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Ka'teen
Master Critic Reviews (6 Lists)
Ka'teen
8.6
Hidden behind a foliage-lined entrance off Selma, Ka’teen opens into a lantern-lit jungle courtyard that feels far from the bustle of Hollywood Boulevard. Chef Wes Avila’s Yucatán-inspired plates, from cochinita pibil to whole grilled branzino, pair with mezcal-heavy cocktails and a club-adjacent soundtrack. It’s built for scene-y dinners where food and atmosphere share top billing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cochinita pibil, Whole grilled branzino, Charred street corn or papas
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 9.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: A lush, Tulum-style courtyard with Yucatán cooking and party-ready cocktails.
Who should go: Groups and couples chasing a transportive outdoor scene.
When to visit: After dark when lanterns, firepits, and music peak.
What to order: Cochinita pibil, branzino, corn or potato starters.
Insider tip: Request a table deeper in the garden for the most immersive jungle feel and less foot traffic from the entrance.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available at the hotel next door ($15–$20); street parking on Selma or Wilcox is limited and fills quickly after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual with a stylish edge; think elevated nightlife attire. Jeans are fine if paired with a polished top or jacket.
Noise level: Loud. Music, chatter, and the open-air courtyard energy make it more scene-driven than conversation-friendly.
Weekend wait: 45–90 minutes without a reservation, and walk-ins are often waitlisted or turned away during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — dinner-focused; early weeknights have lighter crowds but still benefit from booking ahead.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several dishes like roasted potatoes, esquites-style corn, and salads work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited — you can assemble a meal from sides, but mains skew heavily toward seafood and meat.
Gluten-free options: Good options — many Yucatán-style dishes (grilled proteins, corn-based items) are naturally gluten-free, but confirm with staff as cross-contact varies.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want high energy and atmosphere-forward dining. The jungle courtyard, lighting, and cocktails set a dramatic tone, but the music can be loud for deeper conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but unlikely during prime hours. Arrive early (before 6pm) or be prepared for a long waitlist. Weekend walk-ins are often turned away.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal. The environment is nightlife-adjacent, loud, and geared toward adults. Teens may enjoy it, but younger children will find it overwhelming.
Best For
Better for: One of the most immersive outdoor dining scenes in Hollywood, with a transportive courtyard and dramatic Yucatán flavors that make dinner feel like an event.
Skip if: You want quiet conversation, prefer classic dining rooms over scene-y settings, or need a wide range of vegan options.
Ka'teen
8.5
Ka'teen, from chef Wes Avila, hides behind a foliage-lined entrance and opens into a lantern-lit Yucatán-inspired courtyard that feels far removed from Hollywood Boulevard. With large-format grilled seafood, cochinita pibil, and mezcal-heavy cocktails, it’s built for birthdays, group celebrations, and transportive date nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cochinita pibil, Grilled whole fish (pescado zarandeado-style), Lamb neck barbacoa
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A lush, Tulum-inspired jungle patio with Yucatán cooking and cocktails made for big celebrations.
Who should go: Groups and couples wanting a transportive, outdoor-only Hollywood escape.
When to visit: After dark when the lanterns, music, and firepits are in full effect.
What to order: Cochinita pibil, grilled whole fish, a mezcal-forward house cocktail.
Insider tip: Book well ahead for weekends and request a table deeper in the courtyard for the most immersive setting.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available at adjacent hotels and nearby lots ($15–$20). Street parking on Selma is limited and becomes difficult after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy. Flowy dresses, button-downs, and elevated casual wear fit the atmosphere; avoid overly casual gymwear.
Noise level: High-energy. Music and courtyard chatter can make conversation lively but still manageable for groups and couples.
Weekend wait: Expect long delays without a reservation—often 45–90 minutes or being turned away during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable, as Ka'teen operates primarily for dinner; early-evening weekday seatings have minimal waits with reservations.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-forward dishes and sides, though mains skew meat and seafood heavy.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 options depending on seasonal menu; best to ask your server for modifications.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—many proteins and vegetable dishes are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible due to shared grills.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want a dramatic, transportive setting. The candlelit courtyard creates atmosphere instantly, though the noise level leans lively rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but unlikely on weekends. Walk-ins may face waits over an hour; weekday early seatings offer the best chance for a short-notice table.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children. The vibe is adult, cocktail-forward, and dimly lit. Teens comfortable with upscale dining may be fine, but there are no kid-specific menu items.
Best For
Better for: Atmospheric outdoor dining, celebratory groups, and immersive Yucatán-inspired flavors that feel distinct from standard Hollywood restaurants.
Skip if: You want quiet conversation, budget-friendly pricing, or a climate-controlled indoor dining room—Ka'teen is patio-only and energy-forward.
