Monte Alban

Tucked into a Santa Monica Boulevard storefront in West LA, Monte Alban has quietly become a destination for anyone craving authentic Oaxacan cooking on the Westside. This isn’t flashy or trendy Mexican food—it’s the kind of deeply satisfying, generational cooking that rewards regulars who know exactly what to order. The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, letting the food do all the talking.

The star of the menu is undoubtedly the tlayuda, a crispy Oaxacan flatbread that’s earned a devoted following over the years. What sets Monte Alban’s version apart is their use of asiento, a rich pork fat that infuses every bite with subtle, nutty depth. Layered with perfectly seasoned black beans and topped with spicy, adobo-rubbed cecina, it’s the kind of dish that makes you understand why people drive across town for it. The tacos enchilados are equally compelling—soft tortillas wrapped around shredded chicken and draped in mole that showcases deep cacao and dried chile notes.

Monte Alban is ideal for a satisfying lunch when you want something more soulful than the usual quick-service options. It’s not a date night spot or somewhere you’d bring out-of-towners to impress—it’s where you go when you want to eat really well without any fuss. The prices are gentle on the wallet, making it easy to order generously and try several dishes.

If you’re exploring Oaxacan cuisine or simply looking for one of LA’s most reliable Mexican restaurants, Monte Alban delivers on every level. Come hungry, order the tlayuda, and don’t skip the banana leaf-wrapped tamales if mole is your thing.