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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Pico-Union

Authentic food

Sometimes the only thing that hits the spot is a meal that tastes exactly like it came from a home kitchen.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Xecul Restaurante Guatemalteco image 1
Xecul Restaurante Guatemalteco image 2
Xecul Restaurante Guatemalteco image 3
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Latin American restaurant

Colorful murals and photos decorate a cozy, intimate space with a quiet atmosphere. Regulars and musicians bring a gentle buzz on weekends, creating a local favorite vibe. Authentic Guatemalan flavors define the menu, complemented by refreshing iced juices and traditional dishes.

Offers authentic Guatemalan flavors from western Guatemala. Serves food that tastes truly authentic to Guatemala.

Food features authentic Guatemalan flavors with a focus on dishes from western Guatemala. The meals are consistently delicious and tasty, showcasing excellent preparation and genuine taste.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and very rich."

"I loved the authentic taste of Guatemala here."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of free parking in the plaza.

2

The price is quite high for what they serve.

3

The menu is somewhat limited.

02
Mi Cocinita Chapina image 1
Guatemalan restaurant

Small, cozy space with authentic Guatemalan decor and handmade tortillas creates a genuine atmosphere. Pleasant music plays softly, enhancing the family-friendly vibe. The place draws those seeking traditional flavors and generous portions despite limited parking.

Food features authentic Guatemalan flavors with dishes like chuchitos and garnachas made fresh. The decor also reflects genuine Guatemalan style.

Food features authentic Guatemalan flavors with fresh, hot dishes served at reasonable prices. Quality and seasoning stand out, making the meals consistently delicious.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and authentic."

"The food here is authentic Guatemalan, like the chuchitos and garnachas."

"It's a cozy, family-friendly place."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find nearby the restaurant.

2

Expect to wait outside around 12pm on weekends.

3

Prices are on the higher side for basic meals.

03
UMMA KITCHEN 엄마키친 image 1
Korean restaurant

Clean, bright space offers authentic Korean banchan with a homemade feel and high-quality ingredients. Energy is calm and inviting, resembling a warm home-cooked meal. Frequented by those seeking fresh, well-prepared side dishes and convenient meal kits to enjoy at home.

Authentic Korean jib-bop shines here with mommy’s food style. The banchan offers a super authentic taste of Korean home cooking.

Food here is fresh and authentic Korean jib-bop, made with minimal seasonings for a healthy taste. Staff are friendly and recommend dishes, making it easy to find trustworthy, home-style Korean meals.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is so fresh and authentic, like mommy's cooking."

"Their frozen soups are delicious and a lifesaver for busy weeks."

"The banchan here tastes so fresh, like it was just made."

Good to know

1

UMMA KITCHEN offers a variety of authentic banchan and meal kits.

2

Ordering online is simple through their user-friendly website.

3

The shop is known for its cleanliness and well-maintained environment.

04
Casa Gish Bac Cocina Oaxaqueña image 1

Spacious Mexican restaurant with authentic Oaxacan cuisine and live mariachi music creating a lively, sometimes loud atmosphere. Tables are spread out, giving a sense of openness despite the energetic vibe. The place blends party hall energy with traditional flavors, attracting groups seeking both food and festive ambiance.

Authentic Oaxacan food comes from cooks native to the region, offering dishes like mole negro with a sweet, spicy, and savory flavor. The menu features specialties from Tlacolula de Matamoros and suits groups looking for genuine flavors.

Authentic Oaxacan food shines here, prepared by people from Tlacolula de Matamoros. Dishes are delicious and savory, reflecting a small family-owned kitchen's care.

People are saying

"I found the Oaxacan food here to be exquisite and delicious."

"The barbacoa roja here tastes like home, just like in Tlacolula."

"I tried authentic Oaxacan food that was delicious and savory."

Good to know

1

The restaurant hosts local vendor events every Sunday in the plaza.

2

Parking is plentiful and easy to find on Sundays.

3

The restroom includes a baby changing station for families.

05
Jook Hyang image 1
Korean restaurant

Small, family-owned Korean restaurant offers a cozy, quiet atmosphere with clean, spacious seating and friendly service. Regulars frequent the place for its authentic Korean comfort food and consistent quality. The vibe feels warm and welcoming, suitable for peaceful meals or casual lunches.

