Multinational Mexican fast-food chain Zambrero is the newest addition to the Mount Alexander Road shopping and lifestyle village in Essendon, signing a long-term deal in a vote of confidence in the fast-evolving location.

Fitzroys’ Franklin Gikas and Ervin Niyaz negotiated the long 7+5-year lease at 1120 Mount Alexander Road on behalf of a private investor.

The 99sqm space with a wide retail frontage was leased at $65,000 per annum plus outgoings. It is part of the former Brad Teal Real Estate building that has been recently renovated into two tenancies, with a florist recently taking up the other space.

Popular Italian restaurant Hugo Dining, meanwhile, has set up next door at 1116-1118 Mount Alexander Road, refreshing the heart of the strip.

“The evolution of Mount Alexander Road, Essendon has really enhanced the lifestyle offering of Melbourne’s inner north-west. Mount Alexander Road currently offers a quality tenancy mix and minimal vacancies.

“The generational development boom of Melbourne’s inner north-west is attracting retailers and hospitality operators in big numbers.

Niyaz said the site offers constant foot traffic and is close to national tenants Coles, Flight Centre, Subway, Domino’s and Ferguson Plarre, and popular restaurants and pubs that include Demazzi Stone Grill, Lincolnshire Arms Hotel and Dribbles Burgers, as well as Hugo Dining. It is also moments from Punthill Essendon Grand Hotel.

The location offers excellent via major road arterials and sits directly on the Route 59 tram and multiple bus service routes, to and from the CBD and the surrounding suburbs.