Por Qué No Los Dos in Australia: Food trend explained

If you’ve spent any time in Melbourne, Sydney, or scrolling Aussie food feeds, chances are you’ve come across Por Que No Los Dos. The name might be Spanish, but the vibe, flavours, and cult following are unmistakably Australian. From packed taco joints to laid-back tequila bars, Por Que No Los Dos has carved out a loyal fan base among locals who love bold food without the fuss. Here we’ll break down what Por Que No Los Dos actually is, why it’s so popular in Australia, what you can expect from the menu, and why the brand keeps popping up in conversations about the best tacos in the country.

What does “Por qué No Los Dos” actually mean?

The phrase “Por Qué No Los Dos” translates from Spanish to “Why not both?” It became globally famous thanks to a viral Old El Paso ad, but in Australia, it has taken on a life of its own through the country’s food culture. The name fits perfectly with the brand’s philosophy. Instead of choosing between flavours, proteins or styles, Por Que No Los Dos encourages you to have it all, two tacos instead of one.

How Por Qué No Los Dos entered Australian popular culture?

Although the phrase originated overseas, Australians quickly embraced it. And maybe the reason behind it is due to Australia’s strong connection to global food trends, and partly because the phrase naturally fits the Australian mindset. In Australia, Por Qué No Los Dos became popular through many social media platforms, memes and pop culture references. The rise of Mexican-inspired dining across major cities. Hospitality brands use the phrase to reflect variety and inclusively. Australians adopted the phrase as shorthand for enjoying more than one option without overthinking.

Por Qué No Los Dos and the Australian food scene

Australia’s food culture is known for being open, experimental and relaxed. Mexican-inspired food, especially tacos, fits seamlessly into this environment. Por Qué No Los Dos aligns perfectly with how Australians like to eat. The phrase is now commonly associated with taco-focused restaurants and bars. Shared plates and casual group dining, and a social, unpretentious dining experience.

Why Por Qué No Los Dos concept work so well in Australia?

Australian dining culture prioritises balance. Australians always prioritise their comfort, and they want quality food, but according to their comfort and value. Por Qué No Los Dos captures that balance in a single phrase. It resonates locally because:

• Australians prefer variety over rigid dining rules
• Sharing food is common and encouraged
• Casual dining is more popular than formal experiences
• Food is often tied to socialising rather than ceremony

This phrase already represents the Australian mindset; Australians believe in enjoying more without unnecessary limits.

The Por Qué No Los Dos menu experience

While menus can vary by location, the overall experience stays consistent. Por Qué No Los Dos focuses on simple ingredients done well, with plenty of variety so everyone at the table finds something they like.

Tacos at the centre

Tacos are the star of the show. Expect a mix of:

• Slow-cooked meats
• Crispy fried options
• Fresh vegetables and herbs
• Soft tortillas that hold everything together without falling apart

Portion sizes are designed for sharing, which is perfect for groups who want to try a bit of everything.

Drinks that match the vibe

Por Qué No Los Dos isn’t just about food. The drinks menu is a big part of the appeal, especially for Australian diners who enjoy a social night out. Common favourites include margaritas with a proper citrus hit, tequila fights for tasting, and mezcal for those who like something smoky. The drinks are designed to pair well with the food rather than overpower it.

Is Por que No Los Dos authentic Mexican food?

This is a question that pops up a lot, and the honest answer is: it’s Mexican-inspired, not traditional. Por Qué No Los Dos takes flavours, ingredients and ideas from Mexican cuisine but adapts them for an Australian audience. That means less rigid rules, more fusion influences. For most Aussies, that’s a good thing. It keeps the food approachable and enjoyable without needing deep knowledge of Mexican regional cooking.

Conclusion

Por Qué No Los Dos has become more than a translation. In Australia, it represents a way of eating, socialising and enjoying life without unnecessary choices. That phrase reflects the Australian preference for relaxed dining, shared food and flavour-forward experiences. From tacos and tequila to memes and menus, the phrase continues to resonate because it mirrors how Australians already live: balanced, social and open to enjoying more than one good thing at a time.