El Cholo Mexican   

To live in Los Angeles and not experience this venerable Mexican dining institution at least once is a tragedy. The family-owned cafe first opened on Western Blvd in 1927 (ancient by LA standards) and has since given rise to four satellite restaurants in Santa Monica, Pasadena, La Habra and Irvine. Faithful patrons come for the hearty Albondigas (meatball soup), piquant Chile con Carne and copious combination platters. What they're best known for, perhaps, is their signature green corn tamales, which are in season between May and October only. Some say "forget the food" and come solely to sample the landmark margarita menu, which offers nine different potable concoctions to choose from. The restaurant claims to be the world's largest consumer of Jose Cuervo Tequila, and judging from the festive atmosphere on weekends, they're probably not lying. Appropriate for large parties, families or casual meals, El Cholo Caf promises un buen tiempo for all. Expect a wait most nights.