Paloma's

In the heart of Braddon, Paloma's brings a vibrant taste of Mexico to Lonsdale Street. This isn't just another bar; it's a lively destination where the spirit of a fiesta meets exceptional Mexican cuisine and handcrafted cocktails. As the name suggests, everything here revolves around the perfect blend—three parts grapefruit, one part tequila—an ethos that infuses the entire menu and atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a casual after-work happy hour, a memorable dinner with friends, or late-night revelry, Paloma's has carved out a unique niche in Canberra's dining scene.

From the moment you step inside, the energy is palpable. The decor is an eclectic mix of modern bar and traditional Mexican aesthetics, creating a warm and inviting space that's equally suited for a relaxed weeknight drink or a bustling weekend gathering. The semi-industrial feel of the Lonsdale Street location gives way to an interior filled with color, character, and the constant hum of good conversation. The restaurant's reputation is backed by a strong 4.8-star rating from over 280 Google Maps reviews, making it a standout choice for locals and visitors alike seeking an authentic yet contemporary Mexican experience.

Menu Highlights at Paloma's

The menu at Paloma's is a celebration of fresh, vibrant Mexican flavors, designed for sharing and exploring. Diners can expect a culinary journey that goes beyond standard fare, with dishes that consistently earn high praise from patrons. Based on customer feedback from Google Maps reviews, several standout dishes have become must-orders, defining the restaurant's culinary identity.

Signature Tacos and Tostadas

A cornerstone of the Paloma's experience, the tacos and tostadas are crafted with care and bold flavor combinations. The Rindfleisch-Tacos (beef tacos) are a frequent favorite, noted for their robust, savory fillings and perfectly balanced toppings. Equally popular are the Hühnchen-Tostadas (chicken tostadas), which offer a satisfying crunch and a lighter but equally flavorful alternative. These dishes embody the kitchen's commitment to fresh ingredients and authentic preparation techniques, making them a central part of any visit.

Fresh Seafood Specialties

Paloma's also excels in its seafood offerings, bringing a coastal Mexican influence to the capital. The Thunfisch-Ceviche (tuna ceviche) is frequently mentioned in reviews as a highlight, praised for its freshness and bright, citrusy marinade. Austern (oysters) are another staple, providing a simple yet elegant showcase of quality produce. Dishes like these demonstrate the kitchen's versatility and ability to deliver a refined dining experience alongside more casual street-food staples.

Award-Winning Margaritas & Happy Hour

The bar program is, without a doubt, the heartbeat of Paloma's. The Mango-Margarita, priced at $10 according to one reviewer, is a top-selling cocktail, celebrated for its lush, tropical flavor. The establishment runs a legendary Happy Hour from Tuesday to Friday, 4pm to 6pm, where guests can unwind with $14 Classic and Spicy Margaritas, or enjoy house wine and beer for just $7. This offering has cemented Paloma's as a premier destination for Canberra's after-work crowd. One reviewer from Google Maps succinctly captured the allure of the weekly event: "Sip on our signature Classic or Spicy Margaritas for just $14, or enjoy house wine and beer for only $7. Whether you're catching up with friends or kicking off your evening, Paloma's is the perfect spot for unbeatable drinks, vibrant vibes, and great value."

The Dining Experience at Paloma's

Paloma's has carefully curated an atmosphere that changes mood throughout the day and week. A meal here is meant to be a full sensory experience, from the plate to the playlist. The space is designed to be dynamic, transitioning seamlessly from a sunny lunch spot to an intimate dining setting and finally to a high-energy late-night bar.

Atmosphere and Vibe

The ambiance is consistently described by Google Maps reviewers as "wonderful" and vibrant. The presence of live music, as noted by a review from Sven Kösling, adds an extra layer of excitement, with one performance being called "unbeschreiblich toll" (indescribably great). The combination of great food, attentive service, and upbeat music creates a environment where people want to linger. It’s a place where the "vibes will have you coming back week after week," as the official website promises.

Service and Hospitality

Attentive and friendly service is a recurring theme in customer feedback. Reviewers on Google Maps specifically highlight the staff's warmth and helpfulness. One guest noted the "Mitarbeiterinnen waren sehr nett" (staff were very nice), contributing to a "wirklich schönes Erlebnis" (really nice experience). This commitment to good service complements the high-quality food and drinks, ensuring that every aspect of the visit is pleasurable.

