"What started as a modest eatery in Bell Gardens almost 40 years ago has developed into a network of more than a dozen outlets throughout central and eastern Los Angeles County. In Downey, the restaurant’s dramatic interiors (arched ceilings and multicolored lighting) make for great visual stimulation, but a summertime happy hour may be best spent on the patio. Sit in one of El Pescador’s banquette couches and sip on a margarita flight (all featuring Milagro Tequila) from Cantina 11, the restaurant’s bar. (In addition, the owners of El Pescador also operate Ola Restobar, less than two miles away. Stop in for the margarita sippers, stay for the 18-inch burrito.)" - Robert Spuhler