20 Best Mexican Restaurants In Los Angeles
Given its close proximity to the border and its diverse population, it should come as no surprise that Los Angeles is home to some amazing Mexican restaurants. From traditional Oaxacan food to seafood stands inspired by the coastal cuisine of Mexico, Los Angeles has it all. According to NPR, Southern California has been a ring leader in bringing authentic taquerias and Mexican restaurants to the states, and it is even home to the legendary 150-mile taco trail.
Whether you are craving street tacos or more upscale, modern Mexican cuisine, Los Angeles has you covered with a wide variety of options. That being said, a city as saturated with culinary creations as LA can be a bit overwhelming to navigate, and there are so many options to try. That's why we've rounded up some of the best Mexican restaurants in LA so that you can hit all of the unforgettable spots.
Damian
Damian is a stylish and contemporary DTLA restaurant that has mastered the art of contemporary Mexican cuisine. Founded by Chef Enrique Olvera, Damian serves vibrant dishes that use local ingredients while paying tribute to the culinary methods and traditions of the Pacific coast. Even the beverage program is masterful, featuring artisanal spirits that pair wonderfully with the food menu. Whether you're visiting for brunch or dinner, Damian has you covered.
The sleek and modern interior sets the scene for a stunning dinner, and the leather chairs encourage you to unwind in style. Start off your meal with a light yet elevated appetizers like herby guacamole and smoked clams. For more main courses, choose between dishes like duck al pastor or carne asada. If you're looking to branch out, order the octopus huarache, the chef's spin on the popular street food based on the indigenous Nahuatl tlacoyo dish, or the kimchi-inspired costillas enmoladas. Damian also has an amazing dessert list, so be sure to save room for the hibiscus meringue.
Mirame
Looking for something upscale yet authentic? Mírame in Beverly Hills places a unique spin on Mexican cuisine and uses only the finest ingredients that are locally sourced and seasonal. Chef Joshua Gil has created a menu that is carefully curated to pay homage to Baja, Mexico-inspired flavors with a California twist. The menu changes daily, proving that all of the produce and meats used are as fresh as possible.
According to Matthew Kang at Eater LA, "The former chef of Tacos Punta Cabras, Gil's return to the LA dining scene means Angelenos get a chance to taste one of the city's most brilliant chefs in his prime, serving things like the show-stopping deep fried snapper in masa tomatillo jus, which comes with big floppy heirloom blue corn tortillas."
In addition to dinner, Mírame also serves up a solid brunch with beloved classics like chilaquiles and steak and eggs. If you want to branch out at brunch, try the duck carnitas and potato omelet or the lamb barbacoa quesadilla. At dinner, enjoy everything from Baja oysters to whole fried Baja snapper. This Beverly Hills restaurant also has an amazing selection of cocktails ranging from margaritas on the rocks to frozen and fruity sensations. The cozy fireplace on the patio, plus the mural painted by Mexico City-based artist Jorge Tellaeche, sets the scene for a romantic and transportive experience.
Casa Vega
Family-owned Casa Vega is a Los Angeles staple that has been loved by legends and even featured in Quentin Tarantino's "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood." Having been a part of the Los Angeles community for more than 65 years, Casa Vega has undoubtedly left a mark on the city. Located in Sherman Oaks, Casa Vega is known for their vibrant margaritas and comforting cuisine that landed the restaurant on the James Beard Awards in 2022. Some menu highlights include the chicken fajitas, oven-style burrito, and the Vega ribeye steak.
When it comes to drinks, the margaritas at Casa Vega are so popular that they even have them on tap. Whether you want to enjoy some fresh air and sit under the twinkle lights on the patio, or you prefer the dimly lit dining room, Casa Vega is a wonderful spot to enjoy hearty Mexican cuisine. There is a strong sense of community here and many of the customers have been visiting for years, proving just how special this spot really is.
Casablanca
Located in Venice, Casablanca is a westside classic that is known for its tableside margaritas and melt-in-your-mouth tortillas. Start your meal off with a visit from the margarita cart and watch as they make your custom drink right in front of you. Since Casablanca has been serving the beachside community of Venice for more than 40 years, you are sure to see many locals and regulars during your visit.
The mural outside of the "Casablanca" film is iconic, and the bright blue rooftop and pillars make it easy to recognize this gem. After indulging in your margarita and some zesty guacamole, get ready to experience the main course. The Casablanca menu features an "almost famous" burrito made with handmade flour tortillas, an extensive selection of calamari pounded into steaks, and many other dishes to explore. Although the menu does have a few chicken and steak dishes, the menu is definitely more seafood heavy.
