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Top picks in Downtown LA

Taco spots

Made for those who view the taco as a fundamental food group and refuse to eat one that doesn't meet their exacting criteria.

Based on 764 Opinions
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01
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Open salsa bar and best tacos al pastor create a lively, chill vibe like Tijuana. Generous portions and handmade tortillas keep the crowd happy despite tricky parking. Fresh ingredients and tasty birria tacos make it a top spot for taco lovers.

Tacos come with al pastor on the trompo and a variety of combinations. The toppings selection complements the tacos perfectly, and the birria tacos are very tasty.

People are saying

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

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Chicken shop serves juicy shredded chicken tacos with perfect shells and tasty sides like guacamole. Ordering is fast and easy via touch screen kiosks. Atmosphere is clean and welcoming but can feel warm inside.

Tacos feature perfect shells and juicy shredded chicken. The chicken tacos stand out as delicious and satisfying.

People are saying

"I loved the $2 tacos on Taco Tuesday."

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.

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Kiosk serves authentic Mexican cuisine with generous portions of made-to-order tacos. Meats like asada and carnitas come with a spicy green sauce that adds a great kick. Atmosphere fits late-night dining with a smoky, hearty vibe.

Tacos feature high-quality meats like asada, carnitas, chorizo, and al pastor with perfect ratios and a spicy green sauce that adds a great kick. Plates come plentiful and the flavors hit the spot consistently.

People are saying

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

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.

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Small stand offers handmade tortillas and fresh ingredients for an authentic vibe. Al pastor tacos shine with perfectly seasoned meat and spicy sauces. Humble, clean atmosphere with limited seating encourages quick, genuine Mexican street food experience.

Tacos feature fresh, handmade tortillas and super flavorful, perfectly seasoned meat like al pastor, asada, and chorizo. Sauces add a fire kick, creating an authentic taco experience reminiscent of Mexico.

People are saying

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

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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Enjoy authentic barbacoa tacos on handmade tortillas with rich consomé inspired by Ixmiquilpan Hidalgo. The spot has a lively food stall vibe and accepts cash or Zelle. Parking can be tricky but the traditional flavors make it worth it.

Barbacoa tacos come on handmade tortillas with authentic Mexican flavors. Tacos are decently sized and best eaten one or two at a time to avoid soggy tortillas.

People are saying

"I loved the barbacoa tacos, they tasted authentic."

Good to know

1

The place accepts only cash payments.

2

They accept Zelle payment.

3

Parking costs $10 and can take about 25 minutes.

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Food truck serves juicy meats with generous portions and free avocado. Tacos like carne asada and al pastor are tender and flavorful. Atmosphere fits late-night crowds, often with lively, intoxicated lines.

Tacos feature tender cabeza and well-seasoned meat with amazing prices. Varieties like carne asada and al pastor stand out for their flavor and quality.

People are saying

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

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.

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Tropical design and Hawaiian music create a comfortable atmosphere with a tropical vibe. Fish tacos are flavorful and fiery, paired with spicy birria and rich consommé for dipping. Generous portions and salsas with a notable spicy kick complete the experience.

Tacos come with spicy birria and a rich consommé for dipping. Fish tacos stand out as flavorful and fiery. Options include birria tacos, asada mulitas, and combos with chips and salsa.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be great."

Good to know

1

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

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Space blends art gallery vibes with a lively dance floor and live bands. Bold shrimp tacos and brisket offer rich flavors in small portions. Eclectic atmosphere shines with DJs and an enclosed patio for social energy.

Shrimp, brisket, and beef bulgogi tacos stand out with bold flavors. Tacos come in small portions but offer a variety including butternut and beef options.

People are saying

"The brisket and shrimp tacos were our favorites."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 4pm to 6:30pm with $9 cocktails and $3-$8 appetizers.

2

Live music or a DJ is featured on select nights.

3

Dogs are allowed in the venue.

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Alleyway with old train tracks offers a unique walk and a quiet, family-friendly vibe. Food vendors serve fresh, high-quality dishes with large tacos in many styles like pastor and seafood. Lighting is good, making it safe and welcoming.

Tacos here come in large portions with varieties like pastor, chicharrón, huitlacoche, and fried blood sausage. Options include Tijuana-style and stew tacos, plus seafood choices like fish and shrimp.

