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Top picks in Central LA

Taco spots

A taco is the simple, reliable answer to a hunger that needs to be satisfied immediately.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tacos Guelaguetza image 1
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Taco restaurant

Pop-up tent setup with no seating creates a casual, open-air vibe. Tacos al pastor feature nicely browned meat and pineapple, praised as delicious and among the best in LA. An open sauce bar and massive toppings table offer free sauces and customization.

Tacos al pastor come with nicely browned meat and pineapple. Tacos here are consistently described as delicious and among the best in LA. Prices are low, around $2 per taco.

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."

"I love their amazing tacos as a late night spot."

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
X'tiosu Kitchen image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Middle Eastern eatery serves authentic chicken shawarma and falafel with a casual vibe at shaded outdoor picnic tables. Unique chicken shawarma tacos and black bean hummus offer fresh, flavorful twists. Menu focuses on quick bites and fried foods in filling portions.

Chicken shawarma tacos offer a unique twist on traditional tacos with fresh ingredients and balanced seasoning. Black bean hummus and cauliflower tacos add flavorful variety in good-sized, filling portions.

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."

"I found the chicken shawarma tacos to be amazing."

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.

03
Tacos El Morro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot serves birria tacos with rich flavor and a side of consommé for dipping. Prices stay affordable in a clean environment. Fresh, traditional tacos like tacos de cabeza make it a flavorful choice.

Tacos come fresh and flavorful with standout options like birria tacos and tacos de cabeza. A bowl of consomé accompanies the tacos well for dipping or sipping.

People are saying

"I loved the birria tacos and the chocomil."

"I loved the birria tacos with the consommé."

"I thought the birria and quesatacos were the best in East LA."

Good to know

1

Prices for tacos start at $2.50 each.

2

Cash and credit cards are accepted for payment.

3

The restaurant is open late on weekends until 2am.

04
El Carmen image 1
Restaurant

Lucha Libre decor creates a festive atmosphere with loud Spanish music and a busy vibe. Tacos shine with buttery potato and crispy shells, while margaritas are strong and creative. Perfect for late-night fun and flavorful bites.

Tacos come in many varieties like potato, mushroom, chicken, and steak, all priced between $5 and $7. The potato taco stands out with buttery, spiced potatoes and onions inside a thin, crispy fried shell.

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."

"I had some of the best shrimp tacos I’ve ever tasted."

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.

05
Street Tacos and Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with handmade tortillas and beef asada tacos full of flavor. Outdoor seating adds to the cozy, lively atmosphere near Mariachi Plaza. Both meat lovers and vegetarians enjoy the authentic, casual meals and friendly service.

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 absolutely loved the outdoor seating; it was beautiful."

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.

06
Boyle Heights Bar llc image 1

Bar boasts a spacious dance floor and lively vibe with on-point music. Tacos shine with handmade tortillas and bold flavors like mushroom and shrimp. Regulars add fun energy, making it a welcoming spot for food and dance lovers alike.

Tacos feature handmade tortillas and come in standout varieties like mushroom, chicharrón, and shrimp. Prices lean a bit high but the flavors stay consistently good.

People are saying

"The tacos at this bar are amazing."

"I loved the amazing tacos with handmade tortillas."

"It's a chill place to hang out and eat."

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.

07
El Chato Taco Truck image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck offers authentic Mexican street food with a laid-back vibe in a parking lot. Tacos feature fresh ingredients and perfectly seasoned meats, especially the carne. Locals love the generous portions and friendly service.

Tacos come with fresh ingredients and perfectly seasoned meats that deliver rich, addictive flavor. Carne tacos stand out, and the service is consistently friendly and fantastic.

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."

"These food trucks serve authentic, flavorful tacos with perfectly seasoned meat."

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.

08
Tacos y Birria La Unica image 1
Mexican restaurant

Street food truck offers authentic birria tacos with crispy beef and rich consommé. Outdoor seating creates a casual atmosphere perfect for quick bites. Prices stay reasonable, making it a great spot for tasty, affordable tacos.

