Madre Mexican Restaurant and Mezcaleria — Restaurant in Los Angeles

(Price) If you're looking for a decent $26 Mole dish priced at $50+ then this is the spot. A few items were priced fairly but too many others definitely overpriced. No stranger to authentic food but there was nothing that would justify that price range.

(Atmosphere) Place is overall nice, nothing really that off putting if you were to walk in. Now if you were to be seated and pay attention, you'd probably notice some minor discrepancies like flies, food stains on the wall next to you and the under staff struggles. Again, nothing that would convince you that the money you spent was reasonable.

(Food) The dishes were great, as authentic as you can get. The moles were flavorful, meat was well marinated packed with taste and the sauces were perfectly made, a nice blend of spice and flavor. Out of the 3 Moles they offered I think the black mole was a slight bit under the other 2 moles. We did have a dish come cold but I assume that the dish was the first one to be done and just sat there waiting for the 3 other dishes to be brought out at the same time. Menu for drinks was extensive and impressive, didn't pay attention to the prices since I didn't want to get plastered at 10 am but would recommend checking it out.

(Staff) The bartender/greeter/waiter/possibly cook was a nice man, took us in, sat us down, took our order, brought us chips and guac, then proceeded to disappear for ~35 minutes. I honestly wasn't bothered by it but would be nice to occasionally get my water refilled and brought a second serving of chips for a party of 4.The whole restaurant maybe had 2 employees max.

(Overall) Too many negatives overshadowing the positives to even recommend people to visit but again maybe it was just an off day for the restaurant so for that reason alone, go ahead and try it out, just keep in mind the prices, the food temperatures, and the service which my experience lacked. I'll try it in future, if I'm near...

When I tell you this place is incredible… on every point! Food amazing, atmosphere is such a vibe, service and staff are so welcoming and accommodating and QUICK!

We ordered the following for 3 people and were stuffed and had plenty of leftovers:

chips and trio of salsa: I am still mind blown about the variety of salsas, the flavor complexity, the range of spice and ingredients in each. 10/10

squash blossoms (forgot to take picture): so delightful, stuffed with a cheese mixture and the perfect consistency and crunch on the fried blossom. 10/10

3 mole plate: loved trying the different mole options, my palate is not quite as seasoned when it comes to mole so I favored the “traditional” sweeter brown mole. Would just get this one next time (forgot what they called it) 8.7/10

carne asada plate: an assortment of Oaxacan cheese, grilled cactus, beans, mole enchilada, and the most tender, flavorful and juicy steak. Just wow 10/10

Churros: omg…. Just omg. Melt in your mouth churros, most DELECTABLE Mexican dark chocolate to dip them in… I dream about these 10/10

This is now our go-to Mexican spot. Such an elevated take on our traditional Mexican food outings. Prices were very fair especially for the quality and ambiance of this places picking up a to-go order as we speak.

It’s worth noting that we went with our friend who was born in Mexico City and has had the best of the best Oaxacan food and she was floored...

We recently made our second attempt to make Madre our go-to neighborhood bar and want it so badly to be “the one.” Why are we so adamant? Because this place has all the ingredients to be exceptional. It’s got the right vibe, the right menu, the right back bar—but sadly, something’s missing: its soul.

Consider this less of a review and more of a heartfelt letter to the ownership: Please, hire staff who live and breathe hospitality and who are eager to learn and share the incredible range of spirits you offer.

Honestly, my partner and I are a layup—just show us a few bottles you adore, and we’re in. We’re here for the experience, for a place that feels as good as it looks, for bartenders who get excited about the drinks they’re serving and want to make their guests eager to return.

Madre, you’ve got the potential to be legendary—just find your heart, and we’ll be back again and again.

As for the food: The house-made tortilla was solid. The ceviche, however, was a bit too salty and the fish didn’t quite live up to expectations. But the barbacoa? Now that was a pleasant surprise— flavorful with a salsa verde that hit all the right notes. A tad overcooked, but still...