El Cholo Restaurant
Hungry hordes line up at this L.A. institution for potent margaritas and famous green-corn tamales.
(323) 419-4158
1121 S Western Ave
(at West 11th Street)
Los Angeles,
CA
90006
34.0503
-118.3092
Neighborhoods: Central LA, Mid City
What People Are Saying About El Cholo Restaurant
The Owner
El Cholo Restaurant
Owner
"...this 'true institution' continues to produce 'green corn tamales straight from heaven' and the 'best, strongest margaritas in LA' after over 75 years 'these guys have got it down!'...."
- Zagat Restaurant Guide
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short
Low ceilings and exposed wood beams crown this venerable family-owned restaurant, with vintage photos of L.A. and memorabilia lining the colorful walls. High-back booths fill the dining rooms, and comfy sofas are strewn throughout the spacious bar. Gas-lit fireplaces add cozy ambiance while servers in traditional Mexican garb treat devoted customers like family. This Mexican fare has changed little since 1927. To start, a bowl brimming of freshly made guacamole is best with the obligatory warm chips. On the lighter side, the tostadita features a mound of shredded lettuce, black beans, fresh peas, avocado and tender, grilled chicken pouring out of a crispy flour shell. Otherwise, food is hearty and heavy: Bacon adds smoky flavor to grilled sirloin tacos, and chicken-filled blue corn enchiladas are doused in thick tomatillo sauce. The Taste of History combo tours house favorites like cheese enchiladas with slightly spicy red sauce and the ultra-puffy chili relleno.
User Reviews
Anonymous
February 02, 2009
I have been going here for over 40 years. The menu has changed little. The courtyard atmosphere is great as is the food. In a busy area - plenty of parking available.
read full review
legacy2012
January 19, 2009
love to go there with friends and family. they have excellent texmex and service is good. love the margarita especial and sonoma nachos are fabulous. they have a great patio and there is lots lots lots of space.
read full review
peacefaery
October 14, 2008
I have always been intrigued by this place from the outside and after years of walking by, finally went! It was a little more casual inside than I expected, but homey and comfortable. We were seated upstairs in a cove like part and it felt really private. I had a veggie burrito and it was the size of my head and really good!!! I think it's a great value for the money. Also, the margaritas are some of the best I've ever had!!!
read full reviewThe Details on El Cholo Restaurant
Parking:
Valet is free, Monday through Friday, from 11am to 3pm, and costs only $3 any other time.
What to Drink:
The margaritas are famous, but the L.A. Lemonade is a deliciously tart concoction made with three kinds of tequila and Cointreau.
Delivery:
You can get food delivered by calling L.A. Bite at (310) 441-2483, but you'll pay a delivery fee. For takeout, call the restaurant to order.
Category:
Payment Methods:
Gift Certificate, American Express, Visa, Diners Club, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Cuisine:
Message from El Cholo Restaurant
- Delivery/Take Out
- Full bar
- An LA tradition
"...this 'true institution' continues to produce 'green corn tamales straight from heaven' and the 'best, strongest margaritas in LA' after over 75 years 'these guys have got it down!'...."
- Zagat Restaurant Guide