Offers traditional Korean dishes with genuine flavors. Serves authentic Korean cooking that stays true to its roots.

Food here feels like home cooking with warm, nourishing Korean comfort dishes. Meals are consistently clean, healthy, and plentiful, staying true to traditional Korean cuisine.

People are saying

"This Korean food feels nourishing, warm, and like home."

"I found the Korean food here to be delicious, healthy, and nourishing."

"I found the authentic Korean food here to be fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available at the restaurant.

2

The parking lot is large and easily accessible.

3

They charge a $1 service fee for takeout orders.

06
Portobanco's Restaurant image 1
Nicaraguan restaurant

Space features simple decor with paintings of Nicaraguan culture and a stage for live performances. Atmosphere stays pleasant and quiet with soft background music that supports conversation. Live music on weekends adds a lively vibe while maintaining a warm, inviting feel.

True Nicaraguan dishes fill the menu with authentic flavors. Cebada and Toña beers add a genuine touch to the food experience.

Offers authentic Nicaraguan food with a spicy touch and indulgent flavors. The dishes are consistently delicious and well-prepared.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"Parking is available, but it's valet and costs money."

"I loved the authentic Nicaraguan food and drinks here."

Good to know

1

Valet parking costs $7-$10 depending on your vehicle type.

2

Parking is limited outside, but valet service is available.

3

There is an extra charge for parking after paying for the meal.

07
El Colmao image 1
Cuban restaurant

Small mom-and-pop Cuban restaurant with humble vibes and a nice patio. Atmosphere feels like stepping back to the 1970s, with a hole-in-the-wall charm. Food focuses on authentic Cuban dishes with standout items like ropa vieja and fried yucca.

Food serves real Cuban flavors with dishes that taste authentic and traditional. The menu focuses on classic Cuban recipes that stay true to their roots.

Delicious Cuban dishes stand out with consistently great quality and taste. Ordering in Spanish fits right in, and multiple dishes offer a fantastic variety.

People are saying

"I thought the Cuban food here was real and authentic."

"The seafood here, especially the fried fish, is amazing."

"I found the Cuban food here very tasty."

Good to know

1

There is good parking available and it is secure.

2

You should bring your own bottle of wine to dine with.

3

Karaoke entertainment happens on Sundays from 2:30 P.M. onwards.

08
Olympic Restaurant image 1
Korean restaurant

Small Korean restaurant offers a homey, authentic atmosphere with close tables and a peaceful vibe. The space feels clean and simple, attracting those who appreciate traditional flavors and quiet dining. Popular dishes fill the air with rich aromas, enhancing the overall experience.

Food offers authentic Korean dishes with a homey feel. Some dishes remind of South Korea, though authenticity varies across items.

Offers authentic Korean food with a traditional taste and high-quality dishes. Prices stay reasonable for generous portions, paired with attentive service.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and delicious, like mom's cooking."

"The Korean food here is authentic and delicious."

"I found there was lots of parking available."

Good to know

1

Parking is free at the mall.

2

There is ample parking available.

3

Expect a small wait during popular dining times.

09
Chales Kitchen & Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with perfectly curated decor and a relaxed, mellow vibe that feels like a trip to Mexico. Music adds to the atmosphere, which is a bit dark but comfortable. Known for excellent margaritas and fresh guacamole, it attracts those seeking generous portions and a cozy setting.

Food comes in an understated environment with reasonable prices. Some dishes like the caldo de pescado y camarón do not taste authentic, and overall the food lacks authentic Mexican flavors.

Amazing food stands out with flavors better than home-cooked meals. Service is friendly and polite, complementing the authentic, understated environment.

People are saying

"I thought all the Mexican food dishes I tried were delicious."

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"I loved the authentic food and understated environment."

Good to know

1

Parking in the area can be challenging at times.

2

The restaurant does not automatically serve chips and salsa; customers need to ask for them.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

10
Las 7 Regiones de Oaxaca image 1
Oaxacan restaurant

Small, cozy space offers authentic Oaxacan food with large portions and a friendly, clean environment. Televisions play loudly, creating a lively backdrop despite a generally quiet atmosphere. Parking challenges exist, but the place invites those seeking traditional flavors.

