WHY Indulge in these tamales not only because they’re delicious, but because they’re making L.A. a better place. Good coffee, too, and a gallery showcasing local artists.

WHAT Sure, the tamales from every region of Mexico and Central America are wonderful, and yes, the café is a vividly colorful community center, but this nonprofit is really about doing good: providing job training and business skills for low-income local women. Order a big bunch of tamales for your next party, or pick up a few to take back to the office.

WHO West Downtown workers, artists, Koreatown residents.