Guelaguetza is a vibrant Koreatown gem serving authentic Oaxacan delights like rich mole, tlayudas, and mezcal, all wrapped in festive decor and live music.
"Known for Oaxacan moles and tlayudas, favored by Julia Hess." - Eater Staff
"The Independent Hospitality Coalition is hosting a fundraiser on Monday, October 28, at Guelaguetza. In addition to food served by For the Win, Guerrillas Tacos, and Cafe Tropical, Howlin’ Ray’s and Guelaguetza will collaborate on a special dish for attendees. The event runs from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with all proceeds going towards the IHC’s efforts to reduce restaurant permitting fees and regulations." - Mona Holmes
"There are many tres leches cakes in Los Angeles, but none are better than the absolutely drenched but perfectly balanced version from Guelaguetza. What makes this particular tres leches wonderful is the balance of sweetness, richness, and creaminess, leading one to take bite after bite until the whole slice is gone. These stacked cakes, covered with the lightest buttercream and decorated with ripe fruit and a few flowers, can be ordered by the slice or whole with advance notice. — Matthew Kang, lead editor" - Cathy Chaplin, Eater Staff
"Not only is Guelaguetza one of the most legendary restaurants in town (open since 1994, they’ve completely revolutionized Oaxacan food in LA), it’s also one of our best parties. Since the pandemic, they’ve added a new patio to their Ktown dining room where you’ll find a rowdy mix of families, friends, and people who’ve only just met all happily toasting hibiscus agua frescas and sharing giant plates of Oaxacan grilled meats plates. Definitely order one of their [excellent tlayudas], but it’s not an official celebration without the Festival de Moles, a sampler platter combining four kinds of silky sauces and Guelaguetza’s signature dish." - kat hong
"A meal at Guelaguetza, a Oaxacan institution, involves multiple types of mole, tlayudas, and big plates of meat. All of it is phenomenal and best when shared. With its massive space and live music, it’s a great spot for a big group dinner or for entertaining out-of-towners dead set on drinking as much mezcal as their bodies will allow. Also, don’t forget to order some queso fundido—it’ll ruin every other queso you’ve ever had." - brant cox, nikko duren, sylvio martins