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Local picks

Taco spots in California

Made for those who refuse to be categorized and demand the best of both Japanese precision and the casual accessibility of a taco.

Based on 690 Opinions
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01
El Terreyaki Grill image 1
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Hole-in-the-wall Japanese spot with an open, airy interior and plenty of seating. Atmosphere stays relaxed and casual, with music videos adding to the vibe. Known for fresh, flavorful teriyaki and generous portions at reasonable prices.

Teriyaki sauce made in house delivers fresh and flavorful dishes. Teriyaki bowls come with generous servings and include options like chicken, beef, and even teriyaki burgers.

Baja fish tacos stand out with fresh, crispy fish and vibrant flavors. Other options include asada, chicken, and shrimp tacos, each with distinct, well-seasoned fillings.

People are saying

"I thought the teriyaki bowls were the best Japanese food here."

"The Baja fish taco I tried was the very best I have had."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available in the back.

2

The restaurant offers both Teriyaki bowls and Mexican food options.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

02
JINYA Ramen Bar - Culver City image 1
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Modern space combines indoor seating, bar, and outdoor patio with heaters. Atmosphere balances relaxed and welcoming vibes with occasional loud dubstep music. Crowd enjoys Asian-American fusion style and lively energy suitable for casual meals.

Ramen stands out with rich, flavorful broth and tender pork. Service is consistently fast and friendly, matching the quality of the food.

Mini Impossible Tacos come perfectly seasoned and flavorful. Salmon Poke and salmon tacos offer a fresh, tasty twist on traditional tacos.

People are saying

"The ramen here is so rich and flavorful."

"I thought their poke tacos were fire and super yummy."

Good to know

1

Parking is validated for 2-3 hours in the adjacent lot.

2

Expect to spend around $50 per person for shared appetizers and ramen.

3

Happy hour offers discounted appetizers and drinks from 4-6 p.m.

03
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Interior features life-size Samurai warrior sculptures and fashionable, trendy decor with dim, warm lighting creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Lounge music plays softly, enhancing a unique vibe that sets it apart from typical sushi restaurants. Creative cocktails and beautifully presented dishes add to a special dining experience.

Sushi here stands out for its freshness and artful presentation. Each piece blends flavor and finesse with careful preparation that goes beyond just looks.

Wagyu Tacos highlight the chef's creativity and skill with rich, flavorful fillings. Crudo tacos offer a fresh twist, paired well with bold appetizers like Shishito Peppers and Garlic Edamame.

People are saying

"I experienced the best sushi I ever had."

"The sushi here is a decadent culinary adventure."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

2

Brunch service starts at 10am on weekends.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

04
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Small restaurant offers authentic Mazatlan Sinaloa style seafood with fresh ingredients and scratch-made sauces. Atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, with most orders taken to go. Menu features a wide variety of seafood options, including standout ceviche and shrimp empanadas.

Sushi stands out with exceptional freshness and excellent quality. Seafood dishes complement the menu with authentic flavors.

Shrimp tacos and empanadas stand out with bold flavors. The tacos gobernador and asada tacos offer a delicious variety worth trying.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is delicious and made with fresh, quality ingredients."

"The asada taco was delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers authentic Mazatlan Sinaloa style food.

2

The ingredients are fresh and of high quality.

3

They charge an extra dollar to pay by card.

05
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Long, narrow space with open kitchen and intimate bar seating offers a cozy, authentic vibe. Lighting creates a romantic atmosphere that highlights the antique sake cups and skilled chefs at work. The setting feels distinct from typical izakayas, blending minimal decor with thoughtful design.

Bluefin Tuna sashimi stands out with a magical seaweed soy sauce. Creative dishes like dan dan udon and corn ribs add variety to the menu.

Pork belly taco stands out for its flavor and value at $6. Sushi tacos and toro tacos offer unique options. Corn ribs add a tasty side to the taco selection.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sashimi, is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"The pork belly taco has a great umami flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Sunday with food and drink specials.

