El Sarape: A Taste of Nayarit in Boyle Heights

Just east of Soto and the Metro Station’s E Line, in the heart of Boyle Heights, El Sarape quietly offers the flavors of Mexico’s Pacific coast. The small mariscos restaurant, taken over by Isauro Solis in 2007, has become a local favorite for its authentic Nayarit-style seafood.

From Tortas to Mariscos

Originally named “El Sarape” and specializing in tortas, Solis decided to shift the focus when he took ownership. “The previous owner couldn’t keep up with the place. So I offered to take it over, and he agreed,” Solis told L.A. TACO. “But he wanted me to keep it as a torta restaurant, but I told him that I love mariscos and want to create it a mariscos spot.”

A Culinary Partnership

Solis’s vision came to life with the help of Maria Benitez, a cook from Nayarit. “I had just met Maria, an amazing cook from Nayarit,” Solis says. “Back home, she was studying to be a baker. That is her specialty, but she also knows how to make amazing mariscos dishes from Nayarit.”

The Flavors of Nayarit

Nayarit is a coastal Mexican state renowned for its seafood traditions. El Sarape aims to bring that authentic taste to Los Angeles. The restaurant features a modest building with a large back patio, decorated with bright, Mexican-themed tables. The menu includes shrimp and fish ceviche tostadas, tacos, a fried fish plate, and molcajetes.

A Taste of the Coast

“Mariscos in Nayarit is like no other place,” Benitez explains. “It is made with intensity, love, and passion. When people taste it here, I want them to feel like they’re sitting on the coast.” Dishes like aguachiles, served with sharp chiles and lime, and ceviche with homemade salsa, showcase the bold and refreshing flavors of the region.

More Than Just a Restaurant

For Solis and Benitez, El Sarape represents more than just a business. It’s a way to connect with their roots and build a livelihood in Los Angeles. The restaurant draws both longtime residents of Boyle Heights and visitors from across the city.

A Hidden Gem

El Sarape maintains a low profile, without a presence on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook. “We are trying to convince one of our kids to help us with social media to promote, but we’ll witness who takes on that responsibility,” Solis says.

A Unique Offering in Boyle Heights

While Boyle Heights is known for its tacos and birria, El Sarape offers a different culinary experience. It highlights the diversity of Mexican cuisine in Los Angeles, bringing the flavors of Nayarit to the forefront.

El Sarape ~ 2522 1st St. Los Angeles, CA 90033