Loteria Grill
Los Angeles, CA 90036-3109
Phone: (323) 930-2211
- Price:
- $
- Cross Street:
- S Fairfax Avenue
- Hours:
- Mon-Thu 9am-9pm, Fri-Sat 9am-10pm, Sun 9am-8pm
Editorial Review for Loteria Grill – by Lesley Balla
The Scene
With a prime location in the middle of the Farmers Market and authentic Mexican fare, this bustling stand is fast becoming a neighborhood favorite. Friendly and festive, the counter is lined with colorful Mexican playing cards and surrounded by bright red and yellow stools. Helpful servers get the orders in and the food out at breakneck speed.
The Food
Tacos, burritos and enchiladas made with homemade tortillas, succulent meat fillings and savory sauces easily stand up to L.A.'s best. Tacos are piled high with sweet grilled zucchini and crisp corn succotash, or topped with a choice of meat--smoky, cochinita pibil (roasted pulled pork) or juicy chicken smothered in rich, toasty sweet mole. Mildly spicy, dark-red chili guajillo or zippy green tomatillo sauce enhance simple cheese enchiladas. Make it a full meal with flavorful green rice, well-seasoned black beans and sweet fried plantains, then wash it all down with cool hibiscus flower tea.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
Know Before You GoLoteria doesn't serve alcohol, but 326 Beer and Wine next door does. Grab a cold one and bring it back to the table.
ParkingDon't forget to get your ticket stamped for two free hours of parking; otherwise, parking will cost more than lunch.
When to GoAuthentic, mole-doused chilaquiles and egg dishes are served all day.
User Reviews for Loteria Grill
05/03/2008 Posted by aws3
Some tv special (I think it was Elmer Dills) claimed this place was one of three in Los Angeles to have the best tacos in town. Not! $3 for a taco that you literally will finish in two bites. The taste was not great,but okay. For the price, uh,uh. tHE average person will need at least six of these bite size taco's just to qualify as a meal. that's $18 for one person's taco's. Not a great value and not the best tacos. Much better for the price are Pepe's in Downey,Ca, Burritos El Chavo in Studio City,King Taco in Pasadena,and Burrito King in SilverLake. These are just a few quick stops for much better food. Poquito Mas and Las Fuentes in Reseda are also very good. Like one review mentioned, Farmers Market food stops are way overated. Somebody must be gettin paid.
02/11/2008 Posted by kumarik
The Loteria Grill has the best Mexican food, hands-down. Here you will find traditional recipes without loads of cheddar cheese and refried beans. (The term "Mexican food" can be misleading -- real Mexican food isn't as greasy.) It's a great place to take family and friends. I haven't tasted one dish that I don't like, and that's saying a lot! Some of my favorites include the calabacitas, papa con rajas and tinga de pollo in a taco or tostada. My boyfriend enjoys the enchiladas and chilaquiles verdes.Their salsa is to die for! If you aren't sure what to get, I recommend starting with the probaditas sampler. You get to try all 12 tacos on mini-hand made tortillas. Loteria serves white or green rice as opposed to the traditional Mexican rice found at many restaurants. They also serve black beans only. They have great horchata. So fresh tasting. Try it and you won't be disappointed! Some advice: Don't go on a completely empty stomach. It's best to budget your energy and be prepared to fight for a spot at the food bar and/or a place to sit down and eat your food. The food is so good that you might find yourself in a long line.
Pros: Tasty food at reasonably affordable rates; 10% discount for KCRW members
Cons: Parking; often very crowded with long lines