El Coraloense
After opening in 2003, El Coraloense became known as an amazing hole-in-the-wall seafood spot. This family-owned business plays a huge role in the community and uses flavors and recipes from all around the world to bring people together over delicious food and drink. Though the focus of the menu is on seafood, El Coraloense is renowned for its ability to fuse different foods and flavors to create cohesive dishes that feature spices and sauces known to Mexican cuisine.
When it comes to prices, El Coraloense keeps things as affordable as possible, ensuring that you can enjoy quality seafood without having to break the bank. From a vibrant aguachile to a fresh campechana made with shrimp, abalone, and octopus, El Coraloense shines a light on how amazing coastal Mexican cuisine truly is. That being said, if you're not a big fan of seafood, El Coraloense probably isn't the place for you.
Guelaguetza
Between the menu and patio, Guelaguetza is one of the best places for Mexican cuisine with Oaxacan influences in Los Angeles. On a sunny day, the cactus-filled patio has beautiful murals and plants that invite you to sit down and take a load off while sipping on a passion fruit margarita. But, you can also order delivery or takeout to enjoy this menu at home. Guelaguetza is also very vegetarian-friendly, and most of the vegetarian menu options can be modified to be completely vegan and plant-based.
If you visit for breakfast, enjoy all of the favorites like huevos rancheros and chilaquiles al gusto with your choice of special sauce and protein. While you can't go wrong with any of the salsas at Guelaguetza, you can't visit without trying the mole. Some appetizer options we recommend include the memela sampler and the cactus salad. That being said, all of the mole dishes from the mole negro to the mole estofado are rich, complex, and decadent.
Coni's Seafood
Coni's Seafood is a locally-loved spot that provides some of the freshest coastal Mexican cuisine. Having been around since 1987, Coni's Seafood Restaurant has mastered Nayarit-style seafood, by way of Acaponeta, and the menu features tons of family recipes from the Cossio family. Since many of the fish and shrimp selections are imported directly from the Sinaloa and Nayarit regions, dining at Coni's transports you to the coast of Mexico through its signature flavors and cooking methods.
Coni's award-winning menu is large and full of classic dishes, featuring several different kinds of ceviche, tacos, and shrimp dishes. Start off with raw oysters or a shrimp cocktail for a true taste of coastal Nayarit cuisine before indulging in your main course. From savory and spicy dishes to sweeter recipes, diners who love shrimp will be pleased to find such a large variety of options. If you want to enhance your meal, choose from some tasty add-ons like mango, rice, garlic sauce, and even octopus.
Holbox
If you're a fan of seafood, you'll love Holbox. Owned and operated by Chef Gilberto Centina, Holbox has been serving LA locals and visitors since 2017. This adorable seafood stand only prepares dishes with the freshest of fish, shellfish, and produce. The zesty and tangy Yucatan-inspired spices and sauces take these refreshing ingredients to the next level. The flavors of the tropical peninsula are blended with seafood from the Gulf of Mexico, Baja, and the Pacific, creating a harmonious menu that caters to a variety of preferences.
The seafood cocktails are vibrant and traditional, featuring a house-made red sauce with wild Mexican seafood. Holbox also makes fresh ceviches, aguachiles, and tacos. The raw oysters at Holbox are served with a zesty cucumber and chile costeño sauce that adds a burst of flavor to the shellfish. The restaurant also has larger entrees, including wood-grilled branzino and seafood stew for a more filling meal.
Salsa & Beer
Is there really any better combo than salsa and beer? Salsa & Beer in North Hollywood serves up authentic Mexican cuisine from Jerez, Zacatecaz, in a classic and cozy setting. If you are looking to keep things casual yet delicious, Salsa & Beer is the place for you. Keep in mind that most of the plates are very large, so it's a great place to share or take home leftovers. The interior is very colorful and fun, while the patio is much more relaxed and chill.
One of the best things about dining at Salsa & Beer is the fact that the bean dip, chips, and salsa are always free. Enjoy complimentary refills and indulge as much as your heart desires — just be sure to save some room for the main course. From sizzling fajitas to homemade enchiladas, Salsa & Beer has it all. The menu is pretty extensive, and you will have plenty of options to browse through.
LA Cha Cha Chá
LA Cha Cha Chá in downtown Los Angeles has a beautiful patio that is complete with twinkle lights and vibrant greenery. This contemporary Mexican restaurant puts a modern twist on classic recipes, giving guests the best of both worlds. Whether you're coming for drinks and appetizers or a sit-down dinner, LA Cha Cha Chá makes for a fun and tasty experience in the heart of the city.
