Sancho, a restaurant in Brisbane's Stafford neighborhood, is making waves with its unique New Mexican cuisine. This venture, the brainchild of Amanda and John Scott, is a testament to their unwavering belief in the city's culinary potential. The couple, with their extensive hospitality background, has crafted a menu that celebrates the flavors of New Mexico, a state often overlooked in the culinary world.
What makes Sancho truly special is its ability to blend tradition with innovation. The restaurant's name, inspired by Sancho Panza from Don Quixote, hints at its mission to introduce Brisbane to the state's eclectic and idiosyncratic cuisine. New Mexican food, as Amanda explains, is a melting pot of influences, with Native American tribes playing a significant role in shaping its unique character. The menu at Sancho reflects this, offering a delightful fusion of flavors that are both familiar and surprising.
One of the standout dishes at Sancho is the sopaipillas, a puffy fried pastry dough made from Amanda's mother's recipe. Typically served as a starter with chilli honey for dipping, the sopaipillas at Sancho are accompanied by red and green salsa, a key part of New Mexican dining. The red salsa, made with native New Mexican chillies, is smoky and charred, while the green salsa is lighter and more herbaceous. The fact that the red and green salsa combination, known as 'Christmas', is the most popular choice among diners speaks volumes about the appeal of this unique blend of flavors.
The menu at Sancho also features the 'Three Sisters', a dish developed by head chef Julius Villamor that brings together roasted pumpkin mole, bean hummus, and chilli crisp, served with tortilla chips. The tortillas, sourced from Victoria's La Tortilleria, were recently awarded the Mexican Government's Sello M seal of authenticity, making them the only brand of Australian tortillas to receive this certification. This attention to detail in sourcing ingredients showcases the couple's commitment to authenticity and quality.
Despite the initial skepticism from a delivery driver, who suggested they should be doing Thai food, the couple has been brave in their approach to Sancho. With their fourth or fifth venue in the area, they are well-known by the locals, who trust their judgment and are eager to try new things. This trust is evident in the honest feedback they receive from their regulars, who are happy to provide suggestions and share their experiences with the menu.
The location of Sancho, sitting right beside Oh Boy Bok Choy on Stafford Road, is also a strategic choice. The U-shaped space, with 84 seats across a verandah, a laneway, and two small shopfronts, offers a convenient and inviting dining experience. The fact that they are already serving Margaritas in the adjacent hairdresser highlights the potential for a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
In conclusion, Sancho is a restaurant that is making a bold statement in Brisbane's culinary scene. With its unique menu, attention to detail, and strategic location, it is poised to become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The couple's unwavering belief in the city's culinary potential, combined with their extensive hospitality background, has resulted in a restaurant that is both innovative and authentic. Sancho is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the flavors of New Mexico and experience a truly unique dining experience.
