Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Central LA

Mexican food

A craving for authentic Mexican food demands a meal that feels substantial and familiar.

Based on 776 Opinions
+773
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Tacos Guelaguetza image 1
Tacos Guelaguetza image 2
Tacos Guelaguetza image 3
View all
Taco restaurant

Pop-up tent with no seating creates a casual, open-air vibe. Tacos al pastor shine with nicely browned meat and pineapple, while an open sauce bar and massive toppings table let you customize freely. Authentic flavors draw a crowd despite minimal amenities.

Tacos al pastor come with nicely browned meat and pineapple, standing out as a highlight. Carnitas and burritos also rank highly, with flavors that many find unmatched in the area.

People are saying

"I thought these were some of the best tacos I ever had."

"I didn't realize the burrito equipment was shared with pork."

"The pastor tacos here are so delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

The tacos cost just $2 each, which is an extremely good deal.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere with an endless traffic of customers.

3

The full menu is not available until 30 minutes after posted hours.

02
Dos Amantes image 1
Restaurant

Upscale Mexican seafood spot shines with authentic flavors and exceptional ceviche. Tacos boast large protein portions and crispy batter, while homemade salsas add fresh zest. Spacious seating and a chill vibe make it perfect for relaxed dining.

Tacos come with large protein portions and a light, crispy batter on fish and shrimp options. Salsas taste fresh and seem made in-house. Tostadas, ceviche, and dishes like octopus tacos and scallop aguachile stand out.

People are saying

"The taco de pulpo was a standout dish."

"I thought the ceviche here was super awesome and had perfect flavor."

"The Mexican food here, especially the ceviche, is exceptionally good."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available for easy access.

2

Street parking is free after 8:00 PM.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

03
Street Tacos and Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot near Mariachi Plaza serves handmade tortillas with authentic tacos like asada and carnitas. Outdoor seating adds to the cozy, lively atmosphere. Menu suits both meat lovers and vegetarians seeking flavorful, casual meals.

Tacos feature hand-made tortillas and a variety of Mexican-style meats like asada, barbacoa, and chorizo. Burritos include options like the Spicy Pig, a carnitas burrito with chicharron, even if not on the menu.

People are saying

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

"The carnitas here are juicy and savory."

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos, is the best I've had."

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.

04
Untamed Spirits image 1
Sports bar

Sports bar with a woman-owned and LGBTQ forward vibe shows only women's games. Shrimp and potato tacos offer bold flavors paired with passion fruit margaritas. Indoor and outdoor seating with a dog-friendly patio creates a lively, family-like atmosphere.

Shrimp and potato tacos stand out with generous meat portions and bold flavors. Drinks like the passion fruit margarita with tajin and Micheladas complement the menu well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The bar staff here is so friendly, they make you feel like family."

"The shrimp tacos here are amazing."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $3 tequila shots and a special menu.

2

Happy hour runs from 5 to 7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

3

Trivia and bingo events are hosted regularly for guests.

05
La Nena Cantina image 1
Restaurant

Upscale Mexican spot offers bold street tacos and rich mole in a stylish setting. Warm decor and an intimate patio create a relaxed vibe. Live mariachi and curated playlists add lively music that energizes without overwhelming.

Small street taco size tacos pack bold flavors like Birria and pork belly with consommé. The menu features exceptional mole, guacamole, chile relleno, pozole, and a dessert trio of churros, flan, and tres leches.

People are saying

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

"The tableside guacamole is made fresh to order and really impressive."

"I wish I'd gotten more of the fantastic Birria Tacos."

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.

06
Milpa Kitchen image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American spot offers authentic Mexican flavors like birria breakfast burritos and pozole. Cozy cafe vibe with bebop jazz music sets a chill mood. Enjoy meals on a small street patio or inside a welcoming space focused on healthy, flavorful dishes.

Breakfast burritos stand out with birria, brisket, and sausage options that avoid processed flavors. Pozole, taquitos de papa, and esquites add variety with authentic Mexican tastes.

People are saying

"The honey cafecito latte is an unexpected revelation."

"I found the breakfast burrito to be absolutely delicious."

