Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Los Angeles

Guacamole, chips and salsa

Fresh guacamole and chips that arrive as a cohesive appetizer rather than a bowl of dip served with stale, store-bought bags.

Based on 801 Opinions
+798
User
User
User
Updated
01
Tierra Caliente Tacos and Beer image 1
Tierra Caliente Tacos and Beer image 2
Tierra Caliente Tacos and Beer image 3
View all

Beautiful hacienda-style interior with a stunning bar and comfortable seating creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Live mariachi music adds lively energy on weekends, while Mexican history pictures spark conversation. The vibe balances charming decor with a pleasant, clean environment.

Freshly made guacamole stands out with its flavorful and authentic taste. It pairs well with tacos and works as a popular appetizer or side during happy hour.

Tables come with great chips and salsa plus a delicious bean dip. These starters pair well with other dishes like taquitos and enchiladas.

People are saying

"The guacamole here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The chips and salsa here are so good and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right outside the restaurant.

2

The typical cost for a two-person dinner is around $130, including tip.

3

Happy hour features house-made guacamole and carnitas street tacos.

02
El Arco Lincoln Heights image 1
El Arco Lincoln Heights image 2
El Arco Lincoln Heights image 3
View all

Old style Mexican restaurant with beautiful wall art and two dining rooms creates a friendly, calm atmosphere despite loud music. Back patio and small bar add to the inviting setting. Frequented by families, it offers a mix of traditional and new elements.

Handmade guacamole features tender chunks of pork and follows a recipe dating back to 1964. It comes with Chile Verde, beans, sour cream, and cheese smothered on top.

Fresh chips come with salsa that tastes like it’s made daily, not refrigerated. Staff offer generous refills on both chips and salsa.

People are saying

"The handmade guacamole here is awesome."

"The chips and salsa were so fresh, the salsa didn't taste refrigerated."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available, offering discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Parking is available right up front or in a small lot in the back.

3

The restaurant can get busy, so be prepared for potential wait times.

03
Frida Mexican Cuisine – Westwood image 1
Frida Mexican Cuisine – Westwood image 2
Frida Mexican Cuisine – Westwood image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant offers a light and bright atmosphere with sports on TVs and moderate noise levels suitable for conversation. The space feels classy but casual, with outdoor seating adding to its charm. Drinks, especially margaritas, stand out as a highlight alongside fresh chips and salsa.

Bright guacamole comes with complimentary chips and salsas. It blends well with marinated carnitas, perfect refried beans, and seasoned rice in the dishes.

Fresh and tasty chips and salsa arrive quickly at the table. The salsa pairs well with house-made chips that complement the authentic flavors.

People are saying

"The chips and salsa were fresh, tasty, and brought quickly."

"I thought the guacamole was great."

Good to know

1

The restaurant's menu states that the minimum charge per person is $20.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Expect prices to be higher than average for Mexican cuisine.

04
El Torito image 1
El Torito image 2
El Torito image 3
View all

Rustic design combines with loud karaoke and warm, friendly vibe to create an inviting atmosphere. The place fills with energy as people sing and celebrate, making it lively and social. Table side guacamole and bottomless mimosas add to the distinctive experience.

Fresh guacamole gets made right at the table with your choice of toppings. The tableside preparation is quick and the guacamole is always perfectly seasoned and freshly made.

Chips and salsa come fresh and flavorful with a great spice that preps the palate. The chips stay crisp and serve as a solid start to the meal.

People are saying

"The tableside guacamole is made fresh right in front of you."

"The chips and salsa here are crisp, flavorful, and have a great spice."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 to 7pm with great drink specials.

2

Karaoke night is every Thursday, starting at 10pm.

3

Taco Tuesdays feature special pricing on tacos all day.

05
Joselito's Mexican Food Tujunga image 1
Joselito's Mexican Food Tujunga image 2
Joselito's Mexican Food Tujunga image 3
View all

Outdoor patio offers a rustic Pueblo feel with dog-friendly seating and heaters for comfort. Atmosphere stays cozy and positive, enhanced by Mexican music and festive decorations. Food features unique margaritas and a variety of authentic dishes, creating a lively yet relaxed dining experience.

Fresh to order guacamole stands out with its perfect texture and tangy flavor. It pairs well with chips and complements dishes like fajitas and chicken mole.

Fresh chips come with excellent salsa and tangy guacamole. Creamy queso adds to the mix, making the chips and salsa a solid starter.

People are saying

"I thought their guacamole was the best in town."

"I found the chips and salsa to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; expect to park across the street during busy hours.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Taco Tuesday features a special menu with great value for a full meal.

