Best of 26 Tex Mex restaurants in Downtown Los Angeles
Downtown Los Angeles is home to a variety of dining options, and Tex Mex restaurants are certainly part of the mix. These establishments serve up a delicious blend of Texan and Mexican cuisine, offering a unique and flavorful dining experience. Whether you're in the mood for tacos, enchiladas, or something else entirely, you're sure to find it at one of the many Tex Mex restaurants in Downtown Los Angeles. So why not give one a try next time you're in the area? You won't be disappointed!
- 1. El Patroncito Mexican Cuisine
- 2. El Cholo
- 3. Guisados
- 4. Sonoratown
- 5. Bar Amá in Downtown Los Angeles
- 6. Sol Agave LA LIVE in Downtown Los Angeles
- 7. El Chinanteco Mexican Grill Restaurant
- 8. Doña Inez Restaurant
- 9. Pez Cantina in Downtown Los Angeles
- 10. Sonoritas - DTLA
- 11. Cilantro Lime
- 12. LOQUI in Downtown Los Angeles
- 13. Pinches Tacos DTLA
- 14. Guerrilla Tacos
- 15. El Paseo Inn
- 16. Jacky’s Restaurant
- 17. Yxta Cocina Mexicana
- 18. Mezcalero DTLA
- 19. El Rancho Grande
- 20. Tacos Tumbras a Tomas
- 21. Margarita's Place
- 22. Doña Estela
- 23. Tacos Mexico
- 24. Los compayitos food
- 25. Good Grill Express
- 26. Takosmexa
1. El Patroncito Mexican Cuisine
Homemade tortillas, Wide selection of tequilas

The restaurant I visited in LA serves some of the best Tex Mex food I've had. In particular, their fish tacos are exceptional, featuring fresh, delicate flavors. What makes them even more impressive is that the owner makes the tortillas on the spot, ensuring their quality and freshness.
The restaurant is known for its tasty and generously portioned dishes. Customers often rave about the delicious taste of the food and its appealing presentation. The freshness of the ingredients is evident in each dish, contributing to its delightful flavors and satisfying servings.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
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2. El Cholo
Family-owned since 1923, historic LA restaurant

The author has been familiar with a restaurant offering Mexican-inspired dishes for a long time, but never developed a taste for it. On a recent visit, they asked for a steak recommendation, and the waiter suggested 'Tacos Al Carbon'. Although it was not one of the more expensive items, the author found the flavors lacking. The steak had minimal taste, the bacon and tomatillos were tough, and only the salsa was enjoyable due to its smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
The author clarifies that the restaurant does not serve authentic Mexican food, as they are Mexican themselves. The dishes do not resemble the traditional Mexican food, but rather a California-style Mexican cuisine with some New Mexican influences. The author emphasizes that the restaurant does not serve Tex-Mex food, which many people enjoy, but offers a unique take on Mexican food.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
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3. Guisados
Features a rotating daily menu and offers a vegetarian option

Guisados is known for its delicious and fresh food offerings. Their tacos, in particular, are a must-try, even though the tortillas used are a bit flimsy. While the pricing for the tacos, which cost $5 or more each, might seem high, the exceptional taste makes it worth the extra cost.
In addition to the tasty food, Guisados also provides a great atmosphere for customers looking to chill and enjoy some authentic Mexican cuisine. The freshness of the ingredients used is evident in the good flavor of each dish, making it a standout option for those seeking delicious Mexican food.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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4. Sonoratown
Family-owned, Handmade tortillas, Street parking

Bomb Tacos is a popular new addition to the neighborhood, known for its use of locally sourced ingredients and quick service. The menu features a variety of taco options, with the costilla taco being a particular favorite among customers. The tacos are consistently described as fresh, flavorful, and satisfying.
In addition to their tacos, Bomb Tacos also offers caramelos, which are another popular menu item. The food at Bomb Tacos is made with high-quality ingredients, resulting in dishes that are both delicious and filling. Whether you're in the mood for a quick and tasty meal or something more substantial, Bomb Tacos is definitely worth checking out.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
5. Bar Amá in Downtown Los Angeles
Housed in a historic bank building with unique atmosphere

