Lola’s Mexican Cuisine (Long Beach, CA)

Lola's (Long Beach, CA) on The Episodic Eater

One of the busiest restaurants in Long Beach’s Retro Row is Lola’s Mexican Cuisine, which has been open since 2008. The crowds are always evident in the outside parklet, but the inside and back patio are filled with hungry people awaiting fresh Mexican food!

Let’s get to the food!

Chips & Salsa

Yes, maybe chips and salsa are overlooked at Mexican restaurants, but since it is the first impression of their food, Lola’s makes sure to use the same locally sourced ingredients that they utilize in the majority of the menu. Yum!

Lola’s Guacamole

Fresh ripe California avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, onions, salt, and crumbled queso cotija

In all honesty, we had mixed opinions on the guacamole. Some wanted it to be more seasoned, while others liked being able to taste the freshness of the avocado. Try it for yourself and decide!

Tinga Tostaditas

Pulled chicken simmered with chipotle, sweet onions, and homemade spices over a spicy black bean pureé. Topped with crumbled queso fresco, fresh California Hass avocado, and drizzled sour cream.

Absolutely amazing!!! Everyone at the table enjoyed this dish, so we give it a thumbs up. The chicken was amazingly seasoned, and I personally loved the sweet onions and everything that accompanied it. Yum!

Jalisco Tacos

Three grilled corn tortillas smothered in our salsa guajillo, stuffed with artisinal Jack cheese, and your choice of meat. Topped with crumbled queso cotija, pico de gallo, and drizzled with sour cream. Served with garlicky whole beans, Lola’s fresh guacamole and caramelized plantains.

I thought these tacos were amazing, but be warned that these are not the kind of tacos that you pick up and eat. The flavors were right on and I have to point out that the beans were great! Usually, I find myself skipping them, but they are an unsung hero on the plate.

Enchiladas Suizas

Two corn tortillas filled with artisanal Jack cheese and smothered with our creamy tomatillo salsa, drizzled with sour cream and topped with fresh sliced California Hass avocado. Served with Mexican rice and refried beans. “A true Lola’s specialty”

Even vegetarians can enjoy these enchiladas! On a side note, there are many vegetarian and vegan options on the menu, so everyone can find a dish. Plus, gluten-free options are clearly marked as well. Everyone wins! 🙂

Enchiladas Cosmopolitanas

Two enchiladas stuffed with shredded flank steak sautéed with raisins, almonds, onions, and roasted garlic. Smothered in a sweet, savory, spicy chipotle sauce. Topped with toasted almonds, and pickled red onions. Served with Mexican rice, and garlicky whole beans.

The ingredient list was just too tempting to pass up! Raisins and almonds along with pickled red onions? It was so crazy, it worked…

Zucchini & Mushroom Tacos

Sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and artisanal Jack cheese stuffed into two corn tortillas. Topped with a sweet, smokey chipotle sauce, and crumbled queso ranchero. Served with cilantro infused rice, and black beans.

I was deciding on a couple of options, and asked the waiter which one was his favorite. He picked this one “hands down.” Wow, I can see why! I was a little wary of being filled by a vegetarian option, but it was so flavorful and vibrant that I did not miss the meat whatsoever!

I cannot wait to head back and try some more of their unique dishes…

Until next time!

Lola’s Mexican Cuisine
2030 East 4th Street
Long Beach, CA 90814
www.lolasmexicancuisine.com
(562) 343-5506

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