Right in the heart of West Hollywood, MXO Steakhouse is more than just a new spot on La Cienega—it’s a bold statement. MXO Steakhouse is located at 826 N La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069. Brought to life by the visionary Chef Wes Ávila, whose name is synonymous with LA’s elevated Mexican cuisine, MXO blends old-world tradition with contemporary sophistication. Think Mexican steakhouse, redefined: wood-fired cooking, inventive dishes, and an atmosphere that’s as sultry as it is inviting.
The Vibe
The moment you pull up to the valet, MXO sets the stage for something special. Inside, it’s an elegant fusion of modern and moody: dim lighting, rich wood accents, and soft leather seating that whispers luxury. The centerpiece? A stunning, bustling bar perfect for sipping an agave-infused cocktail. This isn’t a casual taco joint—it’s an upscale experience with a smart-casual dress code that fits like a glove. The vibe is electric but intimate, ideal for both date nights and celebratory dinners. The staff’s warmth and deep menu knowledge add layers to the experience. They’re not just bringing food—they’re guiding you through a culinary journey with genuine enthusiasm and attention to detail that makes you feel like a VIP.
Antojitos
We started with the Roasted Scallops with Bolillo, Salsa Macha, and Chives. Presented in a breathtaking seashell nestled on ocean rocks, this dish is a work of art. The scallops are tender, kissed with the smoky heat of salsa macha, while the crisp bolillo adds the perfect crunch. Small but mighty, it’s a gorgeous start to the meal. Forget everything you know about Caesar salad. The Grilled Cabbage Caesar is a must-order side, especially paired with a rich protein. Smoky cabbage takes center stage here, transforming the classic into something unforgettable. The lemon aioli adds a bright, creamy twist, and the Parmesan and crunchy croutons tie it all together.
The Whole Grilled Prawns arrive smoky, succulent, and perfectly charred, each bite infused with flavor. A squeeze of lime and a dash of spicy Vale hot sauce elevate their natural sweetness. The Roasted Squash Mole dish is a celebration of rich, earthy flavors. The roasted squash is tender and caramelized, while the deep complexity of the mole rojo makes it feel like a warm embrace. Creamy queso fresco and sharp pickled onions add contrast, making each bite sing. The Bone Marrow Mollette is pure decadence. Velvety bone marrow spread on toasted bolillo bread (a traditional Mexican roll) creates a rich, umami-packed bite. Frijoles and melted Oaxaca cheese add depth, while the fresh pico de gallo cuts through with a pop of brightness. It’s comfort food elevated to art.
Platos Fuertes
Golden, crispy, and absolutely massive, the Veal Milanesa is everything you want in a breaded cutlet, perfectly balanced by the peppery arugula and tart, juicy gooseberries. Pro tip: save room or take some home—it’s just as good the next day, and even the to-go bags are luxe. For sides, we loved the Creamed Spinach. Creamy, cheesy, and spiced with a hint of toasted nutmeg, it’s indulgent without being heavy. Comfort food at its finest, and an excellent complement to any main. One of the crown jewels of MXO’s menu is the Birria Beef Martillo. This braised wagyu beef shank is fall-off-the-bone tender, served with a rich, aromatic consomé for dipping. Radish, lime, cilantro, and salsa provide the perfect accompaniments, inviting you to create your own perfect tacos. It’s indulgent, communal, and utterly unforgettable.
Drinks & Dessert
With so many good cocktails and spirits to choose from, we first opted for the Pura Candela. An artful blend of Patron Cristalino, chipotle-infused Nixta Elote, mango gomme, cilantro, and lime. It’s a masterclass in balance: smoky, sweet, and citrusy, with layers that unfold beautifully with every sip. Who says non-alcoholic can’t be exciting? With Almave Blanco NA, strawberry, ginger, mint, and ginger beer, the De La Raiz mocktail is vibrant, refreshing, and full of depth. We left a little bit of room for the much talked about Chocoflan dessert, the perfect sweet ending in a gorgeous presentation. Imagine rich chocolate cake layered with creamy flan, topped with luscious caramel ice cream. It’s velvety, indulgent, and leaves you dreaming about your next visit.
MXO isn’t just raising the bar for Mexican steakhouses; it’s setting a new standard. From the seductive ambiance and exceptional service to the unforgettable dishes, every detail has been crafted to perfection. It’s a culinary love letter to Mexican tradition, reimagined for the modern Angeleno.
Looking for some outfit inspo for your visit to MXO? Check out our favorite holiday fits here.