LA Times Calls Birdie G’s Santa Monica’s ‘Hottest Restaurant of the Year’ | Eater LA

"A lively counter-service spot near Long Beach that traffics in lavishly flavored comfort food under chef Beeline “Chinito” Krouch, who brings experience from places like Playa Amor to a menu that makes humble tacos feel revelatory. Signature items include a decadent carne asada mac ’n’ cheese — a thick, buttery mix of well-seasoned chopped beef and noodles in homemade cheese sauce — and burnt cheese tacos aimed at low-carb diners. Small plates shine too: cotija-encrusted tater tots with frizzled garlic, perfectly crisp rice-flour–fried cauliflower dunked in a sweet chile sauce inspired by the chef’s mother’s Cambodian-style fried chicken, and a hearty vegetable taco featuring king oyster mushrooms, yams, battered cauliflower and farmers market carrots that appeals to vegetarian and vegan regulars. The food leans toward comforting, drunk-food pleasures, and the space carries a soulful, good-vibe atmosphere." - Farley Elliott