"The breakfast burrito here is always delicious."

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.

07
X'tiosu Kitchen image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Middle Eastern eatery offers authentic chicken shawarma and falafel with a casual vibe at shaded outdoor picnic tables. Tacos blend Middle Eastern and Mexican flavors featuring chicken shawarma and black bean hummus. Menu focuses on fried foods and traditional sandwiches for quick bites.

Tacos blend Middle Eastern and Mexican flavors with fresh ingredients. Chicken shawarma tacos and black bean hummus add a creative twist to traditional Mexican food.

People are saying

"I found the Mediterranean food, especially the falafel, to be the best I'd ever eaten."

"I loved the unique fusion of Oaxacan and Middle Eastern flavors."

"The falafel tacos here are the best Mexican food I've ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the lot adjacent to the restaurant.

2

Expect longer wait times during lunch hours on weekends.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

08
Yeya's Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, intimate spot serves authentic Mexican home cooking with handmade tortillas and spicy salsa roja. Known for best chilaquiles in Los Angeles, dishes like pozole and ribs shine in a friendly, family-style atmosphere with limited indoor and outdoor seating.

Chilaquiles stand out with a perfect balance of crunchiness and tenderness in a rich green or red sauce. Handmade tortillas shape the tacos and quesadillas, with the quesadillas notably large and filled with authentic flavors.

People are saying

"The corn tortillas here are made fresh daily."

"Their chilaquiles with green sauce, chorizo, and egg are so good."

"I found the Mexican food here to be 100% authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has limited seating, so arrive early to secure a table.

2

Parking is very limited; consider rideshare or public transport to avoid hassle.

3

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, but the entrance may be cluttered.

09
Taco Luis Tacos Anahis image 1
Mexican restaurant

Smoke from charcoal-grilled meat fills the air with a strong asada aroma. Tacos feature freshly cooked tortillas and authentic birria, each priced around $2. Payment is cash or Zelle, and staff speak only Spanish, adding to the genuine Mexican experience.

Tacos come with freshly cooked tortillas and are full of meat, priced around $2 each. The birria tacos and avocado salsa stand out for their authentic flavor and quality.

People are saying

"I thought these tacos were the best I've ever had."

"I thought the avocado salsa was the best."

"You have to try their birria tacos; they're the best I've ever eaten."

Good to know

1

It's $1.25 on Taco Tuesday, perfect for takeout deals.

2

Street parking is limited, so arrive early for a spot.

3

They accept cash or Zelle as payment methods.

10
Taco Bar image 1
Taco restaurant

Crunchy taco shells and homemade quality make Mexican food here stand out. Spicy, exceptionally seasoned fries add bold flavor. Cozy seating and affordable pricing create a vibrant, inviting spot with fresh air and music.

Tacos stand out with homemade quality and exceptional flavor, including a fantastic veggie option. Fries come spicy and flavorful, all at an affordable price.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were the best I've ever had."

"I thought the tacos were the best I've ever had."

"I found the tacos here to be the tastiest I ever had."

Good to know

1

There is limited seating available at Taco Bar.

2

Prices at Taco Bar are reasonable for the area.

11
Little Miss Cafe image 1

Colorful cafe offers impeccable latte art and light breakfast options. Outdoor shaded seating and a dog photo wall create a lively vibe. Mexican breakfast burritos are highly rated and pair well with cold brew or smoothies.

Breakfast burritos stand out with a light and delicious taste. Combo deals with cold brew or smoothies offer good value and have earned high ratings from burrito experts.

People are saying

"I thought the breakfast burrito was an amazing deal."

"The coffee shop's vibe is so cute and colorful."

"The breakfast burrito is a must-have; it's light and delicious."

Good to know

1

They have indoor and outdoor seating.

2

Parking is easy and accessible.

3

The cafe offers a wide variety of food and beverages.

12
Homegirl Café image 1

Cafe buzzes with vibrant art and a chill vibe that feels like home. Crunchy chilaquiles in red or green chili shine with rich toppings. Staff's warmth and old school tunes create a lively, uplifting space.

