My girlfriend and I visited this place on a recommendation. A Peruvian restaurant located in a strip mall near Hancock Park. From the outside it does not look like anything special. There was a short line outside, it was Saturday around 1PM. Went inside and signed into their waiting list, we were called in about 20 minutes later. Inside the place is clean and feels very warm, it has a good vibe. the staff is friendly and we were greeted with smiles. Browsed the menu and we decided to start with their seafood soup, and both the shrimp and steak lomo saltado’s for our entries. The soup came out in about 15 minutes. We served our first bowls, n I gotta see…. Wow, it’s not like what’s in the soup, but what did they miss?! Also the seafood portions are very generous. Now time for a taste… again blown away, the tomato broth was delicious and perfectly seasoned, all the seafood was fresh. One of the better seafood soups I have experienced in a long time. We finished our soup, right down to the bottom of the bowl. I liked to mix my bites with that green sauce they have, warning:it’s got some heat 🔥and a nice flavor profile. About 5 minutes later our saltado’s arrived. I took the first bite of the steak, my taste buds immediately started to fire - the texture and seasoning was incredible, I could feel my mouth salivating in anticipation for the bites to come. The portions are huge! Next time we may only order a single serving, adequate to share amongst 2. As I enjoyed the meal I began to develop my perfect bite; steak, potato, rice, onion and a bit of their green sauce. This establishment is the defacto on how restaurants should be operating: great service, fresh ingredients, cooked to perfection. It is obvious that dishes are cooked to order. Service was very strong, server was very attentive to water leaves and clearing the table as we completed courses A couple of considerations, as Mario’s food is so good. There is a demand, and with this expect long wait times especially on weekends, parking can be a challenge but we got lucky and found parking right in front. Also, when seated it takes some time to get served - but consider that they are cooking each dish as it’s ordered, this only adds to the experience once you’re served. I plan to revisit Mario’s many times. Highly recommended this establishment for anyone that appreciates good food and is on the lookout for an unique experience