Beef birria tacos come with a crispy texture and just the right size to avoid messiness. Goat and beef birria tacos serve with rich consommé that complements the flavors well.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very good and worth the price."

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

"The birria ramen with its flavorful consomme is the star."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash only; bring cash to pay.

2

They close early, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect a wait during peak hours due to popularity.

09
The Happy Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Taco truck under a freeway serves Pollo asado and cabeza tacos with awesome service. Offers fish and veggie tacos that are hearty and affordable. Casual spot near a gas station with a Hollywood vibe.

Tacos come straight to the point and yummy with options like fish and veggie tacos that offer great value. The service is awesome, often standing out even more than the food itself.

People are saying

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

"I thought the tacos here were amazing."

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

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.

10
Taco Luis Tacos Anahis image 1
Mexican restaurant

Smoke from charcoal-grilled meat fills the air, creating a strong asada aroma. Tacos are packed with lots of meat and cost around $2 each, with birria and grilled tacos offering authentic Mexican flavor. Prices stay reasonable, and payment accepts cash or Zelle with no English spoken on site.

Tacos come packed with lots of meat and cost around $2 each, with special pricing on Taco Tuesday at $1.25. Birria and grilled tacos stand out for their authentic Mexican flavor and pair well with flavored waters.

People are saying

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

"I thought the avocado salsa was the best."

"The tortillas here are freshly cooked on the spot."

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.

11
Tacos El Chido image 1
Taco restaurant

Street taco stand offers handmade tortillas and well-seasoned meat like beef cheek and pastor. Small outdoor seating adds to the casual, authentic vibe. Late-night hours bring a lively crowd seeking affordable, flavorful tacos.

Handmade tortillas and well-seasoned meat create authentic Mexican tacos. Varieties like beef cheek (Cabeza), pastor, carne asada, and militas stand out for flavor and 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."

"I thought the tacos were simple and delicious."

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.

12
Taco Bar image 1
Taco restaurant

Crunchy taco shells and homemade quality make tacos here a standout. Exceptionally seasoned fries add flavor, while affordable combos keep prices low. Limited seating and fresh air create a cozy spot with a vibrant atmosphere and music.

Tacos here stand out for their homemade quality and fantastic flavor, including a notable veggie taco option. Prices stay affordable, with combos like two tacos, fries, and a drink for just $11.

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.

13
La Popular Hollywood image 1

Large outdoor patio with fire pits offers a cozy spot to enjoy rib-eye tacos bursting with flavor. Stylish interior and quality sound system create a warm vibe, while a traveling tequila cart adds a unique twist to the relaxed atmosphere.

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."

"The Happy Hour tacos with prime rib were divine."

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

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.

14
IndiMex Eats Indian restaurant image 1

Small dining room creates an intimate vibe with a warm, cozy feel. Indian fusion shines in Chicken Tikka Masala Burritos and spicy tacos like chicken tikka and lamb under $5. Vegetarian paneer tacos offer bold seasoning and large portions.

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."

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

"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.

15
La Merced Tacos Al Vapor image 1

Modern, clean spot shines with steamed tacos featuring stacked meat and rich flavor. Family specials include free sodas, making it inviting for groups. Prices are higher, reflecting small portions but quality ingredients.

Steamed tacos come with stacked meat and rich flavor, especially the tacos al vapor and birria. Options like tacos de cabeza, lengua, and carne asada offer varied, tasty fillings. Specials include large combos with free sodas, and the Wagyu burrito pairs well with spicy salsas.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos al vapor, is amazing."

"The tacos here are served with excellent service and a smile."

"I found the food here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers family specials, including a whole chicken and 20 mix tacos.

2

Free sodas are included with family specials.

3

They open at 7 am daily.

16
Homegirl Café image 1

Vibrant art and old school music create a lively cafe vibe. Potato tacos offer flavorful ingredients that stand out. Strong staff bonds build a community-focused space with a chill, uplifting feel.

