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Gardens of Taxco
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Gardens of Taxco
8.1
A family-owned WeHo institution since 1971, this no-menu gem serves multi-course Mexican dinners in intimate candlelit dining rooms. Each dish emerges from secret family recipes, creating an old-school hacienda experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas Born in the Sauce, Chile Rellenos, Chicken Mole Poblano
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: No printed menu family recipes from 1971 hacienda-style experience
Who should go: Couples seeking authentic old-school Mexican romance
When to visit: Weekend evenings for full candlelit atmosphere
What to order: Trust the server's verbal menu recommendations
Insider tip: The salsa recipe is a 50-year family secret
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $15, limited street parking - arrive early or use nearby lots
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy - think date night attire, no tank tops
Noise level: Intimate and quiet - perfect for conversation and romance
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, book ahead strongly advised
Weekday lunch: Not open for lunch - dinner service only
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - family recipes include many traditional vegetarian dishes
Vegan options: Limited but accommodating - chef will modify dishes upon request
Gluten-free options: Some options available - inform server about allergies when seated
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for first dates - intimate lighting, no menu stress, and conversation-friendly atmosphere create natural romance
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights but risky on weekends - they'll put you on a wait list but reservations are strongly recommended
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for well-behaved children over 8 - quiet atmosphere and family-style service work well, but it's more adult-oriented after 8pm
Best For
Better for: Authentic family recipes, romantic atmosphere, and unique no-menu experience you won't find at chain Mexican restaurants
Skip if: You want quick casual dining, have picky eaters who need to see a menu, or prefer loud, party-style Mexican restaurants
Gardens of Taxco
7.8
Family-owned since 1971, this takeout-only operation serves traditional Mexican casseroles and specialties with their signature cream of cilantro sauce. After transitioning to delivery and pickup during the pandemic, they continue serving neighborhood favorites with generous portions.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garlic Enchiladas, Chicken Taxco in Cilantro Cream, Al Pastor Nachos
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: 54-year family legacy with signature cilantro cream sauce
Who should go: Locals seeking reliable takeout comfort food
When to visit: Dinner rush 6-8pm for freshest preparations
What to order: Garlic enchiladas, chicken Taxco, loaded nachos
Insider tip: Free parking available in rear alley lot
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free parking in rear alley lot, street parking on Sunset usually available
Dress code: N/A - takeout only, come as you are
Noise level: N/A - no dine-in service, pickup counter only
Weekend wait: 20-30 min for pickup orders during 6-8pm rush
Weekday lunch: 15-20 min typical pickup time
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - cheese enchiladas, veggie burritos, bean tostadas available
Vegan options: Very limited - can modify bean dishes without cheese/cream
Gluten-free options: Limited - corn tortilla options, but cross-contamination likely
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal - it's takeout only with no seating. Better for grabbing dinner to take to a nearby park or home
Can I get a table without a reservation? No tables available - this is strictly takeout and delivery only since 2020
Is it kid-friendly? Perfect for families - generous portions, mild options available, quick pickup means less waiting with hungry kids
Best For
Better for: Authentic family recipes at better value than trendy sit-down spots, plus that unique cilantro cream sauce you won't find elsewhere
Skip if: You want a dine-in experience, Instagram-worthy plating, or extensive vegan options - try Gracias Madre instead