The service at this establishment is known for its promptness and attentiveness, providing customers with a positive dining experience. However, an 18% service charge is added to the bill, which has been a point of contention for some patrons who find it difficult to accept.
The food offered is generally of good quality, featuring unique flavors and a wide variety of options. Mexican fusion cuisine is a highlight, with popular dishes including queso and chips, Puffy Tacos, Chile Relleno, Cilantro Pesto Cauliflower, Queso Fundido and a delectable rice pudding dessert. The menu provides something for everyone, making it a great choice for a diverse group of diners.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Dinner
- Late Night
6. Sol Agave LA LIVE in Downtown Los Angeles
Spacious patio, live music, and happy hour specials.

Sol Agave LA LIVE is a restaurant that offers exceptional New Mexican cuisine. The menu features a variety of delicious dishes such as perfectly cooked carnitas, salsa & chips, and fajitas that are sure to delight guests. During happy hour, visitors can enjoy a range of mouth-watering food at excellent prices, including garnishes that add an extra burst of flavor to dishes like taquitos. One particularly exciting menu item is the Mexican Flaming Coffee, which is sure to impress and excite diners.
The happy hour food at Sol Agave LA LIVE is a highlight for many visitors. The taquitos are a standout dish, with tasty garnishes that complement the flavors of the filling. For those looking for a unique and memorable dining experience, the Mexican Flaming Coffee is a must-try. Overall, Sol Agave LA LIVE is a restaurant that offers excellent New Mexican cuisine, with a variety of dishes that are sure to satisfy and impress. Whether you're stopping by for happy hour or enjoying a full meal, this is a restaurant that is not to be missed.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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7. El Chinanteco Mexican Grill Restaurant
Handmade tortillas, Fresh ingredients, Traditional family recipes

El Chinanteco Mexican Grill Restaurant is known for its authentic Tex Mex dishes, including sizzling fajitas and hearty burritos. The service is consistently friendly, adding to the overall positive dining experience.
If you're in the mood for Tex Mex food, El Chinanteco is a great choice. The fajitas are a standout dish, arriving at the table sizzling hot and packed with flavor. The restaurant's atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot for dinner with friends or family.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
8. Doña Inez Restaurant
Family-owned and operated for over 30 years, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere

Doña Inez Restaurant in Los Angeles is a well-loved establishment by locals and visitors alike. The restaurant is family-owned and takes pride in its authentic flavors and welcoming ambiance. Situated in downtown LA, it draws in customers from mid-city and the South Bay who are eager to try their popular dishes. Among these must-try items are their breakfast burritos, satisfying nachos, and flavorful salmon.
The menu at Doña Inez Restaurant features a variety of dishes that are sure to please any palate. In addition to their breakfast burritos, nachos, and salmon, they also offer other Mexican favorites such as tacos, enchiladas, and burritos. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a casual meal. The staff is friendly and attentive, adding to the overall positive dining experience. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Doña Inez Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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9. Pez Cantina in Downtown Los Angeles
Spacious patio with firepits and heat lamps

The fish tacos served at this LA-based Tex Mex restaurant are a must-try, thanks to their impressive flavor and quality. The restaurant's use of chili powder on the chips is a clever touch, providing a pleasant spiciness that complements the rest of the meal.
When it comes to salads, the Mexican Caesar salad offered here is a standout option. Its fresh ingredients are a delight, adding a refreshing element to the rich and satisfying flavors of the Tex Mex cuisine. This establishment has established itself as a top destination for those seeking delicious and authentic Tex Mex dining experiences in LA.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
10. Sonoritas - DTLA
Elevated Tex Mex cuisine with a lively atmosphere

Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the way we prepare our food. We believe in using nothing but the best ingredients, which is why all our salsas and dishes are made from scratch. We source our ingredients locally and preferably organically, and we even make our own corn tortillas.
The service and ambiance of the restaurant were commendable. The servers were attentive and kind, creating a pleasant dining experience. However, the food was disappointing. It had a strong resemblance to fast-food chain Pollo Loco but at a much higher price point. This detracted from the overall dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
11. Cilantro Lime
Sustainable practices, supports local farmers, and offers vegetarian and vegan options

