"You can't bring up Oaxacan food in LA without talking about Guelaguetza, and for good reason—this Koreatown institution deserves credit for bringing top tier mole to the masses in LA (their website domain is literally ilovemole.com). But mole aside, Guelaguetza is also where you go to eat banana leaf tamales, black bean enfrijoladas, and crispy tlayudas decorated with tasajo and spicy chorizo links. Dinner at this giant Chinese-pagoda-turned-Oaxacan restaurant is like going to a tourist attraction: there’s a gift shop selling merch, an open kitchen where spectators can take photos of sizzling meats, and even a live band playing Latin jazz. Head to Guelaguetza for large group dinners, birthdays, or anytime you're in the mood for a $25 mezcal tasting. " - brant cox, nikko duren, garrett snyder, sylvio martins
