Mercado Captures a Modern Mexican Moment in Pasadena | Eater LA

"I learned that Mercado's owner Jesse Gomez has a soft spot for Pasadena and is particularly proud of his new Lake Avenue restaurant space, which for years housed the Crocodile Cafe and where Gomez — who grew up nearby — once worked for the owners. He’s teamed up again with chef/partner Jose Acevedo to open this latest Mercado, expanding from holdings on 4th Street in Santa Monica, West Third Street, Hollywood, Studio City, and Downtown to join Pasadena’s growing Mexican food movement. The menu ranges from choriqueso to tortas and tacos to full carne asada plates, presented with a more upscale California aesthetic and backed by a substantial drinks program, with opening lunch, dinner, and happy hour menus available. The Janel Wright–designed space features tall booths, ample bar seating, and a big, wide patio up front that benefits from Lake Avenue foot traffic and street views, promising a lively atmosphere on summertime nights. Artist Carlo Nieto III painted the shapeless interior mural, while Orange County’s David Palmer handled the detail work on the bullet pieces near the bar and in the dining room. Mercado opens this week with weekday lunch 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m., daily dinner 4–10 p.m., and happy hour every day 4–6:30 p.m." - Farley Elliott