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El Cartel
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
El Cartel
7.6
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Comfort Food Classics
On Wilshire, El Cartel is a compact counter-service spot turning out hefty burritos, tacos, and quesadillas tailored to commuters and office workers. Portions are generous, flavors skew toward hearty, and prices stay friendly for Miracle Mile standards.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Burrito, BBQ Short Rib Burrito, Shrimp Burrito
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 6.8
What makes it special: Small Wilshire storefront known for big, customizable burritos at fair prices.
Who should go: Office workers needing a fast, filling Mexican lunch nearby.
When to visit: Weekday lunch rush when the line moves steadily.
What to order: Carne asada burrito, BBQ short rib burrito, shrimp burrito.
Insider tip: Order ahead online during peak hours to skip the counter queue.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Wilshire and adjacent side streets; usually manageable outside peak lunch hours.
Dress code: Casual — office attire, workout clothes, and everyday wear all fit in.
Noise level: Low to moderate; mostly takeout flow, easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: Typically no wait; foot traffic is lighter on weekends.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes at peak; counter line moves quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — bean-and-cheese burritos, veggie tacos, and customizable bowls.
Vegan options: Limited — can build a vegetable/bean-focused burrito or bowl without dairy.
Gluten-free options: Partial — bowls work well, but tortillas are not gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal — it’s more of a quick, counter-service stop meant for hearty burritos rather than lingering conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s all walk-in with limited seating; most guests take food to-go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for casual meals — simple burritos and quesadillas work well for kids, though seating is limited and best for short visits.
Best For
Better for: Large, budget-friendly burritos and quick turnaround during office lunch hours.
Skip if: You want upscale plates, patio seating, or a place to linger; consider a sit-down taqueria instead.
El Cartel
8.3
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Group Dining Gatherings
Hidden Gems Heaven
Across from the El Rey Theatre, El Cartel is a compact counter spot known for hefty burritos loaded with short rib, al pastor, or grilled chicken. It’s a favorite for quick pre-show meals and casual lunches along the museum corridor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Short Rib Burrito, Al Pastor Burrito, Chicken Burrito
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Compact Wilshire counter joint serving surprisingly hefty, saucy burritos.
Who should go: Show-goers and office workers needing a fast, filling burrito.
When to visit: Pre-show evenings or weekday lunch for fastest turnaround.
What to order: Short rib burrito, al pastor burrito, chips and salsa.
Insider tip: Order ahead before an El Rey show so your burrito’s ready when you arrive.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Wilshire and surrounding side streets; easier before 6pm on weekdays and after nearby venue events clear.
Dress code: Casual and unfussy — come as you are for a quick counter meal.
Noise level: Moderate; counter orders and takeout traffic create background noise but conversation is easy.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes, slightly longer on El Rey show nights.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait beyond a short order queue.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — customizable burritos with beans, rice, veggies, and salsas.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with modifications (no cheese/sour cream) but not a dedicated vegan spot.
Gluten-free options: Partially — bowls can be ordered without tortillas, but no dedicated gluten-free prep space.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re aiming for a casual, quick, pre-show bite — the counter-service setup isn’t built for lingering conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — there are no reservations, and seating is first-come, first-served with high turnover.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick meals; simple menu and fast service work well for families, though the compact space means limited stroller room.
Best For
Better for: Faster, heartier burritos than many nearby lunch spots, especially before concerts at the El Rey.
Skip if: You want a sit-down Mexican meal, spacious seating, or extensive dietary accommodations.