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Madre
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Madre
8.5
Madre West Hollywood is an Oaxacan restaurant and mezcaleria where tacos share space with moles, ceviches, and a deep agave list. It’s more of a sit-down dinner spot than a quick taqueria, but its Camaron and barbacoa tacos make it a destination for elevated, regionally focused Mexican cooking.
Must-Try Dishes:
Camaron shrimp taco, Barbacoa de borrego taco, Mole negro enchilada
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Oaxacan-driven kitchen with serious mezcals and refined tacos.
Who should go: Dinosaurs wanting mezcal, moles, and elevated regional tacos
When to visit: Prime dinner hours or mezcal-focused happy hour sessions
What to order: Camaron taco, barbacoa taco, mole negro with tortillas
Insider tip: Sit at the bar for mezcal guidance and off-menu recommendations.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Fairfax and surrounding residential blocks is tight after 6pm; a small paid lot behind the building is usually available but fills quickly.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning stylish; jeans are fine but most guests dress slightly elevated for dinner and mezcal service.
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively; still possible to hold a date-night conversation at a normal tone, though the bar area gets louder.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetarian-friendly items including Oaxacan starters, vegetable-based moles, and composed plates.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 dishes can be made vegan, but menu leans traditional Oaxacan preparations with dairy and meat.
Gluten-free options: Strong support—many tacos and moles are naturally gluten-free due to corn tortillas and Oaxacan cooking methods; staff is knowledgeable.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, polished service, and mezcal flights create an intimate feel without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly on weekdays or early evenings; on weekends, expect a wait unless you arrive before 6:30pm or sit at the bar.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids or teens who enjoy sit-down Mexican dinners; limited options for very young children and no dedicated kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Refined, regionally focused Oaxacan dishes, mezcal expertise, and elevated tacos that feel more dinner-worthy than quick-service taquerias.
Skip if: You want fast, inexpensive street-style tacos, a quiet room, or highly flexible vegan substitutions.
Madre
7.8
Madre’s Fairfax location is a mezcal-focused Oaxacan restaurant where tlayudas, mole negro, and barbacoa plates land alongside one of the city’s deeper agave lists. Service can run on bar-time, but the cooking and mezcal program keep it a favorite for serious Oaxacan flavors just off Santa Monica Boulevard.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mole Negro Enchiladas, Tlayuda, Costillas en Salsa Roja
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 6.3
Consistency: 7
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A mezcal-heavy Oaxacan spot where deep moles and tlayudas headline the menu.
Who should go: Agave fans and groups craving serious Oaxacan flavors.
When to visit: Happy hour into evening when the bar and patio are buzzing.
What to order: Mole Negro Enchiladas, Tlayuda, and Costillas en Salsa Roja.
Insider tip: Let the staff build you a mezcal flight around what you usually drink instead of ordering by name.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Fairfax and adjacent residential blocks is available but tight after 6pm; no valet at this location.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and a nice top work fine, but many guests lean slightly dressy for evening mezcal hangs.
Noise level: Moderate-to-loud once the bar fills; you can talk, but expect raised voices during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; walk right in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid options including vegetarian tlayudas, quesadillas, and several sides built around Oaxacan staples.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—2–3 dishes can be made vegan; clarify modifications for tortillas and moles.
Gluten-free options: Multiple GF-friendly dishes, including barbacoa plates, grilled proteins, and several moles; confirm with staff about thickening agents.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—if you want a lively, mezcal-forward setting with bold Oaxacan dishes. Not ideal for a super quiet or formal date, but great for a fun, flavorful night with conversation between drinks.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes—especially early evening or weekdays. Weekends may require a short wait; the bar area is often the fastest fallback.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who enjoy flavorful Mexican dishes, but the mezcal-heavy scene and lively volume make it less ideal for very young children.
Best For
Better for: A deeper mezcal selection and more traditional Oaxacan flavors than most West Hollywood Mexican spots, especially for groups who want to explore agave flights.
Skip if: You want fast, quiet service or a quick, casual taco stop—service can move on bar time, and the experience leans full-meal, sit-down dining.
Madre
8.6
Madre brings mezcal bar energy and Oaxacan cooking to a Fairfax corner where tacos, tlayudas, and moles share space with one of the deeper agave lists in the city. It’s more of a sit-down mezcaleria than a grab-and-go taqueria, but late seatings still feel taco-focused thanks to bar snacks, tortillas, and shareable plates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Oaxacan-style Birria Tacos, Tlayuda with Cecina or Chorizo, Mole Negro Enchiladas
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Oaxacan mezcal bar with serious tortillas, tacos, and late-running bar bites.
Who should go: Agave fans and taco lovers wanting a sit-down mezcal night.
When to visit: Later dinner seatings Thursday–Saturday for peak bar energy.