The bar menu features some innovative concoctions like the strawberry milk punch, which is made with tequila, brandy, strawberry, almond, and sumac. LA Cha Cha Chá also has other drinks, such as a spicy pineapple margarita and a mezcalita cocktail. Food-wise, there is definitely a focus on seafood at LA Cha Cha Chá with some menu highlights including various tostadas and ceviche. Stick around for dessert and order the arroz con leche with coconut rice pudding, mango passion fruit gel, and puffed rice.
Loqui
Keep things casual by stopping for lunch or an early dinner at Loqui. With locations in downtown Los Angeles, Culver City, and Playa Vista, Loqui caters to a few different neighborhoods so more L.A. locals can indulge in the simple yet tasty Mexican fare. Though it began as a small pop-up in San Francisco in 2013, Loqui has since become a hot spot for those craving street food and taqueria cuisine.
The menu is definitely on the smaller side (just as you would find at a typical street vendor in Mexico), so don't expect to find a huge array of options. That being said, Loqui has mastered the art of a tasty taco, keeping it simple with things like pork on corn or flour tortillas, beef tacos, and rice and beans. You can also order a plate that comes with your choice of protein along with either flour tortillas, corn tortillas, or chips. Though Loqui doesn't serve cocktails, you can enjoy some wine or Mexican beer served Michelada or Chilada style with your meal.
Lanea
Located in sunny Santa Monica, Lanea is a relaxed and beachy spot that serves up all-you-can-eat tacos in a bright and airy setting. The bar is stocked with an impressive variety of over 400 tequilas and mezcal, and those who are fans of the spirit can indulge in a handful of tastings with Lanea's special flights. Lanea has everything from a cool boat that you can sit in while sipping on your margarita to a plethora of games to choose from while you dine.
Many of Lanea's signature drinks are on tap, and you can even get them canned to-go if you prefer to take the party home. When it comes to food, indulge in taco Tuesday and enjoy selections like asada, carnitas, and veggie tacos. Lanea also offers Beyond Meat tacos, burritos, and quesadillas for those who follow a plant-based diet. Plus, with all-you-can-eat tacos, this is the best place to go when you want to get a bang for your buck.
La Casita Mexicana
Owned by chefs Jaime Martín del Campo and Ramiro Arvizu, La Casita Mexicana brings the flavors of Jalisco to Southern California through the innovative and flavorful menu. Many of the dishes featured on the menu are actual family recipes that have been passed down to the chefs, ensuring that there is a big focus on traditional methods and flavors. When it comes to gastronomy, La Casita Mexicana has been recognized by everyone from CNN to legendary chef Bobby Flay.
Enjoy weekly specials like pozole and tacos on Tuesday or enchiladas and entomatadas on Wednesday, and chile rellenos on Thursday. The full menu is pretty large, and there truly is something for everyone and every diet. The menu is broken up into sections by protein, such as "the meats," "fish" or "shrimp," allowing you to take a closer look at each dish and the ingredients used. La Casita Mexicana is also famous for its chilaquiles, which are served at breakfast.
Zacatecas
Keep things classic by visiting Zacatecas in Hawthorne, located in the South Bay. From basic burritos to more complex seafood stews, Zacatecas has made a name for itself among locals thanks to its fair prices and hearty portions. The variety at Zacatecas is what makes it so special. You can order a ½-dozen fresh oysters for an appetizer, and enjoy a cheese enchilada for your entree. When it comes to location, Zacatecas is close to both Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach, making it easy to enjoy your meal, then drive over to the coast.
The appetizers are pretty standard and include basic chips and salsa, nachos, and a quesadilla. When it comes to entrees, there are several combos to choose from, allowing you to mix and match dishes like tacos, chili rellenos, enchiladas, and more. Zacatecas also has a solid breakfast with beloved classics like huevos rancheros and savory chilaquiles.
Sonoratown
Teodoro Diaz-Rodriguez, Jr. and Jennifer Feltham started by Sonoratown in downtown Los Angeles in 2016. The food at Sonoratown is inspired by the Mexican recipes that are popular at the border, blending Latin fare with a California flair. The name Sonoratown was taken from the name of a LA community, now known as Chinatown, where a group of Mexican immigrants settled in California after the Gold Rush in 1850, showing how important history and culture are to this beloved DTLA establishment.
