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    El Parian Restaurant

    4.0 (260 reviews)
    InexpensiveMexican
    Closed 9:00 am - 8:30 pm
    Updated over 3 months ago

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    EL PARIAN RESTAURANT ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Divey
    Moderate noise
    Good for kids
    Dogs allowed

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    Eric V.

    Times change. Food trends come and go. Even birria changes. El Parian stays the same. We've all bore witness to the recent surge in birria's popularity, that great tsunami of spiced goat consome that has flooded social media over the last few years. The star of the birria invasion has been the traffic light red, oozing cheese, quesabirria variety. It is well suited to the window display case. But the more wholesome, more honest, murky bowl filled with flesh and bone is what El Parian has done since time immemorial. Its interior is cavernous and dark. The walls are adorned with amusing posters. I've heard tell they once had a poster featuring President Lincoln side by side with Presidente Juarez. I couldn't find that one. I did see one featuring two sets of gallos. One flock wore the jersey of the U.S. soccer team and the other wore that of the Mexican futbol team. The order of birria arrived and it was not for sissies. Although, there is a strong waft of so called baking spices that comes from the bowl, so perhaps it is for sissies. In any event, you must dig through the kid's ribcage for the tenderest parts of meat. You must crowd the bowl with onions and cilantro. Inundate it with chile de arbol salsa. After all these years, El Parian still serves both one of the quintessential Angeleno and Jalisciense dishes, I kid you not.

    Menu

    I was craving authentic mexican and this place did not disappoint. Now, i love birria. Its one of my favorite dishes. When i saw it on the menu as the house specialty, i had to try it. It was great! It was flavorful, the meat was good, meat did not smell bad (since its goat). I saw other people get different dishes and one thing i can say is they serve big portions. Hole in the wall describes it perfectly. I give it a 10/10. I cant wait to come back and try another dish.

    worst tacos i have ever had, ambiance is depressing and the food taste like nothing -- please don't waste your time or money .. i had the carne asada tacos yuck! literally threw up in their restroom

    Birria de chivo estilo Jalisco, consomme, y frijoles
    Anne A.

    This place is a total dive. That's probably the charm and one of the reasons why Jonathan Gold liked the place so much. I read that he liked their birria more than the birria he tried in Guadalajara, Mexico. I stepped in for dinner and the place was dead. Empty. You order at the front of the restaurant from the cashier who might not speak any English. I had to speak in my imperfect Spanish to order. You will be told in Spanish to sit down and they'll bring your food to you. What I didn't like is how she slammed my utensils on the table without any napkins. Thank goodness I have wipes with me all the time. As far as the taco de birria, it was flavorful. You'll have to be careful because in my case there was a little piece of bone in the meat which I can see could be dangerous if someone were to swallow it. There are warning signs on the wall of the possibility of choking eating their birria. After your meal, you'll have to get up and pay at the front as well. Would I go out of my way to eat here again? Probably not. If I were to choose a birria spot in the area, I would probably stick to Birriería Chalio for their handmade tortillas and more lively atmosphere...and agua frescas.

    Chilaquiles with chopped Birria
    Jocey M.

    I have been coming here since I was 10 years old , I am now 30 and may I tell you this place remains the same - the only thing that has changed is obviously the prices however still very worth it. I love coming in here and getting the Taste of a home cooked meal , great family atmosphere , Jukebox playing in the background and along with great tasting Birria. I have always done carnitas ( which are tasty ) along with a side of the tortillas ( which are made fresh and taste amazing ) however this time I went with the chilaquiles of Birria - LET ME TELL YOU ....... Chilaquiles game changer the meat was very juicy and tender , the cheese and crema was the icing on the cake. Highly recommend getting there Birria with broth or there carnita plates , you will not regret it. ( the service could be better but the food makes up for it )

    Hand made tortillas not thick like someone claimed they're actually perfect.
    SO L.

