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The least conspicuous of the cluster of haute Latin spots downtown, Yxta is one of the better-kept secrets for authentic yet upscale Mexican cuisine and tequila cocktails. It’s a less than chic neighborhood (bordering skid row), but inside you’d never know it. A beautiful, spacious room is framed by vintage whitewashed brick, a high redwood ceiling, and modern wire-filament designer lamps that cast romantic shadows on a lively young crowd boasting more downtown artists than bankers. Owner Jesse Gomez, third-generation heir of his grandparents’ Highland Park restaurant El Iris Arco, dropped out of law school to follow his vision, and is attentive to every detail. High-end cocktails, like the blood-orange margarita, are made with seasonal fresh fruit juices, and they pair well with light-as-a-cloud squash blossom rellenos oozing with queso Oaxaca, pretty Mexican sweet shrimp taquitos, or flakey guajillo-spiced shredded beef empanadas. Many dishes have a pleasing tropical tinge, like al pastor tacos of tender marinated pork with pineapple, cilantro and lime, and daily fish specials like mahi mahi paired with mango or tomatillo. Traditionalists will also savor free-range chicken with a rich mole poblano, and the thick, creamy homemade flan for dessert.
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Yxta Cocina Mexicana Restaurant is one of our 2012
| Top 10 LA Mexican Restaurants
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Splurging at top-rated restaurants is fun for special events, but where can you go for a good quality meal that won't break the bank? Gather the change out of your piggy bank and sofa cushions and take it to one of our selections for the best cheap eats in your area. Also, check out our picks for the Top 40 Cheap Eats in the U.S.
