East LA {at 508 Washington Street} is just one of those OG Hoboken spots — if you know, you know. Its margaritas are known to be the best in town to get you a little tipsy {the frozen ones, in particular} and with a colorful selection of flavors to choose from {and to mix!}, it’s no wonder the restaurant is winning the tequila game.
Chances are, you’ve already had your fair share of drunken East LA nights {no judgment here}, but if you haven’t, we’re here to tell you what you’ve been missing {spoiler alert: its Mexican food is BOMB, too}. Read on to learn all about East LA and how it’s home to Hoboken’s infamous frozen margs.
The Food
For those seeking a fancy Mexican meal, this isn’t the place. But for frozen cocktails endless chips + salsa, and some no-frills {but V yummy} apps and tacos — this is the right place.
Let’s start with the apps; there are a lot to choose from, but some favorites are the wings {that come in mild, hot, or BBQ} and the broccoli cheddar bites. Seriously — do not sleep on the broccoli cheddar bites. Not typical for a Mexican restaurant, but think broccoli cheddar soup in fried little bites — yup. To please the whole crowd, order the Fat Mexican {comes with wings, quesadillas, broccoli cheddar poppers, + flautas} or the Skinny Mexican {black beans, avocado, grilled chicken, pico de gallo, corn, + tortillas}.
See More: Los Cuernos in Jersey City: The Newest {+ Tastiest} Venture from Taqueria
For entrées, there’s anything from fajitas to tacos to enchiladas, burritos, steak, burgers, and beyond. The dishes are reasonably priced, too, ranging from $8-$16 and most come in pretty generous portions that come with rice and beans. While the mains are great, we suggest coming here for drinks and apps for everyone to share.
Drinks
East LA is famous for its frozen margs — both for being good and for getting people tipsy well, very quickly {lightweights beware, you’ll probably be good with one-two drinks…#trust}. The cocktails come in the following flavors {and which can be mixed to create the perfect combo!}: apple, banana, blue curaçao, coconut, cranberry, grapefruit, mango, melon, orange, peach, pineapple, pomegranate, raspberry, sangria, strawberry, watermelon, and in the summer: FROSÈ}.
A yummy combo suggestion is mango + coconut — so good. Order them by the glass for $9 {which is a tall glass, might we add}, or buy a small pitcher for $28 or full pitcher for $38 — that is, if everyone happens to agree on one flavor.
Also on the drink menu are wine, beer, tequila, and sangria, but let’s be real — guests stop in here for the frozen margaritas.
Read More: Best Spots for a Margarita in Hoboken + Jersey City
The Atmosphere
This is definitely a place to come with a group of friends as it’s almost always packed with people and buzzing. The vibe is totally chill and everyone can either be found sitting at the bar or at one of the booths/tables {which are usually filled with large groups having a good ol’ time}. Whether it’s during the week or on the weekend, it’s usually packed {more so on a Friday or Saturday night, which is typical}. During the warmer months, there is outdoor seating which is also a win {tacos and margaritas while people watching on Washington Street = yes please}.
The Final Verdict
If you haven’t had a fun-filled frozen marg night at East LA, get to 508 Washington Street STAT. It’s the perfect spot to go with a crowd, to pregame, or for some much-needed after work drinks. The location is convenient, too, being in midtown Washington Street, so it’s a great place for everyone to easily meet up. {In fact, one of our team members met her now husband of 8 years here, jussayin’.} Also worth mentioning — the website is literally ilovemargaritas.org, — so clearly, East LA is winning in every aspect.
Have you tried the frozen margaritas at East LA yet? Let us know in the comments!
