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Local picks in Downtown LA

Salsa spots

A meal is only as good as the salsa, and you refuse to settle for anything less than authentic.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tacos La Cuevita image 1
Tacos La Cuevita image 2
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Mexican restaurant

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 come with fresh, handmade tortillas and offer an authentic flavor reminiscent of Mexico. The salsas are fire, and options like pastor, asada, and chorizo deliver a great value with a lot of meat.

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

People are saying

"These tacos are the best I've ever had, seriously dope."

"The street food here is amazing and authentic."

"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.

02
Crazy Tacos On 9th image 1
Mexican restaurant

Regular kiosk serving authentic Mexican cuisine with generous portions and made-to-order tacos that take time to prepare. Atmosphere suits late-night dining with a smoky flavor profile and spicy green and red salsas. Popular for varied taco options including asada, carnitas, chorizo, and al pastor, attracting those seeking flavorful, hearty meals.

Tacos feature perfect ratios and quality meat like asada, carnitas, chorizo, and al pastor. Burritos, especially the California Burrito con Asada, come with rich red and verde salsas that add a spicy kick.

Salsas come in red and verde varieties with bold flavors. The red salsa has a perfect spicy kick, while the verde salsa is served generously without skimping.

People are saying

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

"I'd never ordered the same thing so many times; the salsa was the best I'd ever had."

"It's a great late night spot for a delicious meal."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open quite late.

2

Expect a wait as tacos are made to order.

3

$3 per taco is the standard price.

03
Juanita's Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

Crispy taquitos filled with juicy, well-seasoned meat stand out alongside a homemade salsa and freshly made green sauce that complement the corn tortillas and beef. The menu features authentic dishes like the breakfast Machaca Burrito and wet burrito, both rich in flavor and texture.

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 Mexican food here is really good for the price."

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

"It's so Kid Friendly, I brought my kids and now my grandkids come here."

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.

04
Gueroโ€™s Cocina Mexicana ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ image 1

Big space with fresh ingredients and generous portions creates a satisfying meal experience. The atmosphere highlights specialty chips and salsa alongside standout breakfast burritos and posole served weekly. Food combines consistent quality with bold flavors in a casual setting.

Burritos stand out with chorizo and bacon in breakfast options and a variety of fillings like sausage and grilled fish. Plates like chicken enchiladas stay consistent, while chips, salsa, and guacamole come as solid sides.

Chips and salsa come out fresh and flavorful, with the red salsa standing out as especially good. Nachos arrive topped with beans and salsa that taste delicious and well prepared.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the burritos, is amazing."

"I highly recommend this place for its salsa."

"I thought the burritos here were the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

They offer posole once a week, a must-try dish.

2

Everything is made fresh daily, ensuring quality.

3

Portion sizes are generous, so expect to leave full.

05
Tacos el chivo image 1
Taco restaurant

Open salsa bar and generous portions create a chill atmosphere reminiscent of Tijuana. The place stays busy with a crowd drawn by best tacos al pastor and handmade tortillas. Parking can be tricky, but reasonable prices and fresh ingredients keep energy lively.

Al pastor tacos stand out with trompo cooking and rich flavor. The menu includes mixed tacos, sopes, chicken quesadillas, and a salsa bar with many options. Prices stay reasonable and service shows care.

An open salsa bar offers a wide variety of options. The salsas are very flavorful and the selection is impressive.

People are saying

"These tacos are authentic and the best I've had."

"These Mexican tacos are the best I've ever had."

"I thought the al pastor tacos were the best I had."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky; plan to arrive early to find a spot.

2

Prices are reasonable, with a total meal cost around $48 for two.

3

Portions are generous, especially the drinks.

06
WILDBIRD image 1
Chicken shop

Chicken shop offers fresh, juicy chicken with flavorful sides like guacamole and street corn. Atmosphere feels clean and welcoming but can be warm inside due to poor venting. Ordering happens easily through touch screen kiosks, creating a quick and efficient experience.

Taco plates stand out with solid flavor and consistent quality. The green pozole offers a delicious twist on a classic, making Taco Tuesday a popular choice.

Variety includes several salsas with green salsa standing out as amazing and very good. Salsa comes with an upcharge despite being simple to make.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, healthy, and delicious."

"This lunch spot's chicken is so moist and tasty."

"The chicken's flavor is fresh with a lime accent."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $2 tacos, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

Orders take approximately 6-10 minutes from order to ready.

3

Parking can be challenging during the daytime.

