Seemor
Chico's Restaurant π²π½A-Worth Trying
100 N Avenue 50, Los Angeles, CA 90042
· Mexican restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (388 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Beloved old-school Mexican spot delivering flavorful classics, friendly service, and strong value for Highland Park, with occasional heat, a rare safety complaint, and a compact, cozy room.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Chico's Restaurant earns its A- grade as a beloved neighborhood staple delivering exceptional food quality through authentic Mexican classics and attentive, friendly service. Strong multi-year customer loyalty and fair value reinforce reliable execution, though occasional sauce variation and a modest, nostalgic setting keep it from grade A territory. This is honest, satisfying cooking that excels at what it sets out to do.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling in that nostalgic Highland Park way, with a chili pepper mural that regulars call a landmark. Service comes off as friendly and attentive without fuss. One diner put it simply: "This little spot feels like home." The cooking leans classic and comfortingβcrispy beef tacos, pozole, chile verde, and hefty burritos. Portions are honest, pricing fair, and the salsas carry real heat. Expect old-school flavors more than modern frills; the appeal is straightforward, delicious food that satisfies. Families will find plenty kids actually eat: quesadillas and tacos, mild enchiladas, rice and beans, even a hamburger and fries. Vegetarian options (like garden burger or potato taquitos) and easy dairy-free tweaks help with picky palates. Spice can run hot, so ask for milder salsa if needed.
At a Glance
- Beloved neighborhood staple serving flavorful Mexican classics
- Friendly, attentive service with consistent regulars
- Good value with hearty portions and generous drink pours
- Salsa heat and occasional sauce acidity can surprise
- Small space can feel warm or busy at peak
What Sets It Apart
- neighborhood_landmark_mural
- robust_mexican_soups
- generous_house_pours
What People Love
- Crunchy, well-seasoned hard shell tacos
- Rich, comforting soups like pozole and birria
- Fresh guacamole and spicy salsa
- Giant value pours for house wine and easygoing drinks
- Homey vibe with kind service
Points of Concern
- Salsa can be very spicy; request a milder option if sensitive
- One isolated food safety complaint about fish tacos; seafood dishes are otherwise popular
- Dining room can feel hot on warm days
- A few diners find some items pricier than expected for a diner-style spot
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$28-42 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Start with guacamole or queso fundido, share fajitas for value, and pick a classic soup; budget mains mostly $14-20 and seafood $17-23.
Perfect For
- Casual weeknight Mexican cravings
- Low-key family dinners
- Pre-event bite near Heritage Square
- Neighborhood comfort-food fix
Location Insights
Area: Eclectic, artsy Highland Park corridor with longstanding mom-and-pop spots and newer boutiques; casual neighborhood vibe.
Safety: Generally busy and walkable main street; typical urban caution at night, but steady foot traffic.
Nearby: Near Heritage Square/Magic Market events, grocery stores on Figueroa, and residential blocks.
Highland ParkHighland Park is a trendy and rapidly gentrifying neighborhood with a strong Latino heritage. It has become popular for its eclectic dining options, art galleries, and vintage shops, attracting a mix of longtime residents and newcomers seeking authentic and casual dining experiences. The dining scene includes casual Mexican eateries, hip cafes, and innovative restaurants reflecting the area's cultural diversity.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:00β20:00
Tuesday10:00β20:00
Wednesday10:00β20:00
Thursday10:00β20:00
Friday09:00β20:00
Saturday09:00β20:00
Sunday09:00β20:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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