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Xecora - Los Angeles
Master Critic Reviews (6 Lists)
Xecora - Los Angeles
8.4
Xecora elevates regional Mexican cuisine with vibrant Huichol-inspired decor and charcoal-grilled specialties. Dishes like octopus tacos and aguachile showcase their emphasis on seafood, gourmet plating, and top-shelf mixology, drawing foodies seeking modern Mexican in a stylish setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Octopus Taco, Aguachile, Grilled Steak with Handmade Tortillas
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Showcases Mexican gastronomy and Huichol culture in every detail.
Who should go: Date-night seekers and food-focused brunch crowds.
When to visit: Weekend brunch or festive dinner for cocktails.
What to order: Octopus Taco, Aguachile, fresh ceviche
Insider tip: Sip a signature mezcal cocktail and ask about Huichol art pieces on display.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but can be tough to find, especially after 7pm. There is no valet; expect to circle for a spot during peak hours.
Dress code: Smart casual is standard, but guests often lean stylish for date nights or Instagram-worthy outings; jeans are ok if paired with a nice top or jacket.
Noise level: Moderate—tables are close but conversation is easy, and the music and buzz never overpower a dinner chat.
Weekend wait: Thirty to fifty minute wait is typical without a reservation; reservations highly recommended Friday-Sunday.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately; rare to see a wait before 2pm on weekdays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—there are several robust vegetarian options, including grilled vegetable tacos and salads, with flexibility for modifications.
Vegan options: Limited—expect 2-3 fully vegan dishes such as aguachile with mushrooms, but staff can adjust some plates if requested.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many dishes feature corn tortillas and seafood with gluten-free prep; alert staff for allergies as fried items may share oil.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the ambiance is stylish but comfortable, with cozy booths and artistic decor setting the scene for conversation and culinary discovery.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible at lunch or on weeknights, but difficult during weekend peak hours; reservations strongly suggested if dining around 7-9pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for families with older children or teens; there are no kids' menu or play amenities, but staff accommodates requests for simpler fare.
Best For
Better for: Xecora excels at spotlighting regional Mexican seafood and mixology in a stunning setting, making it unmatched for food-focused brunches, stylish dinners, and Instagrammable nights out.
Skip if: Choose alternatives if seeking inexpensive eats, large group seating, or a traditional menu heavy on burritos and staples over gourmet Mexican cuisine.
Xecora - Los Angeles
8.1
Xecora stands out for its creative Mexican cuisine, offering beautifully plated carne asada fries and seasonal specials in a modern, art-filled setting. Its handmade tortillas and wood-grilled meats elevate the regional flavors, making it a favorite for adventurous local diners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Fries, Huichol Shrimp Tacos, Grilled Chile Relleno
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Handmade tortillas and creative fries with Huichol-inspired presentation.
Who should go: Diners seeking inventive Mexican and contemporary fries
When to visit: Friday/Saturday evenings or sunny weekend lunch
What to order: Carne Asada Fries, Shrimp Tacos, Grilled Relleno
Insider tip: Order the fries with both red and green salsa for contrast.
Xecora - Los Angeles
8.2
Xecora brings regional Mexican brunch to Eagle Rock in a cozy, welcoming setting with a cocktail-forward edge. Handmade tortillas, birria, and fresh aguas frescas anchor a creative menu, while attentive service and a vibrant strip-mall hideaway vibe set it apart.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria Tacos, Al Pastor Oyster Mushroom, Michelada
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Vibrant, regional Mexican brunch with handmade tortillas.
Who should go: Fans of authentic, creative Mexican fare and cocktails.
When to visit: Late morning or early afternoon weekend brunch.
What to order: Birria tacos, al pastor oyster mushroom, michelada.
Insider tip: Vegetarian options shine; ask for handmade tortillas.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small lot for strip mall, fills quickly; free street parking usually available nearby, but can be tight during peak brunch hours.
Dress code: Casual is perfect—think weekend brunch attire, jeans and tees okay, some lean toward boho chic.
Noise level: Lively but not overwhelming—conversation-friendly, even in groups.
Weekend wait: N/A – brunch focus, but expect 30-45 min wait at peak brunch times without reservation.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-in seating common and quick.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—strong selection, including standout mushroom al pastor and vegetarian sopes.
Vegan options: Limited but present; 2-3 dishes can be modified (ask staff for vegan tortillas and toppings).
Gluten-free options: Yes—many masa-based dishes are gluten-free by nature; staff can advise.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, the cozy atmosphere and creative cocktails offer a fun, low-pressure setting for casual conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes; reservations mostly unnecessary except during weekend brunch rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Kid-friendly for brunch hours; high chairs available and menu appeals to older kids, but space is cozy and loud during peak times.
Best For
Better for: Brunch lovers seeking handmade tortillas, region-specific Mexican dishes, and cocktails in a friendly, hidden gem setting.
Skip if: Skip if you need a full bar, crave ultra-silent ambiance, or require extensive vegan choices.
Xecora - Los Angeles
8.2
Xecora blends regional Mexican techniques and Huichol-inspired artistry in a compact counter-service environment. Standout ceviches and charcoal-grilled meats are made with all fresh, never frozen ingredients. A hidden gem, admired for its scratch cooking, vibrant decor, and unique signature drinks.
Must-Try Dishes:
Agua Chile, Handmade Tacos, Oyster Shots
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Huichol-inspired interior and hand-roasted salsas.
Who should go: Adventurous eaters, solo diners, local regulars.
When to visit: Evenings for fresh seafood, weekends for brunch.
What to order: Agua Chile, Handmade Tacos, Oyster Shots.