Chilaquiles stand out with a crunchy texture that lasts until the last bite and come in both red and green chili varieties. Toppings include queso panela, sour cream, eggs, and carnitas, creating a satisfying and flavorful dish.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding and terrific."

"Their breakfast burritos and chilaquiles are absolutely delicious."

"The Mexican food here, especially the chilaquiles, is full of flavor."

Good to know

1

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

2

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

3

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

13
El Chato Taco Truck image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck offers authentic al pastor tacos and burritos with rich flavor. Casual, laid-back vibe in a parking lot draws locals for generous portions and affordable prices. Family-run, cash-only spot delivers friendly service and a genuine experience.

Tacos and burritos here stand out for their rich flavor and authentic al pastor. The friendly service complements the food, making it a solid spot for Mexican food cravings.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best I've ever had."

"The food here is authentic and packed with bold, satisfying flavor."

"I thought the tacos here were the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

El Chato Taco Truck accepts only cash payments.

2

Prices are affordable, with tacos costing $2.50 and burritos starting at $11.

3

Expect a wait of 20-30 minutes during peak hours.

14
El Carmen image 1
Restaurant

Lucha Libre decor creates a festive vibe with loud Spanish music and a busy crowd. Tacos shine with buttery spiced potatoes and carne asada, paired perfectly with margaritas rimmed in Tajin. Expect a lively late-night spot full of energy and great flavors.

Tacos stand out with buttery, spiced potatoes in a thin, crispy shell and flavorful carne asada. Drinks like Margaritas with Tajin on the rim complement the great salsa and guacamole. Prices range from $5-7 per taco.

People are saying

"I had the best tacos of my life; they were so delicious."

"It's got a really cool vibe, perfect for after work."

"The ceviche here tastes so fresh, like it just came out of the ocean."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu is available Monday to Friday from 5–7pm with $8 margaritas and $3 tacos.

2

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

3

Street meter parking is available, but expect to walk a block or two.

15
IndiMex Eats Indian restaurant image 1

Small dining room creates an intimate vibe with a warm, cozy feel. Indian and Mexican flavors blend in Chicken Tikka Masala Burritos and lamb quesadillas with masala. Bold, spicy, creamy tastes make it a unique spot for fusion lovers.

Fusion of Indian and Mexican flavors stands out with Chicken Tikka Masala Burrito and lamb quesadilla with masala. Tacos and burritos pack rich, spicy, creamy tastes and bold textures.

People are saying

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

"The vegetarian options here are packed with flavor and texture."

"The burritos here are delicious and packed with amazing flavor."

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.

16
Primos Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican street food shines with Quesadilla Frita and fresh carne asada. A fresh salsa selection adds bold flavor to tacos and tortas. Food truck near a police station offers quality meats at higher prices with occasional wait times.

Quesadilla Frita stands out with excellent flavor and size, cooked on a griddle. Fresh carne asada and a variety of salsas complement tacos, tortas, flautas, and sope with chicken.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the carne asada."

"The salsa here is always fresh."

"I found the fried quesadillas to be excellent Mexican food."

Good to know

1

Expect occasional wait times, but many find it worth it.

2

Prices are generally considered reasonable for the quality of food.

3

The neighborhood has safety concerns, but a police station is nearby.

17
Las Margaritas Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy authentic Jalisco cuisine with standout dishes like rolled tacos filled with pork leg and topped with queso fresco. Casual atmosphere draws locals and visitors despite challenging parking. Pozole and birria offer rich, traditional flavors that satisfy every craving.

Rolled tacos come filled with pork leg, crispy ground beef, and topped with queso fresco and crema. Pozole and birria offer authentic flavors, while tortas like the pork leg and ham varieties provide filling options with spicy red salsa, lime, and salt on the side.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the pork leg torta and taquitos; they're the best Mexican food."

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

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using public transport.

2

Reservations are recommended during peak dining hours to avoid long waits.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but it's wise to bring cash for tips.

18
Boyle Heights Bar llc image 1

Bar features a spacious dance floor and lively music that energizes the crowd. Tacos shine with handmade tortillas and unique fillings like mushroom and chicharrón. Regulars create a welcoming vibe, making it great for fun and chill nights.

