Descanso Offers Plancha Dining—A Feast Prepared Before Your Eyes

It’s no secret that Descano Mexican Restaurant has made a name for itself by serving elevated Mexican street food in OC and now in Miracle Mile. And one of the standout experiences at Descano is its Plancha dining where the vibrant flavors of a traditional Mexican taco stand truly comes to life.

At the Miracle Mile Descanso, the distinctive Plancha Room is equipped with four Plancha grill tables and is the perfect setting to immerse yourself in the 'A La Plancha' dining experience where planchero chefs skillfully prepare a multi-course feast before your very eyes—sharing the rich history and culture of the food while transporting diners to the heart of Mexico with captivating aromas and sounds.

“Dining a la Plancha is truly the heartbeat of Descanso," says Rob Arellano, owner of Descanso and the mastermind behind the concept. “The Plancha experience brings the flavors, sights, smells and sounds of street vendors right to your table. Here, the aromas and sounds transport diners to the heart of Mexico, offering a sensory immersion that resonates long after the meal. From the tasty scent of sizzling meats to the lively beats of street music, guests can dive in hands-on. It's like taking a trip to the heart of Mexico with every bite and sound. Come taste, hear and feel the authentic street-food vibe in an elevated full-service atmosphere at Descanso."

If you haven’t quite grasped the concept, think of Benihana and its famous teppanyaki grilled meals. When you dine ‘a la plancha’, your planchero (or grill master) is the star of the show as you relax and indulge in a multi-course meal at a communal table.

Plancha dining is a three-course meal for the coast of your entrée where first you choose between Fideo Sopa (a traditional Mexican soup) made with toasted noodles, tomato broth, avocado, crema, tortilla strips, cilantro and queso fresco) or Caesar Salad with chopped Romaine lettuce, spicy Caesar dressing, Morita chile croutons, pico de gallo and Parmigiano Reggiano. I recommend the Fideo.

Next comes Descanso’s famous Mexican Fried Rice. When I explained to our planchero that Mexican fried rice is not really a thing, I was told it was discovered by owner Rob Arellano on a trip to Peru. So, I asked if this is then Peruvian fried rice? I was told it’s really a Mexican take on Peruvian fried rice. Regardless, it’s delicious as it’s both hearty and heavenly.

Then comes your entrée where can you choose between a bevy of options, including seafood (salmon, sea bass or halibut), meats, including carne asada, pollo Maya (marinated chicken breast), ribeye steak, or pork loin al pastor, as well as non-meat options, including chile rellenos or rajas con queso (roasted poblano peppers and cheese).

I found my Plancha dining experience to be wholly enjoyable. It’s a fun setting and the meal is extremely satisfying. Do note that the tables accommodate up to eight guests so, if possible, plan a group outing and reserve a table of your own. Descanso also offers its Privada Room (private room) where you can impress up to ten guests with your very own plancha dining room where there is ample space for a cocktail hour prior to your Chefs Table style dinner.

Descanso Miracle Mile is located at 5773 Wilshire Boulevard. Open daily. Call (213) 672-2444.