The Ultimate Guide to the Top 10 Taco Spots in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a city known for its diverse culinary landscape, and at the heart of this food scene is the beloved taco. From traditional street vendors to modern taco joints, LA offers a taco experience like no other. Whether you’re a fan of classic carne asada, crave something innovative, or are searching for the perfect vegan taco, LA has it all. Here’s a look at the top 10 taco places in Los Angeles, where each bite offers a taste of the city’s rich cultural heritage.

1. Guerilla Tacos

Address: 2000 E 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Website: guerillatacos.com

Overview: Guerilla Tacos started as a food truck and has since grown into one of LA’s most iconic taco spots. Chef Wes Avila’s innovative take on tacos features everything from sweet potato with feta to lamb belly with red chile. Each taco is a work of art, making Guerilla Tacos a must-visit.

2. Guisados

Address: 2100 E Cesar E Chavez Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90033

Website: guisados.co

Overview: Guisados is famous for its homestyle braised fillings served on handmade tortillas. With a variety of slow-cooked stews ranging from tinga de pollo to cochinita pibil, Guisados delivers rich flavors in every bite. Their sampler plate is perfect for first-timers who want to try a bit of everything.

3. Leo’s Tacos Truck

Address: Corner of La Brea & Venice Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90019

Website: leostacotruck.com

Overview: A true LA staple, Leo’s Tacos Truck is known for its authentic al pastor, shaved straight from the spit. The combination of juicy pork, pineapple, and their signature red salsa has earned Leo’s a loyal following. This is classic street food at its finest.

READ  A Guide to Chinese Food in San Gabriel Valley, CA

4. Taco María

Address: 3313 Hyland Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Website: tacomaria.com

Overview: Located in Costa Mesa, Taco María offers a fine-dining twist on traditional tacos. Chef Carlos Salgado’s menu is a homage to his Mexican heritage, featuring elevated dishes like the famous “Chorizo Verde” taco. The restaurant’s modern approach and dedication to quality make it worth the drive.

5. Sonoratown

Address: 208 E 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014

Website: sonoratown.com

Overview: Sonoratown brings the flavors of Northern Mexico to LA with its delicious carne asada tacos served on flour tortillas. Their “Caramelo,” a taco filled with grilled meat and cheese, is a standout. The simplicity and authenticity of Sonoratown’s menu keep locals and tourists coming back for more.

6. Tacos 1986

Address: 621 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90005

Website: tacos1986.com

Overview: Tacos 1986 captures the essence of Tijuana-style street tacos with options like adobada, asada, and mushroom. Their handmade tortillas and vibrant flavors have quickly made them a beloved fixture in the LA taco scene. Don’t miss their signature adobada taco with guacamole.

7. El Chato Taco Truck

Address: 5300 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Website: No official website (Find them on social media for updates)

Overview: El Chato Taco Truck is a late-night favorite, serving up tacos that are simple, delicious, and affordable. Their carne asada and al pastor tacos are particularly popular, making it the perfect spot for a quick bite after a night out in LA.

8. La Azteca Tortilleria

Address: 4538 E Cesar E Chavez Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90022

Website: No official website (Check Yelp for more info)

READ  The Rise and Evolution of Boba in the San Gabriel Valley

Overview: Known for their legendary chile relleno burrito, La Azteca Tortilleria also offers some of the best tacos in East LA. Their tortillas are freshly made in-house, providing the perfect base for their flavorful fillings. The authenticity and quality here are unmatched.

9. Mariscos Jalisco

Address: 3040 E Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90023

Website: No official website (Follow them on social media)

Overview: Famous for their fried shrimp tacos, Mariscos Jalisco is an institution in LA’s taco scene. Each taco is filled with succulent shrimp, lightly fried to perfection, and topped with a special salsa. This taco truck is a must-visit for seafood lovers.

10. Kogi BBQ

Address: Various locations (Check website for current schedule)

Website: kogibbq.com

Overview: Kogi BBQ is the pioneer of the Korean-Mexican taco fusion, offering unique creations like the “Short Rib Taco.” The truck’s combination of bold Korean flavors with traditional Mexican tacos has made it a sensation, often credited with sparking the gourmet food truck movement.

Conclusion

Los Angeles is a taco lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of flavors and styles that reflect the city’s vibrant cultural tapestry. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional street tacos or something with a modern twist, these top 10 taco spots in LA have something to satisfy every craving. Grab your friends, hit the streets, and experience the best tacos that LA has to offer!