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ZipPicks Awards
Best Mexican in Santa Monica
Best Happy Hour Mexican in Santa Monica
Master Critic Review
Lula Cocina Mexicana
7.9
Día de Muertos-themed cantina established in 1991 featuring Mexico City-inspired dishes and over 300 tequilas on a colorful outdoor patio. The kitchen emphasizes lighter preparations suitable for various dietary preferences while maintaining authentic regional flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shrimp Tacos, Lula Margarita, Chicken Mole
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: One of LA's largest tequila collections with over 500 varieties and vibrant Chicano art
Who should go: Tequila enthusiasts and groups wanting a festive patio experience
When to visit: All-day Taco Tuesday for deals; Happy Hour 3-6pm Tuesday-Sunday
What to order: Legendary shrimp tacos, potent Lula Margarita, tres leches cake, tequila flights
Insider tip: The back patio with large booths is perfect for groups with kids
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Main Street and side streets; can be challenging on weekends. Public lot on Ashland Avenue (2 blocks) charges $8-12. Arrive 15 minutes early for best spots.
Dress code: Casual beach vibes - shorts and sandals are perfectly fine. The colorful patio setting encourages relaxed California style.
Noise level: Moderate to lively - patio ambiance with music creates buzz but booths allow conversation. Inside dining room is quieter.
Weekend wait: 45-75 minutes without reservation on Friday/Saturday 6-8pm. Bar seating usually available within 15-20 minutes.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait - usually seated within 10 minutes except Taco Tuesday which can see 20-30 minute waits.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - 8+ vegetarian options including mushroom tacos, chile relleno, veggie enchiladas, and multiple salads. Kitchen emphasizes lighter preparations.
Vegan options: Good selection - 5-6 options available with dairy substitutions. Staff well-versed in modifications. Chips and multiple salsas are vegan.
Gluten-free options: Yes - corn tortillas available for all tacos and enchiladas. Staff can guide on safe menu items but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for 2nd or 3rd date. The lively patio atmosphere and festive Día de Muertos decor create fun energy but can make intimate conversation challenging. If you're both social and enjoy vibrant settings, it works. For quieter connection, request indoor seating.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but timing matters. Weekday lunches and early dinners (before 6pm) rarely need reservations. Weekend dinners require either a reservation or willingness to wait 45+ minutes. Bar seating is first-come and turns over faster if you're flexible.
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly, especially the back patio booths which accommodate families well. Standard kids' menu available. The festive decor keeps children entertained. Best before 7pm when the scene shifts more toward adult cocktail hour.
How strong are the margaritas? Notably potent - the Lula Margarita is a house specialty that packs punch. Tequila flights showcase their 500+ bottle collection beautifully but pace yourself. Order food first if you're doing a tasting flight.
Is the outdoor patio open year-round? Yes - the patio is heated and partially covered, making it viable year-round in Santa Monica's mild climate. Peak experience is spring through fall. Request patio when reserving as it's the signature experience.
What's the damage for two people? $70-90 for dinner with margaritas and shared appetizer. Taco Tuesday brings this down to $50-60. The extensive tequila selection can push bills higher if you're exploring premium bottles - flights run $18-45.
Best For
Better for: Best tequila selection in the area with serious agave expertise; vibrant social atmosphere perfect for groups and celebrations; accommodates dietary preferences better than traditional Mexican spots; Taco Tuesday value is exceptional.
Skip if: You want quiet romantic ambiance (try Border Grill instead); seeking cutting-edge modern Mexican cuisine (head to Mírame); need guaranteed seating without planning ahead; looking for authentic regional Mexican rather than LA-adapted style.
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday12pm - 9pm
Wednesday12pm - 9pm
Thursday12pm - 10pm
Friday12pm - 10:30pm
Saturday11:30am - 10:30pm
Sunday11:30am - 9pm