A restaurant called Tavitas, first reported in March, will open in the former Clarke's space at South Station as early as this summer. While an opening date for Tavitas hasn't yet been set, the team is aiming to make it happen before fall.
The "badass Mexican restaurant" is "inspired by the flavors, sounds, and culture of East LA," according to a rep. The goal isn't to be "traditional" or "upscale" but rather to provide a "fun spot" for people who work around South Station, commuters, etc. The menu will include a variety of tacos (including "walking tacos," served in a bag of Doritos), tortas, burritos, guacamole, cueritos (pork rinds), elote (roasted street corn), and a Sonoran-style hot dog wrapped in pork belly chicharron. All dishes will max out at $15.
As for drinks, expect margaritas; tequila flights; colorful, fruity cocktails; and beer, including some Mexican options. The team suggests the "Last Train to Mexico" before you embark on a long train ride — a tequila shot and a can of Tecate.
Don't expect to recognize bits of the former Clarke's in the space, aside from exposed bricks; it's being completely renovated to go along with the East LA theme, including a full wall mural by Victor "Marka27" Quiñonez, a local graffiti artist who used to live in LA. There will also be a life-sized donkey sculpture made out of Mexican beer cans and steel, created by artist Amanda Wilshire. The soundtrack will include Mexican ska, rock, and pop.