Guelaguetza - Review - Koreatown - Los Angeles - The Infatuation

"Arguably the best-known Oaxacan restaurant in LA, if not anywhere outside of Mexico, Guelaguetza could be described as the house that mole built (their website is literally  ilovemole.com). This Koreatown spot features a gift shop, mezcal flights, and a lengthy Oaxacan menu that covers a lot of ground, from banana-leaf tamales and enmoladas doused in smoky mole negro to soft memelas topped with quesillo. Guelaguetza is also a great place to take big groups and out-of-towners because there are always enough tables in its big dining room, plus live music most nights. RESERVE A TABLE WITH RESERVE A TABLE Food Rundown Mole Negro The menu tells you its “an absolute must-have” and YOU BETTER BELIEVE THEM. Rich and savory, it’s the perfect blend of Mexican spice and that famous Oaxacan chocolate. photo credit: Holly Liss Mole Verde Kick the heat up a notch with this savory sauce composed entirely of Oaxacan green chiles and local herbs. photo credit: Holly Liss Amarillo Another must-order. This yellow mole is mixed in with chiles, cloves, and cumin. photo credit: Holly Liss Especial de Carnes An assorted meat plate or sorts, with grilled tasajo, chorizo, cecina and Oaxacan string cheese. How could you honestly not order that? photo credit: Holly Liss Molotes de Papa con Chorizo Fried dough stuffed with potatoes and chorizo. Think: pierogies for the gods. photo credit: Holly Liss Canasta Costena This family style dish comes with shrimp, chicken, potato, and fish fillet all doused in the beautiful Oaxacan seasoning. Consider this the tour de force. photo credit: Holly Liss Mezcal Flight Duh. Empanadas Yes, you want them." - Sylvio Martins