Viva Hollywood is now open in the what was formerly Beso Hollywood. The elegant and chic Mexican restaurant showcases various unique elements of Latin culture in a tongue-in-cheek kind of way. From the buckets of roses for sale when you first walk in, to the room full of piñatas looking down on the sophisticated dining room, Viva Hollywood is classy, beautiful, but with fun twists along the way. Inside there is a huge, gorgeous, rustic chandelier hanging over plush leather sofas adjacent to the marble long bar. The dining room also has elevated ceilings, numerous separate seating areas, and a mix of black and white. Viva Hollywood also has live cabaret, flamenco performances, and musical acts on rotation.
Viva Hollywood’s diverse menu of Latin-inspired dishes and cocktails, curated by Chef Raymond Alvarez and Executive Beverage Director Erik Weatherford will satisfy your taste buds and allow everyone in your party to find something they like.
As for cocktails, I started off with the Afterglow, made with Earl-Grey Infused Botanist Dry Gin, Lime, Lavender, and Rosemary. This cocktail that was not too sweet and I nicknamed the “adult Earl-Grey tea” was a great cocktail to start the night. My list for next time includes Truth or Dare made with Grey Goose, Lemon, Oleo Sacchrum, Blueberries, and Serrano; Pretty People made with Grey Goose L’Orange, Carpano Bianco, Lemon, Agave, Cucumber, Mint, and Basil; Pillow Talk made with Serrano-Infused Casamigos Blanco, Mint, Pineapple, and Lime; and El Niño made with El Silencio Mezcal, Blackberries, Mint, Lime, and Honey.
We started off with Taquitos de Short Rib with shredded lettuce, avocado puree, sour cream, and cotija cheese and the Ceviche Blanco Tostadas with sea bass, tomato, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and avocado. The taquitos were piled high and there was plenty to go around. The ceviche was so fresh even Tyler (who doesn’t love ceviche) loved it. It was fresh and full of flavor.
From there, we ordered tacos which you can have in home-made corn tortillas or in lettuce wraps. I ordered the Shrimp Ajo in lettuce wraps. The shrimp was mixed with garlic, lime, cracked chile, and papaya serrano salsa. It was slightly spice with amazing flavor. Tyler loved his crispy sea sea bass tacos with avocado, crema, pico de gallo and queso fresco. We then ordered the whole roasted branzino to share and a side of the corn. It was the perfect balanced meal. The fish was flavorful, filling, and it’s savoriness was delicious against the sweetness of the roasted corn. We rounded out the night with a trio of Mexican ice creams. I love ice cream that has a little kick!
All over Los Angeles you will find Latin flavor, but Viva Hollywood makes it its own with a sophisticated decor, elevated menu, and inventive cocktails. Whether you are taking in the flamenco dancers getting a group of friends together, or headed out for a date night, Viva Hollywood is the perfect spot for a night on the town.
