Stay on track with New Year’s resolutions while dining out with a menu of fresh Mexican favorites at Descanso Restaurant in Costa Mesa. Well known for flavorful and authentic cuisine, the modern taqueria offers artful, wholesome dishes you can feel good about enjoying all year round.
“Our guests return for the great food, but what many don’t realize is that our menu was designed to easily accommodate a variety of dietary needs without compromising on flavor,” said Rob Arellano, Managing Partner of Descanso. “The majority of our menu is naturally gluten-free and Keto-friendly with vegetarian options throughout.”
With newly appointed executive chef Fonzy De Zuniga at the helm, Descanso is committed to using sustainable seafood, humanely raised meats and only fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from local purveyors. In fact, the restaurant does not believe in using can openers or cook with lard, which is a common, hidden ingredient in traditional Mexican cooking.
“What sets Descanso apart from many Mexican restaurants is the fact that we do not cook with lard—including in our refried beans,” said Chef De Zuniga. “We use a signature blend of spices to achieve the incredible flavor of our beans which are loved by both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.”
Health-conscious decisions are apparent throughout the menu with simple swaps like the use of tamari instead of soy sauce in dishes such as the Mexican Fried Rice and Mexi Poke to keep the recipes gluten-free. What’s more, all of Descanso’s margaritas are naturally “skinny” and made with fresh fruit and agave nectar instead of store-bought premixes which are often packed with sugar.
Healthy highlights continue to starters like the Clasico Guacamole, Elote Asado, and Diablitos featuring fire-toasted, peel-and-eat South Pacific shrimp. Taco lovers can feel good about indulging in the El Dorado Taco with chile-rubbed mahi-mahi, and the Relleno Taco for a delicious vegetarian option. Descanso’s signature Mexibols make for a nourishing lunch and are prepared with a choice of protein, rice and beans, and filled with fresh, seasonal vegetables, topped with housemade salsas. Choose the Agave Glazed Salmon for a flavorful, nutrient-packed entrée made with charred sweet peppers and onion, roasted potatoes, orange segments, cilantro and chile con limon.
Descanso has extensive protocols in place to keep guests and staff safe and adheres to all guidelines put forth by the CDC. Descanso respectfully asks all guests to wear masks when walking throughout the property.
