When you're located in Monterey, California -- right in the middle of one of America's most bountiful regions -- sometimes it can be difficult to deciding what not to include on your menu. At LALLA palooza, we make a serious effort to stay focused, and do a few things exceedingly well.
    For instance, we love fresh seafood as much as anyone, but we felt there was already an abundance of established eateries serving the area's needs in that department. So, although we certainly do serve several very tasty seafood dishes and a delicious array of fresh oysters, seafood is not really our main focus.

Steaks, on the other hand, have always been a top priority here at LALLA palooza. Premium quality, carefully aged, meticulously prepared, big juicy steaks. Grilled over an open fire of Monterey oak and served with a side of twice baked potatoes or saffron risotto with maybe some sauteed local asparagus, too.
    All accompanied by a fantastic bottle of Pinot Noir that was crafted just a few miles east of here, in the Santa Lucia Highlands.

Another thing we're fond of is a little tableside pyrotechnics, including a firey rendition of the classic, Steak Diane.
    Beyond that, it's safe to say we have a particular penchant for two regional cusines -- Italian and Cal/Mex.
    The Italian inspiration is easy to understand: Our executive chef's family hails from Naples, birthplace of the modern pizza and still a key producer of Italy's famous San Marzano tomatoes. All that heritage translates back home at LALLA palooza into fresh, house-made pastas and sauces, as well as made-from-scratch pizzas fired in our own wood-burning oven.
    And of course our connection to Cal/Mex cuisine is not difficult to figure out. Monterey and neighboring Salinas have enjoyed the delicious benefits of an Hispanic heritage for centuries.