Local Habit Retools & Reopens As Mexican Hangout in Hillcrest

Reopened yesterday in the 5th Avenue space where Local Habit shuttered in October is La Vecindad, meaning neighborhood, and its owners are hoping that the new eatery will resonate better with Hillcrest community than the Creole-Cajun concept did. The counter service menu for the casual spot, which has been repainted and filled with picnic tables, now revolves around tacos served on housemade tortillas, with fillings that range from bacon-wrapped shrimp to beer-battered fish and homemade longaniza, a spicy sausage. There are also daily specials, including Taco Tuesday (two tacos for $5) and white and red pozole offered as weekend restoratives.

While Local Habit was known for its San Diego beer selection, the local taps have since been whittled down and replaced with macro Mexican lagers, though they will at have least one handle of craft beer from Baja. From the full bar, there are margaritas, various shots and speciality drinks, and a selection of big brand tequilas. La Vecindad is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday.