Descanso Opening In Los Angeles This Summer!

Descanso Restaurant, a modern taqueria founded in Costa Mesa, California in 2018, will open its new flagship location in the heart of Los Angeles’ Mid-Wilshire neighborhood in summer 2024. Located at 5773 Wilshire Blvd in the historic SAG-AFTRA Plaza, formally known as Museum Square, the new restaurant will bring Descanso’s unique and interactive Plancha Dining experience to the area’s cultural epicenter for Angelenos craving fresh, high-quality Central Mexican street-inspired cuisine in a lively, full-service setting.

“We are thrilled to introduce Descanso to the vibrant Mid-Wilshire neighborhood of Los Angeles,” stated Rob Arellano, Owner of Descanso. “Drawing inspiration from the lively streets of Central West Mexico, our menu and restaurant experience offer a modern twist on authentic Mexican cuisine. At Descanso, guests can expect to embark on a culinary journey infused with the vibrant flavors and warmth of traditional Mexican street-inspired cooking. Our dedication to crafting from-scratch fare ensures that every dish is a celebration of Mexico's rich culinary heritage. With an ambiance reminiscent of Mexico, and a commitment to genuine hospitality, our new location promises to be a go-to destination for those seeking a taste of Mexico right in the heart of Los Angeles.”

Spanning 9,000 square feet, this venue accommodates approximately 250 guests and boasts a central bar brimming with a handpicked array of premium tequilas and mezcals. Settle in at the taco bar, where adept Taqueros craft gourmet tacos and quesadillas and fresh tortillas are meticulously made-to-order on a comal, a quintessential Mexican griddle. Beyond the main dining area, the establishment offers two outdoor patios, private event spaces, a vibrant bar area and a distinctive Plancha Room equipped with four Plancha Grill tables. Immerse yourself in the 'A La Plancha' dining experience at Descanso, where Planchero Chefs skillfully prepare a multi-course feast before your eyes, sharing the rich history and culture of the food while transporting diners to the heart of Mexico with captivating aromas and sounds.

Within this vast space lies a culinary gem: The Private Plancha Room, an intimate enclave dedicated to gastronomy. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle, this exclusive retreat offers an unparalleled Chef Table dining experience, where the chef takes center stage to curate a bespoke menu of elevated, high-end dishes tailored to each guest’s preferences while staying true to the essence of Descanso.The Private Plancha Room boasts four meticulously crafted tables with built-in flat top grills, offering front-row seats to a food odyssey. With its emphasis on personalization and attention to detail, the Plancha Room elevates dining to an art form, creating unforgettable moments for discerning epicureans. Whether it's a special occasion or an intimate gathering, this exclusive space promises an unparalleled dining experience that transcends the ordinary, inviting guests to embark on a culinary journey like no other, with a nod to the spirited and diverse street food culture of Mexico.

“Dining a la Plancha is truly the heartbeat of Descanso," says Arellano, the mastermind behind the concept. “The Plancha experience brings the flavors, sights, smells and sounds of street vendors right to your table. Here, the aromas and sounds transport diners to the heart of Mexico, offering a sensory immersion that resonates long after the meal. From the tasty scent of sizzling meats to the lively beats of street music, guests can dive in hands-on. It's like taking a trip to the heart of Mexico with every bite and sound. Come taste, hear and feel the authentic street-food vibe in an elevated full service atmosphere at Descanso."

Executive Chef Jose Angulo, hailing from the rich culinary heritage of San Julián, Jalisco, Mexico, expertly merges the time-honored techniques passed down by his grandmother with more than a decade of refined culinary training in Southern California. Firmly rooted in a commitment to freshness, Chef Angulo and his team meticulously curate locally-sourced, premium ingredients to craft inventive, contemporary Mexican cuisine at Descanso Restaurant in Los Angeles. Signature dishes like the Hanger Steak, Short Rib Estofado, Salmón Con Chile Limon, unique gourmet tacos such as the Felipe with ribeye filet marinated in garlic and Volcano, with ranchero steak and agave-glazed shrimp highlight the fusion of flavors and textures, inviting diners on an authentically Mexican dining journey imbued with innovative flair.

To elevate the dining experience, Descanso proudly presents a thoughtfully selected array of mezcals, tequilas and Mexican wines alongside an enticing lineup of craft cocktails infused with Latin spirits. Each cocktail is meticulously prepared from scratch, using only the finest quality ingredients, including freshly-squeezed fruit juices and premium agave. Adding to the allure of Descanso is its vibrant bar scene, where guests can mingle, unwind and enjoy the rhythmic beats of Latin music. The restaurant’s captivating ambiance, characterized by its new Center Bar, soaring ceilings, contemporary décor and lush greenery throughout, provides an airy oasis for enjoying a memorable meal. Whether for a casual lunch, business dinner, boozy brunch, or special celebration under the stars on the patio, Descanso aims to transport guests to Central Western Mexico with every savory bite and sip.

Descanso’s Los Angeles location will be open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, with brunch service on the weekends and happy hour specials available Monday through Friday. For more information, visit DescansoRestaurant.com.