Best Late Night Mexican Restaurants in Sawtelle Japantown (90025)
6 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
8.4
A long-running Oaxacan anchor in West LA, Monte Alban is all about deep moles, tlayudas, and hearty plates that feel handmade. The dining room is casual and family-styled, but the food is serious, especially the complex sauces. Not the latest closing spot, yet reliably strong for later dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mole Negro, Tlayuda with Tasajo, Barbacoa de Chivo
What makes it special: Oaxacan moles done with depth and consistency.
8.2
A lively Westwood outpost known for big, flavor-mashup burritos and strong vegan options. The fillings skew bold—think crispy chicken, carnitas, or veggie-forward builds—wrapped tight for a satisfying, portable meal. High review volume and late hours make it a dependable neighborhood standby.
Must-Try Dishes:
Breakfast Burrito, Grilled Chicken Burrito, Carnitas Burrito
What makes it special: Creative burrito builds with legit plant-based depth.
#3
Hermanito
8.1
A bar-forward Sawtelle spot that blends Mexican comfort with subtle Japanese neighborhood nods, anchored by excellent Sonoran-style tortillas. The cocktail program and weekend brunch make it feel like a hangout you can also take seriously for dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas Tacos, Pescado Tacos, Buñuelos
What makes it special: Mexican cooking with Japanese-influenced cocktail and design cues.
Worthy Picks
7.8
A straightforward Oaxacan-leaning neighborhood restaurant with a broad menu that’s strongest in homey, saucy plates. It’s a dependable option for breakfast through dinner when you want comfort without fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chilaquiles con Huevos, Mole Enchiladas, Burrito Juquila
What makes it special: Oaxacan comfort dishes at everyday prices.
7.8
A sidewalk taqueria built for post-midnight cravings, turning out properly seasoned meats and fresh-pressed tortillas until 2am. It’s simple, fast, and flavorful—exactly what you want when everything else is closing. The tlayuda is the sleeper hit.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Tacos, Tlayuda Mixta, Carne Asada Quesadilla
What makes it special: Late-night street-style tacos with a standout tlayuda.
#6
Tlaco Tacos
7.6
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Hidden Gems Heaven
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
A compact takeout-first Mexican-Salvadoran shop that’s quietly become a neighborhood standby. Tacos are straightforward, well-seasoned, and priced for repeat visits, with pupusas as a bonus move. Best for low-friction late meals you can grab and go.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Tacos, Carnitas Taco, Chicharrón y Queso Pupusa
What makes it special: Tacos plus pupusas in a tiny, local takeout shop.