Hello José

Hello José is a vibrant celebration of Mexican food in North Melbourne that’s all about tacos, margaritas, and a whole lot of heart.

The story behind this beloved taqueria starts with Andrew Wilson and his friend Scott. With no formal hospitality experience - simply a love for Mexican cuisine - they took a huge leap of faith to open their bar and restaurant in 2015.

Andrew became passionate about Mexican food when a friend gifted him a tortilla press, masa flour and a Mexican cookbook. At the time, Andrew was working in sports marketing, never imagining his cooking hobby would turn into a business.

But as he honed his taco-making skills, he realised he had something special.

“Scott and I didn’t have a business plan. We just had a vague idea and a lot of passion,” Andrew admits with a laugh. With a shoestring budget, they decorated the small bar and beer garden of a site across from the Queen Victoria Market. “We wanted to channel the vibrant energy of Mexico City’s street art, and at night the fairy lights in the courtyard look magical.”

The colourful space was packed from the start, offering authentic Mexican flavours at a time when Mexican restaurants were just beginning to flourish in Melbourne.

Word spread about the amazing tacos. “You won’t find any pre-packaged tortillas here. The hand-pressed tortillas are the heart of what we do,” Andrew explains. “It’s a lot of work, but our fresh, soft tortillas with their warm corn flavour are one of the reasons Hello José has such a loyal following.”
Another long term menu item is Tommy’s Margarita, the house margarita. “We replace the cointreau and triple sec with a bit of extra tequila and agave syrup. It’s a much smoother, slightly sweeter version of a classic margarita.”
Whether you’re grabbing the classic beef tacos or those mouthwatering chipotle chicken wings, every dish reflects Andrew’s love for food and his passion for sharing it with others. “Seeing someone take that first bite and smile, that’s what keeps me going,” Andrew laughs.
But Hello José isn’t just about the food – it’s also about community. “After nearly a decade, we’ve built a real connection with the locals and our regulars,” says Andrew. “People walk past and wave hello, and come in to enjoy a meal in a place that truly feels like home. Even our Mexican customers tell us so!”
"We’re not the fancy type of restaurant," Andrew smiles. “We’re simply about good food, good people, and having a good time.”

Words by Joyce Watts & Photography by Anna Encio