2

Most happy hour menu items are about $5 cheaper than regular prices.

3

They offer both early and late-night happy hour specials.

06
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Small space with a handful of tables creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Walls feature a photo display where diners can leave their mark, adding a personal touch. The vibe stays calm and chill, attracting a mix of students and locals looking for fresh, quality poke options.

Sushi burritos and sushi tacos stand out with their amazing taste and crunchy texture. Regular poke bowls come in a size that can provide two meals and are consistently made right.

Wonton and sushi tacos stand out with their crunchy texture and fresh fish options. Poke tacos come perfectly crafted and offer a unique twist on traditional tacos.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the poke bowls and sushi burritos, is amazing."

"These tacos have a satisfying crunch and fresh fillings."

Good to know

1

Pokitomik has options suitable for vegans and pescatarians.

2

The parking lot is very small, so plan accordingly.

3

The rewards program offers benefits for frequent visitors.

07
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Funky little spot in a strip mall with a hole-in-the-wall vibe and mom-and-pop feel. Offers an insane variety of American, Mexican, and Japanese dishes at economical prices. Atmosphere is cozy and low-key, with a clean interior despite a shabby exterior.

Sushi includes Popcorn Shrimp and a generous 12-piece sashimi served with salad and miso soup. Teriyaki plates stand out as amazing, and seafood ramen comes with a good Cobb salad featuring lots of avocado.

Korean Bulgogi beef tacos stand out with their rich flavor and are tastier than Carne asada. Tacos come alongside other options like big burritos and sushi, served at Crazy Grill.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese Food, especially the sushi, to be great."

"I tried the Korean Bulgogi beef tacos; they were tastier than Carne asada."

Good to know

1

Crazy Grill offers a diverse menu with options from burgers to Japanese food.

2

Prices are economical, providing great value for the variety offered.

3

Expect a wait time of 10-15 minutes during busy hours.

08
JINYA Ramen Bar - 2nd and PCH image 1
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Trendy restaurant offers a modern and energetic vibe with warm, cozy ambiance and ambient lighting. Patio features an attractive gas-burning fire pit that adds to the atmosphere. Seating fills quickly by early evening, creating a lively environment.

Ramen here stands out for its flavorful broth and exceptional vegan options, especially the spicy creamy vegan ramen with tofu. Gyoza tastes fresh and cooks perfectly, complementing the sensational spicy chicken ramen.

Tacos come with a crisp bubbly shell and offer a good portion-to-price ratio. Varieties include salmon poke, spicy ahi, and impossible tacos, all fresh and tasty.

People are saying

"The ramen's ten-hour simmered broth was rich and flavorful."

"The salmon poke tacos have a standout crispy shell."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounts on buns and fried chicken before 6 PM.

2

The restaurant has an all-you-can-eat ramen option, unique to this location.

3

Expect the restaurant to get busy quickly, especially on weekends.

09
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Asian restaurant with modern, inviting decor and photo-worthy corners creates a friendly, vibey atmosphere. Loud, chill music and several TVs showing sports and K-pop fill the space. Cocktails like lychee and passionfruit complement soft dumplings and flavorful chicken rolls.

Tonkotsu ramen features a creamy broth with tender noodles and perfectly cooked eggs. Spicy ramen offers a rich umami flavor with garlic notes and tender pork, balanced with a moderate heat level.

Fusion tacos stand out with succulent pork and sweet and spicy chicken flavors. Options include chicken bao tacos and bulgogi, offering a mix of textures and tastes.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food here is great, thanks to the friendly and attentive service."

"I found the fusion tacos to be amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 8pm with $1 wings and late night deals.

2

The $1 wings are a popular choice during happy hour.

3

Parking is easier at this location compared to others in the area.

10
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Bright space with farmhouse chic decor and natural light creates a cozy, comfortable setting. Korean-style sashimi and seafood dominate the menu, served fresh with ample side dishes. Seating offers good spacing, supporting a cheerful, cool vibe throughout.

