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Tu Madre
Master Critic Reviews (12 Lists)
Tu Madre
8.4
Vibes:
Girls Night Out Approved
Birthday & Celebration Central
Happy Hour Hotspots
Group Dining Gatherings
Tu Madre’s West Hollywood outpost is a lively cantina-style space built around creative tacos, strong margaritas, and a big patio just off Santa Monica. High-volume crowds fuel a party atmosphere, but the menu still delivers thoughtful combinations from crispy shrimp to ahi tuna and plant-based options.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy shrimp taco, Ahi tuna taco, Korean BBQ steak taco
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: High-energy taco bar with creative fillings and serious cocktails.
Who should go: Groups wanting tacos, margaritas, and a lively patio
When to visit: Peak evenings or happy hour for full cantina energy
What to order: Crispy shrimp taco, ahi tuna taco, Korean BBQ taco
Insider tip: Book ahead for weekend nights; walk-ins fare better at the bar.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on surrounding residential blocks; meters on Santa Monica fill quickly after 6pm. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; most guests lean trendy due to the bar-forward, nightlife-adjacent setting.
Noise level: Loud during peak evenings with party energy; casual conversations possible on the patio but not ideal for quiet catch-ups.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; patio tables often available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Multiple options, including veggie tacos and sides that can be customized.
Vegan options: Limited but workable; a couple of plant-based tacos plus modifiable bowls.
Gluten-free options: Several tacos can be ordered on corn tortillas; staff is accustomed to GF requests but no dedicated prep station.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for fun, high-energy dates than intimate ones. The lively cantina atmosphere works well if you want something casual and social rather than quiet or romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect a wait on weekend evenings. Bar seats and patio two-tops turn over fastest; walking in before 6:30pm improves your odds.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids during daytime and early evening; the nighttime scene skews loud and adult-oriented.
Best For
Better for: Creative tacos, strong margaritas, and a lively patio vibe that outperforms nearby casual taco shops for group outings and celebrations.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, ultra-traditional tacos, or a reservation-easy spot with minimal crowds.
Tu Madre
8.5
Tu Madre’s Hayworth bungalow turns out creative fried chicken, fish, and breakfast burritos alongside margaritas on a wraparound patio. It’s the polished, cocktail-friendly option in 90046 when you want burritos that feel a little more composed than the average late-night spot.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fried Chicken Burrito, Crispy Shrimp Burrito, Breakfast Burrito
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Cocktail-friendly patio burrito spot with inventive fried chicken and seafood burritos.
Who should go: Groups wanting creative burritos with drinks on a patio.
When to visit: Evenings for drinks or late lunch before peak crowds.
What to order: Fried Chicken Burrito, Crispy Shrimp Burrito, Breakfast Burrito.
Insider tip: Grab a patio rail table for people-watching and faster counter runs.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Hayworth and adjacent blocks; meters can be tight during dinner. No valet. Give yourself 5–10 minutes to circle on weekends.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual. Most guests lean stylish but jeans, tees, and sneakers are perfectly normal.
Noise level: Moderate. Patio chatter and music create energy, but you can still hold a conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 25–45 minutes depending on patio demand; later evenings can push toward an hour.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, especially before 1:00pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several bowls and burritos can be made vegetarian; the kitchen is used to modifications.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 items can be adjusted but the menu leans protein-heavy. Ask for swaps.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas and bowl formats available; no dedicated prep space, so cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual dates—patio seating, cocktails, and upbeat energy work well for low-pressure meetings. Not ideal if you want quiet intimacy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes. It’s primarily counter service, so most guests walk in. Patio seats fill during golden hour, but turnover is fairly quick.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids; the patio is relaxed and service is quick. Limited space and a cocktail-forward vibe make it less ideal for toddlers or strollers.
Best For
Better for: More polished burritos, stronger cocktails, and a patio setting that feels trendier than classic taquerias.
Skip if: You want traditional, no-frills Mexican or need extensive vegan/gluten-free options.
