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El Pescador - Highland Park
Master Critic Review
El Pescador - Highland Park
8.3
El Pescador is a long-running Mexican marisquería where towering molcajetes, ceviches, and whole-fish platters anchor a full bar with beer and cocktail happy hour specials. With TVs tuned to sports, big booths, and hearty portions, it’s a dependable early-evening meetup for groups craving seafood-forward Mexican plates and margaritas.
Must-Try Dishes:
Molcajete Double with mixed seafood and meats, Caldo de camarón, Shrimp aguachile
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Seafood-heavy Mexican menu with true food-and-drink happy hour.
Who should go: Groups wanting mariscos, big platters, and game-day drinks.
When to visit: Late afternoon through early evening for HH and games.
What to order: Molcajete Double, aguachile, bacon-wrapped shrimp.
Insider tip: Share a molcajete to sample more seafood without overspending.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Figueroa is available but fills quickly after 6pm; nearby residential streets offer additional spots. No valet.
Dress code: Casual to casual-nice. Jerseys, jeans, and comfy outfits are totally normal during game times.
Noise level: Moderate-to-loud, especially during sports broadcasts and happy hour. Conversations are doable but not intimate.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes for larger groups; smaller parties may be seated faster but expect a short wait.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait and plenty of seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few options such as veggie tacos, quesadillas, and sides; the menu is seafood-heavy overall.
Vegan options: Limited—mostly customizable sides and salads. Best to ask for modifications.
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-free seafood dishes (ceviches, grilled plates), but no dedicated GF prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want a lively, casual vibe and shared seafood platters. It’s fun but not ideal for quiet conversation or romantic ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—most guests walk in. Arrive before peak happy hour on weekends if you want a booth or have a big group.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—big booths, quick service, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Great for kids 5+ who like sharing plates; high chairs available.
Best For
Better for: Seafood-focused Mexican dishes with hearty portions, strong happy hour deals, and a sports-friendly environment for groups.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet dinner, refined cocktails, or a strong selection of vegan/vegetarian entrées.