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Welcome to El Tepeyac Cafe

In the heart of East Los Angeles, El Tepeyac Cafe stands as an iconic institution, serving up authentic and satisfying Mexican cuisine since 1956. Known for their massive portions and flavorful dishes like the famous Manuel's Special Burrito, this beloved eatery has become a must-visit spot for locals and foodies alike. With a diverse menu offering breakfast, antojitos, and soups, El Tepeyac Cafe prides itself on delivering quality food in a casual and welcoming setting. Whether you're craving huevos rancheros or albondiga soup, a visit to El Tepeyac Cafe is sure to leave you satisfied and coming back for more.

LOCATIONS
  • El Tepeyac Cafe
    812 N Evergreen Ave Los Angeles, CA 90033
    812 N Evergreen Ave Los Angeles, CA 90033 Hotline: (323) 268-1960

El Tepeyac Cafe is a beloved Mexican restaurant located in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles, known for its authentic and satisfying cuisine. Established in 1962, this restaurant has been a staple in the community for decades, serving up delicious and generous portions of Mexican dishes that leave customers coming back for more.

One of the highlights of El Tepeyac Cafe is its famous burritos, including the Hollenbeck Burrito and Manuel's Special Burrito. These burritos are so large that one original burrito can serve 2 to 3 adults, making them perfect for sharing or for those with a hearty appetite. The 5 lb Manuel's Special Burrito has even been featured on the popular TV show, Man vs. Food.

Customers rave about the flavorful dishes at El Tepeyac Cafe, such as the Huevos Rancheros Breakfast, Chorizo Breakfast, and Breakfast Chilaquiles. The Albondiga Soup and Menudo are also popular choices for those looking for a comforting and hearty meal. The crispy tacos and fresh salsa are a hit among customers, adding a burst of flavor to every bite.

With a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, El Tepeyac Cafe is the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal with family and friends. The friendly and hardworking staff ensure that every customer leaves satisfied, and the quick service means you won't have to wait long for your food.

  • Location: 812 N Evergreen Ave Los Angeles, CA 90033
  • Phone Number: (323) 268-1960
  • Utilities: Offers Delivery, Takeout, Reservations, Vegan Options, Wheelchair Accessible, Outdoor Seating, Wi-Fi, and more

Whether you're a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, El Tepeyac Cafe is a must-visit destination for delicious Mexican cuisine in Los Angeles. Experience the flavors of East LA at this iconic restaurant and see why it has become a favorite among locals and foodies alike.

START YOUR REVIEW OF El Tepeyac Cafe
Kimberly H.
Kimberly H.

Second time here, allllllll portions are huge! Expensive, but you're getting a lot of food. Not a ton of parking in the area, can be a challenge, expect to walk a short distance. Seating inside and out, never a long line and always moves quick. Food is fresh and full of flavor. Will recommend and will return. Friendly helpful staff as well.

Brenda T.
Brenda T.

Was out first time. Great service Great food. Love the place soo authentic. As a Mexican is hard to find some great chilaquiles and this is the place. My hubby was so full and satisfied

Marcos M.
Marcos M.

El Tepeyac Café, nestled in the heart of East Los Angeles, is more than just a restaurant--it's an institution. For decades, this beloved eatery has been serving up some of the most authentic and satisfying Mexican cuisine in the city, earning its status as an East LA landmark. Anyone who truly knows LA's iconic food scene will tell you that El Tepeyac is a must-visit. The first thing you'll notice is the sheer size of the plates. Portions here are nothing short of generous, with each dish packed with the bold, traditional flavors that Mexican food lovers crave. Whether you're digging into one of their legendary burritos or savoring a plate of enchiladas, every bite is a celebration of Mexican culinary tradition. The burritos, especially the famous Manuel's Special, are so massive that they've become the stuff of legend, often requiring two, if not three, people to conquer. The ambiance at El Tepeyac is as warm and welcoming as the food. The staff, many of whom have been part of the El Tepeyac family for years, are full of stories and always ready with a smile. Their friendly banter and personal touch add to the café's charm, making each visit feel like you're dining among friends. El Tepeyac Café isn't just a place to eat; it's a cultural experience, a taste of East LA's rich heritage. For anyone looking to explore the best of Los Angeles' food scene, El Tepeyac is a bucket-list destination that never disappoints.

MJ W.
MJ W.

This place is legit. Been coming here for 40 years... My grandfather went for 20 years before that. The portions are amazing. The service makes you feel like family. You're not going to be sitting anywhere fancy, but that's how you know this place is the real-deal!! Don't be shocked if there is a line to get in, the place is small!?

Trish B.
Trish B.

This place is Nostalgic for me... it's literally apart of my childhood!! Coming here with the fam and getting the Manuel Special to-go would be a highlight for me after my school week. The authenticity of the food then to now is no different. Visited with the fam this weekend and we were so happy to be there! We dined-in and ordered: Veggie Burrito, Asada Nachos and Okie de Pollo Burrito. Our server was super friendly (guy with the fancy stash, haha) came and talked/joked with Us. He made sure our cups stayed filled with our drinks of choice, brought us fresh chips and salsa while we waited. Food came out in a timely manner - it was sooooo GOOD!!! None of us finished our food and were SUPER happy to have some BOMB leftovers for the next (2) days because the portions are HUGE!! Bottomline: El Tepeyac is where it's at!!! This place has been consistent for years and I look forward to bringing my own children here!!

