Peruse the Hunger-Inducing Mexican Bill of Fare at Tallula’s, Now Open in Santa Monica

Santa Monica’s most welcoming beachside charmer, Tallula’s, has officially opened its wood doors to the masses, slinging a menu of Mexican-inspired dishes conceived by a heavy-hitting team of chefs and restaurateurs. The new eatery is the work of prolific Westside duo Zoe Nathan and Josh Loeb of the Rustic Canyon Group, with chef-partner Jeremy Fox and executive chef Mario Alberto also having a hand in the seasonal dishes on the table.

What’s on the menu? Similar to some of LA’s other new standout Mexican restaurants (think Broken Spanish and Salazar), Tallula’s will make the tortillas, chile pastes, and moles in house. You’ll likely start with the $6 chips and salsa before selecting from a smattering of small plates that include chili negro yellowtail ceviche and Mayan-style octopus salad.

Rick Poon

While the only tacos is an $18 market fish option, the stars of the show are the large plates with highlights that include the lamb and black beer birria, plus the Mexican white shrimp scampi. Ending the meal on sweet notes are desserts like tres leches cake and pan dulce by pastry maven Zoe Nathan and Laurel Almerinda. To drink, select from a wine list with varietals from from Spain, Portugal, Italy, France, Argentina, Chile, and the United States; and beachy cocktail offerings.

While the pricing is none-too-shocking given the rising operating costs of running a restaurant these days, it is important to note a 19% charge added to all checks that the menu describes as being used to “equitably compensate and provide benefits for all hourly staff. Additional tipping is not expected.” Check out the full menu here.

All-in-all, the hunger-inducing menu is a strong add for Westside denizens.

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