The food at this establishment is highly praised for its delicious and authentic flavors. The menu features Mexican dishes with a unique twist on some classics. Guests can expect fresh ingredients in every dish, ensuring a high-quality dining experience.
One standout dish is the burrito, which has received rave reviews for its taste. The burrito typically includes ingredients such as rice, chicken, melted cheese, and green peppers. Its combination of flavors and textures has made it a favorite among guests, who appreciate its freshness and unique twist on the traditional Mexican dish.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
12. LOQUI in Downtown Los Angeles
Community-focused restaurant in a trendy Arts District location

The prices at the Arts District establishment are reasonably priced and provide good value for the food offered. The cost of the dishes matches the quality and quantity of food served, making it an affordable option for the area.
The food at this location is delicious and made with high-quality ingredients. The meat marinades have a rich and flavorful appeal, and the portions of protein in the tacos and plates are generous. The food consistently meets these high standards, making for a satisfying dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
13. Pinches Tacos DTLA
Colorful mural inside the restaurant, friendly staff, offers catering service

Mexican food at this establishment is flavorful, authentic, and excellent. The handmade tortillas are fresh, and there is a wide variety of options to choose from. The food is highly recommended for those seeking an authentic Mexican dining experience.
The prices for the Mexican dishes are reasonable, taking into account the generous portions of food given. For instance, tacos are priced around $5 each, and burritos cost around $15, which may seem expensive but are substantial in size. Diners are sure to get their money's worth in terms of food quality and quantity.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
14. Guerrilla Tacos
Rotating seasonal menu, Community focused, Chef-driven street food

Guerilla Tacos, a renowned restaurant in Los Angeles, Calif, is situated in the city's arts district and offers a unique dining experience. The establishment, which is known for its friendly staff, has both a large indoor and small outdoor space for customers to enjoy their meals. There is also a parking lot located directly across the street, making it convenient for customers to access.
The menu at Guerilla Tacos features a variety of Mexican/fusion cuisine that is both delicious and inventive. The food is made with fresh ingredients and the prices are reasonable, making it a great option for those looking for high-quality meals at a fair price. In addition to the great food, there are also several other cool bars in the area for customers to explore if they wish to continue their night out.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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15. El Paseo Inn
Family-owned establishment with rich history

El Paseo Inn is a hidden gem in LA known for its exceptional Tex Mex cuisine. Two must-try dishes are the chicken enchilada de mole and the potato flautas. The restaurant also offers live preparation of guacamole, which is a real treat for customers. In addition to the delicious food, El Paseo Inn provides excellent service, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
El Paseo Inn offers a delightful experience with an ambiance that is both vibrant and charming. The restaurant's Tex Mex menu includes popular dishes like enchiladas and fajitas, which are sure to please. Furthermore, the live mariachi music creates a unique and authentic atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a night out. Whether you're a fan of Tex Mex or just looking for a new dining experience, El Paseo Inn is definitely worth a visit.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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16. Jacky’s Restaurant

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Lunch
17. Yxta Cocina Mexicana
Colorful decor, Hand-shaken margaritas, Tequila selection

Yxta Cocina Mexicana is a high-quality Mexican restaurant that offers a distinctive dining experience with upscale haute cuisine flavors. Its menu features authentic Mexican dishes such as mango margaritas, guacamole, ceviche, fish tacos, and the Mahi Mahi special, all made with fresh and delicious ingredients.
The restaurant boasts moderate prices, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Additionally, Yxta Cocina Mexicana offers a cool and inviting atmosphere, making it a great spot for a night out with friends or a special occasion. The staff is also known for being very friendly and attentive, contributing to an overall positive dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
18. Mezcalero DTLA
Offers a wide selection of mezcal, located in the heart of downtown LA