Ka'teen
8.4
Hidden behind a foliage-lined entrance off Selma, Ka’teen opens into a tropical courtyard where Yucatán-inspired plates, mezcal-heavy cocktails, and low lighting make it feel far removed from Hollywood Boulevard. Shared plates and large-format mains skew it toward celebratory dinners that still read as polished and chef-driven.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cochinita Pibil, Pescado Zarandeado, Lamb Neck Barbacoa
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Lush jungle courtyard serving Yucatán-inspired large plates and mezcal cocktails.
Who should go: Groups and couples wanting transportive outdoor fine dining.
When to visit: After dark when lantern lighting and music are in full effect.
What to order: Cochinita pibil, pescado zarandeado, lamb neck barbacoa.
Insider tip: Reserve patio seating specifically; the courtyard is the full experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available on Selma; limited metered street parking fills quickly after 6pm, and nearby lots can run $10–$20 depending on events.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning stylish; many guests dress up for photos in the courtyard. Elevated sandals, breezy dresses, and polished tops fit the vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to loud; the courtyard’s music and crowd energy make intimate conversation possible but not quiet.
Weekend wait: Expect long waits without a reservation; walk-ins often face 45–90 minutes depending on patio availability.
Weekday lunch: N/A — the restaurant operates dinner-only service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several vegetable-forward small plates and sides work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited — a couple of items can be modified, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Solid choices — many grilled proteins and vegetable dishes are naturally gluten-free; staff can advise on modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the jungle courtyard, candles, and dramatic entrance create an instant sense of occasion. Just note it’s energetic rather than quiet, so choose this for a fun, immersive first date rather than a low-key one.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — the bar area may take walk-ins, but patio seating is rarely available without a booking. Arrive early if you’re trying your luck.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal — the ambiance is dim, the menu leans adventurous, and the crowd skews adult. Older teens comfortable with bold flavors may enjoy it, but it’s not suited for young children.
Best For
Better for: Atmospheric outdoor dining with transportive design — few Hollywood restaurants match its courtyard theatrics and celebratory Yucatán flavors.
Skip if: You prefer quiet conversation, need robust vegan options, or dislike louder, scene-forward dining rooms.
Ka'teen
8.6
Ka’teen hides just off Selma behind a tunnel of greenery, opening into a lantern-lit jungle courtyard that feels worlds away from Hollywood Boulevard. Chef Wes Avila’s Yucatán-inspired menu, strong cocktails, and low lighting make it one of the most transporting outdoor date spots in the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cochinita Pibil, Grilled Whole Fish, Vegan Birria
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: A lush, candlelit jungle patio serving bold Yucatán-inspired plates and cocktails.
Who should go: Couples who want transportive outdoor dining and serious cocktails.
When to visit: After dark for peak lighting, energy, and patio atmosphere.
What to order: Cochinita pibil, grilled whole fish, vegan birria tacos.
Insider tip: Ask for a table deeper in the garden for a quieter, more intimate feel away from the entry traffic.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available on Selma for a fee, and street parking is limited and competitive after 6pm. Rideshare is the most reliable option on busy nights.
Dress code: Smart casual with a dressy lean; most guests opt for elevated outfits that fit the atmospheric, photo-friendly patio.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is doable at most tables, but peak hours bring a buzzy soundtrack from the bar and courtyard.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially for outdoor garden tables.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable; Ka’teen is primarily an evening-focused restaurant.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-forward plates and sides can satisfy vegetarian diners.
Vegan options: Limited but present—roughly 2–3 dishes, including the vegan birria tacos.
Gluten-free options: Multiple items can be prepared gluten-free, though there is no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its candlelit garden setting, dramatic entrance, and strong cocktails create an instantly memorable atmosphere without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly, but expect long waits on weekends. Walk-ins are sometimes accommodated early in the evening or closer to closing, but prime-time tables fill quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—it's optimized for adults, date nights, and groups. Older teens might enjoy the setting, but families with young children may feel out of place.
Best For
Better for: Transportive outdoor dining and atmospheric design that feels more lush and cinematic than most Hollywood-date-night spots.
Skip if: You prefer quiet dining rooms, minimal wait times, or a setting without nightlife-adjacent energy.
Ka'teen
8.5
Ka'teen is chef Wes Avila’s lush Yucatecan-inspired restaurant behind the Tommie Hollywood, where charcoal-grilled meats, seafood, and masa dishes arrive in a jungle-like outdoor setting. While not a traditional taqueria, its tortilla-based plates and shareable dishes attract diners looking for a more immersive, cocktail-forward take on Mexican flavors in Hollywood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Charcoal-grilled Yucatecan-style meat tacos or wraps, Wood-fired seafood with housemade tortillas, Charred vegetable and masa dishes
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9.4
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: A lush, Yucatecan-inspired outdoor restaurant pairing chef-driven plates with strong cocktails.
