As a traveler, I’m always on the lookout for unique experiences that blend great food, culture, and a touch of local magic. During my visit to Holbox in Los Angeles, I was lucky enough to discover a hidden gem that transported me to the coastal flavors of Mexico, right in the heart of the city. Holbox, named after the Mexican island of the same name, offers a beautiful and vibrant escape. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by the welcoming ambiance, a perfect mix of modern design and cozy, beach-inspired elements. The atmosphere set the tone for the meal ahead — casual, yet refined.
First Bite: The Ceviche de Scallop
I couldn’t resist trying the Ceviche de Scallop, which was the perfect introduction to the menu. Served with a delicate touch, the dish arrived at the table, beautifully plated with perfectly fresh scallops, their natural sweetness enhanced by a tangy, citrusy marinade. The scallops were expertly sliced, each piece melting in your mouth with a burst of flavor. Holbox’s unpretentious setting immediately makes you feel at ease. It’s a casual counter-service seafood haven, but the culinary artistry on display rivals that of any upscale restaurant. From the sizzle of fresh seafood on the plancha to the cheerful buzz of diners eagerly awaiting their orders, the ambiance transports you to a seaside market.
The ceviche was topped with a variety of complementary ingredients – fresh avocado, cilantro, and a little heat from the chilies. What stood out to me was the balance of flavors; the freshness of the seafood was never overpowered, but elevated by the zesty lime and the cool creaminess of the avocado. It was a refreshing and light dish that immediately transported me to the shores of Mexico. The dish was not just about taste but also texture. The scallops were tender yet firm, with a natural saltiness from the sea. The crunch from the onions and the smoothness of the avocado created a harmony that made each bite even more enjoyable.
A Hidden Gem in LA
Beyond the food, what really set Holbox apart was its sense of community. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share the story behind the restaurant’s inspirations. I learned that Holbox is all about bringing the flavors of coastal Mexico to LA, and their focus on fresh, sustainable ingredients is evident in every dish. The atmosphere at Holbox gave off a relaxed, yet lively vibe, a perfect place to unwind and enjoy a beautiful meal with friends or family. I could easily imagine spending an entire afternoon here, sipping on margaritas and sampling more of their exquisite seafood offerings.
Tucked away in the heart of Los Angeles, amidst the bustling streets and endless city lights, lies a hidden treasure that transports you straight to a serene coastal paradise. Holbox Island, an intimate seafood restaurant in LA, serves as a culinary homage to the idyllic island of the same name off Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. If you’re yearning for a slice of tropical bliss without leaving the city, this is your haven.
Final Thoughts
Holbox LA is a must-visit for anyone who loves fresh seafood and a unique dining experience. The Ceviche de Scallop, in particular, was a standout dish that showcased the quality and care behind every plate. If you’re in the area, do yourself a favor and make this coastal oasis a stop on your culinary journey through Los Angeles. I can’t wait to return and try more of their incredible dishes!
A Taste of Holbox at Home: Homemade Ceviche de Scallop Recipe
Inspired by the flavors at Holbox, I decided to recreate their Ceviche de Scallop at home. Here’s a simple recipe that captures the essence of this delightful dish:
Fresh Scallop Marinade
Experience the vibrant flavors of South America with this Fresh Scallop Marinade! As any top chef would rave, this easy-to-prepare appetizer combines tender scallops with zesty lime and lemon juices, spicy red chili, and crisp red onions, all enhanced by fresh cilantro. Perfect for impressing dinner guests or adding a gourmet touch to your date night, this dish is both refreshing and delectable. Serve alongside plantain chips or a simple salad for a truly unforgettable culinary delight. Dive into this sensational scallop recipe and elevate your appetizer game effortlessly!
4
10
minutes0
minutes95
kcal2
hours2
hours10
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Seafood
1 pound fresh bay scallops
- Marinade
4 tablespoons fresh lime juice
4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Vegetables
2 medium red chilies finely diced
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
4 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Serving Suggestions
1 plantain sliced and fried until crisp
- Alternative Ingredients:
Scallops: Substitute with shrimp or firm white fish like mahi-mahi or for a vegetarian option, use hearts of palm.
Lime Juice: Replace with additional lemon juice or white wine vinegar for acidity.
Lemon Juice: Use more lime juice or lime vinegar as alternatives.
Red Chili: Substitute with jalapeños or serrano peppers for different heat levels.
Red Onion: Replace with shallots or green onions.
Cilantro: Use parsley for those who prefer not to use cilantro.
Directions
- Preparing Scallops: Begin by meticulously dicing the scallops into uniform, bite-sized pieces, approximately 8 pieces per large scallop and 4 per smaller ones. This ensures even marination and optimal flavor distribution.
- Mixing Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lime and lemon juices with the finely chopped red chili. Stir the mixture thoroughly to blend the flavors, creating a zesty marinade that will infuse the scallops.
- Marinating Scallops: Gently add the diced scallops into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the scallops become opaque, indicating they are ‘cooked’ by the citrus juices.
- Final Touches: Once marinated, incorporate the finely chopped red onion and fresh cilantro into the scallop mixture. Give it a gentle stir to combine all ingredients harmoniously, enhancing both texture and taste.
- Serving Suggestions: Plate the scallop ceviche immediately, pairing it with crispy plantain slices or a light salad for a balanced appetizer. Optionally, garnish with additional cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of freshness.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Mixing Bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- food storage containers
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 95kcal
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 27mg
- Sodium: 447mg
- Potassium: 304mg
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Vitamin A: 240IU
- Vitamin C: 42.7mg
- Calcium: 7mg
- Iron: 0.7mg