What to order: Birria tacos, tlayuda, mole negro enchiladas.
Insider tip: Sit near the bar to pair tacos with staff-guided mezcal flights.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Fairfax and residential side streets is the main option; it’s manageable early evening but gets tight after 7pm. No dedicated valet at this location.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning trendy—jeans work, but most guests dress up a bit for the mezcal bar vibe.
Noise level: Lively with music and bar energy; you can still hold a conversation at a two-top, but it’s not quiet.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation, especially after 8pm.
Weekday lunch: Lunch service is lighter—typically little to no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—tlayudas, quesadillas, vegetable-forward tacos, and several sides work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—some vegetable dishes and sides can be made vegan; ask staff for guidance.
Gluten-free options: Many corn-based dishes (tacos, tlayudas, moles) are naturally gluten-free; staff can point out safe options.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, mezcal flights, and shareable Oaxacan plates create an intimate but lively environment that works well for a conversational first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes if you arrive early or sit at the bar; prime hours Thursday–Saturday typically require a wait unless you book ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—while the food works for older kids, the mezcal-forward, late-night energy is better suited to adults. Early evening is the most kid-appropriate window.
Best For
Better for: A more elevated, sit-down Oaxacan experience with deep mezcal expertise and stronger cocktail programming than typical late-night taco spots.
Skip if: You want quick-service tacos, very quiet dining, or a budget-friendly meal—this is a full-service mezcaleria with higher prices and nightlife energy.
Madre
8.4
Madre West Hollywood is a mezcal-focused Oaxacan spot where tacos, tlayudas, and mole plates can still be shared affordably, especially at happy hour. While the bar program is serious, the food remains approachable and well-priced for groups splitting snacks and a few cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria Tacos, Tlayuda, Enchiladas de Mole
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Oaxacan mezcal bar where shareable plates and tacos stay fairly priced.
Who should go: Agave fans wanting substantial food without a huge bill
When to visit: Weekday happy hour for value-friendly drinks and snacks
What to order: Birria Tacos, Tlayuda, Enchiladas de Mole
Insider tip: Build a table of shared plates at happy hour instead of entrees.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Fairfax can be tight during peak hours; meter spots open up after 8pm. Limited neighborhood side-street parking is available but watch posted restrictions.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine, but most guests lean slightly polished due to the mezcal bar vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially near the bar. Still manageable for conversation at tables away from the front.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though the bar area may fill for early happy hour.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—tlayudas, enchiladas, and several small plates can be prepared vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 items can be adapted, but most dishes rely on cheese or mole bases containing animal products.
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-free Oaxacan dishes are available; staff can guide you, but there isn’t a dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—if you want lively energy without being overwhelming. The mezcal list and shareable plates create an easy conversational flow, though the bar-adjacent tables can feel loud for very intimate dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes—especially on weekdays or before 7pm. For weekends, walk-ins are possible but expect a wait unless you arrive early for happy hour.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—older kids and teens will be fine, but the mezcal-forward bar scene isn’t ideal for very young children. No specific kid menu or amenities.
Best For
Better for: Oaxacan flavors, mezcal cocktails, and shareable plates that are cost-effective for groups—especially during happy hour.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner, a highly vegan-friendly menu, or a fast in-and-out meal without any bar energy.
Madre
8.7
Madre’s Fairfax outpost is an Oaxacan mezcaleria where mole plates, tlayudas, and tacos land alongside one of the city’s deeper agave lists. Happy hour turns the bar and patio into a lively pre-night-out stop, with discounted cocktails and shareable snacks that still show off the kitchen’s technique.
Must-Try Dishes:
Trio de Mole Enchiladas, Tlayuda with Cecina, Barbacoa de Res Plate
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Oaxacan mezcal-focused spot pairing serious moles with a lively Fairfax bar scene.
Who should go: Agave fans and groups wanting elevated Mexican before a night out
When to visit: Weekday happy hour 3–7pm for mezcal deals and snacks
What to order: Trio de mole enchiladas, tlayuda, mezcal margarita
Insider tip: Slide into the bar for quicker happy hour seating and mezcal guidance.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Fairfax and Beverly is meter-heavy and tight after 6pm; limited neighborhood street spots open up north of Beverly. No dedicated valet, so plan a few extra minutes to circle.
Dress code: Smart casual with a slight trend-forward lean; jeans are fine but most groups dress stylishly for the mezcal bar scene.
Noise level: Moderate-to-loud during happy hour and evenings; conversation is doable at tables but the bar gets lively.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; early evening happy hour tables fill quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several strong options including tlayudas, enchiladas, and vegetable-forward Oaxacan plates.
Vegan options: Limited—some dishes can be modified, but only 1–2 items are fully vegan as-is.