07
Avocado Fresh Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic flavors with dishes like creamy guacamole and juicy meats in a clean, welcoming atmosphere. The space feels like a family kitchen, inviting and comfortable for quick or relaxed meals. It stands out with fresh toppings and a variety of sauces not commonly found elsewhere.

Fresh-grilled carne asada and sizzling fajitas fill the air with aroma. Tacos and burrito bowls feature quality ingredients and authentic flavor, while the guacamole stands out as creamy and perfectly balanced.

Salsa here strikes a perfect balance of spice and freshness. The Jicama and mango salsa stands out as a favorite topping, adding a bright, crisp flavor to dishes.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's food is always fresh, flavorful, and made with quality ingredients."

"The tortas and burritos here have such authentic flavor."

"The Mexican food here is fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on tacos every Tuesday.

2

The tostada bowl costs $15.25, with double meat at $6.50.

3

Guacamole is priced at $3.45, and fresh agua is $4.75.

08
El Rancho Grande image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

Mole Enchilada and tender carne asada stand out with homemade salsas and fresh tortillas. The taquitos with guacamole sauce offer an affordable, authentic home-style meal that feels like family cooking.

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

"I found the food here to be really tasty and delicious."

"You have to try the taquitos with avocado sauce; they're the best."

"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.

09
LOQUI image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers a chill atmosphere with a pleasant outdoor patio and fresh homemade hot sauces. Tacos feature bold, well-seasoned meats and standout vegetarian options, served in fresh flour tortillas. Canned cocktails and margaritas add to the quick, flavorful dining experience.

Tacos stand out with house-made flour tortillas and flavorful fillings like chicken, beef, and Anaheim chili. Vegetarian options shine, and peanuts add a unique depth to some tacos.

Both house salsas are yummy and well-liked. Salsa does not come with meals and must be purchased separately, which is unusual for Mexican food.

People are saying

"The food here is tasty and fresh, especially the bowls and burritos."

"The vegetarian Mexican food here is the best I've ever tasted."

"I loved their house salsas; they always landed well."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect busy lunch hours.

2

Salsa is sold separately and not included with meals.

3

Vegan options are available on the menu.

10
Pinches Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

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 come with freshly made tortillas and generous, flavorful meat like asada and carnitas. The menu includes authentic Mexican dishes such as birria, enchiladas with moist chicken, and a variety of vegetarian options, all served with top tier chips and salsa.

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

"These tacos are packed with filling and delicious."

"The breakfast burrito is excellent and filling."

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

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.

11
La Noche Buena Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

Tacos stand out with carne asada, potato, and shredded beef options that are crispy and flavorful. Burritos come in generous sizes, and combos include taquitos, rice, beans, and chicken tamales at reasonable prices.

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

"The carnitas tacos and tamales here are delicious."

"I tasted the best Mexican breakfast with delicious chilaquilas."

"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.

12
Ana Maria's Comida Mexicana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Grand Central Market buzzes with neon glow and sizzling sounds, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Tables sit in front of a taco stand offering massive, meat-loaded tacos with fresh carnitas and al pastor. The menu blends authentic Mexican and Mexican-American dishes with generous portions and fair prices.

Tacos come with generous portions of meat like lamb, chicharron, carnitas, and buche, all served on handmade tortillas. Burritos are large and tasty, and salsas offer an authentic flavor that complements the juicy meats and crisp vegetables.

Salsas have an authentic flavor and complement all dishes well. The green salsa is packed with flavor but stays pretty mild, suitable for those avoiding spicy heat.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is massive, loaded with meat."

"The salsa here is so fresh and tasty."

"The Market's tacos are packed with generous, fresh, juicy meats."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $5 each, and tax is included in the price.

2

Portions are generous, with one taco being enough for most people.

3

Get there early in the morning for the freshest tacos.

13
Tacos La 26! (Previously Ave 26 Tacos) image 1

Outdoor taco stand in a large parking lot offers a self-serve salsa bar and standing room only setup. Atmosphere mixes club vibes with a diverse crowd, often lively and crowded late at night. Security presence and free parking support a casual, fast-moving experience.

Tacos here are unworldly good and often called the best tacos in LA. Prices stay low around $2.25 per taco, making it a solid deal for authentic street tacos.

Salsas come in green, red, and avocado varieties, all with a good level of spice. A salsa and grill bar lets you customize tacos with toppings like grilled onions, radishes, and jalapeรฑos.

People are saying

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

"I found the street tacos to be excellent Mexican food."

"The salsa here is authentic and flavorful, a true taste of Mexico."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $2.25 each, a great deal for late-night food.

2

The place is open until 2:30am, perfect for late-night cravings.

3

Parking is available, but be cautious as cars can be towed.

14
El Chinanteco Mexican Grill Restaurant image 1

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 stand out with varieties like pastor, birria, and asada, all made with handmade corn tortillas. A salsa bar offers about 10-12 options, and Taco Tuesday features tacos for just over a dollar.

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

"I thought the tacos here were the best I had."

"Their handmade corn tortillas are a game changer."

"You have to try the tacos; they're the best Mexican food I've had."

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.

15
Jose Chiquito image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Grand Central Market hosts a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with freshly brewed coffee aromas and cheerful staff creating an active vibe. The spot offers a diverse menu blending classic and Mexican breakfast dishes, standing out for its consistent quality and convenient beeper system for multi-restaurant orders.

Breakfast burritos stand out with chorizo and potatoes or a veggie option loaded with rice and beans. Chilaquiles offer a seriously authentic Mexican flavor, reflecting decades of traditional cooking.

Salsa adds a bold flavor to dishes here, especially with the breakfast burrito and sausage sandwich. It comes on the side and complements the food with a chipotle aioli touch.

People are saying

"The breakfast here is huge and delicious."

"I had to get my Mexican food fix at Jose Chiquito every time."

"The salsa here is so flavorful and filling."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open every day from 8 AM to 9 PM.

2

Expect a wait time of about 18 minutes for food preparation.

3

Prices are surprisingly affordable, with meals averaging around $13.50.

16
Doรฑa Estela image 1
Mexican restaurant

Tropical design and Hawaiian music create a comfortable atmosphere with a tropical vibe. Portions are generous and the fish tacos stand out for their flavor. Salsas offer a notable spicy kick that complements the menu.

Tacos stand out with spicy birria and firee fish options served alongside consommรฉ. Burritos like asada and shrimp come with guacamole salsa that has a noticeable kick.

Salsas here stand out with a spicy kick, especially the guacamole salsa. They come alongside dishes like Birria tacos and asada mulitas, adding bold flavor to each bite.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food, especially the tacos, to be delicious and smoky."

"The seafood here is flavorful and satisfying."

"The salsa portions were good for the price I paid."

Good to know

1

The portions are larger than average, offering good value for the price.

17
Tacos El Comelon (Food Truck) image 1

Food truck offers juicy, well-seasoned meats with generous portions and avocado slices included at no extra cost. Atmosphere suits late-night crowds, often with intoxicated people waiting in line. Menu lacks prices, but tacos and quesadillas are reasonably priced and highly flavorful.

Tacos feature juicy, well-seasoned meat like al pastor and carne asada, grilled with a nice crunch on the tortillas. Mulitas and tacos de cabeza stand out for their tender, delicious layers and salsa roja complements the flavors well.

Salsa roja stands out with its great heat and chile flavor. Both salsa roja and verde are mild and thin, lacking depth of flavor.

People are saying

"These tacos are so delicious, I'd stalk the truck for them."

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

"The al pastor tacos were the juiciest I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The food truck is open late, making it a great spot after a night out.

2

They charge $1 for card payments, so bring cash to avoid extra fees.

3

The tacos cost $3 each, while burritos are $12.

18
Cilantro Lime image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant inside a food court with a modern vibe and quiet atmosphere despite a busy setting. It serves affordable, visually appealing dishes with notable vegetarian options and unique items like birria pizza and keto tacos.

Taquitos stand out with their delicious flavor and generous size. The chilaquiles burritos and birria pizza offer unique, flavorful twists on classic Mexican dishes.

Chips come with a variety of salsa options, including one with a strong lime flavor. The lime-heavy salsa can overpower dishes like the birria pizza and bacon breakfast burrito.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious and worth the price."

"I loved the marinated meats on these nachos."

"The chips and salsa here are flavorful and well-seasoned."

Good to know

1

Cilantro Lime is located inside a food court.

2

Parking isnโ€™t ideal, so plan accordingly.

3

The meal costs $23 for the 3 meat variety plate.

19
Sonoritas - DTLA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a shaded outdoor patio and long tables for groups offers a relaxing atmosphere with reggaeton music creating good vibes. The interior feels a bit breezy and mismatched but remains clean and attractive despite nearby construction. Popular for margaritas and flavorful tacos, it closes early and does not accept cash.

Burritos come packed with chicken, guacamole, rice, lettuce, and cheese, offering solid flavor. Cheese enchiladas with red sauce taste homemade and are perfectly cooked. Guacamole and chips add a flavorful touch that ties meals together.