Who should go: Date-night and celebration groups wanting elevated Mexican flavors.
When to visit: Prime weekend evenings when the courtyard is fully buzzing.
What to order: Grilled meat tacos or wraps, seafood with tortillas, seasonal vegetables.
Insider tip: Book outdoor seating; the garden layout is central to the experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically offered at the Tommie Hollywood hotel entrance, and it fills up on weekends; expect premium rates. Street parking on Selma and adjacent blocks is limited and highly competitive after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual with a stylish lean. Guests often dress up for photos and the garden setting; elevated casual works but avoid overly athletic wear.
Noise level: Moderately loud. The open-air courtyard, music, and weekend crowd mean conversation is possible but not intimate—best for lively dinners.
Weekend wait: Expect long waits without a reservation—45 to 75 minutes depending on time and parties ahead.
Weekday lunch: N/A, as Ka'teen focuses on dinner service; early weeknights generally have little to no wait with a reservation.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection—masa dishes, grilled vegetables, and some small plates work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited—there are a couple of vegan-friendly vegetable-focused items, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Moderate-friendly—many tortilla-based dishes are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible due to shared prep areas.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The lush, candlelit outdoor setting and shareable plates create a memorable, sensory-first experience ideal for a first date—though it leans energetic rather than quiet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It's possible early in the evening on weekdays, but unlikely on weekends. Walk-ins often face long waits; reservations are strongly recommended for anything after 7pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The vibe skews adult, with cocktails and a nighttime energy. Older teens may fit in; younger kids may find the space too loud and crowded.
Best For
Better for: Atmosphere-driven dining—Ka'teen excels at immersive outdoor ambiance, elevated cocktails, and chef-driven Yucatecan flavors that feel celebratory.
Skip if: You want a traditional taqueria experience, quieter dining, or broad vegan options. Choose a simpler, more focused taco spot if you’re after classic street tacos or fast-casual service.
Ka'teen
8.8
Ka'teen is a Yucatán-inspired restaurant from chef Wes Avila set entirely in a lush, 5,000-square-foot jungle patio behind the Tommie Hollywood hotel. The menu leans into coastal Mexican flavors—think tacos, whole fish, and slow-braised meats—served under palm fronds and string lights that make the outdoor space feel transportive rather than touristy. Strong cocktails and a buzzy crowd turn dinner into a full evening without leaving the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cauliflower Al Pastor, Pork Belly Tacos with Charred Pomegranate Salsa, Cochinita Pibil
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 9.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: A fully outdoor jungle courtyard serving Yucatán-inspired cooking and cocktails.
Who should go: Diners chasing transportive, high-energy outdoor dinners.
When to visit: Prime evening reservations when the courtyard is fully lit.
What to order: Cauliflower Al Pastor, pork belly tacos, cochinita pibil.
Insider tip: Book later seatings to catch the patio at peak energy and lights.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available at the Tommie Hollywood hotel (typically $15–$20). Street parking on Selma, Wilcox, and surrounding blocks is limited and becomes difficult after 6pm, especially on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy. Most guests opt for elevated outfits—think fashionable night-out attire rather than ultra-casual.
Noise level: High-energy. Conversation is possible but expect a lively crowd, music, and an overall buzzy atmosphere that leans toward loud during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Expect a long wait or no availability without a reservation. Walk-ins may face 60–90 minutes depending on the night.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—Ka'teen is dinner-focused and does not offer weekday lunch service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid selection of vegetable-forward dishes, including the Cauliflower Al Pastor and several shareable starters.
Vegan options: Limited but workable; a couple of vegetable dishes can be adapted, but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Several gluten-free items exist naturally on the menu (especially seafood and meat dishes), though no dedicated prep space is promised.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—Ka'teen’s dramatic jungle-like patio and romantic lighting make it an ideal setting for a memorable first date, especially if you're aiming for atmosphere and energy over quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? You can try, but expect long waits on weekends and peak nights. Arriving early—right at opening—gives you the best chance as a walk-in. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially. The scene skews adult, with loud music, dim lighting, and a nightlife-leaning crowd. Older teens might enjoy it, but it’s not ideal for young children.
Best For
Better for: Best for immersive outdoor dining, high-energy group outings, and stylish date nights where ambiance matters as much as the food.
Skip if: Skip if you prefer quiet dinners, need extensive vegan/gluten-free options, or want something budget-friendly without the nightlife atmosphere.