People are saying

"You have to try the large, yummy chicharrón and mixed tacos."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $6 as of June 2023.

2

The market is not recommended for families due to explicit content.

3

The market is not accessible for someone in a wheelchair or on crutches.

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Mexican food truck shines with hand-pressed tortillas and top-notch tacos like al pastor and shrimp. Lively music and bright LED signs create an upbeat atmosphere that draws a chill, energetic crowd. Seating and lighting add to a welcoming vibe perfect for late-night visits.

Tacos come with hand-made tortillas and include standout options like al pastor and shrimp tacos. The veggie tacos and asada quesadilla also offer great flavor and freshness.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were great, truly the best in the city."

Good to know

1

The food truck is located next to Angel City Brewery in the park area.

2

Chevillos Mexican Cuisine is open late at night.

3

Prices are reasonable for tacos and other items.

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Rustic design and authentic Mexican music create a cozy vibe in a small space with 14 tables. Tacos like asada and al pastor stand out but can be dry. Carne asada shines as a top dish, making the food truly excellent.

Tacos come in asada, al pastor, and shredded beef varieties. Street tacos taste good but can be a little dry. Chicken taco salad is also available.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be delicious."

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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Mexican food court spot offers birria tacos and al pastor nachos with bold flavors. Affordable prices shine on Taco Tuesday. Quiet vibe and vegetarian options make it a modern, tasty choice.

Birria tacos and al pastor nachos stand out with impressive sizes and strong flavors. Taco Tuesday offers unbeatable prices, making it a convenient spot to enjoy a few tacos.

People are saying

"I became hooked on the birria tacos."

Good to know

1

Cilantro Lime is located inside a food court.

2

Parking isn’t ideal, so plan accordingly.

3

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

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Vibrant colors and exotic lamps create a warm, inviting dining space. Falafel tacos offer amazing flavor, while Gyro and chicken shawarma tacos provide unique, well-cooked choices. Spacious seating adds to the calming vibe blending Middle Eastern style with casual energy.

Falafel tacos stand out with their amazing flavor. Mediterranean options like the Gyro Taco and chicken shawarma taco offer unique, well-cooked choices without being overstuffed.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant is Halal.

2

They charge $20 for each plate.

3

Open till 2am for late night cravings.

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Warm ambiance shines with a cute tree centerpiece and live DJ music. Outdoor seating boasts a fabulous patio perfect for relaxing. Smoky fish tacos deliver bold flavor, while creative drinks at the bar complete the experience.

Smoky fish tacos stand out with more flavor than expected. Wonton tacos offer a delicious twist on the classic.

People are saying

"The fish tacos here are smoky and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 9 pm on Fridays with half-price on the second drink.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly, allowing pets on the patio.

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Night market buzzes with vibrant atmosphere and lively music. Tacos shine with fresh handmade tortillas and thick guacamole. Cozy setup invites easy strolls and tasty bites.

Tacos come with fresh handmade tortillas and generous portions of thick guacamole. Varieties include Puebla style asada and pastor, plus birria tacos with a unique salsa blending tomato and enchilada flavors.

People are saying

"The tacos here are loaded with thick guacamole."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $5 if you can find available spots nearby.

2

Restroom access costs $3.

3

Parking is $15 for less than 15 minutes.

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Stylish interior blends industrial chic with Oaxaca colors for a warm vibe. Puffy tacos, especially shrimp, shine alongside fried fish and duck leg options. Low lighting and classic rock create a romantic atmosphere perfect for cozy Tex-Mex dining with strong margaritas.

Puffy tacos stand out here, especially the shrimp version with a crispy shell. Fried fish tacos and duck leg also get strong mentions, along with a notable queso that complements the tacos well.

People are saying

"I loved the puffy tacos here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 PM on Saturdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant has an 18% service charge added to all bills.

3

Bar Amá is easily accessible from the train station.

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Enjoy crispy oyster tacos with tangy coleslaw and capers in an elegant oyster bar. Cozy outdoor patio with heaters offers a private vibe. Lively music blends with locally sourced seafood and well-crafted cocktails for a perfect night out.

Tacos feature crispy deep-fried oysters and a coleslaw with capers. Shrimp tacos come with a generous amount of slaw.

Good to know

1

There is two hours of free parking available.

