LA’s South Bay is known for casual “Beach Mex” and I was happy to learn that a modern Mexican restaurant recently opened in the South Bay. Named Caló Kitchen and Tequila, they opened its doors in El Segundo’s newest dining destination, Apollo Landing on Rosecrans Ave.
Caló Kitchen and Tequila is located on the popular Rosecrans Avenue corridor. The building is brand new and they occupy a beautiful 2 story unit in Apollo Landing. The active bar scene and open kitchen are downstairs and I dined in the private area upstairs. Because of the windows, the view south is quite pleasurable in the evening.
When you see the words “organic, prime, ribeye, etc” on the menu, it sets the tone for the meal that you are about to enjoy. Caló Kitchen and Tequila uses premium ingredients and combines this with modern methods to prepare their traditional recipes.
The Shrimp Taquitos were uniquely served with tails on which nicely added to the presentation. Biting into them; I discovered that they were both crispy and full of shrimp. The Mexican crema and salsa verde topping nicely complimented the taste. This is a winner!
The Shrimp and Crab Enchiladas were baked with roasted tomatillo salsa and served with sliced avocados and a huge dollop of sour cream. The flavors melded quite nicely and I enjoyed having these seafood enchiladas over what other restaurants offer. Rice and black beans are also included.
The creamy guajillo salsa on Caló Kitchen’s Short Rib Enchiladas is what really makes this dish. Guajillo chiles are sweeter in nature and are popular in
Caló’s Famous Carnitas
One of the highlights for me was their Famous Carnitas. This dish is made from the owner’s family recipe. They braise the pork in Mexican coke which tenderizes the meat. They improve the taste and quality of this dish by using prime kurobuta pork. The result was crispy on the outside and extremely lean. This is not your father’s carnitas.
Tequila is a large part of their repertoire. Their focus is on small batch handmade sipping tequilas made the old fashioned way “ Tahona style”. “Tahona style” uses a volcanic stone wheel to crush the roasted agave hearts, separating the sweet juice from the pulp. Tahona tequila has a smoother and sweeter profile and is best for sipping.
Pineapple Margarita 
Watermelon Margarita
Caló Kitchen’s margaritas are strong, smooth and extremely satisfying. I tried both the sandia (watermelon) and piña (pineapple) versions. The pineapple margarita is their most popular and while I enjoyed the watermelon margarita, I enjoyed the pineapple version even more.
When I return, I’m definitely going to try the Seafood Trio. The dish comprises of a bacon and shrimp taco, lobster enchilada and a shrimp-lobster chile relleno. For me, it sounds like the perfect seafood trifecta!
If weekend brunch is more to your liking, Caló Kitchen and Tequila will extend their hours and make a weekend brunch available soon. Watch their website for details.
If you enjoy top quality modern Mexican food and drink, you owe it to yourself to give Caló Kitchen and Tequila a try.
Caló Kitchen and Tequila, 2191 Rosecrans Ave, El Segundo, CA 90245
calokitchen.com
Hi Bryan,
Great review!! I really like your descriptions on this review and the clarity of the photos. I can certainly meet you there when ever you want to go.
Take care……..Dean