Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Central LA's best

Taco lunch spots

You want a taco that is substantial enough to anchor your afternoon.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
User
User
User
Updated July 2026
01
Street Tacos and Grill image 1
Street Tacos and Grill image 2
Street Tacos and Grill image 3
View all
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers outdoor seating with handmade tortillas and a menu featuring authentic tacos like asada and carnitas. The atmosphere is cozy and lively, surrounded by Latin flair near Mariachi Plaza. It attracts both meat and veggie eaters looking for flavorful, casual meals.

Offers both veggie and meat options that suit different tastes. Located near a lively plaza, it serves as a relaxed spot to enjoy lunch or dinner with friends.

Tacos feature homemade tortillas and beef asada that stand out for their flavor. The tacos come with outstanding customer service and consistently deliver a tasty experience.

People are saying

"These tacos are the best I've had in a while."

"The carnitas here are juicy and savory."

"I loved the tacos at this Lunch Spot; the pollo y asada were the best."

Good to know

1

Parking can be extremely difficult to find in the area.

2

The menu includes tacos, burritos, bowls, mulitas, and tortas.

3

Outdoor dining is available at their location.

02
La Popular Hollywood image 1

Large outdoor patio with fire pits and shuttered overhead cover creates a cozy, inviting space. Interior blends stylish decor with a quality sound system, offering a warm atmosphere that transports guests. A traveling tequila cart adds a unique touch to the relaxed vibe.

Lunch features great tacos and a good lunch special with an appetizer and entree at a set price. Portions are generous enough to have leftovers even after lunch.

Rib-eye and Carnitas tacos offer rich, flavorful bites with just the right heat. The quesabirria tacos and mole chicken enchiladas bring bold, savory layers to the menu.

People are saying

"The food at this outdoor seating spot is delicious and fresh."

"You have to try the quesabirria tacos; they're amazing."

"Ashley's fast service makes this Lunch Spot great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Tuesdays with drinks priced between $7 and $8.

2

Sunday brunch is available from 10 am to 3 pm, perfect for post-church visits.

3

Validated parking is available for up to two hours with a restaurant receipt.

03
Homegirl Cafรฉ image 1

Cafe space features vibrant art exhibition and well-designed seating layout. Atmosphere feels lively and uplifting with old school music and strong bonds among staff creating a human touch. Visitors find a chill vibe and a sense of belonging in a community-focused setting.

Lunch offers a great variety of tasty options. The spot earns consistent praise and draws repeat visits for its breakfast and lunch selections.

Potato tacos stand out with flavorful ingredients. Twisted cheese pastries add a unique touch to sandwiches, quesadillas, and tacos.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding and terrific."

"The lunch options here are delicious and not your average menu."

"I loved the potato tacos; they were excellent."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available near the cafรฉ, but it can be tight.

2

The cafรฉ has a small parking lot in the back for customers.

3

Reservations are not required, but expect a line during peak hours.

04
Milpa Kitchen image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American restaurant with a cozy cafe vibe and bebop jazz music playing. Offers indoor and outdoor seating, including a small patio by the street. Atmosphere feels chill and welcoming, attracting those who appreciate healthy, flavorful meals.

Lunch offers healthy, yummy options with a delicious chicken taquito plate. Service moves fast during the lunch hour.

Tacos feature pork belly with blue corn tortillas, Al pastor mushrooms, and authentic chicken options. Gourmet Mexican flavors come through in every bite.

People are saying

"The honey cafecito latte is an unexpected revelation."

"I loved the breakfast tacos with mushrooms."

"This lunch spot has delicious food and coffee options."

Good to know

1

Parking can be iffy, so plan to arrive early.

2

Free street parking is available, but it may be a block away.

3

The Sunday menu is limited to burritos and tacos only.

05
Tacos Locos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space centers on an open kitchen where chefs prepare tacos. Atmosphere stays relaxed yet energetic with a warm, inviting charm. Affordable prices attract those seeking genuine Mexican flavors in a casual setting.

