Tortilla Republic Hosts Monthly Tequila Tasting Menu

Tortilla Republic opened its Laguna Beach location in June 2014. Recognized for its contemporary Mexican fare that uses fresh ingredients and organic products whenever possible. The menu created by Consulting Chef Cathy Shyne and Executive Chef Chris Tzorin draws inspiration from the coastal community and its surroundings in Southern California. Whether it’s brunch, lunch or dinner, you will find dishes that will please your eyes as well as your palates. There are also Afternoon Menu, Fish Taco Bar, Taco Tuesday and Kids Menu. OC restaurant is coming up around the corner on March 1st through March 7th. So check out the special menu and make a reservation.

It was a weekday evening that Wendy and I made our way down to Tortilla Republic Laguna Beach for a 5 course customized tasting from Executive Chef Chris Tzorin, Consulting Chef Cathy Shyne, and Pastry Chef Katie Shyne.

What made it even more special was the fact that each meal was complemented by premium mezcal and tequila tastings. Of course it all started with homemade chips and a salsa trio of salsa de mesa, salsa de tomatillo fresca and salsa de papaya habanero.

The menu started with Bocadito, a spicy cucumber mint and citrus bites in a spoon spiked with tequila and tortilla strips. It came with our first drink the El Rey (Pierde Almas La Puritita Verda Mezcal, Herradura Silver, Fresh Agave Lime Sweet) which was very refreshing and everyone enjoyed it.

The next course was a Spanish Chorizo Clams with smoked paprika, fennel, and pino ranchero herb sauce with some asiago toast. It’s dish like this that turns a non-seafood lover into a seafood lover. It was simply lovely!

It was paired with a Feria de Jalisco blanco.

Throughout the evening, representatives Moises Rivera of Feria De Jalisco Tequila and Nicholas Potocic of Union Mezcal talked about the history and flavor profiles behind each brand as well as stopped by all of the tables answering any questions the guests may have had.

We were then served the Achiote Salmon with red cauliflower purée, chipotle peach chutney, and blood orange beurre blanc. It was so moist and tasty. I must say the preparation was quite creative. Don’t think we have ever had salmon prepared this way.

Chateaubriand Steak was a favorite with whipped purple potatoes, chimichurri, parmesan stuffed tomato, ancho chile with a cabernet reduction. Although our filet mignon was done medium well, it was still very tender and flavorful. The drinks kept coming with Feria de Jalisco Reposado.

We where so stuffed, but there still was a dessert. Before it was served, we where treated to the Feria de Jalisco Anejo. It was more like an after dinner liquor and reminded me of Grande Marnier with it’s citrus like aroma.

Then finally came the Tangerine Short Cake with champaign tequila mouse, hibiscus infused pomegranate and tangerine. A wonderful ending to a great evening of delicious food and drinks.

You probably have had wine pairing menu or even beer pairing menu. Have you ever tried the tequila pairing menu? It really is an experience you don’t want to miss. Keep an eye out for the next monthly tequila tasting.  and make your way to Laguna Beach and Tortilla Republic. We would love to hear about your favorites!

Tortilla Republic
480 S Coast Hwy
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 393-4888