Back home
HERMOSA BEACH · 1980—TODAY
THE LA PLAYITA ARCHIVE · VOL. 01
La Playita’s story follows the changing shoreline around it — from its first small location to the patio, the move across 14th Street and the creation of Noble Park.
Harold and Susan Cohen opened La Playita on 14th Street, across from its present location, near the site of Hermosa’s former municipal bathhouse. It quickly became a favorite of surfers and locals looking for honest, home-style Mexican food.
As the restaurant found its community, the city approved the outdoor patio that became part of La Playita’s identity — tacos, burritos and the Pacific just beyond the park.
A hotel development displaced the original cafe. La Playita crossed only 14th Street into the former Cafe Christopher at 37 14th Street, where it remains today.
After repeated community efforts, the open land in front of the restaurant became Noble Park — preserving the green space between La Playita, The Strand and the ocean.
More than four decades later, the next generation helps carry La Playita forward. Scratch-made food, familiar faces and the relaxed spirit of Hermosa remain at its center.
1990 · ACROSS 14TH STREET