Offers a really nice atmosphere for lunch with good food options. Serves as a solid spot to stop by for a midday meal.

Tacos come with carne asada and pollo options that taste delicious and stay affordable. An open kitchen lets you watch chefs prepare each taco fresh, adding to the casual vibe.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is fantastic."

"I found it to be a really nice lunch spot."

"I found the tacos here to be delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

The food at Tacos Locos is very affordable.

2

Expect limited seating inside the restaurant.

3

Tacos Locos is great for a quick meal with friends.

06
Los 5 Puntos image 1

Tight, old-school deli with authentic Mexican vibe and loud mariachi music outdoors. Women slap tortillas in sync over a giant comal, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Outdoor community tables offer casual seating despite worn furniture.

Lunch offers good value with meals under $11 and includes a bottled Coke. The spot stays consistently busy during lunch hours, showing its popularity.

Meat tacos come stuffed with meat and feature handmade tortillas made without machines, highlighting traditional methods. Carnitas and tripe tacos stand out, paired well with horchata water.

People are saying

"The food's authentic Mexican taste, especially the sopes and tamales, is delicious."

"You have to try the carnitas tacos; they were amazing."

"You have to try the tacos at this Lunch Spot; they hooked it up."

Good to know

1

On Saturdays and Sundays, they serve menudo.

2

Parking is tricky, so I parked on a nearby street and walked over.

3

The line can get long on weekends, but it moves fast.

07
IndiMex Eats Indian restaurant image 1

Small dining room offers an intimate, cozy vibe with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The space feels homely and simple, reflecting an old-school neighborhood style. It draws a crowd looking for unique Indian fusion dishes like Chicken Tikka Masala Burritos in a casual setting.

Lunch combos include curry chicken, rice, and a starter for about 13-14 dollars. The spot offers a solid meal option after outdoor activities like hiking.

Tacos here pack rich, spicy flavors with options like chicken tikka and lamb under $5. Vegetarian paneer tacos stand out with bold seasoning and the portions are large and filling.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"This lunch spot has consistently delicious food."

"The mutton in this taco tasted exactly like the best spots in India."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a $50 dinner special that feeds 2-3 people.

2

IndiMex Eats has many vegan options available for diners.

3

Parking is easy for pickup orders at the restaurant.

08
Nick's Cafe image 1

Small, old-school diner with U-shaped counter seating and covered outdoor patio. Atmosphere feels nostalgic and classic, with a lively vibe from regulars like city workers and families. Located in an industrial area, it offers a simple, hearty breakfast experience.

Offers a good selection of breakfast and lunch plates with well-portioned options. Serves classic meals suitable for both breakfast and lunch.

Breakfast tacos stand out with 3 machaca tacos, hash browns, and house red salsa in a bottle. They come with coffee and deliver a consistently amazing and excellent taste.

People are saying

"The food here is so good and flavorful."

"This lunch spot feels like stepping back in time with its classic diner vibe."

"The breakfast tacos here are yummy."

Good to know

1

Nick's Cafe opens super early at 6:00 am, which is an advantage over many restaurants.

2

Nick's Cafe closed at 2 PM.

3

The wait time was 45 minutes before getting seated.

09
La Nena Cantina image 1
Restaurant

Upscale Mexican restaurant with modern warm decor and an intimate patio area creates a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. Live mariachi band and curated playlists provide lively music that energizes without overwhelming. Guests enjoy authentic high-quality food and expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.

Lunch runs until 4 PM with a dedicated menu. The spot suits casual dining for brunch, lunch, and dinner.

Small street taco size packs big flavor with Birria Taco, pork belly, and quesabirria tacos standing out. Consommรฉ accompanies some tacos, adding depth to the taste.

People are saying

"You have to try the Sunday brunch with mariachi music."

"I wish I had gotten more of the Birria Tacos; they were fantastic."

