In this part of town there is no competition for Malo when it comes to tequila and mezcal selection. They have around 150 brands. The drinks are good but a bit overpriced. Some of the bartenders know their stock. The food is good, not great. It's in a great location and has very good ambiance. Monday night is $1 taco night and tends to be packed. My wife and I go there mainly for the drinks, and usually sit at the bar. Try the Organic Margarita, made with 4 Copas, agave nectar and fresh lime.

I live less than two block from here and I can say Im quite happy about that, seeing that it allows me to walk to and from without worrying about driving!
Malos bar area is always full of hipsters who are taking over the Silverlake area of Los Angeles. Thats neither a good or bad thing. Crowd is always happy and ready to mingle. Their Tequila selection is great because they stock Tequilas you dont see anyplace else (case in point: LOS ABUELOS) The bar staff is a bit knowledgeable, but again, Like LScorpion down the street, Id like to be able to 'talk Tequila' with the bartender-provided he is not buys, of course.
You can always find something tasty, cheap, and filling on the menu. Come to think of it, Im going there tonite!

Date of review: Friday, 8/31/07, 9pm

Malo is located in the very hip, very trendy, somewhat pretentious Silverlake. The patrons ranged from tattooed mommies and daddies to male rockers in women's jeans to Gina Davis (she was at the next table over).

The wait was long, even with a reservation. But to compensate, they gave us a complimentary flight of salsas. The Habernero & Cream salsa was amazing.

The food was great. I tried the beef and pickle tacos. My wife had the shrimp diablo; and we split a cheese quesadilla. My wife had to say about the shrimp: "It was really good and really spicy. I liked it." It was a very nice meal: filling and well-priced.

Their tequila selection is above average. 150 from the description sounds about right. A good variety - from inexpensive to the super premiums. For price calibration, I always use Herradura Seleccion Suprema which was $59 here. This is certainly higher than I am used to seeing. Don Julio 1942 was $26. So you are looking at about a 450-550% mark-up. (300-400% is about average in my experience) But Silverlake is an expensive neighborhood to set-up shop in, I'm sure.

I had the chance to talk with Mateo, the manager? owner? He was great. He brought out some samples - most notably a 1921 Tequila Crema which was a BIG hit at the table.

Overall, I had a great time at Malo. My only negative would be the price (of tequila, not food). But as I said before, this is in a very trendy, up-and-coming neighborhood of Los Angeles and I'm sure the rent is high. I would certainly recommend Malo to this community.