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."

"Their breakfast burritos and chilaquiles are absolutely delicious."

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

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.

17
Tacos El Pecas image 1
Taco restaurant

Food truck serves authentic Mexican tacos with fresh onion and cilantro. Al pastor and carne asada tacos shine with spicy salsa. Outdoor seating creates a bustling street food atmosphere perfect for quick, flavorful bites.

Tacos come with freshly cut onion and cilantro and pack a lot of flavor. The al pastor and carne asada tacos stand out, paired well with a spicy, flavorful salsa.

People are saying

"These tacos are so delicious and packed with flavor."

"Parking Available is tricky; try parking in the car wash lot."

"The salsas here are spicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash payments or Zelle.

2

Parking is available across from the car wash.

3

Tacos are priced at $1.50 each.

18
Dos Amantes image 1
Restaurant

Upscale Mexican seafood spot shines with authentic flavors and exceptional ceviche. Fish and shrimp tacos boast light, crispy batter and generous portions. Spacious seating and homemade salsas keep the vibe chill and inviting.

Fish and shrimp tacos come in a light, crispy batter with large protein portions. Short rib tacos on homemade tortillas stand out for flavor and quality, alongside octopus and scallop options.

People are saying

"The taco de pulpo was a standout dish."

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

"The homemade salsas were amazing and not watered down."

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.

19
Restaurante El Gordo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with authentic homemade food and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Tacos pack a spicy kick, especially the lengua de res. Cozy vibes make it feel like eating at family, perfect for those craving real Mexican flavors.

Tacos feature taco de lengua de res with a noticeable spicy kick. Breakfast tacos come alongside dishes like menudo and asada chiliquiles, offering a solid variety.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and homemade."

"This Mexican food is so flavorful, just like mom's cooking."

"The taco de lengua de res was good but a little spicy."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited due to a small shared lot with other businesses.

2

The restaurant offers both dine-in and takeout options.

3

The prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

20
Placita Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with intimate setting feels warm and homey due to kitchen heat and no air conditioning. Authentic Mexican food offers large portions and fresh flavors with vegetarian options. Tacos come as part of a tacos plate alongside a wet burrito.

Tacos here have good flavor and come as part of a tacos plate. The menu also includes a wet burrito alongside the tacos.

People are saying

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

"The food here is amazing and so affordable."

"The asada tacos here are seriously delicious."

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.

21
Macheen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Shared spot blends Mexican cuisine with a gentrified vibe and quality music. Outdoor patio offers a relaxed place to enjoy bold breakfast burritos featuring crispy pork belly and Brussels sprouts. Tacos shine with intense flavors like birria and mushroom Al pastor on homemade flour tortillas.

Breakfast tacos and burritos come with bold flavors on homemade flour tortillas. Varieties include birria, mushroom Al pastor, and brisket, all packed with intense taste despite smaller sizes.

People are saying

"You have to try the breakfast burritos; they're the best I've ever had."

"The fluffy eggs in the burrito were delicious."

"These breakfast tacos are delicious and creatively made."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available, but it may require a short walk.

2

Each taco costs about $5, and burritos are around $15.

3

Macheen has both vegetarian and meat options on the menu.

22
Milpa Kitchen image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American spot serves pork belly tacos with blue corn tortillas and Al pastor mushrooms. Cozy cafe vibe blends with bebop jazz music for a chill atmosphere. Outdoor seating on a small street patio invites guests to enjoy healthy, flavorful meals.

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 found the breakfast burrito to be absolutely delicious."

"I loved the breakfast tacos with mushrooms."

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.

23
Mariscos 4 Vientos image 1
Seafood restaurant

Counter seating creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for quick, casual dining. Fried shrimp tacos deliver an addictive flavor that seafood lovers crave. Expect a family-friendly vibe with a quiet setting ideal for enjoying memorable meals.

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."

"I thought the shrimp tacos dorados were the best I had."

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

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.

