Ostioneria Colima

I've passed by this place for years, but never went because I had no idea if it was good. I have to admit that I didn't even consider it a place to try until my brother mentioned it. The situation makes me understand how non-Chinese might feel intimidated about going to a Chinese restaurant where the predominant language is one they don't understand. Though I know enough Spanish to read most of the menu hanging above the order counter, I had to ask for an English-language menu to decipher the rest. Turns out the name "ostioneria" refers to the oysters they serve.

It's a casual place decorated for a beachy feel, with televisions showing sports games in every corner. Apparently it can get very crowded during soccer games. After you order at the counter, you can either sit inside in booths or outside under a thatched roof overhang and they will bring your order to you.

We ordered quite a bit of food: octopus cocktail, fish ceviche, fish tacos, shrimp tacos, and the hot and spicy shrimp dinner. The octopus cocktail was unpleasantly sweet and fruity for my taste and the fish ceviche was so-so. The rest of the food was awesome, however. Several filets of crispy breaded fish topped with shredded cabbage and sour cream fill the fish tacos. The shrimp tacos are similar. The hot and spicy shrimp dinner was awesome. Fresh, large shrimp with the tails left on swim in a glorious spicy, roasted pepper and onion sauce. Wow, this was so good! The roasted peppers provides a wonderful flavor and depth to the savory sauce. The salad that came with the dinner was just iceberg lettuce, red onions, and orange slices, and the rice is cooked with yellow corn. They also serve a delicious super spicy salsa filled with chilli seeds and roasted peppers. This stuff makes the manufactured tortilla chips taste great.

When I'm back in the Heights, I'm definitely coming here to satisfy my craving for Mexican food!

Ostioneria Colima
1136 S Hacienda Blvd
Hacienda Hts CA 91745
626.333.8017