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Local picks in California

Family owned al pastor spots

Made for those who track down the best al pastor by following the family-run stands that have perfected their marinade over generations.

Based on 739 Opinions
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01
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Spacious Mexican restaurant with stunning design and beautiful decor creates a cozy yet lively atmosphere. Music plays softly while a large screen TV shows NBA games behind the bar. The place welcomes families and groups, featuring large tables for celebrations.

Family ownership means all food is homemade and fresh. The place keeps a close, personal touch in its kitchen and service.

Tacos feature flavorful al pastor with a rich taste that stands out, especially in the birria taco. The al pastor itself is delicious and well-seasoned.

People are saying

"It's family owned and they serve all homemade, fresh food."

"The Al Pastor here is so tasty and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers margarita and taco specials.

2

Santa Monica charges a 10.75% city tax on all bills.

3

The menu features a variety of innovative burritos and tacos.

02
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Small, family-owned Mexican restaurant with a quiet, inviting atmosphere and a generous, friendly vibe. Frequented by working-class people seeking authentic, affordable street-style tacos and quick service. The space feels like a mom and pop taco shop with a focus on traditional flavors.

Family ownership shines through with longstanding operation and hands-on management. The place stays true to its roots with authentic recipes passed down through generations.

Tacos and burritos feature Al Pastor with rich flavor and tender meat. Guacamole often accompanies the Al Pastor burrito, adding a creamy touch.

People are saying

"This family owned spot has the most flavorful carne asada."

"The Al Pastor tacos were delicious and my favorite."

Good to know

1

They recently changed their hours to be open until 7 pm.

2

The prices at Tacos San Pedro are extremely reasonable.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments accepted, but no personal checks.

03
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Small, old Mexican restaurant with a cozy, homestyle atmosphere that feels like home. Family-owned with a well-organized kitchen maintaining proper food-safety practices. Known for authentic Mexican flavors and exceptional al pastor tacos.

A family-owned business for over 41 years, this restaurant stays true to its roots with authentic Mexican food. It remains locally operated, emphasizing community support.

Original al pastor recipe comes straight from the owner and chef, who is also the founder. The Al Pastor tacos stand out as a delicious and memorable dish often praised for their flavor and quality.

People are saying

"I ate the best Al Pastor tacos I've ever had."

"The food here is so delicious, I'd come back."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is family-owned and has been operating since the early 1980s.

2

Expect fresh meals as everything is prepared to order.

3

They charge $5 for premade guacamole.

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Small, clean space with comfortable seating and bright, warm decor creates a welcoming atmosphere. Vibrant energy fills the room, enhanced by a Spanish rock playlist that sets a lively tone. The vibe balances casual dining with a sense of care and attention to detail.

Two brothers run this family-owned business with pride and focus on kind customer service. It serves delicious comfort food and represents a multi-generational community effort.

Al pastor tacos come with bold, authentic flavors and perfectly balanced toppings. The al pastor burrito features tender, well-seasoned meat and fresh ingredients, making it a standout choice.

People are saying

"It's a family-owned business with quality food and great service."

"I thought the Al Pastor was the best I had out here."

Good to know

1

First-time customers receive a complimentary drink.

2

They have weekly specials.

05
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Colorful, authentic Mexican decor creates a family-friendly atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating. The space feels like a small village taqueria, filled with great Mexican music and a warm vibe. It offers a hidden gem experience with strong cultural energy.

The spot feels like a small Mexican village eatery with wonderful decorations and friendly staff. It operates as a family owned restaurant with great service and food.

Al Pastor tacos offer rich, satisfying flavors with tender meat. The Al pastor fries stand out as exceptionally good, and the Questa taco with Al pastor delivers a tasty punch.

People are saying

"The Al Pastor tacos were so delicious and satisfying."

Good to know

1

There are no public restrooms at this taqueria.

2

The prices are very affordable for authentic Mexican food.

3

Parking is easy to find near the restaurant.

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Mexican restaurant offers family-style vibe with a serve-yourself salsa bar that lets people customize tacos freely. Interior feels welcoming and simple, creating a homey atmosphere. Tacos are small and affordable, encouraging ordering multiple for a satisfying meal.

Small and family owned, this restaurant keeps a close-knit vibe. The business runs with a personal touch from the family behind it.

Al pastor stands out with its slightly sweet and perfectly seasoned flavor. The meat stays juicy and delivers unbeatable taste compared to other spots.

People are saying

"This family-owned spot makes delicious, freshly made food."

"The al pastor meat was juicy and had unbeatable flavor."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $2 each, making it an affordable option.

2

A taco stand operates outside from Friday to Sunday.

3

The restaurant is family-owned, adding a personal touch.

07
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Hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant offers fresh, flavorful carne asada and well-stuffed tacos with a variety of salsas. Atmosphere feels like a family reunion with a clean, comfortable setting. Most orders go to-go, keeping the inside quiet and open late.

Family ownership shapes the spot with a friendly vibe and personal touch. It operates as a family run business with consistent care.

Al pastor tacos come grilled and packed with flavor. They also offer al pastor burritos alongside other options like carne asada and grilled fish.

People are saying

"It feels like a family reunion at this family owned spot."

"I had the al pastor tacos and they were outstanding."

Good to know

1

They have an amazing taco night on Fridays and Saturdays when the outside taco grill is fired up.

2

Most orders are to-go, so the inside is usually empty.

3

The prices on flautas and the machete burrito are awesome.

08
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Tiny Mexican restaurant with vibrant colors and Spanish music creates a welcoming, lively atmosphere. Seating is limited to about 8 spots, decorated with colorful paper cutouts and a neon taco sign. Known for authentic, fresh flavors and affordable prices, especially on Taco Tuesday.

A family-owned restaurant runs the place, giving it a local and personal touch. The team behind it keeps things authentic and connected to the community.

Al pastor shows up in tacos and tortas with bold flavor and a sauce that spreads to other tacos. The torta al pastor and quesabirrias stand out as very tasty options.

People are saying

"The Al Pastor tacos were great, fresh, and flavorful."

"This Family Owned spot has the best birria in the area."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers great prices on tacos, making it a popular day to visit.

2

Parking can be difficult, especially on Saturday mornings when the lot is packed.

3

The restaurant has limited vegetarian taco options available.

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Small Mexican restaurant offers clean, inviting dining with a family-owned atmosphere and fresh, homemade ingredients. The space stays cool and busy, filled with people enjoying flavorful dishes and Christian music. Parking can be challenging, but seating inside is ample and comfortable.

Runs by a family, this spot keeps things efficient and consistent. The family ownership shapes the whole vibe and operation.

People are saying

"It's a nice, family-owned place I loved."

Good to know

1

They have parking in the back and the entrance is through the front.

2

Street parking nearby can be tricky, but side streets offer 2-hour options.

3

The prices are very affordable and everything is fresh.

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Family-owned bakery offers wide variety of baked goods and daily tacos except Wednesday with great prices. Atmosphere feels homey and welcoming rather than elegant. Tacos stand out as some of the best in the area, filled generously with flavorful meat.

A friendly family-owned bakery runs the place. The family ownership shapes the atmosphere and service.

Al pastor tacos come with a good flavor but tend to be a little oily. They stand out alongside carnitas as solid taco options.

People are saying

"This family owned bakery has delicious, affordable baked goods."

"I found the Al Pastor tacos to be amazing and generously filled."

Good to know

1

Chelos Panaderia is a cash-only business; Zelle is also accepted.

2

Tacos cost $1.50 each and are available daily except Wednesday.

3

The panaderรญa sells tamales and menudo on weekends.

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