    My favorite place to get birria de chivo this place has never disappointed me and today well I'm definitely going back I see some poor reviews and I'll be the REAL JUDGE OF THESE POOR REVIEWS!!! Im very picky and I expect good customer service and the same deliciousness at

    Tacos
    Adriana D.

    This place is a whole in the fall, don't expect anything fancy because you won't get it, you're not going to a trendy place where all the hipsters go (thank goodness lol) but the food is great! I had taco de asada and one of carnitas and the carnitas are one of the best I've had, and the tortillas are hand made there at moment you order. The waitress was so kind and helpful and attentive. Take cash because they don't take anything else.

    The birria portion. Masisa which means with no bone in it is $23 with tax included.

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    2 years ago

    Hidden with good reason. I would drink their hot sauce. In a city filled with tacos, I will go out of my way for El Parian.

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    2 years ago

    The food is absolutely exquisite and tastes like heaven. The best part is the beans which are godly nothing will change my mind!!

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    Food was good but the service was ok. I won't be coming back. It's ok but won't go out of my way

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    Ka'teen

    Ka'teen

    4.1(1.1k reviews)
    5.0 miHollywood
    Outdoor seating
    Private events

    We celebrated an early Valentine's dinner at Kateen in Hollywood and had such a beautiful…read moreexperience from start to finish. We kicked things off with the queso fundido, and wow, it was absolutely delicious! Rich, melty, and packed with flavor, it was the perfect way to start the evening. For my entrée, I ordered the cochinita pibil, which was incredibly tender and saucy in the best way. My husband ordered the short rib, and it was perfectly cooked and full of flavor. On the side, we shared the papas bravas and esquite, both of which complemented our dishes perfectly. The drinks truly elevated the night. My husband and I both love mezcal, and Kateen delivered. I ordered the Valentine's Day "Zona Romántica," which featured mezcal and wine almost like a sangria, but completely unique and beautifully balanced. My husband had the "Gypsy Fever," also mezcal-based, and it was smoky, smooth, and refreshing. Between the food, cocktails, and ambiance, it made for such a romantic and memorable evening. We'll absolutely be back!!

    This was my first time dining at this restaurant. The server was great, the food was delicious, and…read morethe atmosphere was amazing. However, the reason I'm giving 2 stars is because of the valet parking experience. First, I was charged $25 even though the sign clearly stated that valet parking is $17 for the first 3 hours, and $25 after 3 hours. Our reservation was at 6:30 PM, we arrived on time, and we left before 9 PM, so the charge did not make sense. When I asked the valet attendant, he kept saying, "because you dined there," without giving any clear explanation. If it is actually a flat rate for restaurant guests, then that should be clearly stated upfront to customers. Second, when I got into my car, I noticed that someone had touched the navigation settings because the compass direction and display were different from what I normally use. I do not understand why there was any need to adjust or touch my navigation system at all. I really think the restaurant needs to improve and better manage its valet parking system. Honestly, it felt like I was being charged a random price just because I was told, "you dined there." If there is a flat valet rate for restaurant guests, that information should be clearly communicated upfront instead of leaving customers confused at the end.

    Photos
    Ka'teen
    Ka'teen
    Ka'teen

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    DAMA - Seafood Tostada

    DAMA

    4.4(1.4k reviews)
    1.4 miDowntown
    $$$

    I am so happy I finally got to try Dama! I absolutely love Antonia LaFasso so I've been dying to…read moretry one of her restaurants. Now when you pull up originally you might think, "am I in the right place" but once you park and get into the courtyard, it is LOVELY! Amazing ambience! There is a bocce set up, string lights. It is a little slice of oasis in the middle of the fashion district. The restaurant itself - beautiful. I couldn't ask for more. Absolutely perfect in my book. Beautiful plants hanging, perfect Spanish music in the background (any place playing Natalia LaFourcade is a win). The drinks were great! I had the jungle bird which was fun. Food was so good too. The whipped beans are the star! We had the guacamole which was tasty, great tostadas with it. The arepas were good but the pork belly was a little too fatty (I know pork belly is always fatty) to the point the fat muted the flavored for the arepa a bit, but still delicious. The empanadas were great and as someone who lived in South America and ate empanadas every day, these really took me back to my Paraguay days. The squash blossoms were light and perfectly fried. Unfortunately my friends had gone to Funke the night before so they were comparing the squash blossoms and Funke won out, but they still liked Dama's! Small plates were enough for the 3 of us. The service was quick and attentive. Parking was easy for us. I will definitely be back!

