Est. 2018, it was a humble beginning.
Vecino - meaning 'neighbours' in Spanish, is that neighbouring restaurant where anyone can come and enjoy quality fusion with their friends and family.
Tony and Eunice, the founders of Vecino, have always been a "people-person" and wanted to introduce to the local community, the fun Korean culture they grew up in.
Growing up, the couple have not only always had a pride in their Korean identity but also appreciated all cultures and ethnicities. Especially Tony, who was heavily inspired by his clothing industry background and passion for the Hip Hop culture. As can be experienced within the Vecino dine, customers are able to grab a taste of not only a good meal but the couple's appreciation for the art and music culture which can be found within the individually designed interior and carefully chosen playlists.
The couple's identity and passion embedded within the brand has been a major factor of why Vecino is so loved by the local community, allowing the local Vecino to expand over the past few years.
"But Why Korean Mexican?", you may ask.
"But Why Korean Mexican?", you may ask.Ultimately, Tony and Eunice wanted to spread the delicious Korean culture as they were often questioned and challenged for limited variety of authentic, quality Korean dishes available through restaurants within Sydney.
To have Korean cuisine a little more receptive, Tony thought that mixing things up and creating a whole new concept of the Korean cuisine would be uniquely intriguing and far more approachable to the locals. Through thorough research and multiple trial and errors, the chef found the captivating similarity between Mexican and Korean cuisine which today, has become Vecino's identity.
One of the key inspirations coming from the idea of tortillas being used for tacos and burritos like lettuce is used for "ssams" in Korean BBQ along with the love for spices and balance of meat and veggies within the cuisines.
As for the iconic Vecino cocktails, Eunice was enlightened by the two cultures' classic go-to spirits: Tequila and Soju. With this insight, the mixologist began experimenting and developing the signature Vecino cocktails: Vecinorita, Screwbar Ju and Watermelon Ju. As a humble result, Vecino's cocktails are known to be the best in town and attract the footsteps of Vecino's customers every day.
Just like art is no longer only painted on a canvas and music is no longer only made within a major studio., food no longer needs to stay traditional and cultures are allowed to be mixed. You just need to do it right and that's exactly what Vecino does - doing it right.
