Nueva (CLOSED)

This relaxed Mexican eatery, which opened in first year of the pandemic, has become a well-established neighborhood spot for drinks, brunch and happy hour, though its two spacious, colorful patios also translate well among dinnertime crowds. Here, chefs Vartan Abgaryan and Mesraim Llanez weave California ingredients and Middle Eastern flavors into tostadas, shareable plates, tacos and snacks at this breezy cantina spot located at the intersection where Venice meets Marina del Rey. The crispy pork belly chicharron taco is droolworthy, and the vegan-friendly Peruvian potato taco, topped with pickled veggies and plant-based cheese, is worth ordering as well, but our favorite splurge is the grilled octopus.