Guelaguetza

Tucked into the bustling streets of Koreatown, Guelaguetza has earned its reputation as perhaps the most iconic Oaxacan restaurant outside of Mexico itself. The spacious dining room buzzes with energy, especially on nights when live music fills the air, making it feel like a celebration is always underway. With a gift shop near the entrance and mezcal flights flowing at the bar, this is a place that takes Oaxacan culture seriously while ensuring everyone has a good time.

The moles here are legendary, and for good reason. The mole negro alone—a complex, deeply savory sauce enriched with that distinctive Oaxacan chocolate—is worth the trip. But don’t stop there. The mole verde brings welcome heat from green chiles and fresh herbs, while the golden amarillo offers warming notes of cloves and cumin. The menu stretches far beyond sauces, covering banana-leaf tamales, pillowy memelas topped with melted quesillo, and a parade of grilled meats that could feed a small army.

This is the kind of restaurant where you want to come hungry and bring friends. The Canasta Costena—a family-style spread of shrimp, chicken, potato, and fish swimming in Oaxacan spices—practically demands a group to do it justice. The molotes, those crispy fried bundles of potato and chorizo, make the perfect shareable starter alongside a round of mezcal flights. Big tables are easy to come by in the generous dining room, making it a stress-free choice for birthdays or when hosting out-of-town guests.

Guelaguetza has remained a classic establishment for decades because it delivers authentic Oaxacan flavors in an atmosphere that feels both welcoming and festive. Whether you’re a mole devotee making a pilgrimage or simply looking for one of the best Mexican meals in Los Angeles, this Koreatown institution delivers every time.