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ZipPicks Awards
Best Mexican in Downtown LA
Best Burritos in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Cilantro Lime
8.2
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Tucked inside a Fashion District food court, Cilantro Lime turns breakfast and lunch into a chilaquiles-and-burrito playground with big flavors and playful sauces. Loved for creative plates and carne asada fries, it delivers substantial portions at accessible prices for workers and shoppers nearby.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chilaquiles divorciados plate, Wet DTLA burrito, Carne asada fries
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Food-court counter turning classic Mexican plates into bold, creative comfort.
Who should go: Downtown workers craving hearty, affordable Mexican breakfast and lunch.
When to visit: Morning through early afternoon for peak freshness and energy.
What to order: Chilaquiles plate, wet burrito, carne asada fries.
Insider tip: Go early on weekdays; chilaquiles can sell out by lunchtime.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly paid Fashion District garages and lots ($5–$12). Metered street parking available but competitive during weekday business hours.
Dress code: Very casual — come as you are. Work attire, jeans, and athleisure all fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate food-court buzz — easy enough to chat, but not quiet café levels.
Weekend wait: N/A — they close before dinner.
Weekday lunch: Usually 0–10 minutes; expect a short line during peak noon rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — chilaquiles, veggie burritos, and bean-based plates are easy go-tos.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with customizations (hold cheese/crema, ask for extra veggies), but not a dedicated vegan setup.
Gluten-free options: Somewhat — chilaquiles and plates can be made gluten-friendly if you avoid flour tortillas, but cross-contact is likely in a food-court kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you're going for casual and low-key. It’s more of a quick-bite spot than a romantic destination, but great for grabbing something flavorful before exploring the Fashion District.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s a food-court setup, so seating is first-come, first-served. At peak lunch hours, you may need to scout a bit for an open table.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick meals — open seating, no long waits, and menu items kids can enjoy (quesadillas, fries). Not many amenities, so better for short, casual stops.
Best For
Better for: Creative, hearty Mexican comfort at budget prices — big portions, fast service, and customizable plates ideal for workers and shoppers on tight schedules.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a sit-down Mexican restaurant with ambiance, cocktails, or dinner service — this is strictly a daytime, food-court experience.
Hours
Monday8am - 2:30pm
Tuesday8am - 3:30pm
Wednesday8am - 3:30pm
Thursday8am - 3:30pm
Friday8am - 3:30pm
Saturday8am - 3:30pm
SundayClosed