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ZipPicks Awards
Best Mexican in West Adams
Best Tacos in West Adams
Master Critic Review
Chulita
8.0
Alta California modern Mexican built around a plant-forward kitchen that treats roasted cauliflower and oyster mushroom tacos with the same seriousness as its Creekstone hanger steak, all backed by a deep mezcal and tequila program. The West Adams location draws groups who want to split shareable plates across dietary lines without anyone feeling like they got the B-menu. Expect a brunch-to-happy-hour rhythm where the cocktail list does as much work as the food.
Must-Try Dishes:
Roasted Cauliflower Tacos, Tres Leches Cassava Waffle, Creekstone Natural Hanger Steak Tacos
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Alta California modern Mexican with an extensive mezcal and tequila bar and a plant-forward menu that gives vegan dishes equal billing
Who should go: Groups sharing mezcal cocktails and plant-forward Mexican plates
When to visit: Weekend brunch before 5pm for the full brunch menu
What to order: Split two or three taco styles per person, add the cauliflower tacos even if you eat meat, and let the bartender guide your mezcal pick
Insider tip: The vegan tacos outscore the meat options in reviews — order the mushroom and cauliflower before anything else
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, no meters—reviewers report it's easy to find a spot for early dinner on weeknights, though weekend evenings are less certain; notably easier than the Venice location
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection—Grilled Nopales, Coliflor Fundido, quesadillas, and multiple plant-based taco fillings; most vegan items also work for vegetarians
Vegan options: Extensive dedicated options: Creamy Vegan Tortilla Soup, Vegan Nachos, Vegan Queso and Chips, Vegan Coliflor Al Pastor, Vegan Mushroom Carnitas, Arroz Verde bowl with Vegan Charred Onion Aioli, and Vegan Chocolate Pudding
Gluten-free options: Limited but present—Pumpkin Pie Spiced Churros labeled 'Vegan/Gluten Free,' Vegan Chocolate Pudding with Gluten Free Almond Crumble, and a gluten-free tortilla substitution available for burritos (+$3)
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — Chulita nails the date-night vibe. The space has a stylish Tulum-meets-LA aesthetic with warm natural light, well-spaced booths, and banquette seating that keeps things intimate. Sharing mezcal flights and small plates (botanas) is a natural conversation starter without the pressure of a formal prix fixe. Request a booth for extra privacy, or grab two seats at the boulevard-facing bar for a more casual, side-by-side energy with a view of the neighborhood nightlife.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights, but book ahead on weekends. Chulita takes reservations online only (not by phone) for parties up to 6. The expansive bar top has 20+ seats, which is your best bet for a walk-in — especially on a Friday or Saturday when tables fill up. For weekend dinners, book a few days out. Weeknight early arrivals (before 7pm) can usually snag a table without much wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children. Chulita is a mezcal and tequila bar at its core, with a cocktail-forward menu of shareable drinking food (botanas). There's no dedicated kids menu mentioned online, and the atmosphere skews trendy and nightlife-oriented. Older teens who enjoy adventurous food would fit in fine, but for younger kids you'll likely find better options elsewhere. Not confirmed whether high chairs are available — call ahead at 323-272-4011 if bringing little ones.
Is it good for groups? Yes, with advance planning. For groups of 5–8, they offer a set menu at $35/person that includes shared appetizers, sides, and desserts with a la carte drinks and mains. For 13+, they do family-style service at $150/person all-in. Important: they do not seat large parties over 6 on Friday or Saturday nights for regular reservations — you'll need to book a private or semi-private event instead. The U-shaped floor plan with booth and banquette seating works well for mid-size groups.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — Chulita has a patio area that's dog-friendly. Specific details on whether it's covered or heated are not confirmed online, but LA's West Adams climate is generally mild year-round. The patio is a popular option, so if you want outdoor seats on a weekend, mention it when booking. Call the restaurant directly for current patio setup details.
Best For
Hours
Monday9:30am - 9:30pm
Tuesday11am - 9:30pm
Wednesday9:30am - 9:30pm
Thursday9:30am - 10pm
Friday9:30am - 12am
Saturday9am - 12am
Sunday9am - 9:30pm