Oaxacan classics get the organic, vegan treatment at Gracias Madre in West Hollywood. Try clever twists on Mexican dishes like nachos topped with housemade cashew “cheese” and tortas stuffed with oyster mushroom “steak” or barbecue jackfruit “birria.” Enjoy them in the bright, light-filled space with vibrant tiled floors or on the lush outdoor patio shaded by mature trees. Don’t miss the restaurant’s outstanding cocktails, which include tequila flights and classic margaritas.

Dressed with palm fronds, whitewashed walls, hand-laid stones, and a roaring indoor fireplace, Javier’s is a glamorous setting for fancy takes on Mexican favorites. Grab a seat at one of two bars—including one that honors the Virgin of Guadalupe—for a lively happy hour starring martini riffs and rare tequilas like a limited edition Patrón. The elegant menu ranges from elegant crudos and ceviches to tender short ribs to standout seafood dishes like rancheros with wild white Mexican prawns.

For a Mexican seafood extravaganza, head to Loreto, LA Cha Cha Chá’s sibling restaurant in Frogtown. Chef Paco Moran goes all in on refined dishes that look to the sea—think delicate aguachiles, a clam-studded cavatelli, and whole-roasted zarandeados (grilled fish)—much of it sourced from the nearby Baja. With brick walls and plush red banquettes, the mid-century-inspired space is as stunning as the food.

LA Cha Cha Chá is where you go from group-friendly Mexican snacks and epic DTLA views, thanks to one of LA’s best rooftop patios. Decked with colorful tile accents, palm trees, and lush tropical plants, the space brings Mexico City vibes to LA. Grab a seat at the bar for a round of cocktails—try the strawberry milk punch—or spread out with your crew and order made-for-sharing ceviches, tacos, and tostadas.

Family-run Casa Vega has been serving up top-notch Tex-Mex to celebrities and locals since 1956. Follow the retro-style neon sign into the dimly lit, cantina-inspired dining room, complete with old-school red banquettes and brick walls. The massive menu features everything from classic combination platters—get the lobster enchiladas—to burritos and a 10-ounce ribeye. If you’re drinking, try one of the many margarita riffs, including a spicy take on the classic.

Head to The Hideaway, one of the best restaurants in Beverly Hills, for fancy Mexican-inspired surf-and-turf in glitzy 90210. Located inside the Rodeo Collection, the Hollywood-meets-Baja stunner is dressed with terracotta and stucco accents. Grab a seat on the colorful patio with a fireplace, wrought-iron furniture, and hanging plants. Feast on luxe steak and seafood with a Mexican twist—think grilled branzino topped with salsa and lobster tempura with chipotle aioli.

Kick back with a casual, post-beach Mexican feast at Blue Plate Taco inside Santa Monica’s The Shore Hotel. The best seats are on the patio with prime oceanfront views (and excellent people-watching), but pitchers of classic or hibiscus margaritas and plates of lobster tacos and sizzling fajitas go down just as easily in the inviting dining room decked with vintage floor tiles and earthy accents like a woven basket chandelier.

Located in swanky Beverly Hills, Cantina Frida serves up modern Mexican fare in a stylish industrial-chic space with brass accents and lush greenery. The made-for-sharing menu is ideal for large groups. Share Baja and pastor tacos with handmade corn tortillas or split massive plates of Mexican faithfuls like chicken mole and lobster enchiladas. Then toast with a pour from the top-shelf mezcal collection or one of the specialty margaritas.

Smoked cocktails, premium steaks, serious Insta cred—DTLA’s Mama Por Dios has it all. The extensive menu features aguachiles and ceviches along with classic enchiladas and tacos and ultra-luxe meats like wagyu beef and a 32-ounce tomahawk covered in edible gold leaf. With soft velvet chairs, gold hanging lamps, and stunning floral installations, the setting is equally as festive, especially on nights mariachi bands and DJs play to liven up the party.

The brainchild of culinary legends Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken, Socalo has earned accolades from the Los Angeles Times, Time Out, and more for its distinctive California take on Mexican dishes. The food at the duo’s Santa Monica space is as colorful as its beach-inspired interiors. Expect fresh ceviches, vibrant salads, and mains stuffed with super-fresh ingredients sourced from the local farmers’ market, like a tamarind barbecue chicken topped with watermelon orange salsa.