KOMAL

These Are LA’s New Michelin Bib Gourmand Restaurants for 2025 | Eater LA

"Opened by Holbox alumnus chef Fátima Juárez and Conrado Rivera in Mercado La Paloma, this place is a love letter to the pre-Hispanic dishes Juárez grew up eating in Mexico City and Oaxaca. It emphasizes Indigenous corn that is sourced directly from farmers and nixtamalized on-site, showcased in preparations like a flor de calabaza quesadilla, a chorizo-topped Taco Sonia, and tender oval-shaped tlacoyos." - Rebecca Roland

"In the bustling Mercado Del Paloma, Chef Fátima Juárez runs this little stall specializing in corn. Heirloom varieties sourced from Mexico and nixtamalized in-house form the heart of the menu. A quesadilla lined with squash blossoms and sweet corn bound with melty quesillo earns top marks. Golden-fried plantain balls set in a smoky black mole is another accomplished winner. From tlacoyas topped with cactus to tacos lined with short rib, be liberal with the salsa for extra punch and power." - Michelin Inspector

The 17 Hottest New Restaurants in Los Angeles, January 2025

"After working at Mexican seafood spot Holbox for years (which was recently awarded a Michelin star), chef Fátima Juárez and her partner in life and business Conrado Rivera have set out on their own to own Komal Molino. The newest stand in Mercado La Paloma serves dishes inspired by Juárez’s upbringing in Mexico City and Oaxaca, made with heirloom corn she nixtamalizes and turns into masa by hand. Each dish on the menu carries a special meaning for Juárez, like the Taco Sonia inspired by her favorite taco-maker growing up, and the pan de calabaza (squash bread) made with a family recipe. — Rebecca Roland, editor, Eater Southern California/Southwest" - Eater Staff

Innovations and Ideas LA Restaurants Should Keep in 2025, According to Local Food Journalists - Eater LA

"A restaurant exploring new culinary possibilities with masa and corn, contributing to a thrilling trend in LA cuisine." - Eater Staff

Holy Basil, One of LA’s Best Thai Restaurants, Is Opening in Santa Monica - Eater LA

"A restaurant featured for its molotes de plátano, recognized as one of the best dishes of the year by The New York Times." - Rebecca Roland