"I was surprised the Lunch Spot buffet had quesadilla birria and tacos al pastor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 PM to 6 PM on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

The Sunday brunch features an all-you-can-eat buffet from 11 AM to 3 PM.

3

Live Mariachi performances occur every Friday evening and during Sunday brunch.

10
Cafe Fresco image 1
Brunch restaurant

Small cafe with cozy decor and personal touches creates a peaceful atmosphere that feels like a slice of Ecuador. Comfortable seating and a full espresso bar support a relaxed, inviting vibe. The place draws a mix of patrons enjoying authentic Ecuadorian and American dishes in a family-owned setting.

Extensive menu offers plenty of lunch options alongside breakfast and dinner. Service during lunch is consistently awesome, making it a reliable spot to stay and enjoy a meal.

Shrimp and fish tacos stand out with fresh flavors and balanced seasoning. Taco Tuesday offers a deal with three tacos and an agua fresca for $14, featuring options like steak with cilantro and onion or warm veggie salad with salmon.

People are saying

"The breakfast sandwiches here are delicious."

"This lunch spot's meals are delicious and filling."

"I loved the shrimp tacos; they were super delicious."

Good to know

1

They host a perreo and coffee event on select weekends.

2

On weekends, Cafe Fresco serves unmissable Ecuadorian dishes.

3

The Taco Tuesday deal includes three tacos and an agua fresca for $14.

11
Three Borders Brunch and grill image 1

Family-owned restaurant offers an authentic Mexican Salvador fusion experience with huge portions and shaded outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels joyful and welcoming, encouraging casual chats among diners. Space stays immaculate and exudes a homey vibe.

Lunch features a variety of dishes that satisfy different tastes with consistent quality. Friendly service from the owner and staff creates a welcoming, family-like atmosphere.

Shrimp tacos stand out with grilled tomatoes and great taco meat. Fish tacos also appear on the menu alongside enchiladas and homemade chips.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and flavorful."

"This lunch spot's food is amazing, fresh, and made to order."

"I recommend the shrimp tacos."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served all day.

2

Parking is available right in front of the restaurant.

3

The menu is extensive, offering something for almost everyone.

12
Mariscos 4 Vientos image 1
Seafood restaurant

Counter seating shapes a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with a pleasant, quiet vibe. The place draws people looking for quick turnover and casual dining. Known for best shrimp tacos, it offers a memorable seafood experience.

Lunch comes from a lunch truck that accepts cash only and charges no tax. Meals serve as a fast, satisfying option for a quick break.

Shrimp tacos stand out with their fried shrimp and addictive flavor. They consistently rank as excellent and a must-try for anyone seeking great tacos.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and tasty."

"The shrimp tacos dorados are the best I've ever had."

"This lunch spot's shrimp tacos are addictive, I always get them."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accepts cash only, no credit cards or checks.

2

Parking is limited with only about 10 spots available on-site.

3

Expect a wait time of 45 minutes for both takeout and dining.

13
Tenampal image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, intimate space evokes traditional Mexican rancho vibe with a family-owned atmosphere. Music adds to the welcoming, home-like feel. Crowded yet cozy setting highlights authentic, handmade Mexican cuisine.

Smash burger stands out as a solid choice for lunch. Quick service suits those needing a fast meal before heading out.

Tacos dorados stand out with authentic flavors, especially the chicken and suadero versions. Suadero beef tacos and cauliflower potato tacos also deliver delicious and memorable tastes.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the flavorful mole."

"The tacos dorados de pollo were amazing and authentic."

"This Lunch Spot's marinated chicken burrito was so flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect to wait during peak hours.

2

The restaurant has about 5-6 small tables inside and 2 small tables outside.

3

They sometimes run out of popular dishes like mole, so arrive early.

14
Pink & Boujee LA image 1

Small space filled with bright pink decor and vibrant feminine energy creates a quirky, Instagrammable atmosphere. Friendly, welcoming vibe with photo-friendly spots and a lively DJ. Space feels cozy but can get hot and cramped.

