Friday, July 1, 2011

Escuela Taqueria - BUT DON'T TELL ANYONE!!

There's a new little gem in the neighbourhood - and we stumbled upon it the other night while driving through the streets around The Grove area. It's only been open 2 weeks, and my goodness, it's a goodie!

The new labour of love of Steve Arroyo, Escuela Taqueria is the cutest little taco place. Gorgeously fitted out with patterned tiles, timber paneling, zinc and iron tables, all complemented by the suspension of a huge bunch of vintage chairs from the ceiling - this is a very special place.

But it's not big. It only seats 25, with a couple of extra tables out the front. And the menu is well curated, with offerings of the taco variety dominating. The flavours, however are HUGE! As soon as were seated we were immediately served fresh corn chips, guacamole and the zingiest, most delicious fresh salsa ever. Then we had our tacos - me the fish (branzino), lightly grilled, with a slaw filling and beautiful dressing, he had the slow cooked beef taco. Both of us were thrilled. Because this was more of a "late-night-snack" treat, we were very full after that. But we will definitely return soon to also try the rice and beans, Mexican-style corn on the cob, and of course the churros. The menu apparently will rotate a bit, as according to what is seasonally available from local producers.

The service was awesome - such friendly and cute waitresses - the prices very good, and the playlist fantastic. Eating tacos while listening (and singing) to The Smiths' "This Charming Man"? I bloody love it.

But I almost don't want to tell anyone about Escuela Taqueria. This teeny place will be packed soon enough, queues down the street....better start being a regular quick smart!!

Escuela Taqueria
308 North Stanley Avenue, 
West Hollywood 
323-939-8226

Escuela Taqueria's salsa, guacamole and chips.
My yummy fish tacos!!
The open kitchen - love those hexagonal tiles.
Looking to the ceiling.
The walls feature an eclectic art collection. Who doesn't mind a bit of Fairey?