360 Magazine had the opportunity to try LA’s Premier Cocktail Bar & Taqueria, Lanea. This west side delight is opened up for indoor or outdoor dining at their quaint patio. With a small wooden boat plopped center-adjacent and arcade games at the bar, guests are quickly struck with a beach-y, hip atmosphere as they enter the establishment.
The early afternoon brunch began outdoors as we grabbed a seat, scanned a QR code for digital menus (seen at most LA restaurants post-pandemic) and were settled in by the waiter for authentic Mexican cuisine and drinks. If you are looking to quench your thirst, the margarita flights are immaculately made for a diverse pallet. The 360 favorite out of the four margs served had to be the Spicy Margarita (JAJA Tequila, Habanero Honey, Fresh Lime). It had the perfect amount of spice alongside The Chainsmoker’s JAJA tequila – must try! Other handcrafted margs include the Picante Coast Highway (Nosotros Blanco, passionfruit, ginger, habanero honey, citrus), SOCALienta Margarita (Cazadores Blanco, Thai Chili, Serrano, Habanero Honey, Pineapple, Citrus) and the Classic Marg.
After trying the brunch tacos, we decided that they should be an item kept at all taquerias. Huevos Con Chorizo and the Huevos Con Veggie, which included sauteed spinach and mushrooms, did not disappoint. Brunch is served until 2pm. Off the lunch section, the street style Barbacoa taco used lamb that had been wrapped in agave leaves and pit-roasted underground for 36 hours. Tenderized meat with their spicy homemade salsas will have you in a food coma before leaving the restaurant. Mouth-watering is an understatement when thinking back to the burrito with added flavors and toppings. Choose any of the proteins, or substitute for beyond meat.
Overall, the service is refreshing and a great eatery to start or end a beach day. Lanea is located at 217 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA, and is open for indoor and outdoor dining, takeout, and delivery. Lunch is available on Thursdays and Fridays, with DJs spinning on Fridays and Saturdays starting at 8 p.m.
