UMBRELLA TACO
IT’S TACO TIME!

From our good friends at Melrose Umbrella Co. comes Umbrella Taco, a new joint that aims to satisfy foodies in the same fashion that the popular bar is a mecca for local imbibers. For months the powers that be, in particular Austin Melrose and Zach Patterson, have been promising to open a taco shop next door to Melrose Umbrella Co. Now that dream is a reality.

Umbrella Taco pulls its inspiration from Baja, Oaxaca, and L.A. taquerias while embodying the soul of modern-day Melrose Avenue giving life to the rich and vibrant traditions of Mexican culture. Austin Melrose has aptly loaded the place with the vibe of street food, surf, and moto culture.

Umbrella Taco’s Chef Juan Catalan was born in Guerrero, Mexico and raised in Koreatown, Los Angeles. And it is that spicy combination that influences his menu. Yes, we’re talking Mexican food but with a flare that’s partial to L.A. Chef’s Aguachile (a Mexican dish made of shrimp, submerged in liquid seasoned with chili peppers, lime juice, salt, cilantro, slices of cucumber and slices of onion) is influenced by his Japanese cooking background, and his mole will make generations of his familia proud.

And while tacos are the stars of the menu, there are also burritos and bowls and quesadillas to choose from. Other options include the aforementioned Aguachile, grilled corn, and a trio of badass tamales (veggie, chicken, and pork). Taco options include carne asada, al pastor, pollo tinga, pollo mole, shrimp, and fish. And a favorite of mine not to sleep on is the Wild Mushroom taco with brussels sprouts, guacamole, and soy sauce. A nice taco touch is the use of homemade, hand-pressed tortillas.

Hearty side dishes include the Mole Fries, and the Tiki Tots.

The drink menu is pretty simple here. There are three cocktails to choose from: Margarita, Trópico (tequila, guava, pineapple, lemon) and Picoso (mezcal, mango, habanero, lime, curacao, agave). There’s also a Mexican lager, a Michelada, and Aguas Frescas. Another solid reason to visit, especially when in-room dining is once again allowed, is for the prize collection of mezcal. The agave program here is impressive.

For now, order for delivery or pickup.

Umbrella Taco is located at 7461 Melrose Avenue. Open Tuesday – Sunday from 12pm to 9pm. Call 323-879-9961.

Photography Courtesy Of: Umbrella Taco