Scarlet Kitchen & Lounge (open for takeout)
Pulled Carrot Tacos, $18 for 3 (Order for takeout at toasttab.com/scarlet-kitchen-and-lounge/v3)
The modern speakeasy dances into South County with a former choreographer in the kitchen. Out come barbecued carrots with watermelon radish, red cabbage herb salad, and vegan house-made cashew ranch. Rancho Mission Viejo, 949-503-3086
Whitestone Restaurant (open for takeout)
Hay-Smoked Carrot Tacos (not available for takeout; check out an updated takeout menu at whitestonerestaurant.com)
Masters at teasing meat profiles from non-meat dishes, Whitestone chefs layer grilled pineapple pico de gallo, queso cotija, chipotle adobo, and house-made corn nuts atop smoked sous-vide carrots and cilantro tortillas. Dana Point, 949-489-8911
La Vida Cantina (temporarily closed)
Carrot Tacos, $5 each or $12 for two with rice and beans
Expanding its vegetarian offerings, the mostly alfresco venue offers a straightforward rendition in which carrots and avocado costar, and mushrooms, zucchini, queso fresco, and chipotle aioli play supporting roles. Costa Mesa, 949-612-2349
Facebook Comments