Chulita

The story

Chulita in Santa Monica: Alta-California Modern Mexican & Mezcal Bar

Chulita: Alta-California Style in Venice

Chulita is an Alta-California-style modern Mexican restaurant and mezcal/tequila bar that began in the heart of Venice Beach. The name, pronounced Choo-LEET-uh, means "petite with provocative style," a fitting description for a place that brings a refined yet welcoming approach to botanas y mezcales—Mexican drinking food.

The restaurant’s cozy space evokes a Tulum beach shack vibe while staying rooted in the distinctive character of Venice. The atmosphere is that of a true neighborhood locale, where the food and drink honor the spirit of authentic Mexican cuisine.

Local Sourcing, Authentic Flavors

Chulita’s kitchen is guided by the belief that better farming yields better flavor. Produce is sourced from the Santa Monica Farmers Market, supporting local growers and ensuring the freshest organic ingredients. The menu features organic, hormone- and antibiotic-free meats and local seafood.

Tortillas are made and pressed from scratch using Masienda Heirloom Corn from farmers in Oaxaca, Mexico, whose families have cultivated traditional maize for centuries. This commitment to agricultural biodiversity extends to the bar, where house-made tepache meets infused Serrano Mezcal, and all tequilas and mezcals are traditionally distilled in small batches from artisanal Mexican palenques.

The Menu: Botanas, Tacos, and Brunch

The all-day menu offers shareable dishes and tacos. Start with the Hamachi Ceviche with citrus aguachile, or the Coliflor Fundido—cauliflower with Queso Oaxaca and shishito peppers. Tacos come on heirloom corn or housemade cassava flour tortillas, with fillings like Barbacoa (beef cheek) or Vegan Mushroom Carnitas. Entradas include the Arrachera—Creekstone Naturals hanger steak with carrot mole and a nopales salad.

Weekend brunch brings dishes like the Huarache (Mexican avocado toast), Chilaquiles, and a Tres Leches Cassava Waffle. The drinks list is built around mezcal and tequila cocktails, including the signature La Chulita with mezcal, pineapple tepache, and almond orgeat.

Michelin Recognition

Chulita’s thoughtful approach to modern Mexican cuisine and its dedication to quality ingredients have earned it a Michelin Recommended distinction, placing it among the notable dining destinations in Los Angeles.