After even an hour of shopping in LA, a small, casual lunch spot is critical for mood and energy refreshment. My mom and I stumbled on Babalu when, in search of a tall, cool, drink and a “sandwich and a salad” kind of place, we spotted it from across Montana Avenue.
The place was hopping at 1:30 pm. After a short wait for a table, we were seated smack-dab in the middle of the place; perfect for spying on other customers. The drinks hit the spot – giant Arnold Palmers were immediately served – and the menu offered a plethora of light salads, sandwiches, and pasta. Babalu bills itself as “Caribbean, eclectic and international” which I simply refer to as “American.” Quesadillas, stir fries, and tacos are now ubiquitous in American cuisine. What sets Babalu apart is its slant towards Caribbean flavors. Plantains and coconut are threaded through the menu as are pineapple rice and black beans.
Mom and I shared an Ahi Tuna Salad (with mango, plantains, and a parmesan vinaigrette) and fish tacos (with black beans and pineapple rice). The menu developer paid attention - the divergent worldly flavors found in Babalu’s dishes did not clash but complemented one-another. (Pineapple and cilantro are comfortable bedfellows.) The food was fresh. The tuna was flash-seared to a crisp exterior crust and raw center. Fish tacos were pan-seared and lightly seasoned. Service was prompt and graceful. No downside, all upsides. So refreshed, Mom and I stepped outside under the swaying palm, sighed, and continued our quest for the perfect pair of sandals.
1002 Montana Ave
Santa Monica, CA 90403
T: (310) 395-2500
Visited March 12, 2007Labels: american cuisine, babalu, caribbean, los angeles, restaurant