If you’ve driven through WeHo going west down Santa Monica Boulevard, it’s hard to miss the two-story bright pink restaurant before La Cienega, called Mexico Restaurante y Barra. Offering outdoor seating, a full bar and freshly made dishes, this eatery attracts a variety of hungry patrons.

Once inside, bright pink walls, striped rainbow seats and a few high tables offer guests a lively atmosphere where they can enjoy margaritas, beer and healthy Mexican cuisine. Dishes here range anywhere from $14 – $16.

If you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, try the Halibut Ceviche with avocado, serrano chiles and citrus for $12. If you’re a bit thirsty, we suggest two notable margaritas including the Ruby and the Papachulo. The Ruby consists of Corralejo Reposado with ruby grapefruit, basil + honey for $12. The great thing about this drink is that the grapefruit flavor offers a slight kick while the basil and honey soften the bitterness of the drink creating a refreshing marriage on your tongue.

The Papachulo is comprised of Herencia Mexicana with tangerine, Cointreau and pomegranate syrup for $13. This drink is a bit fruity and sweet so ease up on drinking it too fast or you’ll find yourself on the floor.

While you wait for your drinks to arrive, waiters bring out crisp tortilla chips and two kinds of salsa, verde and roasted tomato salsa. If you’re craving a meat entree, the Classic “Carnitas Style” Pork came highly recommended and was so tender a knife was not needed. The dish includes sautéed verdolaga and tomatillos for $15. Three tortillas are served with the dish, which is reasonably portioned and sure to make you full.

If you’re on a diet, you can try the small portioned Grapefruit Avocado Salad for $9. This simple salad can be found on the appetizers side of the menu.

Dining for two people came out to $55.

Heads up:
Parking: Do not park in the lot next to Koo Koo Roo. They will tow your car away! Opt for valet parking for $7 or take your chances with street parking.

Mexico Restaurant y Barra

Where: 8512 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood

When: 5 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Sundays to Thursdays, 5 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays

Price: Margaritas, $10 to $15; appetizers $9 to $12; entrees $13 to $16
Contact: (310) 289-0088; www.gogomexico.com

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