Located steps from the Pacific, 2nd Street Belmont Shore serves as a charming thoroughfare teeming with boutiques, bars, and inviting eateries. This seaside village remains a magnet for daytime visitors enjoying open-air dining, while the evening atmosphere shifts into a spirited social center. The newest jewel in this vibrant landscape is Zarape.
Founders Stefano Mozher and Onesimo “Oni” Mendez originated “Mexi-Medi” fusion cuisine and coined the term to describe the style of their made-to-order fresh plates, inspired by Mediterranean influences infused with authentic flavors (spanning Mexico’s Oaxaca, Puebla, Jalisco, and Veracruz regions).
The professional journey of Stefano and Oni spans several decades in the hospitality industry. Their paths crossed at Lotería, a culinary landmark that earned critical acclaim in 2002. As a pioneer in the Los Angeles dining scene, it was among the first establishments to showcase the sophisticated and authentic regional flavors synonymous with Mexico City.
Driven by a shared vision to innovate beyond conventional Mexican cuisine, Stefano and Oni introduced their signature “Mexi-Medi” fusion. This culinary concept is defined by an unyielding dedication to a 100% scratch kitchen, crafting every dish exclusively from raw, natural ingredients while strictly avoiding additives, fillers, or processed foods. Their debut restaurant in WeHo earned swift and widespread acclaim.
Upon entering the Belmont Shore establishment, guests are immediately greeted by vibrant hand-painted Día de los Muertos murals that set a festive atmosphere. Among these spirited paintings is a scene depicting mariachis that thoughtfully honors the traditional welcoming of departed spirits.
Because this was a tasting event, the portions served were smaller than standard restaurant portions. Although Zarape offers a mini taco platter, tacos are not the primary focus—even if their Oaxacan black mole taco proved rich and complex atop a handmade tortilla. For sushi enthusiasts, the ahi tostada is a must-order, featuring premium bluefin tuna.
Their Pescado Zarandeado comes paired with mint rice—a classic Mediterranean component—and a charred tomato and jalapeño salsa, contrasting with the traditional charcoal-grilled Nayarit style. The Poblano Lamb Chop is a stand-out; the lamb is marinated and charred on the grill. It’s topped with a chimichurri salsa and served with poblano mashed potatoes.
Crafted entirely from scratch with organic ingredients, their house cocktails forgo artificial mixers. Highlights include the Beso Negro—a subtly smoky blend of mezcal, activated charcoal, agave, and orange liqueur—and the Mexi-Medi, a vibrant tequila drink featuring fresh raspberry, blueberry puree, and lime.
The Churro Stick paired with ice cream provided an exquisite conclusion to the meal. To accompany dessert, the restaurant serves coffee sourced locally from Sheldrake Coffee Roasting. Their Mexican Custepec roast, harvested in Chiapas, offers a remarkably velvety profile enhanced by delicate notes of caramel and toasted nuts.
Offered every day from 2:30 to 6:30 pm, Happy Hour features a specially curated selection of over 15 shareable appetizers priced between $6 and $15, along with craft cocktails, Mexican beers, and select vineyard-direct and imported European wines priced between $9 and $12.
As a vibrant addition to Belmont Shore, Zarape sets a lively tone with its colorful, radiant interior and upbeat urban Latin soundtrack. Its menu offers a captivating array of options, balancing traditional favorites with innovative fusion creations.
Limited parking is available in the back of the restaurant, with a public parking lot across the street.
Zarape
4702 2nd St, Belmont Shore, Long Beach
zarapecocinacantina.com
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