Eric S.
Yelp
I ate here with friends where we were very attentively greeted by our server who checked in consistently throughout the night to make sure that we enjoyed our experience - +1 for service!
We were seated outside where bright Christmas-like lights were strewn across the roof canopy, where we could enjoy watching the bustling life of Santa Monica near the water. Lively music played, adding to a relaxed and exciting dining atmosphere.
Since I was the driver, I did not unfortunately get to try their drinks, but my friend said their margarita was one of the best he's had!
We started with an appetizer of chips and salsa along with the poblano queso dip- a decision we did not regret. The chips were slightly under salted, but seasoned with a slightest hint of lime, and were not over oily, as is usually the case with complimentary chips. The poblano queso dip was delicious- a creamy and melted texture, that was seasoned just right, making for a multidimensional flavor: not your typical "nacho" cheese.
Upon the server's recommendation, I ordered the prime barbacoa taco combo. The portions were large, with a complimentary side of well-cooked Mexican rice and beans included, both of which were pretty ordinary. It also came with a small cup of beef drippings to which to dip the tacos. The tacos themselves were topped by pickled onions, which were a nice reprieve from the heavy barbacoa-packed tacos, though in my opinion not enough. By the end of the meal, I sorely wished for something a little bit lighter on the plate- to help alleviate the heaviness of the tacos. The flavor of the meat itself was a bit one dimensional and bland, but they definitely did not skimp on filling the tacos, which at least was very nice to see.
All in all, an above average taco restaurant with a nice view and ambiance, though I'd like to be back to try the fish tacos for a more fair review!