Howdy’s Malibu
They simply didn’t look as beautiful as the tacos at Pitta Bu. There, you have more skill; the herbs are greener and brighter, fresher and more appealing to the eye.
I had been deceived… I thought that by coming here I would be served freshly prepared food, and perhaps that’s true in some respects, but the look of sheer horror on my face was unmistakable when I witnessed one of the ‘chefs’ grab a large bag of chips (clearly straight from the freezer) and tip them directly into the fryer. This was already after I’d sat down with my meal. I always wonder: why do we ignore our instincts? I’d already had my doubts. I lingered outside, pretending to study the options—really just buying myself time—carefully observing what was happening inside.
Eventually, I ventured in and saw a lot of chicken cooking on the grill. Some pieces clung stubbornly to it as the chef tried to turn them. My survival instincts kicked in, and I retreated outside again, feeling uncertain, resuming my spot, and staring once more at the choices. (I know, ridiculous behaviour.) Surely that was my sign to leave. But no… I went back in! and placed my order.
“Two chicken tacos, please.”
“Do you want that as a combo?”
“What is that?” I asked.
“You can have rice and beans on the side.”
“Oh, ok then, why not?” I replied.
“Which taco would you like?” (Did she not hear me the first time?)
Welcome to California… “What’s your name?” “Do you have a phone number?” Jesus, all this for a plate of tacos??
Back to the drama—these tacos contained cheese, but it was burnt to smithereens. (Was this intentional?) Because it seemed careless from where I was sitting. The cheese was brown, brittle, and unappetising. Were they aiming for a cheese crisp? I’ve never encountered that in any taco I’ve eaten before.
Stubbornness got the better of me, and, despite their appearance, I didn’t want to waste food, so I ate both, followed by the side of black beans and rice. With every mouthful, I wondered if I’d regret it later. At nearly twenty dollars, it felt like daylight robbery. The only redeeming feature was the sauces, which stood out among the ‘takeaway tacos.’ Honestly, I could have had a better meal at McDonald’s on the PCH.
What struck me, as I people-watched, was the steady stream of Malibu locals queuing for their usual orders. I’m starting to question the local palate (sorry). I spotted some well-dressed women flaunting their Chanel sunglasses—some real characters. Anything goes in LA.
I felt misled because Howdy’s website claims to care about freshness and quality, and in these sorts of places you can often find excellent food (Exhibit A: Pitta Bu). Sadly, after witnessing the frozen chips and tasting these mediocre tacos, I can confirm it’s all a lie. Which is, indeed, a shame.
La Reine Gourmande is a professionally trained chef, former dancer, and lifelong food obsessive with a deep passion for haute cuisine and global gastronomy. She has dined her way through the world’s top restaurants while honing her culinary skills at L’École Ferrandi in Paris and the Ashburton Cookery School in the UK. Blending her love for food and fashion, she offers a unique perspective on what to eat — and what to wear — on your next culinary adventure.
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