el cholo
authentic
landmark
mexican cuisine
the spot.
With multiple locations throughout LA and Southern California, the Santa Monica location greets you with a breezy patio just a few blocks up from the beach. Family owned for the past 100 years, El Cholo has become an LA staple. In the Santa Monica location, two dining areas are available. As you first enter, a lounge area with a bar, for drinks and happy hour. Farther in the restaurant, the large main dining area opens up as an expansive festive space, transporting you into a 1920’s Mexican neighborhood.
the menu.
El Cholo’s rich history of 100 years serving Angelenos authentic Mexican cuisine can be seen in the celebration of their heritage printed in the menus. Each dish paired with the year it was created, like the Sonora Style Enchilada created in 1923, (also the first enchilada served at El Cholo.) served with layered corn tortillas, simmered chicken, salsa roja, salsa verde, and fried Egg. New updates like the Mole Chicken Enchiladas served with slow braised shredded chicken, jack cheese roasted chile and chocolate mole provide a fresh take on the old classics.
the deets.
Take a trek across town to Koreatown and you’ll find the OG location still standing. Happy Hour Monday through Friday, 3pm-6pm, well known for an excellent margarita.