Green sauce chilaquiles come with fried eggs and grilled meat for lunch. Seating is available inside for a late lunch.

Soft, fresh maza stands out in the mulita and tacos. The pink tacos and pink nachos pack a lot of flavor and come highly recommended.

People are saying

"The pink chilaquiles here are amazing and hit the mark."

"The tacos were pink and so was my latte."

"This lunch spot is so over the top pink and super cute."

Good to know

1

There is street parking available nearby.

2

Expect a long wait for a table during busy hours.

3

On Wednesdays, wearing pink gives you a 10% discount.

15
El Tepeyac Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Old school Mexican diner with small indoor space and covered patio seating creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Crowd feels uplifting and positive, often lively but welcoming. Known for legendary burritos and authentic vibe that recalls past decades.

Lunch offers generous portions that often leave enough for a next-day meal. The spot suits family gatherings well and draws people willing to drive out just for the midday meal.

Hard shell tacos stand out with lots of meat and a full filling. Shredded beef tacos and taco platters offer delicious flavors despite some dryness in the rice.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the burritos, is massive and loaded with flavor."

"It feels nostalgic, like stepping back into the 90s."

"This Lunch Spot's burritos are massive and so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during peak lunch and dinner hours.

2

Parking is generally easy, with street parking available nearby.

3

Prices are reasonable, but guacamole can significantly increase your bill.

16
Porky's Carnitas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy Mexican restaurant with photographs of famous Mexicans decorating the walls and a family environment. Atmosphere is generally nice but includes a loud rattling fan that stands out. Known for authentic Michoacรกn style carnitas served with fresh tortillas and flavorful salsas, attracting those seeking traditional flavors.

Carnitas and chicharron stand out among the taco fillings. Oil chili adds extra flavor when poured on carnitas tacos. Tortillas tend to fall apart easily.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"I thought these carnitas were the best I had in a while."

"You've got to try the carnitas tacos; they have such a good flavor."

Good to know

1

They charge an extra 10% for card payments, so bring cash to save money.

2

Parking is convenient, making it easy to visit.

3

The restaurant is usually empty around 10:00 AM, ideal for avoiding crowds.

17
Mexicali Taco & Co. image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers tiny space with a small patio outside. Atmosphere blends traditional and contemporary elements but features loud music that can disrupt conversation. Frequented by government workers, it provides budget-friendly authentic food with options for gluten-free and vegetarian diets.

Close to work, the spot offers a quick lunch with a lunch special often available. Fish tacos come on corn tortillas but can be served cold.

Shrimp tacos stand out with large, cheesy shrimp and a robust flavor. Asada tacos deliver a delicious, top-tier taste. Fish tacos on corn tortillas offer a fresh, highly praised option.

People are saying

"The seafood tacos here are huge and packed with large shrimp."

"I loved the fish and chicken tacos; they were delicious."

"I tried the fish tacos for lunch; they were some of the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street or in a nearby lot.

2

The food is reasonably priced, with generous portions.

3

They offer gluten-free and vegetarian options on the menu.

18
Guelaguetza Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious indoor and outdoor seating features colorful decor and authentic Oaxacan roots. Live music, including a marimba band and mariachi, creates a lively, noisy atmosphere that immerses diners in culture. A large mezcal selection complements the vibrant setting.

Strong mole stands out and lifts the whole meal. Food offers a solid option for a nice lunch with family.

Tacos feature small amounts of meat with a focus on Oaxacan flavors. They come alongside varied molรฉs and traditional sides like black beans and rice.

People are saying

"I tasted the most authentic Oaxacan food I've ever had in the USA."

"This Lunch Spot's mole negro was rich, warm, and super tender."

"I loved the mouthwatering tacos here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant only accepts cash, so plan accordingly.

3

Valet parking is available but can be expensive.

Discover more

Central LA, Los Angeles

Area guide
Loading Map...