Opening May 1st, Mercado is bringing gourmet Mexican flair to Santa Monica just in time for Cinco De Mayo. As part of a trio of Mexican restaurants that includes El Arco Iris in Highland Park and Yxta Cocina Mexicana in Downtown LA, Mercado brings the good people of Santa Monica fresh and inventive Mexican food and a boatload of authentic tequilas from which to choose. With over 70 tequilas available at the bar, you can spend your entire Cinco De Mayo weekend sampling the different varieties of blanco, reposado, añejo and tasty maduro tequila alongside specialty cocktails like the Mezcal Mojito and Escabeche Martini.

Chef Jose Acevedo is on board as Mercado's head chef, bringing a style of cooking that's grounded in the finest Mexican tradition, fused with current sensibility. Chef Acevedo’s signature creations apply uniquely flavorful techniques to create incredibly inventive dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. As the winner of "Best Flan in the Universe" in 2007, Chef Acevedo is a local culinary superstar.

The atmosphere at Mercado is decidedly hip. The space, designed by New York architect Poonam Khanna, is an eclectic fusion of modern design, accented with traditional touches, that create the ultimate in intimate upscale dining, while remaining comfortable. From large party dinners to private dining on the mezzanine level overlooking the main room, or a cocktail at their fully-stocked bar, Mercado is shaping up to be one of Santa Monica's trendiest new eateries.

mercado
1416 Fourth Street
Santa Monica, CA 90401
mercadosantamonica.com