06
El Compadre image 1
El Compadre image 2
El Compadre image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant with live Mexican music and flaming margaritas creates a lively, authentic atmosphere. Interior features colorful twinkle lights and booth seating in a dark, traditional setting. The space fills with energy as music plays loudly, making it a fun spot for gatherings.

Freshly made guacamole stands out with a creamy texture and vibrant flavor. It pairs well with fried tortilla chips and complements dishes like steak fajita and bacon wrapped shrimp.

Complimentary chips and salsa come free and keep coming. The chips are crispy and the salsa is fresh and flavorful.

People are saying

"The complimentary chips and salsa were amazing."

"The guacamole here is awesome."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $10 and is valet only at El Compadre.

2

Live music starts at 7 PM on Saturdays, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak hours.

07
Catrina Mexican & Seafood image 1
Catrina Mexican & Seafood image 2
Catrina Mexican & Seafood image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant with colorful decorations and live Mariachi music creates a laid-back atmosphere with a friendly vibe. Spacious interior offers comfortable booths and a bar, making it suitable for family dinners. Dark-tinted windows and ongoing decor improvements add to its unique character.

Fresh guacamole comes prepared at the table, often served in a molcajete. Portions stay healthy even in smaller servings, making it a highlight of the meal.

Complimentary chips and salsa arrive with every order. The salsa has a good flavor and the chips stay fresh and crisp.

People are saying

"I'm still raving about the fresh guacamole days later."

"The chips and salsa here are a nice touch."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served on Saturdays and Sundays starting at 8am.

2

Taco Tuesday features special deals, announced via Instagram.

3

There is a 4% surcharge for credit card payments.

08
The Talpa Restaurant & Bar image 1
The Talpa Restaurant & Bar image 2
The Talpa Restaurant & Bar image 3
View all

Small, intimate space with authentic Mexican decor and vibrant art creates a laid-back, family-run vibe. A cozy full bar offers standout margaritas and cold cervezas. Atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, reflecting a genuine Pueblo setting.

Chunky and lush guacamole comes fresh with chips. It pairs well with other dishes like taquitos and enchiladas.

Chips arrive immediately after sitting down, paired with salsa that is not too spicy for most tastes. The chips and salsa serve as a classic starter before a combo meal with rice and beans.

People are saying

"The chips and salsa were ready immediately after I sat down."

"I found the guacamole to have authentic Mexican flavors."

Good to know

1

Dinners at Talpa are around $14 to $17.

2

Expect to spend $20 to $30 for a meal with drinks.

3

Street parking is available, but can be challenging at times.

09
Encanto Restaurant image 1
Encanto Restaurant image 2
Encanto Restaurant image 3
View all

Midcentury modern design with dim lighting creates a warm, intimate setting. Loud music and live mariachi performances fill the space, making conversation difficult. Margaritas and Mexican wines complement flavorful dishes like carne asada and ceviche sampler.

House-made guacamole comes with chips and salsas that are consistently good. The guacamole and dips stand out as a star of the show and pair well with drinks like margaritas.

Chips come with varied salsas that complement the tacos well. The combination is well made and adds to the overall meal experience.

People are saying

"The guacamole and chips were scrumptious, especially with the addictive salsas."

"The chips and salsa here, especially the green salsa, was really good."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and challenging; check behind the restaurant for spots.

2

Brunch includes a mix of appetizers and an entree for $45.

3

Happy hour on weekends features good tacos and discounted drinks.

10
El Tepeyac Cafe image 1
El Tepeyac Cafe image 2
El Tepeyac Cafe image 3
View all

Old school Mexican diner with small indoor space and covered patio seating creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Crowd feels uplifting and positive, often lively but welcoming. Known for legendary burritos and authentic vibe that recalls past decades.

Guacamole comes in generous portions alongside dishes like taquitos and chile verde tostadas. It pairs well with fresh ingredients such as lettuce and pork, adding a creamy, flavorful touch.

Freshly fried chips come with salsa that stays fresh. Guacamole often accompanies the chips for extra flavor.

People are saying

"The guacamole here is massive and delicious."

"The chips and salsa here are huge, you get so much."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during peak lunch and dinner hours.

2

Parking is generally easy, with street parking available nearby.

3

Prices are reasonable, but guacamole can significantly increase your bill.

11
Salazar image 1
Salazar image 2
Salazar image 3
View all

Outdoor patio offers a relaxed atmosphere with comfortable seating and patio heaters. The vibe is casual and hip, attracting a diverse crowd including families. A resident cat adds a unique touch to the community feel.

Freshness stands out with the guacamole tasting very fresh and authentic. It includes pepitas and pairs well with the chips served alongside.

