Santa Monica’s Surprise Baja-Style Mexican Spot Opens Tomorrow

The ever-busy Santa Monica food scene gets a new name starting tomorrow: Prima Cocina. The casual Mexican food stop lands right along busy Montana Avenue, with plans to open for dinner tomorrow.

Prima Cocina’s plan is to focus on the food of Baja, Mexico, ranging from grilled fish and shrimp to a variety of classics like tacos, quesadillas, guacamole, and esquites. There are full dinner entrees available as well, ranging from enchiladas to carnitas, and served with beans, rice, and tortillas on the side, plus room for beer and wine. The opening menu is below.

The former home of Pradeep’s Indian Cuisine on Montana has been completely overhauled to now include plenty of tile, wood, and pale blue, pink, and green tones. Partner Greg Bleier of Studio Unltd. designed the space, alongside fellow partners Paul Pruitt (New School) and investor Nando Silvestri. Chef Carlos Arciniega (NoMad, Momofuku) is on to oversee the food.

Prima Cocina opens to the tomorrow evening, keeping dinner hours only to start, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. (or 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday). Expect brunch, lunch, and even delivery in the near future.

Prima Cocina. 1405 Montana Ave., Santa Monica, CA.

• Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade Has a Colorful New Taco Spot [ELA]