When Los Angeles was still called “el Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles,” East LA was a hub of Mexican culture. And it still is. A perusal of the streets reveals a panoramic homage to the motherland. Home-style eateries, stunning murals, and singular shops are infused with el espíritu de la raza. If you’re new to Los Angeles, there’s no place like East LA to get a sense of our city’s deep Mexican roots.

Landmarks

• Jose Luis Gonzalez Library Mural • 4025 City Terrace Dr
A whole lot of badass aesthetics at once.

• Mural: The Kennedy Saga II 1973 • 1126 N Hazard Ave
Located inside the City Terrace Park social hall.

Restaurants

• East LA Pizza Company • 5616 E Beverly Blvd
323-838-9110 • $
This Eastside legend heaps on the toppings like woah.

• Juanito’s Tamales • 4214 Floral Dr
323-268-2365 • $
Tender tamales by the dozen.

• Tamales Lilianas • 4629 E Cesar E Chavez Ave
323-780-0989 • $
The most famous tamales in LA.

• Tamayo • 5300 E Olympic Blvd
323-260-4700 • $$
Mexican.