El Cholo
Local Mexican chain, classic Mexican dishes & cocktails.
Although there are multiple El Cholo locations in Los Angeles, the Santa Monica spot comes in at first place inviting you into a patio experience just a few blocks up from the beach. Happy hour is called Fiesta hour here and runs Monday through Friday from 3pm-6:30pm with the classic margarita for $7 and an ice cold beer for $4.
El Cholo has a rich history and has celebrated almost 100 years of being around. You can see the love they have for their heritage in their menus, with the year that dish was created printed in parentheses next to that dish. (There may or may not have been some confusion at the prices… no their dishes are not over $1000!) Main dishes are reasonably priced but definitely not your neighborhood taco truck prices. However, it’s worth the extra cash because everything we’ve tried there so far is delicious.
The filet mignon tacos were awarded best taco in 2010 and we’re not surprised. If you’re looking for something still delicious but not completely smothered in guac and sour cream, any of their fajita dish options (shrimp, steak, chicken or vegetable medley served over a sizzling plate of freshly sautéed vegetables) will fill you up and give you room for dessert.
1025 Wilshire Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90403