Tacos stand out with handmade tortillas and notable options like mushroom and chicharrón. Guacamole complements the menu, while wings and beer offer simple sides.

People are saying

"The tacos at this bar are amazing."

"I loved the amazing tacos with handmade tortillas."

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

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Thursday night starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

Street parking is available, but it can be challenging to find a spot.

3

Prices for tacos and drinks are on the higher side.

19
The Happy Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Taco truck offers affordable tacos with standout fish and veggie options. Friendly service keeps the vibe smooth under a busy freeway. Location near a gas station adds a casual feel with a Hollywood vibe.

Tacos stand out with fish and veggie options that taste great and come at an affordable price. Service is consistently friendly and accommodating, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"I thought the tacos here were amazing."

"I always ordered the carne asada burrito; it was very good."

Good to know

1

The Happy Tacos is a food truck that operates during the daytime.

2

They sell a variety of Mexican and Central American food.

3

Expect large portions at affordable prices.

20
Yia Caffe image 1
Coffee shop

Garden seating with lush plants creates a fresh vibe perfect for relaxing or studying. Mole tamale wrapped in banana leaves offers a rich flavor with a kick. Horchata latte is smooth and easy to drink, adding to the calm, zen-like atmosphere.

Mole tamale wrapped in banana leaves offers a bit of a kick and rich flavor. Horchata latte comes smooth and easy to drink.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be of very good quality and amazing flavor."

"The outdoor seating is a pretty, relaxing space surrounded by greenery."

"The mole tamale here is amazing and has a bit of a kick."

Good to know

1

Parking at Yia Caffe can be difficult, but street parking is available nearby.

2

There are no restroom facilities available for customers at Yia Caffe.

3

Food options are limited to sweets and bread during early hours.

21
Tacos La Guera image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco stand serves incredible al pastor and handmade tortillas with tasty salsas. Atmosphere is local and quick with friendly service and reasonable prices. Parking is tough, but payment via CashApp, Venmo, and Zelle is easy.

Tacos here feature incredible al pastor and handmade tortillas that stand out. The suadero and pastor tacos come with great salsas and a tasty onion-jalapeño mix, all at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the al pastor tacos, is incredible."

"I loved the salsas; they were abundant and tasty."

"You can tell the handmade tortillas are fresh."

Good to know

1

The tacos are reasonably priced, with 4 al pastor tacos costing $7.50.

2

Parking can be challenging near the taco stand.

3

They accept Zelle, CashApp, and Venmo as payment methods.

22
Placita Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with just a few tables creates an intimate setting. Authentic Mexican food offers large wet burritos and fresh flavors with vegetarian options. Warm, homey atmosphere draws a diverse crowd.

Authentic Mexican food shines with large wet burritos and fresh, fulfilling small burritos priced well. The carne asada torta and guacamole stand out for their flavor and quality.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is so delicious, I'd drive an hour for it."

"The food here is amazing and so affordable."

"This Wet Burrito is huge, easily enough to feed two people."

Good to know

1

Expect a small space, so it can get crowded during peak hours.

2

An extra large juice costs about $8, which is filling.

3

Prices for food are generally a dollar or two higher than nearby vendors.

23
CafeNiña image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy coffee shop offers family farm coffee and a friendly community vibe on its beautiful patio and porch. Mexican food shines with rich birria tacos and a tasty breakfast burrito. Mostly takeout with occasional homemade specials like pastries.

Tacos stand out with rich birria that is filling and flavorful. The breakfast burrito hits the mark, and the tamal de elote tastes delicious.

People are saying

"I loved their lattes, especially the Mazapan and Cajeta."

"Their Mazapan and Nutella Iced Coffee was a game-changer."

"The Mexican food here, especially the birria tacos, is incredible and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging near the café, so plan accordingly.

2

The café primarily offers takeout service rather than dine-in options.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted for purchases.

