Cafe La Maze and its Hollywood History

Cafe La Maze
1441 Highland Ave
619.474.3222


An old neighborhood favorite has quickly found its way into my lunchtime rotation. Cafe La Maze has been open for business since the 1940's. Its diehard dedication to the glitz and glam of the Golden Era of Hollywood is still very apparent today. From the comfy booths and the black & whites on the wall to the old films and the laid back lounge, the decor screams Sunset Boulevard.

Old Hollywood on Highland

I was greeted at the door by Maria, a vivacious waitress from Mexico who spent her youth in Japan. She has a warm demeanor and sweet smile, letting her customers know they made the right choice by stopping in. She lead me to my booth and asked if I wanted 'the usual.' I nodded in agreement and quickly added that I would also be trying the Mexican Lemonade for lunch.

"Someone is looking for a relaxing afternoon!" Maria laughed.

El Jimador Silver Tequila, Bols Triple Sec, sweet & sour, Sprite, and a little lime squeeze... oh yes, I was planning on chilling this afternoon! A few moments after I placed the order, Maria brought me the drink and smiled. The bartender was quick, and didn't skimp on the tequila either! I stirred the yellow concoction and riled up the flavor. The Mexican Lemonade hit the spot, proving to be as refreshing now as a regular lemonade is on a hot summer's day.

An old Cagney/Harlow flick caught my eye as I waited for the food. The dimmed lighting purposefully transports you back to a simpler time. Cafe La Maze was originally designed as a 'final U.S. gambling spot' for the old Hollywood elite before crossing the border. I was glad that their forte turned into good food and strong drinks, though.

Maria brought out the prime rib sandwich with fries, and I placed an order for a Cadillac margarita. Might as well, the glass of Mexican Lemonade was only occupied by ice cubes by now. The waitress winked and then brought me out some creamy horseradish.

While it's impossible to convey what constitutes as a 'good steak,' I can definitely tell you that the warm baguette, perfectly seared prime rib, and creamy sauce marry together nicely. The portion is perfect for lunch and the fries compliment the meal.

I finished off the entree and was greeted with dessert ~ my Cadillac and a shot of Grand Marnier. A lot of places boast a good margarita, but there's nothing more satisfying than a spot that gives you shot on the side so you have the option of combining the spirits together or taking it separately.

Fulfilled by the meal, I sipped my drink and watched the rest of the movie on the screen. Maria never once rushed me and checked in every now and again to see if I wanted another round. When I finally got up to leave, she came over to the table told me to have a relaxing afternoon. In a room full of patrons, she took the time to acknowledge one of her customers leaving.

Good food aside, this is the reason to come here; the service is amazing and they make you feel like you're part of Cafe La Maze. You can have your new restaurants and fast food places, I'll take this spot over them any day. Let's face it ~ great service never gets old.


RATING: 8 out of 10