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El Compadre
Master Critic Review
El Compadre
8.6
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Group Dining Gatherings
Live Music Showtime
Trendy Table Hotspots
Since the mid-1970s, El Compadre’s Hollywood location has been the classic Sunset Blvd choice for combination plates, fajitas, and its signature flaming margaritas. Candlelit rooms, colorful tiles, and a lively bar make it a go-to for celebratory Mexican dinners that lean loud and festive.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fajitas, Enchiladas Verdes de Pollo, Carne Asada Plate
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: A long-running Sunset institution known for flaming margaritas and big combo plates.
Who should go: Groups and couples wanting a loud, classic Mexican party dinner.
When to visit: Prime 7–9pm weekend slots for peak band-and-margarita energy.
What to order: Flaming Margarita, Fajitas, Enchiladas Verdes de Pollo.
Insider tip: Ask for a booth near the band if you want full old-school Hollywood atmosphere.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available in the evenings (around $12–$15), with limited metered street parking on Sunset and residential side streets that fill up quickly after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; jeans and tees are fine, but many guests dress up slightly for celebrations or night-out energy.
Noise level: Loud during peak hours due to live music and bar traffic; expect to raise your voice for most conversations.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially 7–9pm when the band plays.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service at this location; early weekday dinners before 6:30pm usually have minimal waits.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection of vegetarian-friendly dishes including enchiladas, veggie fajitas, quesadillas, and rice/bean combinations.
Vegan options: Limited but workable; standard items like chips, salsa, guacamole, and certain veggie dishes can be modified—ask staff about dairy-free prep.
Gluten-free options: Several items can be made gluten-free using corn tortillas; enchiladas and fajitas are common go-tos, but cross-contact is possible in a busy kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It can be, but only if you want a lively, high-energy room. The loud music, flaming margaritas, and crowded dining room create a fun vibe but not an intimate one.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect a wait on weekends. Walk-ins are common, and sitting at the bar can cut the wait time significantly if you’re flexible.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy busy, festive environments. The noise level can be overwhelming for toddlers, but families are common earlier in the evening.
Best For
Better for: Large-group celebrations, birthday dinners, and anyone wanting classic combo plates with a lively, old-school Hollywood atmosphere.
Skip if: You want quiet conversation, modern Mexican cuisine, or quick in-and-out dining—this spot is built for energy and lingering.