Freshest sashimi in Southern California comes with about 30 side dishes like soup, salad, and kimchi. Sashimi tacos wrapped in seaweed offer amazing flavor and arrive in a metal taco holder for a unique touch.

Sashimi tacos come wrapped in seaweed with various toppings and serve in a metal taco holder. They offer a flavorful and amazing taste that stands out among other dishes.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sashimi, is incredibly fresh."

"The sashimi tacos were amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking is limited, so consider arriving early or using rideshare services.

3

The restaurant offers a unique menu with over 20 side dishes included with sashimi orders.

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Seafood restaurant offers fresh, high-quality seafood with a laid-back, lively atmosphere and new bar area with flat screens. Small sushi bar seats about 8 to 10 people, adding a unique touch. The vibe feels comfortable and unpretentious, attracting seafood lovers seeking flavorful dishes.

Fresh sushi comes from a small sushi bar seating about 8 to 10 people. The all-you-can-eat option costs $29.99 for lunch and $34.99 for dinner, with a knowledgeable sushi chef preparing and presenting the dishes.

Shrimp tacos stand out with strong flavor and fresh taste. Fish and shrimp tacos come on maรญz tortillas but sometimes lack seasoning.

People are saying

"The sushi here is amazing and so fresh."

"I found the shrimp tacos insanely good."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited but adequate if you arrive early on busy days.

2

The all-you-can-eat sushi is priced at $29.99 for lunch and $34.99 for dinner.

3

The restaurant has no restrooms available for customers.

12
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Restaurant blends Japanese and Mexican fusion with a sushi bar and yakitori vibe. Atmosphere feels happy and chill with rock en espaรฑol music and a cool breeze from fans. Offers fresh seafood and unique dishes like carnitas ramen and octopus tacos.

Sushi rolls and ramen stand out with consistent quality and flavor. The menu blends Japanese staples like karaage chicken and teriyaki plates with unique fusion dishes such as carnitas ramen.

Octopus stands out with the Taco de Pulpo offering a delicious seafood option. The Taco Flight provides a variety to sample multiple flavors in one order.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the sushi rolls, is amazing."

"You have to try the octopus taco; it's delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect about 25 minutes for order preparation during busy hours.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended for peak hours.

13
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Seafood restaurant blends old school Mexican style with fresh sushi in a space featuring two bars and multiple TV screens showing games. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and family-friendly to busy and loud depending on time, with casual, fun vibes and music. Tables and chairs fill the room without booths, creating an open dining area.

Offers a unique blend of Mexican and Japanese cuisine with a wide variety of sushi rolls, soups, and entrees. Sushi comes well presented and flavorful, with some rolls differing from traditional styles.

Shrimp tacos come with a mild spicy sauce and taste very good. Mixed seafood tacos and burritos feature fresh shrimp and cheese, prepared well alongside sushi.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here has the best service I've ever experienced."

"I thought the fish tacos were good, especially with the repollo."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging due to a steep drive into the lot.

2

The menu is available in both Spanish and English for easier ordering.

3

Prices are on the higher side for the quality of food offered.

14
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Food court combines spacious indoor and outdoor seating with a beer garden vibe featuring astroturf, picnic tables, and games. Live music and DJs create a lively atmosphere, while outdoor areas welcome kids and dogs. Design mixes family-style picnic tables and Scandinavian minimalist touches under high ceilings.

Sushi comes in a taco shell, offering a fresh and crunchy twist called tacoshi. Chicken katsu and katsu combos also feature as solid options with familiar flavors.

Tacos here include eel and ahi tuna, offering a unique twist. Crispy sushi tacos stand out alongside more traditional options.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food here has plenty of seating inside and outside."

"You have to try the crispy sushi tacos, especially the eel."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Tuesday to Thursday, 2 pm to 5 pm, with $8 Margaritas on Monday.