    Wonderful escape right in the heart of downtown. Plenty of street parking. There are lots around…read moretoo Love the outdoor area They have permanent benches that are cushioned with backrests too So enjoy the outside protected from the wind Most tables are shaded with the buildings surrounding too so you have this nice alcove feel Enjoy your mimosas and cocktails!!

    Photos
    DAMA - Lovely interior and decor -- summer getaway

    Lovely interior and decor -- summer getaway

    DAMA - Whole Organic Rotisserie Chicken Dinner (serves 3-4)

    Whole Organic Rotisserie Chicken Dinner (serves 3-4)

    DAMA - Bread. Flavorful!

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    Mirate - bar downstairs

    Mirate

    4.2(1.1k reviews)
    4.1 miLos Feliz
    Private events
    Outdoor seating

    Parking: street parking if you get lucky, there's also valet around the corner…read more Food: We had 1 of each taco Ceviche Mixto And the tuna tostada Appetizer side of guac All of our food was amazing, I was not a big fan of the tuna tostada, the red/orange sauce was too much for me. However, the mushroom taco was delicious it had so much flavor! As well as the gobernador taco (the one with shrimp). The fish taco was okay but thought it was cute that they wrap it in a little tusk. I would mention the drinks but I'm not sure what my friends got and I got a mocktail. The service was delightful, from start to end! I don't recall our waiters name but she made sure we were taken care of. Overall this place was very cute! The pillows were so comfortable! The food was amazing! Service was great, will definitely be back

    Firstly, I want to say the food was just as good as the first time we visited. Unfortunately, my…read moresecond experience here...bringing my mom for Mother's Day ...was extremely disappointing because of the service. We initially had one server who brought us water and took our appetizer order, but then disappeared for quite some time without checking back in. At that point, I even went looking for a manager or hostess and couldn't find anyone available. Eventually, we were given a new server, but she came across as extremely rude and inattentive. What upset me most was the overall lack of communication and attentiveness throughout the experience. It made what was supposed to be a special Mother's Day outing feel frustrating and disappointing. Sadly, this experience soured my impression enough that I don't see myself returning.

    Photos
    Mirate - Brunch

    Brunch

    Mirate
    Mirate - Brunch

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    Brunch

    Tu Madre - Los Feliz - Brisket street tacos

    Tu Madre - Los Feliz

    4.3(767 reviews)
    4.2 miLos Feliz
    $$

    Tu Madre in Los Feliz was such a great experience from start to finish. The ambiance is super fun,…read morevibrant, and welcoming without feeling overwhelming. You can tell they really put thought into creating a place where everyone feels comfortable. The staff was absolutely amazing -- friendly, attentive, and genuinely warm the entire time. They made our family feel so welcomed, and that honestly made the experience even better. What I loved most is that this place works for literally any occasion. It's perfect for a family outing like ours, a casual hangout with friends, or even a special date night. The energy is just right. Great food, great vibe, and amazing people. We'll definitely be coming back!

    Every once in awhile while traveling to a new neighborhood you end up someplace really great. Tu…read moreMadre is one of those places. Stopping for a bite on our was the the Greek for a show, my bestie and I had dinner and cocktail here in Los Feliz. Our hostess and bartender made the most delicious and fresh mango margaritas. At the recommendation of another reviewer we had Potato taquitos. Amazing. Sweet corn and a variety of the worldly flavored taco proteins. Outdoor with heaters and indoor. In a lovely walkable neighborhood. You can walk up to the Greek or Uber 10 minutes up the hill. Super friendly staff. Variety of patrons: girls having a meetup, families, coworkers, friends of all ages. We felt so comfortable and it was money well spent. One complaint: do something about your bathrooms. Great experiences don't end with gross bathrooms.

