My wife and I hit this fairly new Mexican / Latin American restaurant for dinner on Friday evening. I had made a 5pm reservation earlier in the day with Steve the co-owner. And reservations are a must now ( if you don’t want to wait for a table ) as this well run eatery has become the most popular dining spot in upscale coastal Del Mar. We tried this place for dinner a few weeks ago . . the day after they opened on March 18th and we were very impressed with our meals, drinks and the friendly service.
After parking our wheels in a free spot just up the street we arrived at the hostess desk just before 5pm. The lovely young hostess kindly showed us to a table for 4 inside. This place has a really great vibe . . the flow from the large outdoor patio to the inside dining zone is virtually seamless. The interesting decor and fittings are a perfect match for the type of cuisine they are serving. We had barely sat down when I spotted Steve the co-owner heading our way to welcome us back. Allison the friendly restaurant manager was kind enough to snap a pic of us both. A charming female server named Ariel announced her presence shortly after and proceeded to do an excellent job satisfying our whims during our dinner visit.
Our complimentary Salsa & Chips arrived within seconds plus glasses of water. I ordered a local Thorn Brewing Relay IPA which was brought to our table by a server named Chris. The restaurant was packed out inside and out but the efficient serving staff seemed to be handling it with ease. I decided to order the Chorizo + Mussels Starter ( Pacific Black Mussel, Chorizo, Tequila, Onion, Serrano, Garlic, Cilantro & Telera Spears ) followed by the Carne Asada Plate ( Grilled Skirt Steak, Onion, Corn Salsa, Black Beans, Chimichurri, Cilantro Lime Rice, & Flour Tortilla ). My wife had her eyes on the Scallop + Corn ( Seared U15 Scallops, Corn Puree, Corn Salsa, Micro Radish, Chili Thread + Oil & Smoked Paprika ) for her entree.
Our good mate and top server Tyler came over for a quick chat . . I took a selfie of us. My Chorizo + Mussels Starter was brought out by Tony the Chef . . I had to get selfie of us ! Between my ice cold IPA, the Salsa & Chips plus my Chorizo + Mussels . . had a lot to keep me occupied. Our entrees arrived within a short time and looked outstanding. The sheer size and presentation of my Carne Asada Plate blew me away. My wife got stuck into her Scallop & Corn dish and looked very contented. My humongous Carne Asada serve tasted beyond excellent . . the tender & juicy skirt steak was grilled to perfection. Somehow I managed to eat everything in front of me..it was too delicious to waste !
Our server Ariel ( who had been checking on us every now & then to make sure we were happy ) dropped by to see if we would want some dessert. My wife and I agreed to share some Fresh Churros. They looked very inviting when they came out with a side of rich Chocolate Sauce. We thought they tasted fine ! This very interesting restaurant has fitted into the local Del Mar dining scene perfectly and has made it better in our opinion. Now open for lunch and dinner 7 days week . . put this fun place on your list !
