Guelaguetza Restaurant
Discover authentic Oaxacan flavors at this beloved Los Angeles spot. With a 4.3-star rating and vibrant atmosphere, it's a must-visit. Enjoy live music and great food.
Kid-friendly Mexican restaurant featuring Oaxacan fare and colorful decor.
About Guelaguetza Restaurant
This vibrant Los Angeles establishment offers a highly-rated experience, boasting a 4.3 out of 5 stars from over 6,000 reviews. Diners consistently praise the delicious food and lively atmosphere, making it a popular choice for groups and those seeking a memorable meal. The menu features authentic Oaxacan specialties, with the Memela Sampler often highlighted for its flavorful combinations, especially when paired with fresh guacamole and unique sauces. The mole, with its subtle chocolate notes, is a particular standout. The dining experience is enhanced by the option of outdoor seating and the presence of live music on select nights, creating a festive and engaging environment. This spot is known for its excellent cocktails and reservable tables, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Restaurant Analysis
Restaurant Characteristics
This restaurant has been analyzed using our formula-based system to help you understand its key features and match it with your dining preferences.
Price Range (Moderate)
Moderate pricing ($$) - Mid-range restaurants with good value
Meal Time (dinner)
This restaurant primarily serves dinner. Based on opening hours.
Group Size (Groups Welcome)
Welcomes large groups and families. Great for group dining.
Atmosphere (Outdoor)
Al fresco dining with outdoor seating
Dining Style (Flexible)
Flexible options. Reservations available but not required.
Features & Amenities
This restaurant offers: Outdoor Seating, Live Music, Cocktails, Beer, Wine, Coffee, Family Friendly, Groups Welcome, Reservations
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Why Travelers Love Guelaguetza Restaurant
Sourced from recent guest feedback and verified reviews.
Great food and atmosphere. Was busy but was able to get a seat at the bar. Had the Memela Sampler which was perfect for a meal. Be sure to add the guacamole and the sauces as they complement the memalitas perfectly. Plus a pint of Pacifico to top it off. Note the mole with the appetizer chips has a hint of chocolate which makes it hard not to finish. They had a live band the night we had dinner here. Second time I’ve been here, and still no flaws that I’ve seen. We made a reservation for three at 7:30pm, we were sat right away. The mole was delicious, the service was fast and the staff had great energy. Definitely will visit when we’re back in LA I've visited since the 90s prior to this one , was over 5 years ago The food remains as true statement of what Oaxacan food should taste (American version) out visit was on a Tuesday at 14:00 few patrons but not enough to be to busy. The place remains unchanged, vivid mexican style colors, folklore music in the background, and the ever present mexican courteous service. Ever since prices started to rise, even though the ingredients had follen back, we decided to still go out and enjoy the meals, only changes, no drinks or dessert is ordered, and in many occasions, specially in places where we know the plates are generous, we share the plate. The minute our waiter recognizes our tactic he went MIA We still tip generously if service dictated, not this time Since we stuck with good old H2O , our glasses had one one refill, didn't happen without we waiving frantically a couple of times Not even once did he approach to see "if everything was alright" Was he rude ? Not at all , very pleasant till the order was given. My 3 stars are based on the additional payment for parking in the middle of the day, 7 USD, prices, and mostly for the cold shoulder for been frugal Every other restaurant were service goes accordingly the tip remains at 20%. Yes we highly recommend the quality of the food
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Recent Reviews
David V.
November 9, 2025
Great food and atmosphere. Was busy but was able to get a seat at the bar. Had the Memela Sampler which was perfect for a meal. Be sure to add the guacamole and the sauces as they complement the memalitas perfectly. Plus a pint of Pacifico to top it off. Note the mole with the appetizer chips has a hint of chocolate which makes it hard not to finish.
Clau G.
October 19, 2025
They had a live band the night we had dinner here. Second time I’ve been here, and still no flaws that I’ve seen. We made a reservation for three at 7:30pm, we were sat right away. The mole was delicious, the service was fast and the staff had great energy. Definitely will visit when we’re back in LA
tax M.
November 13, 2025
I've visited since the 90s prior to this one , was over 5 years ago The food remains as true statement of what Oaxacan food should taste (American version) out visit was on a Tuesday at 14:00 few patrons but not enough to be to busy. The place remains unchanged, vivid mexican style colors, folklore music in the background, and the ever present mexican courteous service. Ever since prices started to rise, even though the ingredients had follen back, we decided to still go out and enjoy the meals, only changes, no drinks or dessert is ordered, and in many occasions, specially in places where we know the plates are generous, we share the plate. The minute our waiter recognizes our tactic he went MIA We still tip generously if service dictated, not this time Since we stuck with good old H2O , our glasses had one one refill, didn't happen without we waiving frantically a couple of times Not even once did he approach to see "if everything was alright" Was he rude ? Not at all , very pleasant till the order was given. My 3 stars are based on the additional payment for parking in the middle of the day, 7 USD, prices, and mostly for the cold shoulder for been frugal Every other restaurant were service goes accordingly the tip remains at 20%. Yes we highly recommend the quality of the food
Hakeem O.
September 27, 2025
I was told this was the best Mexican restaurant in LA and boy did it meet my expectations. I started with the stole. It was delicious and sweet. I tried the grasshoppers? Was really spicy but a great snack. I had the mole Rojo my mom had a tlayuda. The mole was amazing. You can taste hard work put into making it. All in all this place is amazing. Will come back one day during the evening for the live music.
Amber Z.
October 17, 2025
Went for a birthday dinner and loved that they had live music. They were able to accommodate our group of 10. Overall, food was good and good ambiance.
What to Expect
Features and amenities that make Guelaguetza Restaurant special
Outdoor Seating
Live Music
Cocktails
Beer
Wine
Coffee
Family Friendly
Groups Welcome
Reservations
Practical Information
Everything you need to know before you visit
Payment Options
Parking
Accessibility
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