The last time we stopped by Benny’s Tacos, we tried one of their salads–the Southwestern Salad to be exact–and it was surprisingly delicious.
The first thing that jumped out was the impressively large portion. This could easily be two lunches, or one very large dinner. You certainly won’t be hungry afterwards. The addition of the Oaxaca cheese (Mexican quesillo), avocado and dressing means that the salad isn’t perhaps as lo-cal as you might hope. The good news is that the dressing is served on the side. Dip don’t pour, for best effect.
The ingredients are all as fresh as they claim. The lettuce is crisp and firm, not all limp and tired. Similarly, the tomato is vibrant and tart, and the corn kernels are plump and bursting with juicy flavor. The black beans add some earthy flavor and texture, while the avocado is beautifully oily and fresh. The tortilla strips add much need crunch, and the dressing is lively and playful. The chicken does take the salad up to another level though. It feels like a proper treat because of the seasoned white meat.
They’re justifiably proud of their ingredients, stating “Benny’s Salsas and guacamole are made daily with fresh ingredients, nothing canned. We keep it real with locally sourced ingredients for that flavor-packed, fresh Mexican taste.”
Sitting on Venice Boulevard, right on the boundary separating Culver City and Los Angeles, and situated alongside a Mediterranean restaurant and various shops, it’s ideally placed for foot traffic while being perfectly in the eyeline of passing vehicles. Got a hankering for tasty Mexican treats with a fusion-twist? This is your spot.
The staff are friendly and helpful when entering and, despite this being fast food/cafeteria-style dining, you don’t ever feel rushed and harried.
This time, we didn’t go for the healthier options, opting for decadent flavor instead. The Rotisserie Chicken Quesadilla is described on the menu as, “Shredded rotisserie Chicken in a tomatillo salsa, jack cheese & Rajas: caramelized poblano peppers & onions.”
The gooey cheese and juicy chicken pair beautifully in the quesadilla, with the flavor enhanced by the salsa, peppers and onions.
Better still are the fish tacos: “Mexican Bass, cabbage salad, avocado, pico de gallo, chipotle sauce.” You have the option of fried or grilled fish, and we went with the naughtier fried choice. We didn’t regret it, with the pico and cabbage salad cutting through the grease. The fish was crispy and fresh, and the whole thing just worked.
Salads, tacos, quesadillas – Benny can do it all.
Benny’s Tacos is located at 10401 Venice Blvd. #101b, Culver City 90034. Contact 424-298-8327 or visit bennystacos.com.