2

There are events almost every weekend, including concerts and themed nights.

3

Parking can be very difficult and frustrating, especially during peak hours.

15
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Asian fusion spot with modern chic dรฉcor and minimal indoor seating leans toward takeout and quick meals. Outdoor seating offers a more comfortable dining option with an amazing view. The vibe is friendly and inviting, suited for casual, fast-paced visits.

Teriyaki dishes feature a chicken and beef plate with sauce that some find unreal while others call it bland. Simple sushi rolls also appear on the menu.

Beef teriyaki tacos stand out with their excellent flavor. Chicken teriyaki tacos also appear alongside wraps and noodles as popular choices.

People are saying

"The teriyaki sauce here is unreal and makes the Japanese food delicious."

"I found the beef teriyaki tacos to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Expect a small wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Food is typically ready in 10-15 minutes for takeout orders.

3

Seating is limited, so plan for takeout if it's busy.

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Modern design splits space between separate bar and family areas with a glassed-in outdoor patio warmed by heaters. Lively atmosphere features loud Spanish music and a DJ playing an energetic playlist. Sushi offerings are incredibly fresh, attracting those seeking quality Japanese cuisine.

Fresh sushi and rolls stand out with excellent tempura shrimp cooked perfectly. The tempura mix offers crunchy vegetables with a sweet carrot flavor, and the gyozas and ramen also impress with their quality.

Spicy tuna and crab stand out as bold taco choices. Calamari appetizers often accompany orders including tuna tacos and other dishes.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"I really enjoyed their spicy tuna tacos."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day from Monday to Wednesday.

2

Wednesdays feature half-off wine bottles during happy hour.

3

Parking is limited with only a few street spots available.

17
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Vintage Masonic Lodge repurposed into a stylish food hall with vibrant decor and communal seating. Atmosphere stays relaxing and modern with natural light and quiet upstairs study areas. Offers diverse food vendors, indoor and outdoor seating, plus events and an art gallery upstairs.

Many vendors offer a variety of foods including sushi, Mediterranean, and Caribbean dishes. Sushi Rolland serves fresh, tasty sushi rolls that stand out among the options.

Options include quesobirria tacos and a dedicated birria taco spot. Tacos come alongside diverse eats like Caribbean and Mediterranean food, offering a variety of flavors to explore.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"I found the quesobirria tacos to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the side streets and is free.

2

Expect limited seating during peak times, especially on weekends.

3

Blossom Market Hall hosts various events every weekend, check the schedule online.

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Interior blends traditional Mexican decor with modern elements, creating a beautiful and spotless setting. Live music and a DJ provide a lively atmosphere, though the volume can be too loud for conversation. The place offers many spots for photos and features soulful, top-notch entertainment.

Menu blends Mexican cuisine with fresh sushi rolls. Mango California roll stands out with great flavor.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is delicious, from the sushi to the enchiladas."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available for $15, which is convenient.

2

Happy hour runs all day with a buy one get one free sushi deal.

3

Expect the place to be packed during peak hours.

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Food court combines indoor and outdoor seating with a large bar and big TV screens for sports viewing. Outdoor area features live music and is dog friendly, creating a lively and trendy atmosphere. Space feels modern and stylish, with a warehouse-like design and plenty of greenery on the patio.

Bar ramen and Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen are available here. The ramen tends to be average, with some finding it just mid quality.

Tacos come as Tacos de Canasta, steamed with cabbage, pickled onions, and vibrant salsas. The unique serving style can make the ordering process confusing but offers a different taco experience.

People are saying

"I can't wait to try more Japanese Food here."

"I tried Hawaiian, Thai, and potato tacos here."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited and often full before 11am.

2

Current vendors include a variety of cuisines, from tacos to boba drinks.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially during weekends and events.

20
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Seafood restaurant with live music and a full bar featuring TVs for games creates a lively and inviting atmosphere. Spacious interior includes indoor and patio seating with a clean, modern bar area. The vibe is family oriented and vibrant, blending fun and relaxation.

