Some days we simply want to eat our tacos al pastor in peace, but there are moments when we could all use a few peppy canciónes from a live mariachi band — not to mention we still regret missing out on Mardi Gras on this banner Superbowl year. Though mariachi bands originated in Jalisco, Mexico, the same state that produces authentic tequila (good music + good tequila = good times), Los Angeles has more than its share of restaurants that regularly feature great bands. The entertainment is fun, free and can make even a ho-hum margarita taste a heck of a lot better, so do remember to slip the five-string vihuela player a nice tip.

El Cholo Pasadena

The food may not be riveting, but the Friday-night mariachis here are great. They play the standards in the dining areas, but when they come into the bar, they play some great, lesser-known tunes, especially if there’s a savvy, Mexican-American clientele who knows their music.

958 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena, 626.441.4353, elcholopasadena.com

La Huasteca

Hit La Huasteca only if you’re really in a festive mood. It’s A big place that’s loud and usually teeming with mariachis. The food, such as the chicken with mole negro, is worth a trip on its own, as are some of the evening concerts, which often feature hybrid modern Mexican bands. Check the website for show times.

Plaza Mexico, 3150 E. Imperial Hwy., Lynwood, 310.537.8800, lahuasteca.com

La Serenata de Garibaldi

Costume buffs can get their fill of fantastic mariachi outfits and embroidered sombreros in nearby Mariachi Square, where bands linger in hopes of getting a party gig. Afterward, head over to this Boyle Heights neighborhood favorite, for excellent and authentic Mexican seafood dishes, including fish enchiladas, empanadas, gorditas and stews. Mariachi bands often make the evening rounds, but there are quiet nights here too, so call ahead if you’re banking on a really lively evening.

1842 E. 1st St., Boyle Heights, 323.265.2887, laserenataonline.com

Sagebrush Cantina

The food is hardly riveting, but the mariachi bands that stroll the Sagebrush Cantina during Sunday brunch pretty much guarantee a good time with the kids, or those who simply want to linger on the shady patio on a lazy afternoon. On our visit, the scene stealer was an adorable 12-year-old member of Mariachi Los Imperiales who was singing along with his father and older brother. If you have a large party, call ahead and reserve a patio table for the mariachi lovers and send the country/folk fans to the adjacent outdoor sound stage by the bar.

23527 Calabasas Rd., Calabasas, 818.222.6062, sagebrushcantina.com