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Latino-run restaurants are an integral part of the vibrant culinary scene in Los Angeles (LA), a city shaped by Latinos and their multicultural influence. These establishments showcase the diverse flavors and rich cultural heritage of the Latino community, offering unique dining experiences that celebrate their traditions. From authentic Mexican fare to innovative plant-based Latin cuisine, these five standout LA businesses exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit and culinary excellence of Latino-owned establishments in the City of Angels.
Madre Restaurant
Madre Restaurant is a beloved Mexican eatery in LA that showcases the rich culinary traditions of Mexico. Founded by Javier Plascencia, a renowned chef from Tijuana, Mexico, Madre offers an extensive menu of authentic dishes made with high-quality ingredients.
The restaurant’s warm, inviting atmosphere and impeccable service create an immersive dining experience that transports guests to the heart of Mexico. Standout menu items include the mouthwatering carne asada, perfectly seasoned al pastor tacos, and their signature Madre margarita, made with premium tequila.
Milpa Grille
Milpa Grille is a modern, plant-based Latin restaurant that has become a beloved destination for health-conscious diners in LA. Founded by Jocelyn Ramirez, a celebrated chef and advocate for food justice, Milpa Grille offers a menu that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Latin American cuisine while prioritizing sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. Signature dishes include the flavorful jackfruit carnitas tacos, the hearty quinoa and black bean bowl, and the refreshing hibiscus iced tea.
Milpa Grille’s commitment to nourishing the community and the environment makes it a standout contender among Latino-owned establishments in the city.
Nativo
Nativo is a lively bar and nightclub in the heart of Highland Park, LA, owned by a trio of Eastside natives. Corissa Paredes-Hernandez, Gabriel Paredes, and Dominic Saldaña have created a welcoming space that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the neighborhood, pulling from over five generations of recipes from Gabriel’s heritage.
The bar’s expertly crafted cocktails and mocktails feature premium tequila and mezcal from across Mexico, while the food menu offers a delicious blend of California-inspired and traditional Mexican flavors. Nativo has become a hub for the local community, hosting live music, art exhibitions, and other cultural events that celebrate the vibrant Latino identity of the area.
Guisados
Guisados is a beloved taco restaurant in LA that has become a local institution for its authentic, handcrafted Mexican cuisine. Founded by Armando de la Torre Sr. and Jr., natives of Boyle Heights, Guisados offers a menu that showcases the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, with each taco featuring a unique, slow-cooked filling. The restaurant’s signature braised meats, such as the tender beef birria and the flavorful chicken tinga, have earned it a loyal following among Angelenos and visitors alike.
Guisados’ commitment to preserving and celebrating Mexican food culture makes it a standout among Latino-owned establishments in the city.
Cafe Ohlone
Cafe Ohlone is a unique and innovative cafe in LA that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the Ohlone people, the indigenous inhabitants of the region. Founded by Vincent Medina and Louis Trevino, both members of the Ohlone community, the cafe offers a menu that showcases traditional Ohlone ingredients and cooking methods, blended with modern culinary techniques.
Signature dishes include the acorn porridge, the wild greens salad, and the traditional Ohlone tea—all of which provide a glimpse into the vibrant and underrepresented food culture of the Ohlone people. Cafe Ohlone’s commitment to preserving and sharing indigenous foodways makes it a standout among Latino-run restaurants in the metropolis.
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This article was written with the assistance of AI.
