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
07/27/2008 Posted by crankypanda
Great breakfast food. Tasty tacos. Everything is a little expensive ($10 for huevos rancheros is a little steep), but still worth it. The flavors are amazing. I just don't like waiting in (sometimes) long line and fighting the Farmers' Market crowd.
Pros: everything is super tasty
Cons: large weekend crowd at grove/farmers' market
07/03/2008 Posted by tbalder73
I am a native of Mexico City, so I am always on the lookout for truly Mexico-City style tacos, which are smaller, usually come with onion and cilantro, and include non-processed, authentic tortillas (whiter corn). These tacos are one of the few I've found in LA that are truly Mexico City style, with less grease and all flavor. The mole and the chicharron tacos taste homemade, like the way my grandmother cooks. It's a no frills place, but good food is all you need in a real taco stand. The prices are ridiculous, esp. compared to what you pay for tacos like these in Mexico. Recommend getting the platters that come with tortillas. You'll get more food and can make your own tacos. The breakfasts are also great. Oh and keep in mind, burritos aren't truly Mexican. They are an American invention (I never even knew what a burrito was growing up until I came to the states). So while they sell them to please American palates, they are not the most authentic thing on this menu. This is a TACO stand. Come for the tacos. Get a burrito somewhere else.

