Mírate is LA’s Freshest Farm To Table Mexican Restaurant

You may have seen Mírate sprinkled across TikTok and IG as one of the top go-to places to dine in LA, so naturally, we wanted to see what the hype was all about. Here’s what  we found: it is a gorgeous space that offers a dining experience that seamlessly blends traditional Mexican flavors with California’s fresh, farm-to-table ethos. This three-story establishment located right in the heart of Los Feliz offers a beautiful assortment of cocktails, a robust selection of distillates, wine and beer–all sourced from Mexico–and remains true to the culinary ethos and sourcing practices that are central to its mission. We highly suggest you add this restaurant to your LA dining bucketlist! Here’s everything to know about Mírate in Los Angeles.

 

The Vibe

We went to Mírate during the weekday and found out why, firsthand, Mírate is drawing crowds. They are open Sunday through Thursday from 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm, and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Street parking and valet are both available. Now, despite the bustling atmosphere and following on IG,  we were pleasantly surprised to snag a coveted spot downstairs near the bar (prime real estate for people watching and soaking in the lively energy). Here is a Pro-Tip: remember to book ahead and even possibly go visit first in person if you are having a hard time connecting with their staff over phone or email prior to your visit. The staff’s warm welcome immediately set the tone for the evening. Their attentiveness was impressive, perhaps even bordering on overzealous at times, but their genuine enthusiasm for the menu and extensive knowledge made us feel like we were getting insider tips from a foodie friend.

As you enter Mírate , you’re immediately struck by the gorgeous ambiance. A towering tree coming through the middle of the restaurant adorned with twinkling lights serves as the centerpiece and creates an atmosphere that’s both intimate and lively. Whether you’re seated in the cool upstairs area or cozied up near the bar downstairs, the space sets the perfect stage for a thoughtful and ingredient-driven meal. The menu, btw, at Mírate is a testament to the chef’s skill and creativity. Each dish is carefully crafted to showcase the best of Mexican cuisine while embracing California’s emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The result is a culinary experience that’s both familiar and excitingly innovative.

Comida 

We started with the Crab Esquites, a standout appetizer that exemplifies Mírate’s approach to fusion cuisine. Delicate blue crab meat is paired with sweet corn and enriched with brown butter, creating a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The texture is a harmonious blend of creamy and subtly crunchy, with each spoonful offering a balanced mix of flavors. The sweetness of the corn enhances the natural brininess of the crab, resulting in a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts. This dish is super shareable, as are many on Mírate’s menu. 

The Cochinita Pibil is another highlight that showcases the kitchen’s mastery of traditional techniques. Featuring Beeler’s heritage Duroc pork shoulder, this dish is a slow-cooked masterpiece. The pork, infused with complex Mayan spices, is incredibly tender, practically melting in your mouth. When wrapped in a warm tortilla, the contrast between the succulent meat and the slight chew of the tortilla creates a textural experience that’s truly satisfying. We would also suggest sharing this, as it’s almost too much meat just for one person to have as a main entree. It would go great with a lighter option like the Cauliflower Ceviche, with tangy peanut salsa and A vibrant pineapple-habanaro salsa.

For cheese lovers, the Queso Fundido is a must-try. The melted cheese provides a luxurious base, while braised leeks add a subtle sweetness. The chorizo verde brings a spicy, herbaceous element that cuts through the richness of the cheese, and the fried shallots provide a crispy contrast. It’s a dish that evolves with each bite, revealing new flavor combinations as you eat, and the cheese pull is pretty epic!  The Chicken Adobada also brings together the essence of Mexican flavors with a modern twist. The dish starts with Mary’s organic chicken, known for its tenderness and rich flavor, marinated to perfection. It’s then simmered in a vibrant salsa verde, made with mayacoba beans that add a creamy texture and earthy taste. right next to it, is the jalapeño Pan de Maiz corn bread. It strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory. The natural sweetness of the corn is enhanced by whipped honey butter, while cheddar cheese adds a sharp, savory note. The texture is moist and tender, with a slightly crisp exterior that adds a pleasant contrast. If you’re looking for something on the healthier side, the Roasted Rainbow Carrots are a great choice. Roasted in hoja santa “thom kha”, ginger, and chili piquin, these aren’t your normal veggies.

For those with a sweet tooth, the Churro Donas are a creative twist on two beloved treats and probably our favorite dish of the whole night at Mírate. The exterior is satisfyingly crisp, giving way to a pillowy interior that’s light and airy. The miso dulce de leche is a stroke of gooey gooey genius, adding an unexpected umami note that elevates the entire dish beyond a simple sweet treat.

Bebida

The culinary experience at Mírate extends beyond it delicious food. The restaurant boasts two bar spaces, including a dedicated mezcaleria, serving up innovative cocktails that complement the food perfectly. The El Guero cocktail, inspired by aguachile, is a refreshing and complex drink that captures the essence of its culinary inspiration. It’s bright, spicy, and nuanced, offering a unique drinking experience that pairs wonderfully with the food.

 

Weekend Brunch

Mírate does brunch and they do it so good! From 11 am to 3 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, the restaurant transforms into a daytime oasis. The Huevos a la Diablo offers just the right amount of heat to wake up your palate, while the Green Goddess Gems salad provides a fresh, light option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. They also offer Weekend Small Bites from 3 pm to 5 pm, perfect for those in-between hours when you’re not quite ready for dinner but have missed the brunch window. What sets Mírate apart is its commitment to quality ingredients. The restaurant sources its spirits from small family farms in Mexico, and the market-driven menu means that dishes may change based on the availability of the freshest ingredients. This dedication to quality is evident in every bite and sip.

If you’re inspired by Mirate’s commitment to Mexican tradition and are looking to immerse yourself even more in the culture (or maybe another) check out our guide to learn a new language here!