Food delivers authentic Oaxacan flavors with a focus on traditional recipes. Dishes consistently reflect genuine regional taste and preparation.

Authentic Oaxacan dishes offer rich, flavorful tastes that feel homemade and traditional. The food is consistently delicious and reasonably priced, making the wait worthwhile.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and authentic."

"I found the food to be very authentic Oaxacan."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the back of the restaurant.

2

Expect to walk about three blocks if parking is full.

3

The restaurant offers large portions, enough to feed two people.

11
La Flor De Yucatan Bakery image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy bakery with authentic Yucatecan baked goods and freshly made bread fills the air with warm aromas. Casual setup includes outdoor tables but mostly favors takeout and delivery. Known for unique hojaldra and flavorful tamales, it offers a genuine taste of Yucatán cuisine.

Offers authentic Yucatecan baked goods like hojaldra and tamales with a cozy atmosphere. Prices tend to be on the higher side for these traditional items.

Authentic Yucatecan food stands out with delicious flavors and reasonable prices. Casual setting includes three outdoor tables to enjoy the neighborhood eatery's offerings.

People are saying

"I found the Yucateco food here to be authentic and delicious."

"I thought their hojaldra bread was simply the best."

"I think their hojaldra is the best, truly authentic."

Good to know

1

They offer both baked goods and tasty Yucateco dishes.

2

The bakery offers a variety of traditional Yucatecan breads.

3

Takeout is popular due to the small size of the bakery.

12
La 27 Restaurante image 1
Nicaraguan restaurant

Small space offers authentic Nicaraguan food with live music on weekends that creates a lively, energetic atmosphere where families often dance. Music volume can be very loud, shaping a cheerful but intense vibe.

Food delivers authentic Nicaraguan flavors with a focus on fresh ingredients. The overall experience stays true to traditional tastes and preparation.

Food features delicious, hot dishes served in large portions with a focus on authentic Nicaraguan flavors that remind of home.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The live music here is lively and full of energy."

"I loved the authentic Nicaraguan food here."

Good to know

1

The best days to visit are when there is a performer.

2

Parking on the weekends can be a pain.

3

La 27 Restaurante doesn't have parking, so I had to park on the street.

13
El Valle Oaxaqueno image 1

Bakery offers authentic Oaxacan cuisine with fresh bread available all day and a family-friendly atmosphere. Music shifts from The Weeknd to Mexican classics as the morning progresses. Prices tend to be on the higher side compared to similar places.

Authentic Oaxacan food stands out with handmade Mexican items and authentic Mole available to take home. The bakery offers authentic bread that complements the genuine flavors of the dishes.

Authentic Oaxacan dishes feature real quesillo and generous portions. Sweet bread and gelatin add a delicious touch, with flavors that feel like being in Mexico.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and authentic."

"The bread here is fresh and delicious."

"I found the food here to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Bring cash to avoid extra charges for card payments.

2

Parking is limited and can be challenging.

3

Expect to pay around $5 for a loaf of bread.

14
LA 장충 평안도 족발집 (올림픽점) LA Jangchung Jokbal image 1

Old school Korean restaurant with an authentic atmosphere that feels like eating in Seoul. The space is dimly lit without outside views, creating a cozy, traditional vibe. Known for savory jokbal, generous portions, and classic Korean comfort food, it draws those craving genuine flavors from Korea.

Jokbal and Bossam here match authentic Korean versions closely. The menu features traditional dishes like cooked pig feet that capture genuine Korean comfort food.

Authentic Korean food shines here with cooked pig feet and various traditional dishes. The menu focuses on Korean comfort food and pig meat specialties that stand out in Korea town.

People are saying

"This Korean food's pig's feet are tender and flavorful."

"This Korean food is the best pig's feet I've ever had."

"I found the jokbal and bossam to be truly authentic and tender."

Good to know

1

There is free outdoor parking available, but the space is limited.

2

The jokbal easily feeds a crew of 4.

3

Rice isn't included with the jokbal.

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Pico-Union, Los Angeles

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