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ZipPicks Awards
Best Mexican in Sawtelle Japantown
Best Burritos in Sawtelle Japantown
Best Late Night Mexican in Sawtelle Japantown
Best Happy Hour Mexican in Sawtelle Japantown
Master Critic Review
Juquila Restaurant
7.9
A family-run Oaxacan kitchen where the draw is a slow-cooked mole negro refined over decades by a Santiago Matatlan native—dark, layered, and applied generously across burritos, enchiladas, and tlayudas sized to split. The casual strip-mall setting and large portions make it a reliable group dinner spot on the Sawtelle corridor, though recent price creep has narrowed the gap between what you pay here and what you'd spend at sit-down competitors.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mole Negro, Juquila Burrito, Tlayuda con Asada
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Family-run Oaxacan kitchen from a Santiago Matatlan native, known for slow-cooked mole negro with dark chocolate, chiles, raisins, and cinnamon developed over 12+ years from food truck to brick-and-mortar.
Who should go: Groups and Oaxacan food lovers on a budget
When to visit: Weekday lunch for unhurried seating and daily whiteboard specials
What to order: Start with the Juquila Burrito smothered in mole negro and baked with cheese, share a tlayuda with asada, and if you have four people go for the sizzling parrillada with chorizo and tasajo.
Insider tip: Check the whiteboard for daily rotating Oaxacan specials like nopales and camarones that never appear on the printed menu.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking and a complimentary parking lot in back—lot fills up on weekends, but metered street spots on Santa Monica Blvd are usually available
Dress code: Very casual—shorts and flip-flops fit right in at this family-owned Oaxacan spot with murals and a shrine to La Virgen de Juquila
Dietary Options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-key date than a romantic evening. The vibe is warm and community-oriented with colorful murals and a relaxed atmosphere — great for getting to know someone over authentic Oaxacan food without pretense. Noise level is moderate and conversation-friendly. Not the spot for a candlelit, upscale first impression, but perfect if you both value great food over fancy ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — walk-ins are generally fine, especially on weeknights. It's a casual neighborhood spot, not a reservation-required destination. Weekend dinner hours can get busy with families and regulars, so you may face a short wait. Reservations are accepted if you want to guarantee a table, and they also accommodate catering requests.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — this is a family favorite. Kids can order burritos with beans and cheese, fajitas, or quesadillas. The casual, welcoming atmosphere means kids won't feel out of place, and the noise level is forgiving. Regulars describe it as a neighborhood gathering spot where families eat together as a monthly ritual. Good for all ages.
Is it good for groups? Yes — the restaurant accommodates groups and offers catering options for larger parties. The casual, communal vibe works well for group dining. For parties over 6, call ahead at (310) 312-1079 to arrange seating. Private dining details not confirmed online — call to ask about larger events.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — outdoor patio seating is available. The patio offers a pleasant option in LA's mild weather. Specific details on heating, covering, or capacity are not confirmed online — call ahead if patio seating is important for your visit, especially during evening hours.
Best For
Better for: Big groups splitting sizzling parrilladas, casual weeknight dinners, late-night runs, or diffusing a hangry crew that just sat in 405 traffic—portions are huge and prices are low
Consider Alternatives If: You want consistent fine-dining polish—quality can swing from outstanding to average night-to-night since everything is made fresh
Hours
Monday10am - 10pm
Tuesday10am - 10pm
Wednesday10am - 10pm
Thursday10am - 10pm
Friday10am - 10pm
Saturday10am - 10pm
Sunday10am - 10pm