Tu Madre
8.4
Tu Madre’s West Hollywood outpost is a colorful taco and margarita spot just off Santa Monica Blvd with a lively, dog-friendly patio. It’s where locals bring friends and pups for shrimp tacos, tequila flights, and bright, party-ready energy that still feels approachable.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shrimp Tacos, Ahi Tacos, Carne Asada Burrito
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Colorful tacos, tequila, and a busy dog-friendly patio just off Santa Monica Boulevard.
Who should go: Groups craving tacos, drinks, and upbeat patio energy.
When to visit: Weekend brunch or early evenings before the bar rush.
What to order: Shrimp Tacos, Ahi Tacos, and a round of tequila or mezcal.
Insider tip: If you’re bringing a dog, request a sidewalk table for a bit more space from the main foot traffic.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on adjacent residential blocks; meters along Santa Monica Blvd can be tight during peak hours. No valet.
Dress code: Casual and colorful; jeans and relaxed outfits fit the upbeat patio vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during brunch and early evenings—conversation is doable but expect energy.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait; patio tables may take an extra 5–10 minutes during peak sun.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple taco and side options built around veggies, beans, and queso.
Vegan options: Limited—some tacos can be modified, but offerings lean more pescatarian.
Gluten-free options: Several tacos can be made gluten-free with corn tortillas; staff is accommodating but no dedicated GF prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual, energetic first dates where cocktails and shared plates help break the ice; less ideal if you’re looking for quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes—walk-ins are common. For groups or patio seats with dogs, arriving before peak brunch or early evening increases your odds.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids who enjoy tacos and lively environments; limited space for strollers and no dedicated kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Vibrant patio energy, tequila flights, and dog-friendly seating make it stand out compared to more traditional West Hollywood taco spots.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, need extensive vegan options, or prefer refined, sit-down Mexican dining over fast-casual shareable plates.
Tu Madre
8.2
Tu Madre’s West Hollywood outpost is a colorful taco-and-margarita bar just off Santa Monica Boulevard, with a busy patio and a menu of fusion-y tacos, bowls, and brunch plates. The crowd skews young and social, turning it into a pregame stop, casual date spot, and group-friendly hangout all at once.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Shrimp Taco, Ahi Tuna Taco, Fried Chicken Taco
Scores:
Value: 6.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: A high-energy taco bar where playful, Asian-influenced fillings and strong margaritas make the patio feel like a permanent party.
Who should go: Groups and couples craving tacos, tequila, and loud patio energy.
When to visit: Weekend brunch or early evening before the patio gets packed.
What to order: Crispy Shrimp Taco, Ahi Tuna Taco, Fried Chicken Taco.
Insider tip: If you care about seating, arrive a bit early—this location gets slammed at peak hours and waits can get long.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking dominates this stretch of West Hollywood; it’s metered and competitive after 6pm. Small residential pockets nearby can work if you read signs carefully. No dedicated valet.
Dress code: Casual but intentional. Most guests lean trendy–jeans, casual dresses, and going-out tops fit right in. Athleisure is fine for brunch but underdressed for evenings.
Noise level: Loud during peak patio hours. Expect a social, high-energy soundtrack where conversation is possible but not intimate.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio tables.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though the patio can fill during sunny midday hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetarian tacos, bowls, sides, and brunch dishes are available.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 customizable vegetable-based tacos or bowls depending on the day.
Gluten-free options: Several items can be made gluten-free using corn tortillas; bowls are generally safe, but there’s no fully separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It works for a casual, lively first date where drinks and shared plates are the focus. Not ideal if you want quiet conversation—the patio can get loud.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially for smaller parties. Arrive before peak hours if you want a patio table; otherwise expect to put your name down and grab a drink.
Is it kid-friendly? Kids are welcome during daytime hours, but the energy skews adult and social. Best for older kids or daytime family stops, not evening outings.
