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ZipPicks Awards
Best Tacos in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Master Critic Review
La Flama
7.8
A Palms carneceria that doubles as a full Oaxacan kitchen, turning imported chile de agua, chapulines, and house-made asiento into regional plates you rarely find outside Oaxaca itself. The market-counter format keeps prices low and turnover fast, making it a reliable weeknight stop for tlayudas and mole negro without the sit-down commitment. Expect a no-frills grocery setting where the cooking speaks louder than the decor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tlayudas Preparadas, Molotes, Memelas
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Oaxacan carneceria and market doubling as a full kitchen, serving regional specialties made with imported ingredients like chile de agua, chapulines, and house-made asiento.
Who should go: Oaxacan food lovers and neighborhood regulars seeking authenticity
When to visit: Weekday lunch for the full menu without weekend crowds
What to order: Start with molotes and memelas to share, then a tlayuda as your main — add mole negro if the table is hungry, and finish with a chocolate oaxaqueno.
Insider tip: Browse the market side for take-home tasajo, cecina, and three-dozen packs of Oaxacan tortillas.
Logistics & Planning
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid options—memelas come with bean paste and cheese on grilled corn masa, chile relleno plate is a queso fresco-stuffed pepper with rice and beans, enfrijoladas are corn tortillas drenched in black bean sauce, and the tamal de rajas con queso has tomato, bell peppers, onion, and cheese
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not for a traditional first date — this is a casual Oaxacan market-restaurant hybrid with a counter-service feel and a few tables scattered among grocery shelves. There's no intimate lighting or romantic ambiance. That said, if your date loves adventurous, authentic food and you want a relaxed, low-pressure vibe, sharing a tlayuda on the covered patio could be a memorable and unique outing. Best for someone who values food over formality.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — La Flama operates as a casual walk-in spot with counter ordering. There's no formal reservation system. A few tables sit inside near the market area and more are on the covered patio. You may need to wait briefly during weekend lunch and dinner rushes, but generally you can walk in and grab a seat without trouble.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the casual, laid-back atmosphere is very tolerant of kids. High chairs are available, and the noise level is relaxed enough that children won't be out of place. No dedicated kids menu has been confirmed, but the menu includes simple, shareable items like quesadillas, tacos, and aguas frescas that work well for younger eaters. The outdoor patio gives kids a bit more room to move around.
Is it good for groups? Yes — the covered outdoor patio can accommodate groups of up to 20 people and is available for gatherings like birthdays and family celebrations. For larger parties, contact the restaurant at (310) 876-1211 to coordinate seating. Inside seating is limited to a few small tables, so groups should plan on the patio. No formal booking lead time has been confirmed — call ahead for groups over 6.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — a covered patio with multiple tables that seats up to about 20 people. The space is decorated and well-maintained, and dogs are allowed in the patio area. It's the main dining area beyond the few interior tables. Heating details not confirmed — call ahead during cooler months.
Best For
Better for: Cheap, legit Oaxacan antojitos eaten on a patio outside a minimart—molotes, memelas, and tlayudas you won't find at generic Mexican spots, all under $19
Consider Alternatives If: You want full-service dining with tablecloths and waitstaff—this is a market counter with an outdoor patio, not a sit-down restaurant
Hours
Monday8am - 9pm
Tuesday8am - 9pm
Wednesday8am - 9pm
Thursday8am - 9pm
Friday8am - 10pm
Saturday8am - 10pm
Sunday8am - 10pm