    Photos
    Tu Madre - Los Feliz - Atmosphere

    Atmosphere

    Tu Madre - Los Feliz - KBBQ Street Taco

    KBBQ Street Taco

    Tu Madre - Los Feliz - Korean BBQ Taco

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    Korean BBQ Taco

    El Tepeyac Cafe - 7/28/24: Okie de Pollo Burrito -- fireeeeeee!!!

    El Tepeyac Cafe

    3.8(2.9k reviews)
    4.5 miBoyle Heights
    $$

    It's been many decades having this goodness…read more Quality value flavorful authentic supporting local business fresh plethora goodness The chili relleno burrito I pass on as there was a thicker egg batter than chili that was quite small in comparison to size of burrito The original hollenbeck absolutely hands down tender spice stuffed goodness Rice beans guac stuffed away Their veggie burrito also worth the value All burritos very shareable or leftover worthy or have an amazing happy belly Would certainly purchase and try other goodness!

    I work in East Los often, this is one of those places the locals always recommend. On a couple…read morelunchtimes I ordered through DoorDash for pick up, quick easy and convenient. The building is an original piece of the City's history, boasting a menu that features their famous burritos that vary in size from a regular to a huge party size beast that can feed several. I tried the Hollenbeck and the Okie burritos on two separate occasions via pick up, as aforementioned, the service was quick, convenient and the pick up window is seamless, parking is located next to the structure and I haven't had problems getting there. Hollenbeck was good but I definitely enjoyed the Okie burrito more, I ordered the "original" size once and didn't seem to learn my lesson the second time, these burritos can feed two in Original size. They offer a "Mini" version which would be satisfactory for one person. My favorite thing about these burritos is how "home-made" they are, the salsas and meats are fresh and taste like they came out of an abuelitas kitchen. I still need to try the crunchy tacos and nachos which look great, I recommend trying this classic establishment at least once if you're in the area.

    Photos
    El Tepeyac Cafe
    El Tepeyac Cafe - Chicken enchiladas

    Chicken enchiladas

    El Tepeyac Cafe - Beef tacos Crunchy

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    Beef tacos Crunchy

    Holbox - Smoked kanpachi tostada

    Holbox

    4.7(2.6k reviews)
    1.8 miHistoric South Central
    $$

    Love this place. Been there twice now. Must try their octopus entree. Must try their scallop…read moreappetizer. Prices are moderate. The quality of their food is 5 star.

    I finally got to try Holbox in Los Angeles with my family and now I completely understand why this…read moreplace gets so much hype. The food was honestly incredible from start to finish. Holbox is a Mexican seafood spot inside Mercado La Paloma and the quality of the food seriously speaks for itself. You can tell there's real care and freshness put into every dish. It absolutely deserves all the recognition it gets as one of LA's standout seafood spots. I had the ceviche mixto with rice and a shrimp taco and both were sooo good. The ceviche was bright fresh flavorful and packed with seafood. The shrimp taco was perfectly balanced and honestly one of those tacos you think about later. My partner got the smoked kanpachi taco and a shrimp plate that neither of us can remember the exact name of but the sauce on it was INSANE. We were literally talking about it the whole meal. My daughter got the coctel and loved it too. Even the lemonade was electric... refreshing flavorful and honestly one of the best lemonades I've had in a while. Everything tasted fresh clean and thoughtfully prepared without feeling pretentious. The whole meal felt comforting while still being exciting and unique. Overall this place absolutely lived up to the reviews and I'll definitely be back next time I'm in LA. Holbox is officially worth the hype.

    Photos
    Holbox - Kitchen view

    Kitchen view

    Holbox - Tostada de Atun

    Tostada de Atun

    Holbox - Tostada de Jurel

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    Tostada de Jurel

    El Parian Restaurant - mexican - Updated May 2026

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