You haven’t fully experienced the Golden State until you’ve visited the best Mexican restaurants in Los Angeles. California’s rich Mexican heritage is a must-have no matter your bucket list.
Searching for a Mexican restaurant can be tricky depending on your needs. Some menus have vegetarian friendly options, while others have a lot of meat. Some restaurants allow dogs, while others are pet-free zones. It’s also a good idea to consider whether you’ll be bringing friends or dining alone.
Los Angeles has many Mexican restaurants ranging from low-key eateries to Michelin-star experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for a burrito or want to eat some mouthwatering carne asada, you’re in the right place.
This guide will save you time searching for your next favorite dining spot. You’ll find 11 Mexican restaurants with high reviews, gluten-free options, and more.
El Compadre
When you want to go all out with your next dining experience, you need to start with El Compadre. This Mexican restaurant in Los Angeles got the 2023 Traveler’s Choice award for high reviews. In other words, they put the experience in dining experience. Their menu combines traditional Mexican cuisine with Spanish influences for mouthwatering results. You’re guaranteed to find a favorite, from their seafood quesadillas to pulled pork.
Gracias Madre
Gracias Madre is one of the trendiest locations in the heart of sleek West Hollywood. Its charming design comes with a strong menu of vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free options. Their menu includes plant-based variations like grilled platters and mushroom quesadillas. If you’re a dessert lover, you’ll be in paradise with their expansive dessert menu. Regardless of your dietary needs and habits, this highly-rated establishment will take good care of you.
Guelaguetza Restaurante
If you’re feeling fancy and want a lively setting, put Guelaguetza Restaurante on your list. Established in 1994, they seek to provide authentic Oaxaca to all visitors. This Michelin-rated location is well-known for their mole estofado, which is a sour mole from the region, El Istmo. Their drink list includes Mexican classics like horchata, agua del Jamaica, Agua del dia, cafe de olla, and champurrado. With live music and a well-stocked bar, they’re one of the best Mexican restaurants in LA for parties.
El Coyote
El Coyote is a no-frills Mexican restaurant with affordably priced classics. Their menu includes an old-fashioned rotation of quesadillas, chicken soups, tamales, and enchiladas. They also offer classic burgers and fries if you want to mix up your love of Mexican food with American staples. If you’re a night owl or partygoer, their late-night meals will support your lifestyle no problem. This restaurant is what you need when you’re weary and just want to wind down with a hot, casual meal.
From brunch to dinner, Mirate is a unique yet casual Mexican restaurant in Los Angeles. You’ll enjoy staples such as fish and pork belly tacos, then get fun spins like their wagyu burger. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, don’t worry – they have mushroom tacos and glazed sweet potatoes to satisfy you. Their drink menu also has some unique cocktails mixing green tea, rum, and even goat milk. Overall, Mirate is happy to combine convention with an innovative twist.
Mirate
From brunch to dinner, Mirate is a unique yet casual Mexican restaurant in Los Angeles. You’ll enjoy staples such as fish and pork belly tacos, then get fun spins like their wagyu burger. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, don’t worry – they have mushroom tacos and glazed sweet potatoes to satisfy you. Their drink menu also has some unique cocktails mixing green tea, rum, and even goat milk. Overall, Mirate is happy to combine convention with an innovative twist.
Damian
Are you only in the mood for dinner? Damian’s Mexican restaurant in Los Angeles is only open for nighttime adventures. Their indoor dining set-up is elegant, boasting warm brick and accent lights. Seasoned chefs head this menu to deliver delectable swordfish, duck, and salmon-based dishes. Damian is where you go when you want Mexican cuisine that comes with an extra helping of style.
Guerrilla Tacos
Starting off as a taco truck, Guerilla Tacos expanded into a brick-and-mortar location for all your sit-down dining needs. Their name makes it clear tacos are their favorite dish and their menu doesn’t disappoint. You’ll be able to enjoy dishes like their green chicken chorizo, fried fish, or cauliflower tacos. There are plenty of guacamole and rice side dishes to pad you out, too. Topped off with tasty cocktails, Guerilla Tacos will easily round out your vacation.
LA Cha Cha Chá
On the flipside, some Mexican restaurants offer a fantastic brunch scene. LA Cha Cha Chá offers you a slice of Mexico City in Los Angeles, brimming with authentic dishes. You have simple salads and chorizos alongside courses like crab tacos and lamb. Their hearty cocktail menu includes Mexico City staples such as carajillo and mezcalita. With outdoor seating and dog-friendly guidelines, they blend casual dining with fancy dishes.
Alma At The Grove
Who says you can’t have a marketplace experience with a fine dining experience? Alma At The Grove gives you some of the best Mexican food in Los Angeles with a two-story set-up. The ground floor lets you browse souvenirs, while their top floor is a restaurant. Their taco menu is a delight with pork, white fish, steak, mushroom, and beer battered shrimp. Check out this establishment next time you want to window shop and dine.
La Casita Mexicana
There’s something undeniably delicious about locally sourced ingredients. This philosophy is the foundation of the locally-owned La Casita Mexicana. Their vegetarian-friendly menu includes dishes of enchiladas, stuffed chilis, and grilled cactus. Their breakfast menu is impressive with their scrambled chilaquiles and freshly made tortillas. Topped off with a robust wine selection, you’ll be singing their praises.
El Cholo
Going strong since 1923, El Cholo proves the best Mexican food in Los Angeles doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel. Their reputation as the city’s first Mexican restaurant is only matched by their menu. They offer a slew of enchiladas, soups, tacos, burritos, and fajitas to satisfy any appetite. You can even order margaritas to-go if you’re short on time. This is one destination any fan of Mexican cuisine needs on their Los Angeles bucket list.