Though the menu is on the smaller and simpler side, it doesn't skimp on flavor and variety. Sonoratown is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, but you can also order food to-go or have it delivered directly to your house. From burritos to tacos to quesadillas, all of the most beloved classic Mexican dishes are on the menu, and you can choose between a variety of proteins like steak, chicken, or chorizo with each meal.
Mercado
With locations all over Los Angeles, Mercado is a modern and tasty Mexican restaurant that is great for an evening date or a trendy brunch. The Michelin Guide for California in 2021 included Mercado, so guests can expect quality ingredients and hand-crafted cocktails when visiting any of the locations. LA locals are able to find a Mercado in Pasadena, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, and near the Fairfax District, ensuring that you won't have to sit in the car for too long to visit one.
The menu is a bit more upscale with large entrees like carne asada, carnitas, and pescado del día. If you're looking to indulge in a variety of smaller shared plates, some solid options include the dip duo, ceviche tropical, and jicama shrimp tacos. When it comes to drinks, you can't go wrong with the signature Mercado margarita. Mercado also has a wide selection of wine and non-alcoholic options like hibiscus agua fresca.
Gracias Madre
In need of a plant-based option to cure your craving? Gracias Madre is a celebrity hot spot located in the heart of West Hollywood. The white and bright interior creates an airy and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for brunch on a sunny day. Whether you sit inside or outside on the spacious patio, you are sure to be surrounded by cozy vibes and lush greenery. The sleek, tiled bar is the perfect spot for grabbing a cocktail and a small bite to eat.
That being said, if you plan on sitting down for a full meal, there are tons of vegan options to explore. The menu is entirely plant-based, but even the most devout of carnivores will be satisfied by Gracias Madre's take on Mexican food. Some menu items worth mentioning include the jackfruit "carnitas" taco, mushroom fajitas, and enchiladas verdes. Pair your meal with the iconic slushie Mezcal margarita, and let your taste buds sore.
CaCao Mexicatessen
From the cozy bar to the vibrant cocktails, CaCao Mexicatessen is a stellar cantina that is great for dinner. CaCao Mexicatessen is most famous for its street tacos, which come on blue corn tortillas and the classic toppings of cilantro, onion, and salsa. Whether you want to keep things simple with chicken and al pastor, or you want to branch out with fried avocado with cabbage and crema or duck carnitas, CaCao Mexicatessen has tons of options to pick and choose from.
Post up at the bar during your favorite sporting event, or sit out front on the patio and enjoy some LA sunshine while chowing down on tasty dishes. If you want to dine during happy hour, visit Tuesday through Thursday or even on weekends. The happy hour menu features solid deals on margaritas and shots of tequila. For food, enjoy discounted bites like tacos and ceviche.
Toca Madera
Located in West Hollywood, Toca Madera is a hip and stylish restaurant that "reimagines" Mexican cuisine with a California twist. Though the food is wonderful, the atmosphere really sets the scene for a good time. Toca Madera is a lively and fun spot to enjoy dinner on the weekends. The enchanting patio features hanging lanterns, cozy booths, and an abundance of greenery. Even the interior features sleek booths that surround a big tree in the middle of the room, allowing the magical atmosphere to translate through the entire restaurant.
From Mezcal Monday to Taco Tuesday, Toca Madera ensures each occasion is a party. The presentation of every cocktail is also stunning, down to every detail. Some local favorites include the passion fruit-forward alma de sol and the spicy mi serrana. Toca Madera also has a great happy hour where guests can get discounted calamari, ceviche, and poke, along with select cocktails and glasses of wine.
Comedor Tenchita
Catching a craving for true Oaxacan cuisine? Comedor Tenchita is the place to go. In addition to having an amazing selection of Oaxacan dishes, Comedor Tenchita also has a unique background and location. According to Eater LA, Comedor Tenchita is run by 76-year-old Doña Hortensia "Tenchita" Melchor. She makes a different mole each day along with breakfast favorites like higaditos, a traditional Tlacolula dish, which the site explains is hard to find anywhere else in Los Angeles.
Rather than having an actual storefront, Doña makes and sells everything out of her home in Mid-City. Diners eat on outdoor tables covered in colorful plastic table clothes. Her special craft is virtually unmatched. Eater says Tenchita's Indigenous Zapoteca recipes have become incredibly popular thanks to her use of beloved spices like dried red chiles and hierba santa. From the taste of the mole to the enticing aroma of the cafe de olla, everything is handcrafted with care and consideration. If you are in the mood for flavorful food that transports you straight to the heart of Oaxaca, plan your visit to Comedor Tenchita as soon as possible.