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ZipPicks Awards
Best Late Night Mexican in Koreatown
Best Cheap Mexican Food in Koreatown
Best Happy Hour Tacos in Koreatown
Master Critic Review
LA Oaxaca Restaurant
7.7
This low-key Oaxacan spot stays open late on weekends and offers a focused menu of tlayudas, moles, and house salsas. Family-run and cozy, it's a destination for serious regional Mexican fare well beyond the taco staples.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tlayuda Oaxaqueña, Mole Negro, Quesillo Tacos
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Rare Oaxacan specialties like tlayuda and mole served late.
Who should go: Regional Mexican cuisine aficionados
When to visit: Friday and Saturday after 9pm
What to order: Tlayuda, mole negro, quesillo tacos
Insider tip: Call ahead for mole availability late evenings.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—expect a hunt on weekends after 7pm; no valet or lot available .
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; jeans are fine, but some locals dress up a bit for late nights .
Noise level: Moderate noise—conversation is easy at most tables, occasional busy buzz after 10pm .
Weekend wait: 30-45 minutes for parties of 2-4 after 9pm; walk-ins welcomed but expect a short wait .
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though lunch service is limited and hours may be irregular .
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several dishes such as quesillo tacos, tlayuda sin carne, and sides are vegetarian-friendly .
Vegan options: Limited—2-3 vegan options, mostly sides and custom tlayuda requests .
Gluten-free options: Some items are naturally gluten-free (tacos, moles); ask staff for details, but no separate prep area .
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Great if you value unique flavors and a cozy, intimate atmosphere—the space is warm but not flashy .
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, walk-ins are typical—reservations are rare, but calling ahead for large groups is recommended on weekends .
Is it kid-friendly? Kid-friendly for ages 7+; menu welcomes adventurous eaters, but no dedicated kids' menu or high chairs .
Best For
Better for: Late-night authentic Oaxacan specialties not found at taco-centric spots; perfect for tlayuda and mole cravings .
Skip if: If you want flashy cocktails, a big bar scene, or standard Mexican staples—choose alternatives for burritos or margaritas .
Hours
Monday10am - 9pm
Tuesday10am - 9pm
Wednesday10am - 9pm
Thursday10am - 9pm
Friday10am - 10pm
Saturday8am - 10pm
Sunday8am - 10pm