Hola Tacos (12102 Madison Ave., 216-801-4666), the L.A.-style taco stand in Lakewood’s Birdtown neighborhood, is now open. Owner Juan Vergara quietly opened the doors last night, he says.
Vergara, who also operates with his family Barroco Arepa Bars in Lakewood, Westlake and on Larchmere, has assembled a concise but compelling menu of traditional tacos that represent a nice selection of regional classics. Al pastor tacos are made “al trompo,” with thin-sliced pork carved from a rotating spit and garnished with pineapple, onions and cilantro. Cochinita pibil tacos consist of slow-roasted adobo-marinated pork capped with pickled red onion. Coal-fired steak is at the heart of the carne asada tacos and roasted cauliflower serves as the filling for a vegetarian selection.
Birria fans will be thrilled to spot birria de res tacos on Hola’s menu. These iconic – and super trendy – tacos consist of slow-braised beef that is chopped and placed into tortillas, which are then crisped up on the griddle using fat from the braising pot. The tacos are served with a cup of the savory beef broth for dipping.
Tacos are sold three to an order, come on corn tortillas, and include designated toppings plus a choice of salsas (chile de arbol, avocado sauce, queso crema). You can also mix and match tacos.
Hola Tacos also serves tostadas and tortas, made with a choice of the taco fillings, a burrito stuffed with rice, beans and meat, and two large plates comprised of braised beef or slow-roasted pork with yellow rice, housemade refried beans and garnishes.
Seating is all “al fresco,” but under cover and warmed by heaters. Future plans call for indoor seating and a bar to be added to an adjacent property.
Going forward, Hola Tacos will be open Monday to Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Check out the complete menu below.
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