As first-generation Americans, brothers Alan and Eric Adler and their cousin Isi Lombrozo grew up eating authentic, homemade Mexican food prepared by family. Hoping to share those same flavors of their youth with the public at large, they opened Puesto in La Jolla in 2012. Beginning as a counter-service taco eatery, the popularity of Puesto grew quickly, bringing in customers from across the county. As a result, a second Puesto location was opened closer to downtown in November of 2013, within The Headquarters at Seaport District. Last June, the La Jolla location was expanded to offer full-service dining, additional seating and a small bar area. The additional 1,000 square feet were purchased from two adjoining businesses (a stationery shop and a rug gallery) to create a more social environment for diners. “We wanted to expand the Puesto concept,” Eric said, “and unify the original location with the Headquarters location, bringing that same dining experience to La Jolla.” As part of the expansion, the menu saw additions including appetizers, more tacos and a drink menu featuring margaritas, craft beer and wines from the Baja region. “Fresh tortillas are handmade inside the restaurant, going from the comal to the table within five minutes,” said Eric. “That’s the type of fresh[ness] we take to our salsas, meat, seafood and produce — we don’t ever sacrifice the product.” The “tacoteurs” met their business partner and executive chef Luisteen Gonzalez about five years ago at various upscale taco parties held by family friends. “We knew what great Mexican food was and were so impressed by his [food],” said Eric. “We saw an opportunity and wanted to share his amazing food with everyone.” As hands-on owners, the team works on-site in both restaurants, involved with the buying, menu and concept development. Eric is focused on marketing, branding and customer experience; Alan oversees general operations; and Lombrozo handles the accounting. All three men graduated from La Jolla High School and still reside in La Jolla. Relocating from Guadalajara, Mexico in the late 1970s, their parents came to San Diego, where other family members were already living. “We’re pretty lucky to work with family,” said Lombrozo. “I think it’s important to really know each other.” To celebrate the restaurant’s third anniversary last month, the trio held a special dinner for their most loyal guests. While interacting with partygoers, they revealed some of the new dishes that Gonzalez is currently working on in the kitchen. Puesto is located at 1026 Wall St. and is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, visit eatpuesto.com.