Alegria

We were visiting a friend in Echo Park and he took us to Alegria to eat, as it is a favorite of his. We were not disappointed! The food was wonderful, the service was pleasant, the atmosphere was typical small Mexican (cheerful, colorful, musical), but the food...oh, it was wonderful! I must say, it was a bit pricey compared to what we're used to paying in Texas, but what wasn't in LA by comparison. That having been said, I must state that I did not MIND at all paying the price once I got my meal (the Chimichanga De Jaiba) and my watermelon fresca, both of which I would recommend to anyone! Thanks again, Jym, for showing us where to get this great meal!

I've been here twice and both times my mind has been blown by how delicious my meals were. I had two different servers and they were both so sweet and had great senses of humor. Both times I've had to wait a few minutes but this is totally worth it - do not be discouraged if you have to wait. Bring a good bottle of wine with you and enjoy. The only downside is they only accept cash - I'm sure this will change eventually - get a credit card machine. Seriously, go here for dinner, you will not be disappointed.

Been here a few times, service had always been great and the food simply great! Parking can be difficult but if you are willing to walk on the wild side, it should not even be mentioned. Best guacamole in the world, cinnamon iced tea is worth a try. Very friendly staff as far as I am concerned, because I do not have an attitude problem! The clientele is unique in its own way, and they are very nice and friendly.

Regardless of the cons (hard to find parking, can get crowded, not the best service, BYOB, cash only), the pros of this place make it one of my go-to spots for Mexican food. The food and the cheerful atmosphere are great. I've sampled the mole, sopes, enchiladas, tacos de crema, agua frescas and chocolate chimichanga...I have never been dissappointed in all those times.

As other reviewers have said, the food is awesome - among the best Mexican food in the Silver Lake area. I've been for lunch and dinner, both times the food was great. Stick with the entrees--that's their strength, not burritos. Their guacamole is good, and they have a unique coffee drink called Cafe De La Olla that's delicious. But the service is horrible. They don't seem to care about your satisfaction. And why should they? Dinner is always packed expect an hour+ wait on the weekends and they don't take reservations. Service at lunch is a little better because it's not as busy, but it's still mediocre. The place is cash only as well. So if you like good food and have a lot of patience, give it a try. If you're in a hurry or want a romantic dinner, forget this place you'll get frustrated.

I've driven by this place for years and have always been curious. So one afternoon earlier this month, I finally stopped in for lunch. I should have kept driving. The menu is uninspiring, the food bland and the portions small. Worse is the service. I waited 10 minutes at my table without a server, then finally got up to get my own menu. It took another 10 minutes for the server to take my order and another 40 minutes for them to bring my carne asada burrito. It was hardly worth the wait. The burrito was smallish and packed with rice; there was almost no meat. When the waiter asked how my food was, I said not very good. Instead of trying to make the situation better, he walked away without saying anything. On the plus side, the jamaica was good. All in all, not worth the $16 tab. Maybe it was an off day, but I won't be returning.

This place has something for everyone. Meat lovers, seafood lovers, and even vegans. My favorite dishes are the mole enchiladas and the tacos dorados. They have one of the best mole sauces Ive tasted, and the plate is served with fresh strawberries and oranges, rice and black beans. The dorado plate can be split with one chicken and one potato taco...but equally delicious. The restaurant is small and the parking lot is almost always full on the weekends, so I would recommend take out if it's busy. Don't forget to ask for specials when you're ordering by phone. EAT AT ALEGRIA! The staff is great and the food is even better.