Intimate, authentic, charming and alluring; Señoritas is receiving widespread acclaim for its unique and intriguing interior design.

Dining at Señoritas is an overwhelming experience from the moment you enter; there is no doubt owner Ricardo Amare has achieved his goal of immersing diners in a complete “experiencia Mexicana”.

Senoritas distinctive interior design was created by Melbourne Interior Design consultancy Lombard and Jack.

Directed by Kathryn Lombard and Jackie Johnston, Lombard and Jack is a boutique, designfocused practice in Melbourne. Jackie and Kathryn have already worked on a number of successful projects during their time as Associate Directors of Bates Smart Architects, including 150 Clarendon Street Apartments, Crown Towers and Promenade, Sho Noodle Bar and The Sofitel.

Inside Señoritas is an eclectic combination of feminine whimsy and dark, mysterious spirit, paying homage to the importance of women in Mexican culture through the renowned image of La Catrina, and the Mexican tradition of “Dia de Muertos” (Day of the Dead).

Nowhere is this better demonstrated than in the vibrant light fittings, based on the skirt of the Senorita in Mexican coloured felts manufactured by Jan Flook, custom designed by Lombard and Jack to absorb the sounds of a lively cantina.

Throughout the cosy venue, contemporary and classic Mexican design sit side by side – from the life sized La Catrina from Pinedacovalin (Mexico’s Hermes), to the hand painted tiles by Melbourne artist, Aaron McKenzie, the mirrored interpretation of a Diego Rivera mural by
Dennis Ropar, and finally, photographer Yenny Huber’s representation of a La Catrina through the lens of her old school camera. The distinctive graphic design defining the image of Señoritas, La Catrina, was created by Mexican design firm, La Metropolitana.

Handcrafts from around Mexico illustrate the richness of traditions from pre-Hispanic cultures across Mexico including traditional molcajets, used to create guacamole and salsas, Talavera pottery from Puebla, wooden spoons for traditional salsas and glasses specially designed for sipping tequila.

It’s hard to fathom that pre-Señoritas, the space was a windowless, ex-book storage facility complete with a mechanical lifting device at the front entry. The transformation is incredible and there is no doubt Lombard and Jack has met the brief.

The setting itself is a must-see, but coupled with the mouth watering flavours of authentic Mexican cuisine and topped off with a Michelada or Margarita, it’s a cultural experience simply not to be missed.