff and guests. Through meticulous planning and expert craftsmanship, Total Fitouts Canberra North delivered a space that exudes warmth, vibrancy, and an unmistakable Mexican charm.

Capturing the Essence of Mexico

From the moment diners step inside, they are immersed in a visually dynamic space that celebrates Mexican culture. A striking rope installation on the ceiling adds texture and depth while paying homage to traditional craftsmanship. This commercial design element not only enhances the interior aesthetics but also provides a unique focal point, drawing the eyes upward and creating an intimate yet open atmosphere.

Complementing this, Mexican LED skulls are strategically placed throughout the space, reinforcing the lively and playful aesthetic. These illuminated skulls contribute to the restaurant’s branding, adding a touch of authenticity and a modern twist to the traditional Día de los Muertos motifs. Their placement ensures that the theme remains consistent and engaging for guests as they explore different areas of the venue.

The bathrooms continue the immersive experience with bold wallpaper featuring Mexican flowers and skulls, paired with vibrant orange KitKat tiling that enhances the dynamic energy of the venue. This attention to detail extends beyond the main dining area, ensuring that every aspect of the commercial hospitality fitout remains cohesive. A large Mexican tile graphic near the staircase serves as a stunning visual centrepiece, connecting the different areas of the restaurant. The staircase itself mirrors the bathroom wallpaper, illuminated by LED strip lighting for a cohesive and engaging ambience. This lighting adds depth and highlights the intricate patterns, making every visit an experience to remember.

Scope of the Fitout

The commercial hospitality fitout for Cartel Taco was a comprehensive transformation, encompassing multiple key areas within the venue to create a cohesive and immersive dining experience. The inside dining area was commercially designed to balance comfort and atmosphere, featuring a mix of booth seating and communal tables to accommodate both small and large groups. Carefully curated lighting and decor enhance the space, ensuring a cozy yet energetic ambience that reflects the warmth and vibrancy of Mexican culture.

Extending the experience, the upstairs dining area maintains a seamless design flow with the main floor while offering guests a slightly more private and elevated perspective of the venue. Subtle accent lighting and strategically placed Mexican-inspired commercial design elements ensure that this space remains consistent with the restaurant’s overarching theme while providing an intimate dining setting.

Seamlessly integrating the indoors with the outdoors, the outdoor dining area takes full advantage of the restaurant’s prime waterfront location. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame picturesque views, while stylish bench seating and lush greenery installations create a relaxed, inviting setting. This commercial hospitality fitout becomes particularly popular in warmer months, providing an ideal environment for al fresco dining.

The bar area serves as a central focal point within the venue, constructed from stacked bricks with mini skull details, topped with a large wooden slab countertop that reinforces the rustic, handcrafted aesthetic. Finally, behind the scenes, the kitchen was meticulously reconfigured for efficiency and high-volume service, incorporating state-of-the-art appliances and an optimised workflow to support the restaurant’s bustling operations without compromising on quality.

A Warm & Earthy Colour Palette

The interior design of the commercial hospitality fitout draws heavily from the vibrant and rich heritage of Mexican culture, with warm, earthy tones setting the stage for an authentic and welcoming atmosphere. Terracotta walls, paired with accents of burnt orange, evoke the traditional hues found in Mexican architecture and design. These colours create a cozy, inviting environment that transports guests to a place where they can truly experience the essence of Mexico. The palette of warm tones not only provides a sense of warmth but also a sense of calm, making it the perfect backdrop for a leisurely dining experience.

Complementing the bold colour scheme, the design incorporates rustic, natural materials that add texture and comfort to the space. Wooden tables, with their organic grains and rich finishes, offer a touch of rustic elegance, while rattan seating brings a relaxed, earthy charm to the restaurant. These elements work harmoniously together, creating a space that feels both dynamic and comfortable. The careful balance of colours and materials invites guests to unwind, making it a perfect setting for enjoying delicious Mexican cuisine in a relaxed yet energetic environment.

One of the standout features is the open-style bar area. This intricate detailing enhances the Mexican theme, making the bar a key focal point of the restaurant. The large wooden slab countertop serves as a striking visual feature while providing a functional space for bartenders to create signature cocktails. This commercial design choice reinforces the restaurant’s identity and adds to the overall ambience, making the bar a popular gathering spot for patrons.

Functional & Immersive Hospitality Design

The commercial hospitality fitout balances cultural authenticity with modern hospitality needs, ensuring that the space is both visually striking and highly functional. The versatile layout features a mix of seating options, accommodating both casual diners and larger groups while maintaining a smooth flow throughout the venue.

The open-plan commercial design ensures easy movement, creating a comfortable and efficient dining experience for both guests and staff. Additionally, every design element has been carefully curated to provide Instagrammable moments, from the bold wallpaper to the intricately designed bar, making Cartel Taco a visually engaging space that guests will want to share and revisit.

Total Fitouts Canberra North has successfully transformed Cartel Taco into a must-visit destination. With its vibrant aesthetic, seamless indoor-outdoor flow, and expert craftsmanship, this commercial restaurant fitout is more than just a place to dine—it’s an immersive cultural experience where guests can enjoy delicious tacos in a space that truly feels like a fiesta.

Looking to bring your commercial hospitality fitout space to life? Inquire with us today.