Mezcalero DTLA provides a wide selection of options during their happy hour, known for its small yet flavorful portions. The house margaritas are particularly popular, especially the unique strawberry hibiscus and passion fruit flavors. The atmosphere is spacious and inviting, making it a rare find in the area. Mezcalero's drink offerings are top-notch, and if you can't find something that suits your taste on the menu, the knowledgeable bartenders are more than happy to create a personalized drink for you.
Mezcalero DTLA's happy hour offers a range of delicious choices in a larger-than-expected setting with a laid-back vibe. Mezcal is the star of their drink menu, with impressive concoctions that will satisfy any palate. If you're having trouble deciding, their bartenders are glad to help by crafting a drink tailored to your preferences. The unique and tasty house margaritas, including strawberry hibiscus and passion fruit flavors, are a must-try. Overall, Mezcalero DTLA is an excellent choice for drinks and a relaxing atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
19. El Rancho Grande
Family-owned restaurant with rich history

El Rancho Grande is known for its friendly and attentive staff, providing excellent service to its guests. Dinners are delighted with the nicely cooked Mexican cuisine, including standout dishes like grilled beef, taquitos, and burritos. The food is so delicious that it keeps customers coming back for more.
The restaurant also offers complimentary refills on horchata, a popular Mexican drink, which is a pleasant surprise for many visitors. The seating arrangement and view are also noteworthy, providing a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. According to customer reviews, the spot is famous for its great service, making it a go-to destination for anyone looking to experience authentic Mexican cuisine.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
20. Tacos Tumbras a Tomas
Friendly service, unique salsa bar, cash only

Tacos Tumbras is a popular eatery renowned for its delicious tacos, which feature generous portions and unique flavors. The establishment offers gluten-free options, with the exception of their flour tortillas, making it an inclusive choice for diners with dietary restrictions. Moreover, the prices are reasonable, making it an affordable option for a satisfying meal.
When visiting Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, customers can anticipate a superior taco and burrito experience, characterized by big portions, friendly service, and high-quality food. This establishment is committed to delivering a memorable dining experience to its customers, making it a top choice for taco and burrito enthusiasts.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
21. Margarita's Place
Features a lively patio and a popular happy hour

Some users have shared mixed reviews about the burrito offered at this establishment. While a few have enjoyed it, others have found it to be inconsistent in quality. The burrito has been described as both cold and lacking in seasoning, as well as overly salty by different individuals. On the other hand, the Caldo De Res soup has received high praise from many customers. It is commonly described as delicious, with a generous amount of vegetables and large chunks of meat.
The burrito served here has failed to impress some users, who have found it to be less than satisfactory. The inconsistency in the quality of the burrito has been a recurring issue, with some customers receiving a burrito that was cold or lacked seasoning, while others have found it to be overly salted. However, the Caldo De Res soup is a clear standout dish that has won over many customers. It is consistently tasty, with a hearty serving of vegetables and large pieces of meat, making it a must-try for soup lovers.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
22. Doña Estela
Friendly staff, Cozy atmosphere, Homemade tortillas

If you're in the area and on the lookout for a taco truck, this is a fantastic option, especially after a night at the bars. The California burrito and tostada mixta were both standouts, with fresh and high-quality seafood that impressed even in the raw pieces.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
23. Tacos Mexico
Family-owned and operated for over 20 years, using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients.

If you're craving tacos late at night and struggling to find a place that's still open, this establishment is worth considering. The carnitas tacos are a standout option, featuring generous portions of tender, flavorful pork. The green salsa that accompanies the tacos adds a nice touch, providing a bit of heat without overwhelming the other flavors.
While some guests may consider the prices to be on the high side, others believe they are fair, especially given the quality of the food. The burrito is a particularly popular menu item, with the carne asada burrito being a favorite choice among guests. Overall, the restaurant offers a satisfying dining experience, with a range of delicious options to choose from.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
24. Los compayitos food

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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25. Good Grill Express
Centrally located in downtown LA, family-owned and operated

Downtown LA is home to a great eating spot known for its delicious food and excellent service. The restaurant offers a wide range of flavors that are sure to satisfy your palate, all at affordable prices. This place is a favorite among locals, and it's easy to see why.
The restaurant is family-owned and operated, and the owners are known for their kindness and hospitality. One of the most popular dishes on the menu is the rolled tacos, which are so delicious that they are often compared to other restaurants, but none can quite measure up. This hidden gem is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat when in the area.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
26. Takosmexa
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats