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Top picks in Downtown LA

Salsa spots

Made for those who demand a scratch-made, traditional salsa that respects the history of the recipe.

Based on 530 Opinions
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01
Tacos La Cuevita image 1
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Small stand with handmade tortillas and fresh ingredients prepared openly creates an authentic vibe. Atmosphere feels humble and clean, with limited seating encouraging standing and quick service. Al pastor tacos and sauces stand out, drawing a crowd that values genuine Mexican street food flavors.

Tacos here deliver authentic Mexican flavors that closely match those found in Mexico. The menu offers a variety of genuine tacos and quesadillas with delicious, traditional tastes.

A variety of tasty salsas are available, each on point and complementing the toppings well.

People are saying

"These authentic tacos taste just like the ones I had in Mexico."

"The salsa here is amazing and tasty."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash or Zelle for payment.

2

The tacos cost $2.5 each.

3

Everything is prepared right before your eyes with fresh ingredients.

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Small Mexican restaurant with rustic decor and colorful artwork creates a transportive ambiance. Outdoor dining offers a beautiful atmosphere with fresh, hearty meals served quickly. Popular for authentic dishes like taquitos and mole enchiladas, it draws a steady crowd seeking traditional flavors.

Flavors reflect traditional Mexican cooking with dishes that taste like home recipes. Every bite delivers authentic Mexican food reminiscent of family-style meals.

Guacamole salsa stands out as exceptionally fresh and flavorful. Homemade red and green chile salsas add extra kick and depth to dishes like carne asada, paired with freshly made tortillas.

People are saying

"The guacamole salsa here is the best I have ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a small lot behind the restaurant, but it charges by time.

2

Nearby lots charge a flat fee of over $15 for parking.

3

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

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Small, hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant with a cozy, historic vibe nestled in a bustling market setting. Staff wear white shirts and caps, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere. The space feels crammed and intimate, creating a lively yet comfortable dining experience.

Dishes deliver authentic Mexican flavors using quality ingredients. The restaurant feels like a genuine local spot with true-to-tradition food.

Green salsa stands out with its amazing flavor and pairs well with tostadas. Salsas on the table are consistently delicious and enhance the meal.

People are saying

"I found the most authentic Mexican food here."

"The salsas here are amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on Olvera Street, which is a narrow market street.

2

La Noche Buena Restaurant opens at 7am, perfect for early risers.

3

A plate of beans and rice with a choice of egg costs $9-$10 per person.

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Small outdoor seating area offers a covered space with fans to ease hot weather. Atmosphere feels unpretentious and welcoming, enhanced by live mariachi music. Known for authentic Mexican cuisine, especially best taquitos and fresh green salsa.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with dishes like the wet burrito standing out. Prices stay reasonable while keeping the taste genuine.

Fresh green salsa with avocado offers a vibrant, tangy kick that pairs well with taquitos. Homemade salsas include a spicy, flavorful rojo salsa and other excellent varieties made daily.

People are saying

"The fresh green salsa here is vibrant and bursting with flavor."

"I enjoyed an authentic Mexican-style wet burrito."

Good to know

1

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

2

The cafe offers outdoor seating with fans for comfort in hot weather.

3

Prices are reasonable, with most items under $20.

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Colorful murals and festive music create a lively, authentic Mexican atmosphere with handmade tortillas and fresh ingredients. Bright decor features Dรญa De Los Muertos themes and local sports figures, attracting those seeking authentic tacos and burritos with generous portions.

Tacos feature authentic Lengua and Carnitas with a genuine Mexican feel. Beans and rice serve as classic sides that match the traditional style.

Salsa here is spicy but flavorful with a nice kick. Chips come with top tier salsa, and extra hot salsa is available on request.

People are saying

"I found their tacos and salsa to be delicious."

"I loved the authentic Mexican feel and delicious tacos."

Good to know

1

The prices at Pinches Tacos are reasonable considering downtown LA's usual costs.

2

Everything is made fresh at Pinches Tacos.

3

The portions at Pinches Tacos are generous.

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El Chinanteco Mexican Grill Restaurant image 1
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Mexican restaurant with a cute ambiance and a salsa bar offering 10-12 varieties, including mild options. Tacos stand out for their authentic handmade corn tortillas and exquisite pastor, birria, and asada flavors. Prices are generally great, making it a favored spot for genuine Mexican tacos.

Tacos feature authentic tortillas and flavors true to Mexican cuisine. Some find the food gentrified, questioning its authenticity.

About a dozen salsa options sit at the bar, including habanero and pineapple salsas that add heat and sweetness. Avocado salsa pairs well with tacos, and all sauces bring strong flavor.

People are saying

"They have an amazing selection of salsas, with about 10-12 to choose from."

"I tried authentic Mexican tacos and they were the nicest I had in the city."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $1 tacos, making it a popular day to visit.

2

Fish taco specials are available on Fridays.

3

Expect a quick service with food served promptly.

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Rustic design and home-like feel create a cozy atmosphere with authentic Mexican music playing. Small space with about 14 tables offers a warm and welcoming vibe. Known for excellent Mexican food including standout tacos and carne asada.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with a delicious taste. The atmosphere carries a sense of warmth that complements the genuine cuisine.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

There is no parking nearby except for street parking or a structure two blocks away.

2

On a regular day, expect a wait of about 30 minutes.

3

The restaurant is a 5-minute walk from the convention center.

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Small taco stand offers authentic Michoacan-style carnitas with handmade tortillas and a variety of chili salsas and onion toppings. Atmosphere is pleasant but loud, with samples offered to passersby. Tacos cost $5 each, attracting those seeking reasonably priced, flavorful pork dishes.

Michocan-style carnitas stand out with authentic flavor that closely matches tacos found in Mexico. The carnitas offer a traditional taste that feels genuine and well-prepared.

Variety includes chili salsas and four types of onion toppings. The red salsa stands out with good flavor. Freshness shows in the vegetables and salsas, which add important flavor to tacos.

People are saying

"The assorted salsas and guacamole were the highlights of my meal."

"The carnitas here are so authentic, just like in Mexico."

Good to know

1

The tacos cost $5 each and $20 per pound.

2

Parking is complicated and expensive in the area.

3

The parking lot has 3 spaces exclusive for customers who eat there.

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Spacious Mexican restaurant with an antique atmosphere and a covered patio that opens to the sky. The vibe is lively and friendly, making it suitable for groups and post-event gatherings. Known for authentic Mexican food and a variety of margaritas, it balances fun energy with cozy charm.

Mexican food features beans, spices, and salsa with a flavor that is authentic and not too spicy. The atmosphere and presentation reflect a genuine Mexican vibe similar to home cooking in Texas.

Chips come with fresh salsa served immediately. The Verde salsa pairs well with shredded chicken, while the Habanero Salsa complements the Sonora Enchilada.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic and truly phenomenal."

"The salsa here is delicious and fantastic."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $20 in the adjacent lot with a cashless kiosk.

2

El Cholo celebrates its 100-year anniversary in 2023 with special events.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially during weekends.

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Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles

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