First Look: Alta Calle on South Grand

Alta Calle, the latest eatery from the owners of Las Palmas, opened for business on Monday, July 15 at 3131 S. Grand Blvd., bringing authentic Mexican fare to the neighborhood.

A sign in the window advertises “elevated Mexican eats,” and the menu delivers. Executive chef Tello Carreón, formerly of Nixta, has put together a menu of well-known favorites like tortas, enchiladas and tacos and unexpected yet no less authentic dishes. Pollo alto is sous vide and flash-fried half chicken served with mole pipián, rice and beans. The chuleta de puerco features two pork chops with black beans, pico de gallo and tomato salsa. Anyone expecting shredded cheese and sour cream will be sorely disappointed.

The interior of Alta Calle, which seats 97, is suffused with natural light thanks to the abundance of windows, and the decor is homey with touches of kitsch – giant lime wedges share space with artwork depicting bullfighters and Aztec warriors and princesses, while a souvenir guitar from the Pixar film "Coco" stands in a corner. Some tabletops feature large black and white photos of scenes from El Caracol, hometown of sisters and owners Veronica and Dulce Morales, providing a visual connection to their heritage.

Regular hours at Alta Calle are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch and 5 to 10 p.m. for dinner Tuesday through Sunday, and there may be an afternoon happy hour coming soon. Here’s a glimpse at the latest South Grand dining destination. 

Matt Sorrell is a staff writer at Sauce Magazine.