Holbox at Mercado La Paloma

Mercado La Paloma, photo by Danny Jensen

Larry and I decided to take a mini-field trip on Saturday night to the Mercado La Paloma, just east of USC. We'd been there many times to eat at Chichen Itza and Mo' Chica. Lately, a few more international eateries have been added. There is now a Thai place, Ethiopian vegetarian fare and the new Holbox fresh fish, Yucatan-style.

Chef Gilberto Cetina, Jr. Photo by Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times

Chef Gilberto Cetina, Jr. of Chichen Itza opened this new seafood stand inside the Mercado. It's very modern and beautifully designed. The fresh fish is displayed through the windows at the counter. The clams are STILL ALIVE!

Fresh fish at Holbox. Photo by Cesar R.

There is seating at the counter so you can watch the kitchen action, but we chose to sit at one of the many tables available near Holbox. It wasn't that jammed, early on a Saturday night, but by the time we left at around 7:30, the Mercado was filling up.

Tables at the Mercado La Paloma

Larry and I each ordered the shrimp torta. The bread is freshly baked on-site. The shrimps were splayed, breaded and fried. The sandwich is dressed simply with mayo, lettuce and tomato. It was simply delicious!

Shrimp Torta

We also ordered the large ceviche mixto. The fish was super fresh and tangy, served with perfectly ripe avocado and crispy tostadas on the side.

Ceviche Mixto

There were so many other delicious dishes to try. I want to taste the fish filled chile rellenos! We must return soon.

Chef Cetino's Salsas to Go

It's always fun walking around to see the little shops at the Mercado too. A few of them were closed on Saturday night, but I couldn't resist taking a few photos.

Shops at El Mercado. Photo by Danny Jensen

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