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ZipPicks Awards
Best Happy Hour Mexican in Sawtelle Japantown
Master Critic Review
Don Antonio's
7.8
A long-running West LA Mexican spot built around a sprawling patio garden and aquarium-lined dining room that gives it more atmosphere than most neighborhood Mexican restaurants carry. The margarita-and-queso-fundido combination anchors a menu designed for large-format group meals, and the loyal Sawtelle-area crowd treats it as a default gather-here option for birthdays, family dinners, and weekend catch-ups. No dedicated parking—street-only along Pico—so plan accordingly on weekends.
Must-Try Dishes:
House Margarita, Chile Relleno, Tamal
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Long-running West LA Mexican institution with a sprawling patio, aquarium-lined dining room, and margaritas that draw a loyal neighborhood following
Who should go: Families, large groups, and West LA regulars
When to visit: Weekday lunch for $12 combo specials before 3 PM
What to order: Start with Queso Fundido to share, pick a combo plate with chile relleno or tamal, and pair everything with their house margarita
Insider tip: Request the patio for group gatherings—it's the social hub—and use the valet parking to skip the Pico Blvd street hunt
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No on-site lot—it was converted into a plant-filled patio garden in 2020. Street parking only along Pico Blvd, which can be tight on weekends.
Dietary Options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the low-lit interior, leather U-shaped booths, and multiple distinct dining rooms create an unexpectedly intimate atmosphere for a casual Mexican spot. Request the Cave Room for the most unique experience: faux stalactites and a cavernous feel that's a guaranteed conversation starter. The main room features a colorful fish tank that adds ambient mood lighting. Booths comfortably seat four to five, so you won't be elbow-to-elbow with strangers. Noise level is moderate — busy but not overwhelming. At around $30 per person, it's a low-pressure first date that still feels like an experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-in only — there's no online reservation system. Weeknight arrivals before 6:30pm are usually seamless. Weekend evenings expect a 20-minute wait at the bar before another 20–25 minutes for a table. Avoid Wednesday dollar taco nights after 7pm unless you're prepared for waits up to two hours. Lunch on any day is your best bet for immediate seating. The restaurant closes at 9pm, so arriving after 7:30pm on weekends also tends to be quieter.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — this is a multigenerational family restaurant that has been welcoming families since 1982 and it shows. The casual atmosphere means kids won't be out of place, and portions are large and shareable. A kids menu is referenced in some listings, though it does not appear on the current online menu — call ahead at (310) 312-2090 to confirm current children's options. The spacious booths easily accommodate families, and the fish tank in the main dining room is a built-in distraction for younger kids. High chair availability is not confirmed online — call to verify. Best for families before 7pm on weekends when it gets busier.
Is it good for groups? Yes — the restaurant has three distinct dining rooms and large leather booths that seat four to five comfortably, making it easy to push groups together. An automatic 20% gratuity applies to parties of 8 or more, which confirms they regularly handle larger groups. The separate Cave Room could work well for semi-private group gatherings. For groups over 6, arrive early on weekends or target weeknight dinners to avoid long waits. Call ahead at (310) 312-2090 to ask about seating arrangements for larger parties — there's no online reservation system.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — Don Antonio's has both a front patio and a back patio. The outdoor areas are described as pleasant and spacious enough for groups and families. Specific details on whether the patios are covered or heated are not confirmed online. Given the restaurant's casual neighborhood character, expect a relaxed patio vibe rather than a polished al fresco setup. Patio tables may fill up faster on weekend evenings, so arrive early if outdoor seating is a priority.
Best For
Better for: Big group dinners—the cave-like interior and shared combo plates make it feel like a party, not just a meal.
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday11am - 9pm
Wednesday11am - 9pm
Thursday11am - 9pm
Friday11am - 9pm
Saturday11am - 9pm
Sunday11am - 9pm