Tacolandia on the ropes
Longtime Mexican street food chronicler Bill Esparza is stepping away from Tacolandia, the annual taco festival he helped create and run annually with LA Weekly. Esparza, who is also an occasional contributor to Eater LA, shared his decision to leave the event on Twitter last night, saying the new owners are “no longer worthy” of his and the greater Mexican food community’s efforts. As for the event itself, it’s unclear if it will continue without Esparza next year under new LA Weekly ownership — particularly in the wake of the boycott that took down their Sips n’ Sweets party.
(1/5) I’m taking this #TacoTuesday to announce that after 5 years as the curator and host of @LAWeekly’s Tacolandia, I can no longer be a part of this event. I won’t support @briancalle or his band of LA hating investors. #tacolandia
— Bill Esparza (@streetgourmetla) December 13, 2017
Food Network on the case
The fine folks at Food Network hopped around Los Angeles recently, stopping at a number of local spots like Glendale’s Mini Kabob and East LA’s Los Originales Tacos Arabes for a bite. Check out the video.
Wings and drinks
The Greyhound in Highland Park is doing a big early-Christmas celebration for its fans. The holiday party includes half-off wings and the bar’s signature eggnog, all day long on December 15.
Chick-Fil-A to Santa Monica
Another Chick-Fil-A is coming to greater Los Angeles soon, with an opening of the fast food franchise set for 2207 Lincoln Boulevard, says Toddrickallen.
Central Coast changes
Bob’s Well Bread, one of the most popular Central Coast bakery and cafes, is flipping to a new baker. The incoming Scott Smith should keep things pretty consistent (he’s been there since November already) for the Los Alamos property, which draws legions of local weekend fans.
A new Caffe Luxxe
Caffe Luxxe has officially made its way to Brentwood, opening at 11640 San Vicente Blvd. The company is planning a big opening event for December 19, complete with free drinks for anyone who comes in between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.