30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Mexican in Culver City
Master Critic Review
Casa Sanchez
8.0
Vibes:
Live Music Showtime
Birthday & Celebration Central
Group Dining Gatherings
Outdoor Dining Oasis
A full-service Mexican dining room anchored by Mariachi Voces de Mexico de Raul Sanchez, who perform live six nights a week—making the music as much of the draw as the mole poblano or chamorro de puerco. The dinner-club energy runs loud between sets and louder during them, which is exactly the point for birthdays, group celebrations, and couples who want a night out with substance. Valet parking and outdoor seating round out a place built for lingering, not rushing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Salmon al Tequila, Chamorro de Puerco, Mole Poblano
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Mariachi Voces de Mexico de Raul Sanchez performs live six nights a week alongside fine Mexican cuisine in a full-service dining room.
Who should go: Couples and groups celebrating with live mariachi
When to visit: Tuesday through Sunday evenings for live mariachi performances
What to order: Start with the ceviche, then go with Salmon al Tequila or Chamorro de Puerco as your main — share a mole dish for the table
Insider tip: Use the valet parking — street parking on Centinela fills up fast on mariachi nights
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet parking available (validated)—street parking also accessible along Centinela Ave
Dress code: Business casual—dinner-club atmosphere draws anniversary and special-occasion crowds, so skip the shorts and flip-flops
Noise level: Loud during live mariachi performances (Tue–Sun), dinner-club energy—not the spot for quiet conversation, but the music can be subtle and melodic between sets
Weekend wait: Reservations strongly recommended—fills up fast during mariachi sets, walk-ins risk a wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options: Vegetarian Fajitas ($30), Quesadilla Vegetariana ($17), Caesar Salad ($14), Ensalada de Casa ($14)
Vegan options: Dedicated vegan dishes: Vegan Enchiladas ($32) with vegetables, spinach, corn, and mushrooms in pasilla sauce; Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms ($31) with balsamic reduction
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the upscale Mexican ambiance with original paintings, warm lighting, and a secluded romantic patio create an intimate setting. Live music plays nightly (mariachi or piano), which adds atmosphere without overwhelming conversation. Request a patio table for a more private feel, or sit inside near the stage if you want the entertainment as a built-in icebreaker. Valet parking is a nice touch that sets the tone.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are accepted, but reservations are strongly recommended — especially on Friday and Saturday nights when live music draws crowds and the place fills up. Weeknights (Monday–Wednesday) you'll likely get seated without much wait. For weekend visits, call a few days ahead at minimum. The bar area may have quicker availability for walk-ins on busier nights.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the restaurant is described as welcoming to kids, with a casual-enough dress code and moderate noise level (live music helps mask any kid commotion). The broad Mexican menu has plenty of approachable options for younger eaters. Best bet is earlier in the evening before the live music crowd picks up. Specific kids menu or high chair availability not confirmed online — call ahead to verify.
Is it good for groups? Absolutely — this is one of the better group dining spots in the area. The Banquet Room accommodates up to 100 guests and the Patio fits up to 140, both available for private events. Plenty of long tables for celebrations and birthday parties. For groups over 6, book at least a week ahead. Private dining rooms are available for more formal gatherings. The live music and full bar make it a natural fit for celebrations.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — a large covered and heated patio that seats up to 140 guests makes this a standout for outdoor dining year-round. There's also a more secluded romantic patio section for smaller, intimate dinners. The outdoor space is well-maintained and a major draw, especially on warm LA evenings. Dog-friendliness not confirmed — call to check.
Best For
Better for: Group celebrations with live entertainment—birthday parties, large family dinners, and anyone who wants a show with their meal
Consider Alternatives If: You need a quiet table for intimate conversation—mariachi performs nightly and the dinner-club energy runs loud
Hours
Monday5pm - 8:30pm
Tuesday5pm - 9pm
Wednesday5pm - 9pm
Thursday5pm - 9:30pm
Friday5pm - 9:30pm
Saturday5pm - 9:30pm
Sunday4pm - 8pm