24
Tacos Locos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with an open kitchen creates a warm, inviting charm. Chefs serve authentic carne asada tacos and carnitas burritos at affordable prices. Atmosphere stays relaxed yet energetic, perfect for genuine Mexican flavors in a casual setting.

Carne asada tacos and carnitas burritos stand out with rich, authentic flavors. The menu includes home-style huevos rancheros and filling burritos like pollo and carnitas, all at very affordable prices.

People are saying

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

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

"I've loved their burritos since I was a kid."

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.

25
Dubb's Organic Coffee Blends image 1

Cozy coffee shop features a tiny urban patio perfect for quiet work or relaxation. Bold chorizo burritos offer hearty, well-spiced Mexican flavors. Warm, eco-friendly vibe with friendly staff and good music creates a laid-back atmosphere.

Chorizo burritos stand out with their bold flavor and hearty filling. Burritos overall offer a great balance of ingredients and spice.

People are saying

"The coffee here is very good and perfectly steamed."

"The owner is so outgoing and makes you feel right at home."

"This Mexican food's breakfast burrito is amazing."

Good to know

1

Seating can be tight during busy times, especially on weekends.

2

Prices are reasonable for LA, making it an affordable coffee option.

3

The shop is black-owned, supporting local businesses and community.

26
Caffe Hub image 1

Small cafe offers loaded burritos and a strawberry & banana smoothie in a historic building filled with plants and sunlight. Calm, chill music creates a friendly atmosphere perfect for meetings or casual visits.

Loaded burritos stand out with their rich fillings and satisfying size. Breakfast options include a flavorful quesadilla and a strawberry & banana smoothie that complement the meal well.

People are saying

"This cafe's food and drinks are fantastic and always taste fresh."

"The cheesecake here feels like home, thanks to the friendly owners."

"I loved the loaded breakfast burritos; they were packed with ingredients."

Good to know

1

The cafe opens at 7am and closes at 7pm.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

3

Expect a limited drink menu due to recent ownership changes.

27
Arctic Hotspot Cafe & Catering image 1

Small cafe offers mole chilaquiles with rich, homemade taste and sweet mazapan bread. Cozy, intimate vibe with charming chairs invites peaceful chats. Strong military-friendly spirit creates a welcoming community hub.

Mole chilaquiles stand out with a rich, homemade flavor that recalls traditional recipes. The mazapán and elote bread also offer a sweet, satisfying complement to the savory dishes.

People are saying

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

"The cafe de olla here is amazing and uniquely delicious."

"This Mexican food tastes like my mom's."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; expect to park a couple of blocks away.

2

The cafe is known for its community support and local hiring.

3

The wifi is not the fastest; consider using your own hotspot.

28
Tenampal image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, intimate space with a family-owned atmosphere offers authentic Mexican dishes like mole chilaquiles and wet burrito. Cozy, crowded setting feels like a traditional rancho with lively music enhancing the home-like vibe.

Authentic mole stands out, especially in the chilaquiles and enchiladas. The menu features café de olla, huevos rancheros, chorizo torta, and a wet burrito praised for its flavor. The Anthony Special combines chilaquiles in mole and green sauce topped with eggs.

People are saying

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

"I've been dreaming of this ground brisket burger since last week."

"I loved the flan; it was the best I've ever had."

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.

29
Tacos El Chido image 1
Taco restaurant

Street taco stand offers handmade tortillas and flavorful meats like carne asada. Small outdoor seating creates a casual vibe perfect for late-night visits. Affordable prices and lively crowd make it a top spot for authentic Mexican food.

Tacos and quesadillas stand out with fresh tortillas made on the spot and flavorful meats like carne asada and al pastor. The mulitas pack sour cream, guacamole, and toppings that melt in your mouth, while prices stay very affordable for the quality.

People are saying

"The tacos here are the best I've had, with fiery flavor."

"I found the quesadilla to be bomb and delicious."

"You have to try the handmade tortillas; they're super fresh."

Good to know

1

Tacos El Chido is open late, perfect for midnight cravings.

2

Prices are very affordable, with three tacos costing around $14.

3

They accept all forms of payment, including credit cards.

Discover more

Central LA, Los Angeles

Area guide
Loading Map...