24
Tacos Indiana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican food truck near a busy freeway offers affordable prices and a clean, inviting atmosphere. Tacos shine with authentic al pastor and suadero meats, paired with fresh salsas. Seating is well-organized, making it easy to enjoy flavorful street tacos in a lively setting.

Tacos here offer an authentic taste with al pastor cooked on the trompo and suadero tacos that match those found in Mexico. Fresh salsas and a wide variety of meat-filled street tacos make for a flavorful experience.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were amazing and really good."

"The corn tortillas here are so good, just like in Mexico."

"I loved the selection of fresh salsas and vegetables."

Good to know

1

Tacos Indiana is a lunch truck located by the freeway and a busy boulevard.

2

Parking is tricky, but there are usually spots available nearby.

3

They accept cash or Zelle for payments.

25
La Nena Cantina image 1
Restaurant

Upscale Mexican spot shines with Birria Taco bursting with flavor and served with rich consommé. Modern warm decor and an intimate patio create a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. Live mariachi band adds lively music that energizes without overwhelming.

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

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

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.

26
Tacos stand El Chingon image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican food stand serves authentic flavors with a busy, casual vibe. Tacos come with red onion and green sauce, perfect for kids and adults alike. Breakfast burritos like chilaquiles offer generous portions that keep crowds moving quickly.

Tacos come with red onion and green sauce on the side, offering a flavorful mix. Plain tacos de carnitas suit kids well, and street tacos deliver solid taste.

People are saying

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

"I thought the carnitas were bomb and perfectly seasoned."

"I found the tacos to be amazing and just great."

Good to know

1

Parking at Tacos stand El Chingon is very limited and often unavailable.

2

The place gets packed quickly, so arriving early is recommended.

3

They only accept cash and Zelle for payments.

27
Los 5 Puntos image 1

Tight deli buzzes with loud mariachi music and women making handmade tortillas on a giant comal. Carnitas and tripe tacos shine with authentic flavors. Outdoor community tables offer casual, nostalgic seating.

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."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were very good, juicy and delicious."

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

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.

28
Nick's Cafe image 1

Small diner offers a nostalgic atmosphere with lively regulars. Breakfast tacos are consistently excellent, served with house red salsa and coffee. Outdoor patio adds a classic touch to this hearty, simple spot in an industrial area.

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."

"It's a classic diner with a real old-school 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.

29
Best Fish Taco in Ensenada image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot boasts a vintage LA vibe with chill outdoor seating. Baja style fish tacos shine with authentic flavors and quick service. Self-serve salsa bar lets you customize toppings for a lively, affordable meal.

Baja style fish tacos arrive quickly and taste great with authentic, phenomenal flavors. A build-your-own bar lets you customize toppings, all at a great price.

People are saying

"You have to try the fish tacos; they're so fresh and crispy."

"I believed these were the best fish tacos I had ever tasted."

"I thought the fish tacos were simple and delicious."

Good to know

1

Each taco costs between $3.50 and $4.50, and drinks are only a dollar each.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so you can bring your own drinks.

3

Comedy night occurs on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month.

30
El Cartel image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small dining space offers shaded outdoor seating and a casual vibe. Menu blends Mexican and Argentine flavors with street tacos rivaling San Diego's best. Large portions like loaded fries and tasty shrimp tacos make it a great spot for quick, flavorful meals.

Street tacos stand out with high quality and flavors similar to those in San Diego. Chicken quesadillas and grilled shrimp tacos deliver strong, tasty options, with shrimp tacos preferred over fish.

People are saying

"I loved the Mexican food, especially the tasty tacos with pineapple."

"The food here is fresh, well-seasoned, and really flavorful."

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

Good to know

1

Metered parking is scarce due to nearby events, but loading zone parking is available after 6 pm.

2

The prices at El Cartel are reasonable and menu items are affordable.

3

El Cartel offers a variety of dishes including tacos, burritos, and empanadas.

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Central LA, Los Angeles

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