This festive family-owned Mexican cantina features authentic cuisine, lively atmosphere and strong margaritas.

by Nancy Hunter

In Short
El Cholo first opened in Los Angeles in 1927, and has since expanded to Santa Monica, Pasadena, La Habra and Irvine. Start with fresh guacamole for the table and a round of margaritas--there are nine specialty margs from which to choose, and they're all potent. For a hearty sampler, order the Taste of History, featuring an enchilada, taco, chili relleno and tamale. The green-corn tamales are a seasonal favorite (available May through October).

02/12/05

Muy Delicioso!

by bluestarfish1

Irvine isn't exactly the place to look for authentic Mexican cuisine. At El Cholo Cantina you're right at home. The exterior might have been a renovated El Torito but El Cholo has roots planted in California since 1923. A great place for after-work margueritas and appetizers. An even better place to enjoy the "Taste of History" - the signature combination PLATTER with the taco, chile rellano, tamale, and enchilada that made El Cholo famous. Everything tastes authentic because it is. I personally drove all around the OC and Mexico was too far. This is close enough.

• Pros: great for family, great cantina bar, open air kitchen
• Cons: crowded after work, noisey at happy hour