Chips come with a sweet salsa that tastes like chutney. The chips and salsa are consistently good and enjoyable but are not complimentary after seating.

People are saying

"The guacamole here is really fresh and tasty."

"I thought the chips and salsa were good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend brunch.

2

Parking can be challenging; street parking is limited.

3

Expect a mandatory 2% kitchen fee added to your bill.

12
Mas Mananitas image 1
Mas Mananitas image 2
Mas Mananitas image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant with modern decor and colorful artwork creates a vibrant atmosphere filled with loud live music and a DJ. Seating is tight, making the space feel crowded and lively, especially on weekends when the small dance floor activates. The energy is welcoming but noisy, challenging conversation at tables.

Guacamole comes in a large portion and tastes fresh and flavorful. It costs more but pairs well with chips and salsa.

Chips come with a noticeable saltiness and salsa features a strong cilantro and lime flavor. Guacamole is larger than expected but pricey, and chips and salsa sometimes come with a charge.

People are saying

"The chips and salsa here are unusually good."

"The guacamole was expensive but larger than I expected."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends due to high demand.

2

Happy hour runs all day from Monday to Wednesday with special menu items.

3

Valet service is the only parking option available; no self-parking.

13
Javier's DTLA image 1
Javier's DTLA image 2
Javier's DTLA image 3
View all

Massive space with multiple bars and high arches creates a posh lounge atmosphere filled with loud energy. Design blends stunning decor and comfortable seating, evoking a vibrant Mexican vibe. Crowds gather for lively dining rather than quiet meals.

Complimentary chips and salsa come with the meal, which is unusual for a high-end spot. The salsa has a fresh, vibrant flavor that pairs well with the crispy chips.

People are saying

"The guacamole here is creamy and tasty."

"The chips and salsa here are tasty and non-greasy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand at this new location.

2

Valet parking costs $45, while self-parking is available for $20 nearby.

3

Expect to pay around $40 for enchiladas, which some may find expensive.

14
Casita Del Campo image 1
Casita Del Campo image 2
Casita Del Campo image 3
View all

Midcentury style Mexican restaurant with a hot pink house and multiple cool rooms and patios creates a festive atmosphere lively enough for big parties. Outdoor spaces feature dog-friendly patios with music playing all genres, while indoor lounges offer private rooms and a casual game-watching spot. Energy stays vibrant with a mix of group-friendly vibes and unique campy touches.

Guacamole comes in a classic crispy tortilla bowl that holds fresh and flavorful chips. It offers a comfort-food throwback taste that stands out among other dishes.

Chips come fresh and crispy with good salsa and creamy guacamole. The combination works well as a classic starter.

People are saying

"The chips and salsa here were very good."

"I believed the guacamole served here was the best I had ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Valet parking costs $7, and street parking is limited.

2

Brunch is available on weekends from 11 am to 3 pm.

3

They host events like game days and pride season parties.

15
El Cholo - The Original image 1
El Cholo - The Original image 2
El Cholo - The Original image 3
View all

Historic Mexican restaurant with nostalgic decor and divided dining areas creates a cozy, old-timey vibe. Strong, flavorful margaritas and classic Hispanic dishes define the experience. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with a mix of quiet booths and lively spaces.

Fresh guacamole comes with options like onions, cilantro, chopped tomatoes, and chilies. The guacamole tastes addictive and pairs well with their margarita.

Chips come thin and crunchy, paired with fresh homemade salsa. Both keep flowing freely while you check the menu.

People are saying

"The chips and salsa here are homemade, fresh, and perfectly crunchy."

"I enjoyed the most delicious guacamole I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $9, with valet service available.

2

Green corn tamales are available from May through October.

3

USC students get 50% off with a valid ID.

16
La Popular Porter Ranch image 1
La Popular Porter Ranch image 2
La Popular Porter Ranch image 3
View all

Loud house music and a DJ create a high-energy atmosphere with a strong dance vibe. Seating options include lounge chairs, sofas, booths, and regular tables, all set in a beautiful interior with aesthetic lighting and decorations. Patio seating offers a quieter, more peaceful experience away from the music.

Guacamole comes with chicharrón that has a limey kick. It pairs beautifully with the creamy guacamole and makes a great appetizer to start with.

Chips come freshly fried with a choice of salsas offering different heat levels. Salsa is slightly chunky, smoky, and slightly spicy.

People are saying

"The guacamole's chicharrón had a limey kick."

"The chips and salsa were really good, smoky and slightly spicy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on Tuesdays from 3-6 PM with great deals on food and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended during busy times to ensure seating.

3

Expect additional charges for modifications to menu items, like adding chicken.

Discover more

Los Angeles, California

Area guide