Tallula's

Tucked just off Pacific Coast Highway on the edge of the Palisades, Tallula’s occupies a spacious corner where Santa Monica meets the beach vibes. The restaurant comes from the team behind beloved Westside spots like Cassia and Milo & Olive, bringing serious restaurant pedigree to the casual Mexican dining scene in an area that could use more of it.

The menu takes a modern approach to Mexican cuisine, with standout items like the grilled swordfish tacos—easily the star of the show here. The tangy sauerkraut adds an unexpected twist that works brilliantly, and the tortillas are sturdy enough to handle the filling without falling apart. The caesar salad, while an unconventional choice at a Mexican restaurant, is genuinely impressive. Other dishes like the yellowtail ceviche and steak tostada showcase quality ingredients, though they don’t quite reach the heights of the swordfish.

This is a restaurant that shines when the gathering matters more than the food itself. Happy hour in the bar area, margaritas on the small patio, birthday celebrations with big groups—these are the moments where Tallula’s really works. It’s become a favorite for families with kids who want a step up from the usual casual chains, and the lively atmosphere makes it ideal for catching up with friends when conversation takes priority over culinary fireworks.

If you’re looking for a solid, sociable Mexican spot on the Westside where you can bring a crowd and not worry about noise levels or kid-friendliness, Tallula’s fits the bill. Just stick to the swordfish tacos and keep your expectations calibrated to the vibe—fun, casual, and social—rather than looking for boundary-pushing cuisine.