Joining its California Lane sibling 1st Edition, which leans into owners Marc Grey and Steve Maiden’s affection towards comic books, Viva La Cali also follows a strongly themed concept. Taking over the space formerly belonging to Kings, Marc and Steve, alongside hospitality stalwart Morgan Webster have transformed the 80-sqm site into a palm-tree-laden paradise boasting endless summer vibes. Viva La Cali fuses West Coast cool with appetising eats informed by the cuisines of Central and South America, brought to life by Steve’s culinary experience and Marc’s many visits to Los Angeles. “Our newest venue is a vibrant escape, embracing the essence of Southern California and infusing it into every corner,” says Marc. “Drawing inspiration from our collective experiences, we have artfully fused various influences throughout our menu, creating a harmonious blend that we believe will resonate with our guests.” As you step foot into Viva La Cali, you’re immediately drawn to the sunset-hued palm tree mural by local artist Steen Jones that covers one side of the venue, helping to deliver those immaculate summer Cali vibes all year long. Pair this with an open-air and undercover space that caters to 50 folks seated or 70 cocktail-style, and you’ve got the perfect place to perch for a mouth-watering marg or a taste bud-tantalising taco.

The flavour-filled fare also matches this feel, with a fun and punchy menu that highlights the very best of Peruvian cooking. “As chefs, we strive to create dining experiences that are vibrant, fresh, and in our case, a little bit quirky,” says chef Steve. “It’s about delighting the senses and pushing culinary boundaries.” Saunter in for a banh mi-style taco with pulled chicken, pickled vegetables and chicken pate, a pork jowl taco with fermented cabbage, apple wild rice and smoked yoghurt or the seasonal fish ceviche with cucumber, pickled jalapenos and pomegranate. Snack on the likes of beef tartare with egg yolk, jalapenos, amarillo and blue corn, Peruvian empanadas with aji verde or causa rellena (cold potato cakes) with aji amarillo (Peruvian chilli paste) and seared avocado. Those arriving with an appetite for something more substantial can enjoy a range of larger share plates including the chef-recommended smoked wagyu served with cactus salsa and roja cruda, or the spiced eggplant with acao mole, toasted pepitas and queso. The sweet tooths can finish off with a sumptuous serving of fried Peruvian doughnuts.

Complementing the mouth-watering menu is an intricate list of cocktails, tequila being the star, of course. Using clever tipple techniques such as tinctures, fat washes, milk punches and infusions, Viva La Cali’s drinkables are made fully from scratch and are sure to tickle even the pickiest of taste buds. Highlights include the Viva La Margarita, a cult classic that has been further elevated with housemade orange bitters, the Watermelon Margy Hiiiii made with housemade watermelon cordial and a natural watermelon rind sour strap, and the must-try Bugs Bunny Margarita made with housemade sour carrot juice. Those tempted to a Sunday session, strap in, as from Sunday June 4, Viva La Cali will be hosting So Cal Sundays, featuring two hours of bottomless margs and tacos for $79 per person.

Viva La Cali is opening its doors to the public on Saturday June 3. Head to the Stumble Guide for operating hours and other information. 

This article was written by Bryanna Rossow from The Weekend Edition.