Where: Los Angeles
What: Frogtown PlaceList
Who: In 2009, Chef Esdras Ochoa shook up the LA Mexican food scene at Mexicali Taco, where he served us a garlicky quesadilla from the gods that pays homage to Zankou Chicken's crack-like garlic sauce. In 2016, Esdras opened Salazar in his own neighborhood, Frogtown, which is sandwiched between Silver Lake and Glendale along the LA River. Dining at Salazar is like attending a banging backyard BBQ where Esdras mans the mesquite grill and friends gather on the patio for his Sonoran cooking and powerful margaritas. Our only complaint? Everyone and their friend with benefits on the westside wants a bite of the Mexico City native's tacos. So, next time you forget to make that Salazar reservation and the wait is two hours, here are some of Esdras' favorite spots in Frogtown to kill time before your name is called.
Chef Esdras Ochoa
Images courtesy of Salazar
Salazar
Esdras Ochoa: I love the fact that Salazar showcases that outdoor family/communal feel that brings me back home. It’s like a huge family reunion during the weekend where you can gather with friends and loved ones over solid Sonoran cooking paried with awesome cocktails. We really wanted to replicate that warm, loving feeling and we’re happy Salazar accomplishes just that.Two items that are a must are the hanger steak and tacos al pastor.
Elysian Park Trail
EO: It’s a blockaway from my house and you’re able to see the thriving neighborhood on that stretch. You’ll see bikers, runners and even commuters on their way to work. It’s a great way to see Frogtown behind the scenes.
Rick's Drive In & Out
EO: A quick, classic burger that’s been doing it right for years.
Kadampa Meditation Center
EO: This is a place you can go to get away from LA and even Frogtown. Thepeople that run the temple are super nice and overall it’s a great place to chill and relax with family and friends.
FrogTown Brewery
EO: Even though I don’t drink, Ilove the space and vibes of this brewery. They’re also very supportive, cool guys that hold fun popups. I definitely make it a point to stop by once in a while to say hello.
Frog Spot
EO:It’s a little outdoor recreational center that throws community fundraisers, coffeepopups and more! It’s next to the bike path and where all the locals come to have fun and support the community.
Cafecito Organico
EO: Love this spot for coffee! The team here is also very supportive of Salazar and the community as a whole.
Marsh Street Skate Park
EO:Ioccasionally stop by here on my way to work. It’s also a great place to sweat off a couple pounds from all the tacos!
Wax Paper
EO: This spot has great people and awesome food andsandwiches.
The Left Bank
EO: A quaint, second hand store right in front of Salazar. The people are cool and the items they sell are so unique!
Elysian Park Trail courtesy of @thedaveschneider
Rick's Drive In & Out courtesy of @delijamesgang
Kadampa Meditation Center courtesy of @victoria_litman
FrogTown Brewery courtesy of @mallorykjackson
@crashingstar323 live at The Frog Spot
Marsh Street Skate Park courtesy of @rocksoliddist
Header image courtesy of Salazar