Many choices for sushi include mango sushi and Baja roll, which stand out. Staff provide amazing service. Quality varies depending on the sushi cook present.

Tacos here come with fresh seafood that stays succulent and juicy. The Gobernador tacos and fish tacos deliver excellent, abundant flavors.

People are saying

"I loved the Japanese food, especially the sushi."

"The fish tacos here are so juicy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2-6 PM Monday through Friday and during Padres' games.

2

Enjoy 2-for-1 16 oz beers during happy hour, including IPAs.

3

Live music is available on weekends, enhancing the atmosphere.

21
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Supermarket offers authentic Mexican style with wide aisles and well-lit, clean spaces. It features fresh produce, a guacamole bar, and ready-to-go food stations including sushi and ceviche. Large parking lot supports busy visits, while financial services add convenience.

Sushi here is very fresh and comes with a best buy date on every container. The sushi bar offers a quick, affordable option with polite staff ready to serve.

Ready-to-go food stations offer ceviche, fresh tacos, and barbacoa beef. Tacos come in large sizes with a good amount of meat, including options like asada, al pastor, tripa, and pollo.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is always fresh and affordable."

"Navigating the Taco entrance during traffic is challenging."

Good to know

1

Birote rolls cost $1 each.

2

Parking can be difficult at Vallarta Supermarkets.

3

The store has a great selection of fresh produce and ethnic foods.

22
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Food court with large tables and a bar area featuring TVs for sports creates a social setting. Atmosphere ranges from cozy and calm to lively with live music and games, suitable for families and groups. Outdoor seating includes fire pits and options for sun or shade, enhancing comfort.

Fresh sushi gets made right in front of you with great seafood and attentive service. Dishes like Pork Katsu with Curry and Japanese BBQ Chicken wings offer tasty options beyond sushi.

Seafood tacos stand out, especially the octopus and rockefeller varieties. Carnitas and birria tacos also feature prominently, with tasty carne asada options available inside the market.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the sushi, is fresh and made right in front of you."

"I thought the octopus taco was the best in town."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited at Market on 8th.

2

The cafe closes after 5 PM, limiting dessert options.

3

There are various food vendors offering Mexican, Asian, and more.

23
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Seafood restaurant with waterfront patio offers live jazz music and spectacular ocean views. Atmosphere feels warming and inviting, enhanced by heaters and a fire pit. Guests often enjoy the setting for dinner or cocktails while watching the bay and marina.

Sushi stands out with its delicious taste and variety, including sushi rolls. Happy hour offers a fun chance to enjoy these dishes.

Blackened sea bass tacos stand out with their bold flavor. Other tacos, including a trio option, come across as standard without much excitement.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food, especially the sushi, to be delicious."

"The blackened sea bass tacos were a real treat."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance for dining.

2

Happy hour runs from 4pm to 6pm with discounted drinks and food.

3

50% off whole bottles of wine available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

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Small, dark space with table top grills and smoke vents keeps the atmosphere lively yet cozy. Most tables seat two to four people, creating an intimate setting. The vibe blends modern decor with a fusion Japanese BBQ experience.

High quality sushi features fresh, savory fish with visually appealing nigiris. The menu includes standout dishes like uni udon, beef carpaccio, and bone marrow fried rice, alongside perfectly grilled meats with balanced marination.

Salmon tacos come with seared salmon and fresh toppings. Sushi tacos also stand out with unique seafood like mango coconut scallops and salmon. Rolls and fries complement the tacos well.

People are saying

"The all-you-can-eat Japanese food here is surprisingly good value."

"The grilled meats, especially the sakura pork belly, were tender and tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary due to the restaurant's small size and high demand.

2

The restaurant has a 60-minute dining limit that isn't mentioned on their menu.

3

Happy hour is on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 5 pm to 7 pm with buy one get one free on many menu items.

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