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Hollywood's new Te'Kila "launched" last night, as that's what restaurants around here do, rather than just open. The space is ready and permits are passed, but the public debut won't come until early next week (update: formally opening Monday). Te'kila is pure Hollywood performance, with a Gothic cantina design by Kristopher Keith's Spacecraft, an altar of glowing tequila bottles stacked to the sky, cartoon oil portraits of sun-baked desperados, a vestigial candy display, and Mexican food as practiced by chef Sevan Azarian, owner of Glendale's Recess but more recently caught cooking tacos in a truck advertising Camarena Tequila.

Never the less, Te'Kila surpassed expectations during last night's preview party. Before the young, good-looking friends of the young, good-looking owners swarmed the spot, a breezy patio and the moody dark wood interior felt like a retreat from the Boulevard's clubby chaos and tarnished tinsel. Carnitas were proficiently moist and stewy, while house margaritas and sublime fresh berry cocktails showcased, rather than decimated, the bar's eponymous spirit. Te'Kila's location and connections might see its more laid-back attributes swallowed up by the Beso crowd, but get in early while they're still at home doing their hair, and it should make an ideal early afternoon escape for a great drink and a satisfying taste. Check out our slide show of the space and food below.

Te'Kila, 6541 Hollywood Blvd. Hollywood. 323-960-2404.