Mercado

Mercado Restaurant Review:

Restaurateur Jesse Gomez and chef-partner Jose Acevedo expanded their Mercado footprint with this Pasadena location. Launching your visit with a drink is a given: margaritas are made with house sour. Small plates are a perfect complement, especially the seductive "dos gringas" --- a pair of handmade flour tortillas filled with savory roasted al pastor, Oaxaca cheese, cilantro and salsa. Pleasing lighter options include Mexican kale salad with candied pumpkin seeds, pears and agave-lime vinaigrette, or fish and shrimp ceviche with mango and cucumber. We also recommend the scallops, encrusted with pumpkin seeds and served with a chipotle-peppercorn sauce. Carnivores should consider the slow-cooked natural pork accompanied by guacamole, salsa and cauliflower. More than 70 tequilas and mezcals grace the bar. Other locations.