Best For
Better for: Lively patio hangs, playful fusion tacos, tequila-first nights, and casual group meetups.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, traditional Mexican cooking, or a reservation-driven, upscale experience.
Tu Madre
8.8
Tu Madre’s West Hollywood bungalow is a lively cantina for creative tacos and margaritas that run late into the night. Fried chicken, ahi tuna, and breakfast tacos share the menu with boozy slushies and flights, drawing a constant crowd before and after evenings out on Santa Monica Blvd.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Fried Chicken Taco, Seared Ahi Tuna Taco, Breakfast Burrito
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: High-energy bungalow cantina serving inventive tacos and strong margaritas late.
Who should go: Groups and couples wanting lively, cocktail-fueled taco nights.
When to visit: Evenings after 8pm when the patio and bar are buzzing.
What to order: Fried chicken taco, ahi tuna taco, breakfast burrito.
Insider tip: Book later reservations and linger on the patio for a de facto late-night pregame.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Santa Monica Blvd and adjacent residential streets is available but tight after 7pm; no valet. Rideshare is the easiest option on weekends.
Dress code: Casual but polished; most guests lean trendy-night-out with jeans, cute tops, and casual dresses.
Noise level: Loud during peak hours due to music and patio chatter; expect energetic vibes rather than quiet conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation, especially after 8pm.
Weekday lunch: Rarely a wait; walk right up and order.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options including veggie tacos and bowls; customizable sides help fill out a meal.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—1–2 tacos can be modified by removing dairy-based sauces.
Gluten-free options: Most tacos can be made on corn tortillas; staff is accustomed to gluten-free requests.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? For casual, fun first dates—yes. The lively patio and slushie margaritas help break the ice. If you need a quieter or more intimate setting, consider somewhere with softer lighting and lower volume.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. It operates counter-service style, so you won’t need a reservation, but expect possible waits for patio seating during peak late-night rushes.
Is it kid-friendly? During daytime and early evening, yes—casual service and simple tacos work for families. After 8pm it skews adult, loud, and more bar-forward.
Best For
Better for: Creative taco combinations, strong frozen cocktails, and a buzzy, pregame-friendly patio energy that many local taco spots don’t offer.
Skip if: You want authentic street-style tacos, a quiet meal, or extensive dietary accommodations—other spots nearby are better fits for those needs.
Tu Madre
8.2
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Girls Night Out Approved
Trendy Table Hotspots
Quick Bites Champions
Tu Madre’s West Hollywood bungalow serves creative tacos, bowls, and margaritas at a price point that stays reasonable for the neighborhood. Fried chicken, ahi tuna, and breakfast tacos share a menu built for casual dinners, patio hangs, and drinks without a full splurge.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fried Chicken Taco, Ahi Tuna Taco, Breakfast Burrito
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Lively bungalow cantina doing fun, modern tacos at accessible prices.
Who should go: Groups wanting cocktails and tacos without fine-dining costs
When to visit: Evenings after 8pm when patio and bar are buzzing
What to order: Fried Chicken Taco, Ahi Tuna Taco, Breakfast Burrito
Insider tip: Go early-week for easier walk-in seating and quicker food.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Hayworth and surrounding blocks is available but competitive after 7pm; no valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed—jeans, tees, and light layers fit the bungalow vibe; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially on the patio; conversations are doable but expect background bar energy.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes for small groups; longer if you want patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, with plenty of open tables.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple taco and bowl options built around veggies, beans, and grains.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 buildable options if you customize; margaritas are vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many tacos can be ordered on corn tortillas and bowls are naturally gluten-friendly.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something casual and fun; the patio and colorful setting keep things energetic without feeling formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's mostly walk-in based. Arrive before 7:30pm for the best chance at immediate seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids who like tacos; limited space and late-evening bar energy may be less ideal for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Creative tacos and margaritas at lower prices than many nearby WeHo spots, plus a relaxed patio hangout vibe.
Skip if: You want very quiet dining, large-group seating, or deeply traditional regional Mexican cooking.
