The news of trendy, natural wine hotspot Oriel’s closure hit Angelenos hard, but Café Tondo is here to breathe new life into this Chinatown staple. In LA, a short-lived time in the sun isn’t uncommon for even the most popular venues (see: Melody’s recent demise). It’s a brutal market for new bars and eateries, but Café Tondo is up for the challenge. A collaboration between first-time restaurateur Abraham Campillo of Mouthwash Studios and chef Valeria Velásquez, Café Tondo aims to bring a taste of Mexico City to Chinatown.
This industrial-chic, retro locale at 1135 N Alameda Street has gone through many iterations since it was originally a tire shop. Its pink neon lights wrap around the crown of the building, inviting Angelenos inside the textured, culturally rich interior. The inside of Café Tondo takes heavy inspiration from modern Mexico City bars and bakeries, striking the prototypical balance between casual and chic. The original architectural elements are highlighted and embraced by the simple, cozy decor.
The interior features ceramics by Isabella Marengo of Bugambilia as well as artwork that has been relocated directly from owner Campillo’s home. Several pieces of furniture were crafted by Mexican artisans, giving the entire space a collected, handmade feel.
In the morning, Café Tondo offers traditional pastries like piloncillo paired with spiced café de olla. The coffee beans come from Verve, another LA staple that has achieved icon status. Chef Valeria Velásquez has curated a Colombian-fusion menu, inspired by her upbringing in Bogotá. The lunch menu highlights empanadas and tortas, while the dinner menu has just two dishes: chicken Milanesa and timeless steak frites. Natural wine lovers will be relieved to know that this new locale also offers a carefully curated selection of international bottles. Their specialty, however, is a vermouth spritz.
Café Tondo kept the restaurant staff of Oriel, making sure to work with those who know the space best. The convivial and communal atmosphere is enhanced by frequent live jazz, DJs, and Bolero night on Tuesdays.
Make a reservation here.
