EK Valley Family owned Oaxacan Restaurant in Culver City delivers authentic, tasty food- Feb 2026
If you’re looking for truly authentic Oaxacan cuisine in Los Angeles, Ek Valley Authentic Oaxaca Restaurant in Culver City is an absolute gem. This family-owned restaurant delivers not just incredible food, but heart, hospitality, and tradition in every single dish.
From the moment you walk in, you can feel the warmth of the place. Head chef Epi is the soul of the kitchen—welcoming, attentive, and deeply passionate about preserving the traditional flavors of Oaxaca. His dedication to authentic seasoning and time-honored cooking techniques truly shines through. You’re not just eating a meal here—you’re experiencing generations of culinary heritage. Loved their pepita cilantro salad pepita to start.
One of the standout features of EK Valley is their impressive variety of mole dishes. Mole is a complex, labor-intensive sauce that defines Oaxacan cuisine, and they absolutely nail it. What makes it even better is that you can customize the spice level to your liking. Whether you prefer it mild or fiery, they tailor it perfectly. The Rosa Chicken Mole (medium spice) was beautifully balanced—rich, layered, slightly smoky, and deeply satisfying without overpowering heat.
My personal favorite, however, was the incredible Molcajete Tres Amigos featuring chicken, salmon, and meat but I substituted shrimp for beef, all served in a dramatic, boiling-hot volcanic rock bowl. When it arrives at the table, it’s still sizzling—filled with tender onions and cactus (nopales), creating a rustic, earthy flavor profile that’s unforgettable. It’s hearty, flavorful, and visually stunning. The dish comes with a side of perfectly cooked rice, and you absolutely cannot skip the black beans—they’re creamy, savory, and clearly made with care.
Beyond the food, what truly sets Ek Valley apart is the hospitality. Chef Epi makes you feel like you’re dining in his home. The service is attentive and accommodating, and the staff genuinely wants you to enjoy your experience.
If you appreciate authentic regional Mexican cuisine—especially the bold, complex flavors of Oaxaca—this place is a must-visit. Between the customizable mole, the unforgettable volcanic stone bowl dish, and the welcoming family atmosphere, EK Valley Authentic Oaxaca Restaurant is nothing short of fantastic. It’s a five-star experience that leaves you planning your next visit before you even finish your meal.
Their food at EK Valley Restaurant is made and served with passion using recipes derived from the pre-Hispanic heritage of Oaxaca. Among the delicious dishes offered at EK Valley, mole is our specialty. Mole is traditionally served as a celebratory and ritual food for Zapotec nobles and kings. In fact one of Mole’s ingredients, cocoa, served as Mediterranean currency at one point in ancient times. Their recipe includes two dozen ingredients including chiles, seeds herbs and spices.
Photos by Marie Llug