THE GARDENS OF TAXCO

1113 N Harper Ave.

West Hollywood, Ca 90046

(323) 654-1746

Hours

Tues-Thurs 4:30-11 pm

Fri-Sun 4:30-12 am 

Mon CLOSED

What's all the buzz surrounding West Hollywood? The Gardens of Taxco of course! This fine eatery prides itself on creating an authentic "5 course Mexico City homestyle dinner." And indeed it does. Established in the early 1970's, The Gardens was well on its way to becoming a staple for Hollywood locals and it wouldn't be long before the word got out. You can either use their valet service, try your luck at the metered parking on the corner of Santa Monica and Harper or look for street parking in the nearby neighborhood. Once inside, you'll find yourself in another world 'ala 70's style. From fuax stained glass windows, wood paneling, Mexican blanket stripped linens, cozy candlelit tables, feisty larger than life waiters to Mariachi singers all happily waiting to serve you. 

If your waiter doesn't bring you a menu, do not be alarmed. The "no menu needed" is part of the restaurants charm. A waiter will ask you whether you will be eating chicken, beef or shrimp. Once you have decided, the waiter will go into detail as to the different ways in which they prepare the plates, then the 5 course meal can commence. You will be served chips and salsa, a dish with homemade pickled veggies and chillies (a staple in Mexican households), a quesadilla toped with sour cream and guacamole, albondigas (meatball soup), a chicken enchilada (you can opt out for a single taquito if that's your preference), followed by your entree item which comes with tortillas, rice and beans. Desert is not a option since it is included in the meal price. The specialty Margarita pitcher is their signature drink. It is made with wine and the taste is subtle, keeps you wanting more and hits the spot. The bill can come to about $25-35 on up per person depending on the number of drinks you have. 

Has Ms. Betty dined here on more than one occasion? I have celebrated many a time at The Gardens and always look forward to my next visit. Somewhere between my meal and the second pitcher of Margaritas, I always wave over the Mariachi singer and request my mama's favorite song which I have adopted as my own. "Cerca Del Mar" By Los Dandy's is what they serenade me as I soak it all in. My absolute favorite meal is The Garlic Shrimp. Can you say heavenly?! The abundantly served succulent shrimp is swimming in a creamy garlic sauce that will make you want to lick your fingers! "It's not hot. It's SPICEYYY!"

EL TEPEYAC CAFE

812 N Evergreen Ave

Los Angeles, CA 90033

323-267-8668

HoursSun.-Thu. 6AM-9:45PM

Fri.-Sat. 6AM-11PM

Tue. CLOSED

In the heart of East Los Angeles lies a little secret only the locals and a select few have known about since 1955 when its doors originally opened. Don't let its meek appearance fool you because it is a definite heavy hitter. It is family owned, operated and the welcoming waitresses are a staple of its homey ambiance. The inside has a no frills diner style setting, family wall of fame, jukebox to boot and tables that are anxiously waiting to be moved around depending on the size of your party. If you decide the line to get inside is not for you, not to worry. You can choose to eat al fresco. Simply walk up to the take out window and you can either order to go or eat outside in their patio.

The food you ask? Where to begin. They are the home of "The Manuel's Special." This burrito is big enough to feed a hungry party of four! It is swimming in a delicious home made, not too hot, just right salsa, cheese, guacamole and will leave you penciling in your next visit. Party for one you say? No Problemo! There are smaller size burritos and combination plates with your name written all over them. If you order chips and salsa, keep in mind that they are considered appetizers and are extra. Vegetarianism your poison? Great. They have meatless selections as well as being able to opt not to have it added (such as their delicioso cheese enchiladas). Second to salsa, guacamole is the most frequently requested item to dip your tortilla chips in. Have you ever gone to a Mexican Restaurant and they were stingy with their guacamole? Or it was simply not up to par? Well at El Tepeyac, they make fresh batches every day. What's more is they even have a burrito dedicated to it! It's family friendly, yet their stool section offers that "have a conversation with the patron next to you" atmosphere. They do not serve alcohol but by the time your finished, you wouldn't have given it a second thought. When the bill comes, they give you little candy treats that most of us haven't had since we were kiddies. 

What does Ms. Betty order up when she stops in? Glad you asked doll! First things first. Once I'm seated, I make a b line for the juke box. That old bluesy music rocks my soul so I select Ruth Brown, The Dominoes (60 Minute Man) and other doo wop classics then wait for my favorite waitress to take my order.  The Taquito Plate is always right up my alley. It comes with your choice of chicken or beef taquitos, rice & beans, and a large side of guacamole that could end world hunger! 

So whether your here on a visit, a Southern California native or transplant, make sure to add El Tepeyac to your list of favorite places to dine. You won't be disappointed and you won't break the bank!