Last weekend, my husband and I checked out Madre Restaurant, ​​a lively regional Mexican eatery in Palms, for a fun date night. The intimate restaurant is owned by Ivan Vasquez, who is originally from Oaxaca, a state in southern Mexico. Madre Palms is the original location, with outposts in Santa Clarita, Torrance, and West Hollywood.

The Madre chain boasts the largest selection of mezcal in the country, at over 500 bottles. Led by Vasquez, the restaurant’s culinary team aims to introduce Angelenos to authentic Oaxacan food and beverages. Madre is particularly well-known for its dishes crafted using fresh ingredients and its extensive mezcal list. From their signature mole sauce to their refreshing mezcal cocktails, this restaurant has something for everyone.

The eatery has a laid-back atmosphere and is known for its thoughtful hospitality. It is a well-loved spot for both locals and visitors. At Madre, we were greeted by a cheerful host who guided us to our indoor table past a patio dining area and a striking bar with a yellow backlight highlighting an impressive collection of mezcal bottles. The cozy restaurant was packed with large groups and couples indulging in mezcal tastings and delectable Oaxacan cuisine. The eatery features dim lighting, brick walls with abstract Mexican artworks, and simple wooden tables and bar seating. Its interiors boast warm, earthy tones and rustic accents that help craft a relaxed vibe. 

We began our dining experience with a mezcal tasting. We opted for the Madre Exclusive Mezcal tasting ($42), which included three mezcals exclusively bottled for Madre. Since it was our first time tasting straight mezcal, the server showed us the best way to sip it and about the individual mezcals. She told us to take small sips of the mezcal and breathe out slowly from the nose to let the flavors and aromas spread throughout our mouths and throats. This was very helpful, as we were complete mezcal novices. We took small sips of the mezcal and swished it around in our mouths. We let it rest for a few seconds to allow our palates to pick up on all the different flavors. The server brought out the bottles and helped us decipher the flavor notes of each sample. Our mezcal flight came with great descriptors showcasing the restaurant’s incredibly diverse offerings. As the alcohol content of mezcal is very high, we were advised to drink it slowly. I enjoyed my first mezcal tasting and thought it was a fun experience. 

Moving on to the food, we ordered a few appetizers to start. As the name implies, the eatery’s culinary menu comprises dishes inspired by owner Ivan Vasquez’s mother’s family recipes. We ordered the Stuffed Squash Blossom ($12), which was filled with cheese, epazote, jalapeno, queso fresco, and chile serrano salsa, and the Ceviche de Pescado (​​$18) that included fresh fish, lime juice, jalapeno, cilantro, avocado, tomato, tostadas, and onions. The appetizers were fresh, packed with subtle flavors, and complemented the mezcal tasting perfectly. 

For our mains, we tried the Madre Enchiladas ($26), which featured mole negro with chicken picadillo, coloradito with shredded beef, mole rojo with carnitas, and salsa verde with chorizo and cheese. Along with the enchiladas, we got a portion of freshly baked chips served with three salsas and guacamole. The enchiladas were a generous portion and the moles and fillings were delectable and hit the spot. While it had a lot of diverse flavors, all the elements worked well together. The chips, salsas, and guacamole were the ideal accompaniment. For dessert, we tasted the Coffee Tres Leches ($10) and the Guava Ice Cream on an ​​​​Oaxacan Chocolate Cookie Crust ($12). The desserts were rich, not too sweet, and rounded off the meal very well. 

Overall, our mezcal tasting and meal at Madre were greatly satisfying. If you’re looking for authentic Mexican food, a fun ambiance, and delicious cocktails, Madre Palms is a great option. 

A special mention of the restaurant’s exceptional hospitality. The Madre team was friendly and attentive, ensuring that we were comfortable at all times, adding to the dining experience. Additionally, I thought the food and drinks menu was priced well, and the portions of the mains were generous. I also loved that the eatery has a special kids’ menu, making it the perfect venue for family gatherings. I would love to go back to the restaurant with a big group to try more dishes and cocktails. I would also love to try the West Hollywood location, which I hear is bigger, and offers a unique brunch menu. I highly recommend Madre Restaurant in Palms. Travel to Oaxaca, Mexico, for a night at this welcoming eatery! The restaurant also hosts a Happy Hour from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., Monday – Friday.

Located at 10426 National Blvd, Madre Restaurant is open daily.

Photo courtesy of Madre.