Nijole T.
Nijole T.

The food here is absolutely delicious! I really love the crispy tacos as well as their salsa. Walk up an order and your food is ready within minutes. They are very friendly and hard-working here, it always feels good to support a local business like this! Plenty of indoor as well as outdoor seating, it does get very full here but they get through the lines quickly. They have a private parking lot with free parking and I love that they are open early. Highly recommended, if you're looking for authentic Mexican food in a casual environment!

Theresa C.
Theresa C.

Was craving a wet burrito and found out about El Tepeyac the same day, so I had to try it. What a gem! I got the mini Okie burrito, filled with chile verde and topped with red enchilada sauce. As soon as I smelled it, I knew it was going to be divine. This mini burrito was stuffed! Could easily be 2-3 meals. I really liked their freshly fried chips with salsa too. The beef taquitos were full of meat, but dry. I did appreciate the generous amount of fresh guacamole they came with, but I'd pass on these next time. Huge portions at reasonable prices. Expect to wait ~20 minutes on a weekend at the takeout window. I'll be back!

Luke L.
Luke L.

El Tepeyac Cafe is a local favorite Mexican restaurant in Boyle Heights and has been opened since 1956. The cafe is the original creator of the Hollenbeck Burrito and Manuel's Special Burrito. These burritos are so big that one original burrito can serve 2 to 3 adults, but customers can also order a mini version. The 5 lb Manuel's Special Burrito has been featured on Man vs. Food (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTxFY-ci8p8). [Parking]: Has a free private parking lot right next to the restaurant. [Hours]: Interesting but somewhat important note - this cafe opens at 6 AM and not many coffee shops & breakfast cafes open this early. [Amenities]: There's a small take-out window and credit cards are accepted. Customers can sit in the outside patio area inside of a small alley, but I actually opt to eat inside of my car instead. Indoor dining is also available. Friendly cashier. [Menu]: There's no price listed on the giant outdoor take-out menu, but the take-out menu focuses on mostly burritos. Please note that mini option is available for Original Okie Burrito and Original Hollenbeck Burrito (the menu lists "Hollenbeck Chili Verde" and default meat is pork). No mini option for Manuel's Special Burrito. *** Original Hollenbeck Burrito or "Hollenbeck Chili Verde" (Seared pork meat simmered in traditional red tomato based chile verde recipe with rice, beans and guacamole. Topped with chile verde sauce - mini for $12.32 tax included): Despite ordering a mini burrito ... the burrito was still huge and had enough portion for two separate meals for one person. This is essentially a classic wet burrito with rice, guacamole, and chile verde sauce. I do like the fact that the guacamole to rice to bean ratio is skewed more on rice & guacamole side. This burrito also came with two separate salsa (one was too spicy for me, but mild salsa was solid). It was a solid bang for the buck burrito. *** You know this restaurant is legit when there's a Wikipedia page about its history (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/El_Tepeyac_Caf%C3%A9). I definitely see the appeal of this restaurant and those giant burritos probably fed generations of local families.

Eric H.
Eric H.

Est. 1962- Originally opened in DTLA in 1942, El Tepeyac Cafe moved to its current location in 1962. A staple of Boyle Heights, and a favorite stop for foodies internationally, ETC is also famous for its massive five pound Burrito (Manuel's Burrito). Created in 1965, Manuel's Burrito was invented to feed football teams from local high schools, and Cal State LA. Truth be told, everything on the menu is Massive, and absolutely delicious. Normally, I would say, do not come here unless you're hungry, but El Tepeyac is so good, that even if you're only peckish, you still must come. You will have just that much more to take home! I had the #11 (cubed steak simmered in onions, tomatoes, Jalapeños, and served with lettuce & cheese, and rice & beens). I also tried a Crunchy Chicken Taco, which was smothered in lettuce and cheese. Both were enormous and excellent. El Tepeyac was not busy when I first walked through the door, but when I left an hour later, every seat was full. The service was very friendly and helpful (thank you Alexis) and there is plenty of parking in their lot. This place is a gem. Every Angeleno needs to come here at least once. El Tepeyac Cafe is LA Culture at its finest.

Elizabeth L.
Elizabeth L.

In Los Angeles, El Tepeyac is the best place to go for Mexican food. It is actually the best Mexican food in California. This is a small place and it can get crowded. If you don't want to wait, look to see if there is a spot at the counter or go to the side of the building and order at the window and eat outside. You can dine in or in their cute patio. They also deliver and have take away. The man that owned it was the nicest man you could meet. He passed. He used to be a boxer and started this little place in the front of his home and expanded a little over the years. This is not fine dinning. The place is spotless and cute. The service is the best with many of the employees being there for years. We have been going for 40 years. The portions are huge and the prices fair. The food is the best, it matters not what you order, it is all good. Their machaca burritos are famous. The place is famous, You must go. Please see my other reviews of this place for more information. There is nothing not to love, nothing.