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Peter Cheng/Holbox
Congratulations to Holbox, a Mexican seafood counter located inside Mercado La Paloma in Los Angeles, for earning a 2024 Michelin Star. It is the first star awarded to a Mexican “marisquería,” or seafood restaurant.
The restaurant is headed by Chef Gilberto Cetina Jr., who previously worked alongside his father at Chichen Itza.
“It’s surreal,” Cetina said in an interview with L.A. TACO the morning after the ceremony. “A Michelin Star was never in our plans. It didn’t seem attainable for a restaurant as casual as ours, but I’m so proud of my team and grateful for all the love they pour into every task."
In announcing the award, the Michelin Guide wrote: “Spectacular quality seafood of unassailable freshness leaves an impression, whether in electrifyingly vibrant aguachiles and ceviches, excellent tacos served on house-made heirloom corn tortillas, or skillfully grilled lobster—a panoply of exceptional house salsas gilds the lily. The frequently changing menu offers no shortage of delights, and a tasting menu, offered by reservation only on Thursdays and Fridays, is hotly sought-after.”
The L.A. TACO article noted that Holbox, which opened in 2017, is also the only mariscos shop in Los Angeles that uses heirloom-grown corn from Oaxaca and the state of Mexico for all their tacos and tostadas raspadas. The restaurant also is exceptional among Michelin star recipients in that it does not serve alcohol.
"This recognition places the restaurant among California’s finest dining establishments," noted Lilly Rocha, CEO of the Latino Restaurant Association, in an email to the association's members. "This achievement is a testament to the dedication of the entire Holbox team and the loyal support of their diners."
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