Food, atmosphere and tradition make a flavorful combination at Santa Monica’s new restaurant Mercado.The restaurant is helmed by chef Jose Acevedo and co-owner Jesse Gomez, the duo behind downtown’s Yxta Cocina Mexicana. Diners can enjoy Acevedo’s signature carnitas, made using a recipe passed down through generations, along with daily-handmade tortillas and dishes featuring produce from the local farmers market. At the well-stocked bar, try the Escabeche Martini, Jamaica Margarita or La Picosa—Tanteo jalapeño tequila, muddled lime and Serrano chiles with fresh sour. There are also 14 draft and bottled beers, plus more than 70 premium silver, reposado and añejo tequilas. New York architect Poonam Khanna outfitted the restaurant in an eclectic fusion of modern design and traditional touches, creating an intimate, upscale dining room. 1416 4th St., Santa Monica, 310.526.7121. mercadosantamonica.com