Guelaguetza
7.1Friend Score / 10#15 of 20 Restaurants in Los Angeles
Known formole negrofestival de molestlayudasmemelas
The James Beard-honored Oaxacan restaurant in Koreatown that taught LA to love mole — bright orange building, live music nightly, deep and complex sauces. A friend sends you here without hesitation. It's a destination, so know that weekend nights get packed and loud.
Key facts
| Hours | Tue–Thu 11:00–21:00 Fri–Sat 09:00–22:00 Sun–Sun 09:00–21:00 |
|---|---|
| Price | $$ |
| Phone | (213) 427-0608 |
| Website | ilovemole.com |
| Nearest transit | Metro D Line, Wilshire/Normandie (~15 min walk) |
| Time needed | 1.5 hours |
| Best time to go | Weekday dinner or a weekend late breakfast |
| Last verified | July 12, 2026 |
Friend Score
7.1/10- Value8.0
- iconic7.5
- Freshness9.1
- Crowd level6.5
- Authenticity9.0
- Accessibility7.0
Frequently asked questions
- Is it really that special?
- Yes. It's a James Beard 'American Classic' and widely considered the best Oaxacan food in the country. This is a genuine send-a-friend-here spot, not just a neighborhood option.
- What should I order?
- The mole negro is the signature — deep, chocolatey, unforgettable — and the mole sampler lets you taste several. Add tlayudas and a michelada, and don't skip the Oaxacan hot chocolate.
- Is there live music?
- Yes, most evenings at the Olympic location, which makes for a festive, family-celebration atmosphere. It's part of the charm — just know it means lively and loud, not quiet and romantic.
- How's parking and transit?
- There's a lot and street parking around Koreatown, and the Metro D line is roughly a 15-minute walk. Driving is easiest, but transit is doable.
- Can vegetarians eat well here?
- Yes, there are veggie-friendly moles, tlayudas, and sides, though many signature dishes are meat-based. Ask your server to steer you and you'll eat well.
- Do I need a reservation?
- Weekend evenings with live music get full, so reservations help then. Weekday dinners and weekend breakfasts are usually walk-in friendly.
- What are Guelaguetza's hours?
- It's closed Mondays, open Tuesday-Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday-Saturday 9am-10pm, and Sunday 9am-9pm. Weekend mornings are a lovely, calmer time to go before the dinner crowds.
- Is it good for groups and families?
- Excellent — big tables, shareable platters, and a welcoming family vibe. It's built for celebrations, so bring the crew.
Nearby in Ask Los Angeles
- KoreatownNeighborhood0.59 km · 7 min walk
- Borit GogaeRestaurant0.71 km · 9 min walk
- koffeeskiCafé1.65 km · 21 min walk
- Langer's DelicatessenRestaurant2.4 km · 30 min walk
- SqirlCafé3.79 km · 47 min walk
Where to stay near Guelaguetza
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