Homemade chips come with three kinds of salsa served free for dine-in. The salsa works well as a dressing and pairs nicely with the chips and margaritas.

People are saying

"I loved the salmon and shrimp burritos; the Mexican food here is amazing."

"This lunch spot's barbecue burrito is a delicious blend of sweet and spicy."

"They loaded me down with chips and three kinds of salsa."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available in the alley next to the restaurant.

2

The restaurant closes at 8 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

They do not accept cash, only credit cards and mobile payments.

20
Javier's DTLA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Massive space with multiple bars and high arches creates a posh lounge atmosphere filled with loud energy. Design blends stunning decor and comfortable seating, evoking a vibrant Mexican vibe. Crowds gather for lively dining rather than quiet meals.

Fresh Mexican cuisine shines with seafood enchiladas like Lobster Enchiladas and Mole Verde. Complimentary chips and salsa add a nice touch to the meal.

Complimentary chips and salsa come with the meal, which is unusual for a high-end spot. The salsa pairs well with the crispy chips, making a solid starter.

People are saying

"The guacamole here is creamy and tasty."

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the flavorful pork carnitas."

"The complimentary chips and salsa were amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand at this new location.

2

Valet parking costs $45, while self-parking is available for $20 nearby.

3

Expect to pay around $40 for enchiladas, which some may find expensive.

21
Ditroit Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor dining occupies a narrow, hidden space with a chill vibe and lovely atmosphere. The spot feels like a small taco oasis with deliciously spicy salsas at a compact salsa bar. Seating uses plasticware, and the setting offers free parking nearby.

Tacos stand out with suadero and fish flauta options that deliver elevated street flavors. The menu rotates often, featuring tamales, quesadillas, and burritos with large portions and fresh ingredients.

A small salsa bar offers spicy green and red salsas that are flavorful but not very hot. The salsas are tasty and well-liked, with a suggestion that a hotter option could enhance the experience.

People are saying

"You have to try the fish flauta; it's amazing."

"The carnitas tacos are tender and flavorful."

"You have to try the fish flauta; it's amazing Mexican food."

Good to know

1

There is free parking at Ditroit Taqueria.

2

They have a parking lot right next to the restaurant, which provides peace of mind.

3

Seating is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

22
Seรฑor Fish image 1
Restaurant

Spacious restaurant offers fresh seafood and Baja-style Mexican dishes with a large menu and generous portions. Atmosphere feels casual and laid-back, popular for lunch among downtown workers. Seating is ample, making it suitable for groups or quick meals away from the office.

Fresh fish shines in the fried fish tacos, served with shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, and cream on two corn tortillas. The salsa and guacamole are fresh, and the enchilada sauce has a mild spicy kick topped with queso fresco.

Salsa comes with three varieties alongside fresh guacamole. Chips are served in generous portions with plenty of salsa.

People are saying

"These fish tacos are the bomb, perfectly seasoned with fresh toppings."

"You have to try the fish tacos; they're perfectly seasoned."

"I thought the fried fish tacos were the bomb."

Good to know

1

Stand-up comedy night happens every Monday evening.

2

Lunchtime special includes two tacos, chips and salsa or rice and beans, and a drink for under $15.

3

Parking can be difficult, but there are many garages nearby.

23
Carnitas Los Gabrieles image 1
Taco restaurant

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.

Michoacan-style carnitas stand out with juicy, succulent pork loaded into handmade tortillas. A variety of chili salsas and four types of onion toppings add layers of flavor to the tasty tacos.

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

"I found the carnitas to be very delicious."

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

"These tacos are so good, I could die for them."

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.

24
Chuy's Tacos Dorados image 1
Mexican restaurant

Warehouse-style space offers spacious indoor and outdoor seating with self-serve kiosks for ordering. Atmosphere blends polished but approachable vibe with loud music and occasional stuffiness due to poor ventilation. Tacos stand out as generous and tasty, drawing a mix of opinions on quality.

Hard shell tacos stand out with perfectly crispy shells and flavorful fillings like shredded beef cooked slow with a smoky edge. Salsas and fresh toppings add to the consistent, delicious taste across all tacos.

Salsas here have a great flavor and remind of Taco Bell sauce but with a significantly better taste.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's tacos are stuffed with filling and packed with flavor."

"I found the Mexican food tacos to be delicious and crispy."

"I loved the crispy tacos with the salsa."