Tu Madre
8.5
Tu Madre’s West Hollywood bungalow leans into fun cocktails, patio energy, and playful tacos that stay relatively gentle on the wallet for the area. Happy hour strong margaritas and snackable plates make it a go-to for pregame meetups and casual dates without committing to a long sit-down dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fried Chicken Taco, Ahi Tuna Taco, Truffle Guacamole with Chips
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: A mural-lined bungalow for creative tacos, cocktail flights, and buzzy patio hangs.
Who should go: Friends or dates wanting drinks-first Mexican with a patio
When to visit: Early evening happy hour before the patio fully packs out
What to order: Fried chicken taco, ahi tuna taco, truffle guac
Insider tip: Aim for patio high-tops near the sidewalk for peak people-watching during happy hour.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Hayworth and nearby residential blocks; meters free after 8pm but spots fill quickly during peak happy hour.
Dress code: Casual with a trendy edge—jeans and a nice top work; many guests lean slightly dressy for evening cocktails.
Noise level: Lively on the patio with music and chatter, but still manageable for conversation at smaller tables.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during prime happy hour and early dinner rush, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait; quick seating if open for daytime hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several tacos, guacamole variations, and sides can be made or ordered vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 taco builds and sides can be adapted, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Good flexibility—many tacos can be requested on corn tortillas and several items are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—it's casual but energetic, with cocktails and a patio setting that keeps things fun without feeling formal. Ideal for a low-pressure, drinks-first meetup.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually—walk-ins are common, but patio tables go fast during peak happy hour. Arriving before 6pm offers the best chance at immediate seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—daytime and early evenings are fine for older kids, but the crowd skews adult and drinks-focused during happy hour and later.
Best For
Better for: Vibrant cocktails, lively patio energy, and approachable, modern tacos make it stronger than nearby spots for casual meetups and drink-focused outings.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, traditional Oaxacan or regional Mexican cooking, or a fully vegan-friendly menu—those needs are better met elsewhere.
Tu Madre
8.2
Tu Madre’s West Hollywood outpost spins Mexican flavors through a modern, chef-y lens, from fried chicken and ahi tuna tacos to loaded bowls and brunch plates. Locals use it as an upbeat taco-and-margarita hang for dates, pregame nights, and casual celebrations along the Santa Monica corridor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fried Chicken Taco, Ahi Tuna Taco, Crispy Shrimp Burrito
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Creative tacos and bowls that mash up Mexican flavors with global ideas.
Who should go: Couples and groups wanting fun tacos and strong margaritas.
When to visit: Evenings and weekend brunch when the patio energy pops.
What to order: Fried Chicken Taco, Ahi Tuna Taco, Crispy Shrimp Burrito.
Insider tip: Book or arrive early for brunch; late arrivals wait longest for patio tables.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Santa Monica Blvd and side streets is the norm; it’s manageable before 6:30pm but turns competitive later. No valet.
Dress code: Casual-but-cute; diners lean fashionable WeHo streetwear. Jeans and tees are fine, but many dress up for evening plans nearby.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially on the patio. Conversation is doable indoors; the patio leans buzzy during peak nights.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for patio seating; quicker for indoor tables.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait, even for small groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several tacos, bowls, and sides can be ordered vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — a couple of items can be modified, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Many tacos can be made gluten-free with corn tortillas; bowls are naturally easier to adapt.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something upbeat and low-pressure. The patio energy, cocktails, and shareable tacos make it fun without feeling formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes — they operate mostly on a walk-in system. Arrive early for brunch or peak dinner hours if you want the patio.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids who can handle a lively setting. High chairs are limited, and the vibe skews more adult during evenings.
Best For
Better for: Creative, modern tacos and a fun WeHo patio scene — ideal for casual dates, pre-going-out groups, and brunch energy.
Skip if: You want traditional regional Mexican food, a quiet meal, or extensive vegan options — nearby Oaxacan or sit-down spots are better fits.