Gluten-free options: Good selection—many Oaxacan dishes use corn masa; staff can advise on GF-safe plates.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a vibrant, cocktail-forward first date—especially on the patio. The mezcal selection gives you plenty to explore, though the room can run loud for deeper conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, but expect a wait during happy hour and weekend evenings. The bar is the best bet for quicker seating and full menu access.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids due to the bar-centric energy and louder evenings. Older teens who enjoy Oaxacan food will be fine earlier in the night.
Best For
Better for: Mezcal depth, Oaxacan technique, and elevated shareable plates at happy hour prices—stronger than most Mexican spots in the Fairfax area for groups and cocktail enthusiasts.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, very budget-friendly pricing, or a kid-focused environment; choose a more casual cantina for those needs.
Madre
8.4
Madre’s Fairfax location channels Oaxacan cooking into a modern mezcal bar setting, with moles, tlayudas, and house-made tortillas matched to one of the city’s deeper mezcal lists. It’s where serious Mexican-food fans go for a more regional, sit-down experience than the average neighborhood taco spot.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mole Negro with Chicken, Tlayuda Oaxaqueña, Memelas
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 7.3
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Regionally focused Oaxacan cooking with an expansive mezcal program.
Who should go: Guests who care about moles, mezcal, and regional Mexican flavors.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners or later weekend seatings for a relaxed mezcal bar feel.
What to order: Mole Negro, Tlayuda, a mezcal flight.
Insider tip: Ask staff to build a mezcal flight around your preferred flavor profile.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Fairfax can be tight after 6pm; meter spots open up north of Melrose. No dedicated lot—rideshare is easiest on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans and a nice top are fine, but many guests lean dressy for mezcal flights and date nights.
Noise level: Moderate to lively. You can hold a conversation, but the mezcal bar energy picks up after 8pm.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; early dinner seatings before 7pm are smooth.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid options including tlayudas, memelas, and vegetable-forward moles.
Vegan options: Limited but possible—some corn-based dishes and salads can be modified; ask staff for guidance.
Gluten-free options: Very accommodating. Many Oaxacan dishes rely on corn masa, and tortillas are house-made.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The mezcal bar ambiance, warm lighting, and regional dishes create a conversation-friendly, slightly elevated vibe without feeling stiff.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes. Walk-ins are feasible before 6:30pm or later in the evening, but prime weekend hours typically require planning ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The mezcal-forward focus and later-night energy skew adult; older teens comfortable with regional Mexican cuisine would fare best.
Best For
Better for: Deep-dive Oaxacan dishes, high-quality moles, and one of the stronger mezcal programs in the area—ideal for diners who want regional specificity.
Skip if: You prefer casual tacos, quieter rooms, or faster service; this is more of a sit-down, mezcal-driven experience.
Madre
8.3
Madre West Hollywood is an Oaxacan mezcal bar where a deep agave list meets a menu of tacos, tlayudas, and shareable antojitos. Happy hour fills the bar with locals pairing mezcal margaritas and discounted bar bites before sliding into a longer dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Barbacoa Tacos, Asada Tacos, Tlayuda with Oaxaca cheese
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Oaxacan mezcal bar where happy hour tacos come with serious cocktails.
Who should go: Groups wanting mezcal flights, sharable plates, and lively bar energy.
When to visit: Mon–Fri 3–6pm for discounted tacos and mezcal drinks.
What to order: Barbacoa tacos, tlayuda, mezcal margarita.
Insider tip: Grab bar seats to watch the mezcal pours and avoid waits.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Fairfax and side streets is feasible before 6pm; after that expect competition. Limited valet is sometimes offered during peak evenings.
Dress code: Smart casual with a stylish lean—jeans are fine, but most guests dress elevated for the mezcal bar vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during happy hour; still possible to hold a conversation at tables, but the bar leans energetic.
Weekend wait: 45–70 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—dinner and happy hour focused; early weekday evenings typically have minimal waits before 5pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options including tlayudas, quesadillas, and veggie-forward antojitos.
Vegan options: Limited—some sides and modified tacos may be possible; check with the server for swaps.
Gluten-free options: Many tacos and plates can be prepared gluten-free thanks to corn tortillas and Oaxacan staples; always confirm cross-contamination concerns.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want an energetic, cocktail-forward setting. The mezcal program offers easy conversation starters, though the bar gets lively rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes for early happy hour; bar seating is usually easier. After 7pm on weekends, expect a wait unless you book ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal—this is a mezcal-focused bar environment with limited space for strollers. Older teens may fit in, but families with young children may prefer earlier hours or quieter alternatives.
Best For
Better for: High-quality mezcal cocktails, Oaxacan-inspired tacos, and lively group energy that outshines more casual taco spots.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner, fast-casual pricing, or a family-oriented environment—this leans bar-forward and social.