Me and Mum

With Blanca & Blanca, Olotl North King Street Newtown

At Olotl, the warmth hits you before the first bite. This small, family-run Mexican kitchen is led by Blanca Perera and her mum, who make everything by hand using recipes passed down through generations. The result is food that feels both deeply traditional and perfectly at home in Newtown.

After nearly twenty years in the area, Blanca says opening Olotl here felt completely natural. “Newtown has this creative, welcoming energy that just fits who we are,” she says. “It’s diverse, full of life, and everyone looks out for each other.” That sense of connection shapes everything they do, from greeting every customer by name to chatting across the counter as dishes are plated up fresh from the pan.

Their journey started with a helping hand from Daniel Audy at Campos Coffee, who offered them a weekend pop-up spot on Missenden Road. That early support opened the door to their first permanent space and sparked a lasting appreciation for the community that helped them grow. “It’s the kind of neighbourhood where people truly support each other,” Blanca says. “We’ve felt that from day one.”

For Blanca and her mum, Newtown life is about small, joyful rituals like grabbing a loaf from AP Bread in the morning or chatting with locals on their way to work. 

“It’s those everyday moments that remind us why we love being here.”

Olotl’s menu reflects that same sense of openness. It’s designed to be accessible to everyone, simple yet soulful, with every dish telling a story of heritage, family and care. Each plate is packed with flavour and warmth, from handmade tortillas to slow-cooked fillings that speak of patience and pride. And while they are already gaining a loyal following, Blanca and her mum aren’t slowing down. They’ve got exciting collaborations lined up, from Wildflower Beer in Marrickville to Baba’s Place alongside Sydney icons like Kylie Kwong and Palisa Anderson, with plenty more surprises still to come.

In a suburb that celebrates creativity and community, Olotl feels right at home, a place where every meal is an invitation to slow down, share a smile and feel part of something special. As Blanca puts it,

“Food has always been how we show love in our family. If people leave here feeling happy and cared for, then we’ve done our job.”

Olotl
12 King St, Newtown NSW 2042
@olotl_sydney
olotl.com.au