Tu Madre
7.7
Tu Madre’s West Hollywood bungalow is a fast-casual taco and margarita spot that works surprisingly well for casual business lunches and quick catch-ups. The wraparound patio keeps conversations relaxed while crispy fish tacos, bowls, and coffee or cocktails land fast enough for a tight schedule.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fried Chicken Taco, Crispy Fish Taco, Chicken Banh Mi Bowl
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: A bungalow-style taco shop with a patio that doubles as a casual meeting spot.
Who should go: Founders and creatives needing quick, informal lunch meetings.
When to visit: Weekday lunch or early afternoon when lines are shortest.
What to order: Fried Chicken Taco, Crispy Fish Taco, Chicken Banh Mi Bowl.
Insider tip: Use the patio for one-on-ones, then grab a to-go coffee or agua fresca for the walk back to the office.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Fairfax and nearby residential streets is usually available but can be tight during peak lunch hours; no valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; workwear, athleisure, or jeans are all appropriate for a quick lunch meeting.
Noise level: Moderate; patio seating keeps conversations workable even during busy periods.
Weekend wait: Typically minimal since this location leans more daytime-focused, though short lines can form around happy hour.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes during peak noon rush, often no wait before 11:45am or after 1:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — bowls, salads, and several taco builds can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited but workable — some bowls and sides can be customized; ask for ingredient swaps.
Gluten-free options: Yes — many tacos can be made on corn tortillas, and bowls are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It works for a low-stakes, casual first meet but isn’t ideal for something romantic; the patio is relaxed but leans fast-casual rather than atmospheric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter service, so no reservations are needed; arriving slightly off-peak makes finding patio seating easy.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy tacos and bowls; the casual setup and quick service work well, but limited indoor seating and a busy sidewalk may be less ideal for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Faster service, lower prices, and a breezy patio make it stronger than nearby sit-down spots for quick, efficient business catch-ups.
Skip if: You want a more formal business lunch, quieter conversation, or a polished dining room — in those cases, opt for nearby full-service restaurants.
Tu Madre
8.2
Tu Madre’s West Hollywood bungalow runs a laid-back patio happy hour built around tacos, margaritas, and quick counter service. It’s casual enough for drop-in neighborhood drinks but dialed-in enough that you can turn a round of HH margaritas into a full dinner of bowls and tacos.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fried Chicken Taco, Crispy Fish Taco, Chicken Banh Mi Bowl
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 6.7
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: A taco-and-margarita patio where happy hour actually feels affordable.
Who should go: Neighbors and friends looking for relaxed, budget-friendly drinks.
When to visit: Late afternoon or early evening before the patio fills up.
What to order: Fried chicken taco, crispy fish taco, chicken banh mi bowl.
Insider tip: Order at the counter, grab patio seats, and stack HH food plus margaritas.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Fairfax and the side streets; meters turn over frequently but can be tight during peak hours. No valet.
Dress code: Casual and patio-friendly — tees, jeans, and sandals are all normal. No need to dress up unless you want to.
Noise level: Moderate — the patio has steady conversation and music but you can still talk comfortably at a small table.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during peak patio rush, but the counter-service format keeps turnover fast.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, especially before 1:00 p.m.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several tacos and bowls can be made vegetarian, and sides are friendly to non-meat eaters.
Vegan options: Limited — a few items can be customized, but expect only 1–2 naturally vegan options.
Gluten-free options: Yes — many tacos can be made with corn tortillas and the bowls are naturally gluten-friendly.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want something extremely casual — it’s great for a no-pressure meet-up over tacos and margaritas, but not ideal for a more polished or intimate first-date vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter-service with open seating. The patio fills during peak happy hour, but turnover is quick and tables usually open every few minutes.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who can handle a patio environment and counter ordering; younger toddlers may find the space a bit cramped during busy times.
Best For
Better for: Affordable margaritas, quick-service tacos, and a relaxed back-patio atmosphere that’s lighter and more casual than neighboring WeHo spots.
