Quintin E.
Yelp
Bienvenidos, a La Villita Cantina!
A local East Hollywood Mexican Canteen of Cuisine off Franklin Ave.
Parking is predominately street with some meters in front and a few shared spots directly on Tamarind (the side street just before the corner/light off this Cantinas intersecting street - Bronson Avenue, close to the Gelson's shopping center).
Lots of residential/free spaces if you don't mind a stroll through a truly beautiful neighborhood.
This inviting restaurant is worth it! Offering great seating options via their front outdoor patio, main dining area, bar area or their super popular upstairs loft (primero en llegar, primero en ser atendido!)... It definitely get taken first and quick!
Once you do find your chair bliss you can enjoy happy hour from 3-6PM daily, brunch on weekends (11AM - 3PM) and amazing food y mas from 11 to 11, morning, afternoon or night.
I'd been thinking of coming here a while for all times of day and have definitely passed "The Little Village Canteen" in traveling around this re-flourish side of Hollywood... Pero it wasn't until I asked this great guy out on a date, who loves Mexican food, did I realize what a great oportunidad it was.
Our server was truly impressive, since I arrived a bit after my date with lovely 7PM rush hour traffic still in flow, he got us a nice spot right in front (top of his head pictured right in the entrance shot)... I was so taken in by the fun colors and layout that I missed him waving me over and walked all the way inside first lol only to realize the patio was the main patio in front... AYE!!
One of the amazing gents at La Villita redirected to the very first table in front... A very laughable story moment... I blame my sometimes towering height especially in boots (6'2).
When I did join him we had such a great time. We stuck to light non-adult beverage drinks (Mexican coke, the good stuff) though they have quite a variety with of everything such as specialties in signature cocktails, sangria, mimosas y por supuesto margaritas!! Te amo full bar situation!
For food we started off with an order of classic chips and salsa, the chips super fresh and recently baked with a great salsa that's a little on the less chunky more light and juicy side which I don't mind at all. Dip those chips!
The menu has some many options from ensaladas to tacos, burritos, bowls and enchiladas... Plus shareable: taquitos, quesadillas, street corn, nachos, fundido, guac, so many great things.
Making a decision can be fun, but also wow! We settled on enchiladas, huge full plates with two "ladas," crema, guacamole, side of rice, refried beans and choice of sauce on top - the chile colorado being a recommend fav from out server (but was told all are great and all sauces are dietary friendly aka gluten free and vegan). I went with the vegan steak enchies and Harold had the smoked shredded pollo. Good portions and presentation for sure!
We had no issues with anything including those prompt refills, questions about the menu and overall experience. I do right the tables had a bit more room between them in front, great intimate set up, but if you got to get up it's a sideways shuffle for most... the inside is the complete opposite.
The restrooms in side are vintage advertisements and retro style art from Mexico that really pop. They have similar "vibras" in the loft and great thematic flow from the moment you step up to this must try bar restaurante.
"Q" Tip:
It's Self Seating - you can call ahead to see what the situation is like and/or make a reservation (good call for larger groups)
Definitely hope to come back for all occasions and try more soon! Anyone up for some brunch? O bebidas? Happy Hour... Vuelve pronto!