"Animae chef Tara Monsod, a James Beard Award finalist, has been entrusted by Puffer Malarkey Collective to lead the group’s latest restaurant, a 7,500-square-foot “new wave French steakhouse” in La Jolla whose menu contains French classics along with dishes that reflect modern Parisian gastronomy and Monsod’s expertise in working with Asian ingredients and flavors. Executive pastry chef Lauren Warren takes on the role of boulangère and pâtissière, turning out baguettes with caviar butter and pistachio Paris-Brest." - Helen I. Hwang, Candice Woo, Eater Staff
"James Beard-recognized chef Tara Monsod (Animae) helms this new-wave French restaurant. Taking the place of Herringbone, the Puffer Malarkey Collective has revamped the space with a moody interior, banquette seating, and an airy cocktail bar. Favorite dishes include Parisian gnocchi, mussels, and grilled Denver steak. Le Coq After Hours features bar favorites like the Dirty Burger with caramelized onions and bordelaise while DJs spin vinyl." - Candice Woo, Helen I. Hwang, Eater Staff
"Helmed by James Beard finalist Tara Monsod, La Jolla French steakhouse Le Coq will amp up its usual evening vibes with a DJ and live music all night for New Year’s Eve. The menu will feature dishes like beef tartare, fig and pear salad, fried oysters, roasted chicken breast with black truffle sauce, filet with pomme puree, and chocolate mousse cake. The earlier seatings at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. are priced at $110 per person, while the 9 p.m. seating, priced at $130 per person, includes caviar service and a Champagne toast." - Helen I. Hwang
"La Jolla’s dreamy French steakhouse, helmed by James Beard-nominated chef Tara Monsod, has semi-private sections that can accommodate from 40 to 80 people seated. A spacious bar welcomes guests at the entrance before they venture to the whimsical dining area." - Helen I. Hwang
"Tara Monsod opens Le Coq in La Jolla, a French restaurant focusing on seasonal ingredients from Southern California with creative Asian flavors, in collaboration with Puffer Malarkey Collective." - ByKate Kassin
