Founder Rafael Vega’s family pictures at Casa Vega’s lobby in Sherman Oaks on Saturday, September 16, 2023. Photo by Lourdes Suasnabar.
As the lights dim, the classic Mexican tune “Contigo,” by the famous trio Los Panchos, resonates throughout the dining room of his hidden gem. With mustard-painted walls streaked with red hues and dark carved wood furniture filling the room, the Spanish-flavored décor gives it a homey feel.
Whether you are looking for a neighborhood restaurant to enjoy a meal or connect with the LA film culture, Casa Vega provides a comfortable place to unwind and relax. It is like going back in time.
Rafael “Ray” Vega’s vision happened when Casa Vega opened its doors in 1956. It has served the San Fernando Valley customers and Los Angeles since then. Today, Christina Vega, a third-generation, manages this eatery and continues the family legacy.
The restaurant is filled with a parade of aromas, a mix of tomatoes, onions, peppers, and garlic. A couple of minutes later, a generous portion of tortilla chips arrives with a choice of hot or mild salsa. Vega’s chips are fresh and crunchy.
Shrimp tacos with rice and beans are a sizzling delight. The shrimp are tender, fresh and tasty. It is a simple dish, yet it is delicious. The seasoning does not overpower other ingredients. The rice and beans are on a different plate. Portions are small but do not disappoint the taste buds. The creamy peach color of sweet habaneros sauce drips over thinly crunchy diced onions, while a couple of avocado slices try to slide off the crips corn tortillas.
The chicken enchiladas do not disappoint. The shredded chicken is tender and tasty, and the seasoning does not overpower. The thick and delicious authentic enchilada sauce has three distinct kinds of dried peppers-ancho, guajillo and arbol. The beef enchiladas presentation is pleasing to the eye. This dish comes with a plentiful portion of queso fresco (fresh white cheese). The beef lacks seasoning, which leaves it a little bland.
Like the Mexican classic song “Contigo” still serves happy memories, Casa Vega continues to serve authentic Mexican food to Angelinos today.
Shrimp Tacos at Casa Vega’s in Sherman Oaks on Saturday, September 16, 2023. Photo by Lourdes Suasnabar.
13301 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423.
Reservations online www.casavega.com or call (818) 788-4868
Hours: Open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.
Parking is either valet or self-parking.
