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Central Los Angeles › Central Los Angeles › Mercado Hollywood
Mercado HollywoodA-Worth Trying
3413 Cahuenga Blvd W, Los Angeles, CA 90068
· Mexican restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (690 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Modern Mexican with strong cocktails and popular tacos near Universal; good food and lively vibe, but service consistency and surcharge complaints appear in a minority of reviews.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Mercado Hollywood delivers exceptional food quality with flavor-forward tacos, mole, and carne asada that drive repeat visits, supported by solid consistency across multiple visits. Friendly, attentive service and a polished modern setting round out the experience, though occasional service friction during happy hour and modest destination appeal prevent grade A territory. Strong value during HH and loyal following position this as a competitive neighborhood favorite near Universal.
Restaurant Summary
A modern Mexican spot near Universal with a polished room and bar energy, Mercado Hollywood feels mellow yet lively. Staff often greet warmly and keep things moving, though a few guests felt rushed around happy hour. One diner summed it up: "Shrimp tacos and guac were spot on, would come back." However, there are some review authenticity concerns suggesting certain reviews may be solicited or influenced. The cooking leans contemporary and ingredient-focused: jicama shrimp tacos, rich Oaxacan mole, and a well-seasoned carne asada sit alongside playful salsas and strong margaritas. Portions vary by dish—tacos feel premium-priced while larger plates and shareables carry more heft—so value depends on ordering, with happy hour a sweet spot. Families can do well here thanks to familiar choices like tacos, rice, and beans, though there is no listed kids menu. For cautious eaters, ask about spice and toppings; cauliflower and kale options help vegetarians, but the kitchen can be rigid about off-menu requests like a plain quesadilla.
At a Glance
- Flavor-forward tacos, mole, and margaritas earn repeat visits
- Strong happy hour values before 7pm
- Service can feel pushy or inflexible around happy hour and substitutions
- Parking frustrations and $10 valet reported
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- jicama_tortilla_tacos
- proximity_to_universal
- strong_happy_hour_values
What People Love
- Punchy salsas and well-seasoned tacos
- Guacamole that starts the meal right
- Mole dishes with depth
- Friendly servers when not slammed
- Lively bar energy without chaos
Points of Concern
- Happy hour timing enforcement can feel rushed; some disputes over last-minute orders
- Reports of inflexible substitutions and off-menu refusals
- Parking limited; valet fee noted by multiple guests
- Pricing is genuinely expensive ($26-$30 mains) which may surprise casual diners
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (some marketing-style language) which may not reflect typical diner experience
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$38-$58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For vegetarians: Coliflor al Pastor ($18) or Market Vegetables ($9) plus sides
- Seafood fans: Tacos de Pescado ($16) or Camarones al Ajillo ($26)
- Value: Pair $13-$17 tacos with $12-$13 starters during happy hour
Perfect For
- Pre- or post-Universal cocktails and tacos
- Casual date night with modern Mexican plates
- Small groups sharing starters and mains
- Happy hour grazing with margaritas
Location Insights
Area: Transitional corridor between Hollywood and Studio City near Universal; draws locals, studio workers, and visitors.
Safety: Generally busy and fine at night with traffic; standard Hollywood Hills corridor feel.
Nearby: Near Universal/Studio City soundstages, practical for pre- or post-park meals and studio gatherings.
Hollywood HillsHollywood Hills is a residential area known for its scenic views, upscale homes, and proximity to Hollywood's entertainment hubs. The dining scene here includes trendy eateries, casual spots, and venues catering to both locals and visitors seeking a blend of relaxed and stylish atmospheres.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–21:00
Tuesday17:00–21:30
Wednesday17:00–21:30
Thursday17:00–21:30
Friday16:00–21:30
Saturday11:30–21:30
Sunday11:30–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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