Customer Reviews & Ratings on Google Maps

Paloma's holds an impressive 4.8-star rating on Google Maps, derived from 280 reviews. This exceptionally high score reflects a consistent pattern of customer satisfaction across food, drinks, service, and atmosphere. The reviews paint a picture of a business that consistently meets and exceeds expectations, with a few minor, actionable critiques.

A prominent theme in the reviews is the sheer deliciousness and quality of the food. Dishes like the chicken tostadas, beef tacos, and tuna ceviche are repeatedly singled out for praise. The drinks, particularly the value-driven Happy Hour margaritas, are another massive draw. Alexander, a Local Guide, commented on a Google Maps review: "Die Mango-Margarita für 10 Dollar war köstlich." (The mango margarita for $10 was delicious). The arrival of live music also generates significant positive buzz, creating memorable experiences for patrons.

While overwhelmingly positive, the reviews offer valuable constructive feedback. One reviewer offered a detailed critique regarding the presentation of their drink, noting: "Einziger Kritikpunkt: Die Limettenscheiben sind halbiert, sodass man sie kaum auspressen kann." (The only criticism: the lime slices are halved, so you can hardly squeeze them). This kind of specific, practical feedback demonstrates an engaged customer base and provides Paloma's with a clear path for small but meaningful improvements. Overall, the review consensus is that Paloma's is a top-tier destination for Mexican food and cocktails in Braddon.

Paloma's in Braddon

Paloma's is perfectly positioned at 2/5 Lonsdale Street in the vibrant precinct of Braddon, Australian Capital Territory. Braddon is renowned as one of Canberra's most dynamic inner-city suburbs, a hub for innovative dining, boutique shopping, and a thriving cafe culture. The Lonsdale Street strip, in particular, is a magnet for food lovers, making it the ideal home for a concept as energetic and trendy as Paloma's.

The restaurant is easily accessible and well-integrated into the fabric of the neighborhood. It offers dine-in service, creating a full-service experience that matches its atmosphere. Whether arriving by car, bike, or on foot, guests will find the location convenient. The venue provides a dedicated space for fun and socializing, and for those looking to host, Paloma's also offers a functions menu and booking service for private events.

Hours, Reservations & Contact at Paloma's

Planning your visit is straightforward, thanks to clear operating hours and multiple booking options. Paloma's ensures that whether you're coming for Tuesday's happy hour or a late Saturday evening, the experience is accessible and well-organized.

The general operating hours are Tuesday to Thursday from 4pm 'til late, and Friday to Saturday from 11am 'til late. The extended weekend hours make it a perfect spot for a long lunch that turns into a lively evening. For those keen to secure a table, particularly during peak times or for a special function, reservations are highly recommended. Bookings can be made easily via the table reservation link found on the official website, which directs to the nowbookit.com platform. For any other inquiries, including function bookings, the team can be reached by phone at (02) 6109 0130 or via email at hello@palomas.bar. For a comprehensive look at the dishes on offer, the full menu is available for viewing at mailchi.mp, which you can find linked on their website.

Common Questions

Does Paloma's have a Happy Hour?

Yes, Paloma's runs a popular Happy Hour from Tuesday to Friday, 4pm to 6pm. It features $14 Classic and Spicy Margaritas, along with $7 house wine and beer.

What type of cuisine does Paloma's specialize in?

Paloma's specializes in Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. The menu features popular items such as tacos, tostadas, ceviche, oysters, and other vibrant, shareable dishes.

Is there an option to book Paloma's for private functions?

Yes, Paloma's offers a functions menu and the ability to book the venue for private events. You can explore the options and make an inquiry through the 'Functions' page on their official website.

What are the opening hours of Paloma's?

Paloma's is open Tuesday through Thursday starting at 4pm, and on Friday and Saturday from 11am. The venue stays open 'til late on these days. It is currently noted as closed on Google Maps.

Does Paloma's offer live entertainment?

Yes, live music is a featured part of the experience at Paloma's. Customer reviews on Google Maps have specifically highlighted and praised the live music performances.

How can I make a reservation at Paloma's?

Reservations can be made directly through the 'Book' link on the Paloma's website, which redirects to the nowbookit.com booking platform. Contact by phone is also available at (02) 6109 0130.

Is Paloma's located in a walkable area with other attractions?

Absolutely. Located on Lonsdale Street in Braddon, Paloma's is in one of Canberra's premier dining and lifestyle precincts, surrounded by a wide array of other restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, making it an ideal stop for a full evening out.