Daisy Margarita Bar recently debuted on Ventura Boulevard in Los Angeles' Sherman Oaks neighborhood, transforming a former early-2000s-era restaurant into an approachable and eclectic Mexican cantina.
Owner/operator Matt Egan, who also owns the restaurant Mírate in the Los Feliz neighborhood, tapped designer Alexa Nafisi-Movaghar of Adean Studios to lead the 100-seat project. Working on a tight budget, Nafisi-Movaghar repurposed much of the space’s existing materials and layout, layering in Mexican-inspired textures, colors and cultural references to achieve the desired transformation.
Banquettes were reupholstered, while existing tabletops were retained and updated with painted edge detailing. The existing wood paneling, lighting fixtures and floor were preserved, with subtle but strategic updates: glass panels were added to divide the space, fringe was applied to light fixtures for texture, and the floor received a checkered epoxy overlay.
The bar was reimagined by stripping its wood base and adding terracotta tile to introduce a traditional Mexican texture. Fringe was also applied to the barstools for a playful touch.
Drawing inspiration from the traditional vaquero, or cowboy, aesthetic, the design combines rustic tavern elements with layered colors and mixed textures. A palette of vibrant greens and yellows complements the building’s existing hacienda details and terracotta accents. Oil-painted portraits, taxidermy, neon signage and other vintage pieces (sourced by Egan from Mexico) punctuate the dimly lit interiors.
A custom-built jukebox adorned with fringe, leather and wood paneling serves as a focal point, a dive bar influence within the cantina concept.
By upcycling existing elements from the previous tenant and integrating new design features, Adean Studios delivered a space that balances sophistication with informality, creating a distinctive new dining destination.
Images by Kort Havens