Insider tip: Ask about rotating vegan specials and Huichol art.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available but can be limited; no specific valet service, so plan to arrive early for parking.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; jeans and comfortable attire are suitable given the relaxed counter-service setting.
Noise level: Moderate noise with lively atmosphere including live music on occasion; conversation is possible but expect some background energy.
Weekend wait: Expect 30-45 minutes wait without a reservation due to popularity.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or minimal wait during weekday lunch.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes, several vegetarian options including unique dishes like Al Pastor mushroom tacos.
Vegan options: Limited but creative vegan options available, often rotated as specials.
Gluten-free options: Yes, many dishes prepared with fresh, naturally gluten-free ingredients; always confirm with staff for cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, its vibrant atmosphere, unique decor, and artisanal drinks create a memorable and comfortable setting that encourages conversation and shared experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but not guaranteed especially for weekend dinner; arriving early or calling ahead is recommended to secure seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Best suited for older children who can appreciate bold flavors and a livelier ambiance; very young children may find the noise and style less accommodating.
Best For
Better for: Xecora excels in fresh, scratch-made regional Mexican cuisine with Huichol-inspired artistry and unique signature cocktails, ideal for adventurous diners and seafood lovers looking for an authentic experience.
Skip if: Choose another venue if seeking formal dining, extensive seating options including outdoor space, or if traveling with very young children needing quieter, kid-centric environments.
Xecora - Los Angeles
8.5
Xecora merges Mexican gastronomy and mixology, offering chef-driven seafood, tapas, and inventive cocktails in a vibrant, art-filled setting inspired by Huichol culture. Happy Hour showcases fresh ceviches, house-infused drinks, and charcoal-grilled specialties—making it a destination for adventurous palates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Agua Chile, Oyster Shot, Fire-Grilled Carne Asada
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Fusion flavors and Huichol art create a memorable culinary experience.
Who should go: Seafood lovers, foodies, cocktail explorers
When to visit: Weekdays 5-7pm for best specials
What to order: Agua Chile, Oyster Shot, Carne Asada
Insider tip: Request a sampler platter to try multiple house favorites.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Colorado Blvd; can be challenging after 6pm. No valet or lot—arrive early or consider rideshare.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but many guests opt for dressed-up tops or summer dresses to match the artsy vibe.
Noise level: Moderate—lively atmosphere with upbeat music, but tables are spaced to allow easy conversation.
Weekend wait: Plan for a 30–50 minute wait without a reservation. Bar seats may open up sooner.
Weekday lunch: No regular lunch service; happy hour starts at 5pm on weekdays, with minimal wait before 6:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several small plates and salads feature grilled vegetables, salsas, and cheese.
Vegan options: Limited—ask for menu guidance; a couple of tapas can be made vegan, but main courses are seafood-focused.
Gluten-free options: Yes—numerous gluten-free choices, including ceviches and grilled items. Staff knowledgeable about allergies.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the lush patio and creative cocktails set an energetic, romantic tone. It’s impressive yet relaxed, making it a standout for first-date ambience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes—especially on weeknights or early happy hour. On weekends, expect a wait unless you arrive before 6pm. The bar is first come, first served.
Is it kid-friendly? Better suited for adults and older teens—no kids’ menu, with a more grown-up vibe. Patio is stroller-accessible, but the scene is lively around happy hour.
Best For
Better for: Creative cocktails and chef-driven seafood, plus colorful Huichol-inspired art and patio setting—great for groups seeking a unique, festive experience.
Skip if: If you want traditional Mexican fare or a quiet, kid-focused environment, consider alternatives. Limited for strict vegans.
Xecora - Los Angeles
8.8
Focused on modern Mexican gastronomy, Xecora fuses Huichol-inspired art with surf-fresh ceviches and craft cocktails. The ambitious menu is loaded with seafood tapas, handmade tortillas, and botanical infusions—a contemporary standout for date-night or upscale happy hour. Customer favorites include the agua chile sampler and shrimp tacos.
Must-Try Dishes:
Agua Chile Sampler, Birria Tacos, Handmade Tortillas
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.9
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 9.5
Atmosphere: 9.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Huichol art meets modern Mexican gastronomy—seafood and mezcal shine.
Who should go: Seafood lovers and cocktail enthusiasts seeking a stylish scene
When to visit: Evenings for happy hour or weekend nights
What to order: Agua chile sampler, shrimp tacos, signature cocktails
Insider tip: Catch live mariachi nights for a full experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and can be challenging after 6pm, but there is a paid lot nearby that typically costs around $8 for the evening.
Dress code: Smart casual; dressy jeans are fine, but many diners opt for stylish attire, especially on weekends.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is usually comfortable, though mariachi nights get quite lively and louder near the bar area.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30-45 minute wait without reservations, but walk-ins are possible if you arrive early.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; plenty of tables available and a relaxed vibe.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes, there is a dedicated menu section for vegetarian dishes, including vegetable ceviches and mushroom tacos.
Vegan options: Limited—there are usually 2-3 vegan-friendly choices, mostly in the starters and sides.
Gluten-free options: Yes, several options are naturally gluten free thanks to the use of corn tortillas and fresh seafood. Staff is knowledgeable and can guide you.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Absolutely—a stylish vibe, creative cocktails, and shareable plates make it ideal for breaking the ice and sparking conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially for happy hour or weekday visits, but reservations are strongly advised for weekends if you want prime seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—older kids and teens will appreciate the art and energetic scene, but it's not well suited for young children due to limited kid menu and lively evenings.
Best For
Better for: Nobody in Eagle Rock rivals Xecora for creative ceviches, botanical cocktails, and Instagram-worthy modern Mexican decor.
Skip if: If you want classic comfort Mexican, quiet ambiance, or big portions on a modest budget, opt for other local spots instead.