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Ditroit

RESTAURANT SUMMARY

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Behind the acclaimed Damian restaurant in Los Angeles's Arts District, Ditroit emerges as Enrique Olvera's love letter to Mexico City street food culture. This intimate taquería transforms the humble taco into an artisanal experience, where chef Jesús "Chuy" Cervantes crafts each dish with the same meticulous attention that defines Olvera's globally celebrated restaurants Pujol and Cosme.

The story of Ditroit began as a creative outlet for ingredients that didn't fit Damian's refined menu, evolving into an independent culinary destination that celebrates the democratic nature of Mexican street food. Under Olvera's guidance, Cervantes leads his first independent kitchen, bringing years of experience from Cosme to this casual yet sophisticated concept. The restaurant's name playfully references its location "detrás" (behind) Damian, emphasizing its backdoor charm and approachable philosophy.

At the heart of Ditroit's cuisine lies house-nixtamalized heirloom maize tortillas sourced from Oaxaca, providing the foundation for a focused menu of four exceptional tacos. The suadero taco showcases brisket and top round braised for six hours, while the crispy swordfish flauta arrives topped with crème fraîche, queso fresco, and vibrant avocado salsa. Vegetable-forward options include the mushroom barbacoa and acelga taco featuring Swiss chard with alubia beans. The quesadilla with quesillo cheese and epazote, alongside a plant-based tamal filled with Olvera's signature mole negro, rounds out the offerings. Each dish embodies the "good-good" philosophy—elevating familiar flavors to extraordinary heights through traditional techniques and premium ingredients.

The dining experience unfolds in a lush, greenery-filled alleyway that creates an intimate outdoor sanctuary in downtown Los Angeles. Counter service maintains the authentic taquería feel while the garden-like setting invites lingering over mezcal and artisanal aguas frescas. The beverage program features carefully selected tequilas and mezcals that complement the bold flavors, while paletas provide a refreshing finish to the meal.

Ditroit represents more than casual dining—it's a masterclass in elevating street food without losing its soul. The restaurant operates on a walk-up basis, making exceptional Mexican cuisine accessible while maintaining the craftsmanship expected from Olvera's culinary empire. For discerning diners seeking authentic flavors executed with fine dining precision, Ditroit offers an essential Los Angeles experience where every taco tells the story of Mexican culinary heritage reimagined for the modern palate.

CHEF

Various

ACCOLADES

(2025) EP Club Recommended Restaurant

(2025) Opinionated About Dining Cheap Eats in North America Ranked #412

(2024) Opinionated About Dining Cheap Eats in North America Ranked #406

CONTACT

2117 Violet St, Los Angeles, CA 90021

+1 213-559-7257

FEATURED GUIDES

NEARBY RESTAURANTS

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