Descanso Modern Taqueria — a Costa Mesa-based taco-stand-inspired concept from Rob Arellano — is opening its second store at 5773 Wilshire Boulevard in the former Callender’s Grill space. Constructed in 1985, the $6-million restaurant was designed as an extravagant turn-of-the-century bistro and served as home to Marie Callender’s spin-off until 2018.
Arellano’s incoming eatery features plancha seating, meaning guests sit around a plancha — or griddle — as the planchero cooks up a multi-course meal at the communal table (think Benihanas). Descanso also offers taco bar seating, which is similar to the plancha option, but with a la carte options only. There’s also the dining room and patio that provides table service, and lastly, an indoor and outdoor bar where guests can grub and grab a drink right at the well.
The menu is a massive list of appetizers like Choriqueso Verde and Diablitos (fire-roasted peel-and-eat shrimp), quesadillas, entrees including a carnitas skillet and hangar steak, sopas (soups), enseladas (salads), tacos (of course), and postres (desserts).
Arellano tells What Now Los Angeles the new joint will debut in the spring of 2024.