Good to know

1

Chuy's does not accept cash; bring a credit or debit card.

2

Parking can be tricky; a validation code is available for kiosk use.

3

Expect an automatic service charge on your order.

25
Tacos Tumbras a Tomas image 1
Taco restaurant

Metal counter and handwritten signs mark a simple setup with trays of sizzling meat. Lively and bustling atmosphere fills the space, with communal tables amid a vibrant market crowd. Tacos stand out for their huge portions, fresh flavors, and great value, drawing a steady line of eager diners.

Tacos come big and loaded with meat, offering generous servings that can feed two or more. Each taco costs around $5 and delivers pure flavor with a Mexican street food style.

Two types of salsa come with the meal: one mixed with the meat and one on the side. Both offer a perfect balance of spicy and tangy flavors that complement the tacos without overpowering them.

People are saying

"This taco is packed with so much meat, it's huge."

"The Mexican food portions are huge; you get so much meat!"

"The salsa portions are massive, easily serving as a full meal."

Good to know

1

One taco costs $5 and contains as much meat as four tacos from other places.

2

The portions are large enough to easily feed two people.

3

The ordering process is similar to a buffet; you order at the counter.

26
Tacos Mexico image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with few tables and a countertop creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere feels lively and fun, attracting a local crowd especially during rush hours. Open 24 hours with inexpensive prices, it offers a casual spot for late-night dining.

Tacos here deliver amazing flavor with tender grilled steak and crispy meat options. Burritos and tortas offer spicy, flavorful fillings like cabeza, lengua, and beef cheeks, all at excellent value, especially on Taco Wednesdays.

Salsa verde appears often, served with crispy asada and carnitas tacos. The red salsa stands out as excellent, and the hot salsa is genuinely hot. Some dishes come with salsa on the side, but portions can be small.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, has amazing flavor."

"It's a great late night spot for tacos after heading downtown."

"The salsa verde here is always so good."

Good to know

1

Taco Wednesdays offer tacos for $1.50 from 8am to 8pm.

2

Parking costs $5 for 10 minutes, with all-day parking available for $12.

3

The place is open 24 hours for late-night cravings.

27
Cilantro Fresh Mexican Grill image 1

Small Mexican grill inside a busy train station offers do-it-yourself burritos and a variety of fresh salsas with a noticeable kick. The atmosphere is convenient and fast-paced, catering to travelers looking for a quick, flavorful meal. Portions are generous, and the menu includes affordable breakfast options alongside classic tacos and burritos.

Juicy burritos come wrapped in paper and foil, with options like Carnitas, steak, and a special chicken. Fresh tacos and salsas with a nice little kick add to the Mexican food experience.

Salsa has a nice little kick with chunky tomatoes that stand out. It pairs well with dishes like burritos filled with potato, veggies, and beans.

People are saying

"I thought the burrito here was pretty good."

"The bacon in this breakfast burrito was stored in oil."

"I found the Mexican food breakfast burrito to be super and made to order."

Good to know

1

Cilantro Fresh Mexican Grill is a convenient spot to grab a bite while traveling.

2

You can create your own meal with beans, rice, pico de gallo, and spices.

3

Expect it to get busier during peak travel hours.

28
El Cholo image 1
Mexican restaurant

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.

Authentic Mexican food features fresh guacamole prepared at the table, crab taquitos, and seafood fajitas. Dishes like red pork and green corn tamales, enchiladas, and spicy shrimp specials offer a balance of flavor without overwhelming spice.

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 delicious."

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

"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.

29
Tacos 1986 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small storefront with standing and counter seating offers quick, authentic tacos including standout Al pastor and mushroom varieties. Lively vibe with a self-serve salsa bar complements the fast-paced, urban setting. Views of skyscrapers add to the downtown atmosphere.

Tacos come with fresh tortillas made in-house and feature standout options like mushroom and steak tacos along with perfectly seasoned al pastor topped with pineapple. The salsa verde, chili oil, and guacamole add extra flavor, making it a solid spot for quick, tasty Mexican food at reasonable prices.

Four types of salsa sit at the salsa bar alongside radishes and limes. The salsa verde and fresa habanero salsa bring a good amount of heat and flavor, especially with the Carne Asada tacos.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best taco spot in DTLA."

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and full of flavor."

"The al pastor tacos were perfectly seasoned and juicy."

Good to know

1

Parking in the area is often inconvenient and may require a short walk.

2

Tacos 1986 is open late, making it a good option for late-night food.

3

The restaurant has no bathroom facilities available for customers.

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Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles

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