West Hollywood’s bustling culinary scene has a new, vibrant addition with the opening of Marvito Los Angeles, a restaurant and bar that boldly reimagines the classic Mexican saloon experience. Located at 1113 N. Harper Ave., the space formerly occupied by the beloved Gardens of Taxco has been transformed into an eclectic destination that owner Max Marder describes as a “dive bar meets a psychedelic honky-tonk.” This innovative concept, which has been generating buzz as a trending spot in Los Angeles, offers a unique blend of nostalgic 1970s vibes, a curated rock soundtrack, and a creative approach to Mexican-American cuisine, making Marvito Los Angeles a standout among new LA restaurants.
A Psychedelic Oasis Emerges at Marvito Los Angeles
Marvito Los Angeles’ aesthetic is a deliberate departure from the traditional. Inspired by Marder’s deep dives into 1970s music, particularly the Grateful Dead, and a fascination with small-batch, additive-free tequilas, the restaurant cultivates an atmosphere that is both retro and forward-thinking. The interior features cozy black tufted-leather booths illuminated by vintage amber-glass pendant lamps, creating a mood that is rustic, intimate, and a bit louche. Western artwork adorns the walls, alongside tribute drawings to bands like Steely Dan, whose music often sets the tone for the evening. A high-fidelity sound system, inspired by the Grateful Dead’s iconic “Wall of Sound,” amplifies an extensive collection of old-school rock records, making the 70s rock music a central element of the dining experience. This unique ambiance has quickly made Marvito Los Angeles a notable new bar in the Los Angeles landscape.
Culinary Comforts with a Twist at Marvito Los Angeles
The menu at Marvito Los Angeles, helmed by co-owner and chef Ricky Moreno (also known for his work at Marvin and Capo), pays homage to Los Angeles classics with a Mexican-American flair. While it embraces familiar comforts like Mexican comfort food, each dish is presented with a thoughtful touch. Popular choices include crispy shrimp tacos, distinguished by salsa brushed on the outside of the shell and topped with avocado, and flavorful beef tacos. Sharing options are generous, featuring barbecue baby-back ribs lacquered in a sweet-and-spicy borracha sauce and a whole grilled fish with pico de gallo and olives. The offerings extend beyond traditional tacos, encompassing items like slow-cooked carnitas, rich chile Colorado, burgers such as the California Cheeseburger, and even a surprisingly well-executed chicken piccata, showcasing the kitchen’s adventurous spirit at Marvito Los Angeles.
The Soundtrack to Your Night at Marvito Los Angeles
The beverage program at Marvito Los Angeles is as carefully curated as its decor and menu. Guests can still enjoy a classic “secret-ingredient” margarita, but the signature Marvito Martini, made with Plymouth gin, Dolin dry vermouth, and an olive, offers a sophisticated step forward. The craft tequila bar showcases a wide selection of small-batch tequilas, reflecting the owner’s passion for the spirit. Creative cocktails, like the “Semi-Mojo” with passionfruit and jerk seasoning, are also a highlight, praised for their unique flavor profiles. The wine list, inherited from its sister restaurant Marvin, is also noted for its quality and selection, further enhancing the appeal of Marvito Los Angeles.
Behind the Marvito Vision
Marvito Los Angeles’ genesis can be traced back to pop-up events before finding its permanent home in the historic West Hollywood space formerly occupied by Gardens of Taxco, a Mexican restaurant that served the community for nearly five decades. Owner Max Marder, son of renowned restaurateur Bruce Marder, drew inspiration from his musical tastes and a desire to create an intimate, distinctive Los Angeles establishment. His previous venture, Marvin, a French-style bistro and natural wine bar, has also garnered significant praise and established a reputation for reliable, delicious fare. The collaboration with chef Ricky Moreno, who has a long history with the Marder family, ensures a high standard for the food at Marvito Los Angeles.
A Scene to Remember at Marvito Los Angeles
Since its grand opening, Marvito Los Angeles has captured the attention of locals and critics alike. The unique atmosphere, blending a retro speakeasy feel with a lively bar, is a significant draw within the Los Angeles dining scene. However, the restaurant has also received feedback regarding its energetic (and sometimes loud) interior, with some patrons recommending outdoor seating for easier conversation. While the food is consistently praised for its taste and quality, a recurring point of discussion is the pricing and portion size, which some find to be on the steeper side compared to other Mexican establishments in the vicinity. Despite these observations, Marvito Los Angeles is carving out a niche as an exciting new dining and drinking destination, offering an experience that is distinctly Los Angeles. The news of its opening has been a welcome addition for those seeking novel culinary adventures in the area.
Marvito Los Angeles represents a bold fusion of influences, successfully creating a space that feels both familiar and excitingly new. It’s a testament to the evolving Los Angeles dining and bar scene, offering a psychedelic riff on comfort that’s sure to resonate with patrons looking for an unforgettable night out at this West Hollywood restaurant.
