Casa Vega

 

Founded in 1956, Casa Vega is one of LA's most iconic restaurants. The historic restaurant is not only a landmark in the neighborhood, but also a haven for locals and a few A-list celebrities.

Best of all, the place is still run by Ray Vega's daughter, Christy Vega Fowler, who officially took over the operation five years ago. She has a degree in business and has spent her entire life working every aspect of the family restaurant.

The best part of a visit to this 60-year-old Mexican institution is that the food and drinks are surprisingly good. The menu is a nod to the restaurant's storied past with a few newer dishes, including a spin on the traditional taco.

Not to be overlooked, the margaritas are a delight. Founder Ray Vega's original is on the menu along with a couple of other classics and a few "skinny" options like Patron and Don Julio.

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Top notch service and a solid selection of craft beer round out the experience. It's no wonder that Casa Vega was selected as one of America's classic restaurants by the James Beard Foundation this week.

A swanky tented patio keeps the bar hopping and the margaritas flowing at this old-school Mexican joint.

The ambiance is nothing short of festive, thanks to the latest additions to the restaurant's outdoor space: colorful string lights and a 25-table tented setting. The space was made possible by the relocation of the parking lot.

Besides the impressive looking tent, this patio space is decked out with all of the usual suspects. Plus, the restaurant is taking advantage of the weather with a few new summer cocktails.

Coolest of all, the tented patio has an indoor bar area, too, which is a nice touch for those not in the mood to brave the sweltering temperatures outside.

There are also several new tequilas on the list of drinks, including an "Old Fashioned" that is so named for its original ingredients.