Skip if: You want a full-service meal, craft cocktails, or a quieter, more polished happy hour experience — nearby sit-down restaurants will fit better.
Tu Madre
8.6
Tu Madre’s West Hollywood bungalow runs a patio-focused happy hour built around street and plant-based tacos plus frozen and classic margaritas. Tacos land fast enough for a quick round of drinks or an inexpensive early dinner before a night out.
Must-Try Dishes:
Vegan Korean BBQ Taco, Vegan Fried Avocado Taco, Fried Chicken Taco
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Feliz Hour tacos and margs that feel genuinely affordable.
Who should go: Neighbors and friends chasing casual tacos, margs, and sunshine.
When to visit: Weekday 3–6pm window before patio and counter lines.
What to order: Vegan Korean BBQ Taco, Fried Chicken Taco, house margarita.
Insider tip: Sit on the side patio for shade and quicker drink refills.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Fairfax and side streets; spots turn over but tighten after 6pm. No valet.
Dress code: Casual and patio-friendly; athleisure, jeans, and sandals are all normal.
Noise level: Moderate during happy hour with patio chatter but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes during peak HH turnover, mostly for patio tables.
Weekday lunch: No wait; counter moves quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Multiple options including plant-based tacos and sides.
Vegan options: Yes — several vegan tacos including Korean BBQ and mushroom-based fillings.
Gluten-free options: Most tacos can be made gluten-free with corn tortillas; avoid breaded proteins.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a casual, low-pressure meetup. The patio feels lively without being loud, and the quick HH format keeps the date easy and budget-friendly.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter-service. Arrive early in the HH window for immediate patio seating; otherwise expect a short wait for tables to turn over.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids; it’s casual and quick. Limited indoor space and bar-focused crowds make it less ideal for toddlers during peak HH.
Best For
Better for: Fast, inexpensive tacos with a strong vegan selection and legitimately affordable margaritas on a sunny patio.
Skip if: You want a full-service dinner, extensive cocktail program, or a quieter sit-down experience.
Tu Madre
8.3
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Tu Madre’s West Hollywood bungalow runs an all-day taco and burrito menu that works as well for stroller walks and after-practice tacos as it does for casual drinks. Families mix at counter seats and the patio, building their own spread from fried chicken tacos, vegan options, and kid-friendly quesadillas at approachable prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fried Chicken Taco, Vegan Fried Avocado Taco, Bean & Cheese Burrito
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 6.6
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Colorful taco bungalow with counter service, patio seating, and playful flavors.
Who should go: Neighborhood families wanting easy tacos and flexible vegan options.
When to visit: Late afternoon or early evening before peak date-night crowds.
What to order: Fried Chicken Taco, Vegan Fried Avocado Taco, bean and cheese burrito.
Insider tip: Order at the counter, grab a patio table, and let kids mix tacos and churros.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Fairfax and side streets; generally manageable before 6pm but can tighten during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; come as you are from errands, school pick-up, or a quick neighborhood meal.
Noise level: Moderate; patio chatter is lively but families can still hold normal conversations.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on patio demand; counter ordering keeps the line moving.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait except during the school-adjacent lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection including fried avocado tacos, bowls, salads, and mix-and-match combos.
Vegan options: Solid options with plant-based tacos, bowls, and sauces clearly labeled.
Gluten-free options: Most tacos can be made gluten-free using corn tortillas; bowls offer an easy no-gluten alternative.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a traditional first date, but works for a casual, low-pressure meetup thanks to the patio and quick service.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—everything is walk-in only. Order at the counter and grab whichever patio table opens up.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. Easy counter service, quick food, outdoor seating, and kid-approved items like bean-and-cheese burritos and churros make it great for ages 3–12.
Best For
Better for: Fast, affordable tacos with vegan options and a sunny patio that works for families and casual neighborhood meals.
Skip if: You want a full-service dinner, cocktails, or a quieter sit-down experience—nearby sit-down spots on Fairfax may be better.