2

Happy hour runs from Monday to Thursday from 4 to 6 PM.

3

During happy hour, enjoy 6 charbroiled oysters for only $19.

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Sleek interior and intimate seating create a relaxed vibe for social dinners. Crispy fish tacos with unique sauce delight pescatarians. Large bar offers personalized photo drinks that pair well with meals.

Crispy fish stands out with a unique sauce and a special tortilla that complements it well. The fish tacos appeal to pescatarians and pair nicely with drinks like a smoked Old Fashioned.

People are saying

"The fish tacos here are fantastic and phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20% automatic gratuity added to your bill.

2

Validated parking is available; otherwise, parking is very expensive.

3

Happy hour features limited drink options with a relaxed vibe.

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Modern Indian spot shines with Kashmiri Duck Tacos that boast rich flavors. Stylish decor and a Gatsby-inspired bar set an elegant tone. Bollywood beats fuel a lively dance vibe, perfect for social dining and celebrations.

Kashmiri Duck (Birria) Tacos stand out with perfect execution and rich flavors. The duck tacos pair well with dishes like butter chicken and lamb keema, making them a noteworthy choice on the menu.

People are saying

"The duck taco was fantastic, with flavorful duck meat."

Good to know

1

Brunch on Sundays features live music, with dancing starting around 1:30pm.

2

A special prix fixe menu is available during brunch and special events.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure accommodation.

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Colorful murals and festive music create a lively, authentic Mexican vibe. Fresh tortillas hold generous portions of meats like asada and carnitas, plus vegetarian options. Bright decor with Día De Los Muertos themes and local sports figures adds charm.

Freshly made tortillas hold generous portions of meat like asada, lengua, and carnitas, paired with cilantro and salsa. Options include pescatarian and vegetarian tacos, served with rice, beans, and chips at competitive prices.

People are saying

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

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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Mexican restaurant shines with authentic tacos like birria and cactus, paired with a salsa bar offering 10-12 varieties including mild options. Enjoy a cute ambiance and great prices, especially on Taco Tuesday where tacos cost just over a dollar.

Tacos here offer authentic Mexican flavors with options like cactus tacos and Birria Tacos that stand out. Taco Tuesday features a great deal with tacos priced just over a dollar.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best I 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.

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Small outdoor seating with fans keeps it cool and comfy. Authentic Mexican food shines with best taquitos and fresh green salsa. Tacos like tacos de papa offer fresh tortillas and tasty homemade sauces. Live mariachi music adds a welcoming vibe.

Tacos feature fresh tortillas with a good balance of texture and taste. Options like tacos de papa and shredded beef tacos come with tasty homemade salsa and sauces, making for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"You have to try the crispy taquitos with juicy, well-seasoned meat."

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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Street food truck offers late-night availability with casual outdoor seating downtown. Tacos are hot and crunchy, featuring well-seasoned birria with consomme and fresh toppings. Affordable prices make it a key option when other kitchens close.

Tacos come hot and crunchy with a good balance of cheese and meat inside. Birria tacos with consomme and simple tacos topped with fresh cilantro and onions stand out for their flavor.

People are saying

"I found the birria tacos with consomme to be excellent."

Good to know

1

This food truck is open late, making it a great option after bars.

2

Prices are very affordable, with tacos starting at $4.

3

The truck is the only food option available near W 5th Street after midnight.

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Small Mexican spot shines with authentic dishes like chicken tacos and mole enchiladas. Rustic decor and colorful art create a transportive ambiance. Outdoor seating offers a beautiful atmosphere with fresh, hearty meals served fast.

Chicken tacos stand out with solid flavor. Combos include tacos with beans, rice, and salad on the side, matching the quality of other classic Mexican dishes.

People are saying

"I found their tacos and enchiladas to be very good."

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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Mexican spot near Olvera Street shines with homemade tortillas and generous tacos like grilled shrimp and chapulin. Lively vibe comes from loud music and a cute robot named Arturo. Fresh margaritas and tender octopus keep locals and tourists coming back.

Tacos here come with generous portions and homemade tortillas. Varieties include grasshopper, grilled shrimp, carnitas, portobello, gobernador, and chapulin, all delivering strong, distinct flavors.

People are saying

"I found the tacos to be authentic and perfectly prepared."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $10 margaritas and discounts on drafts and well drinks.

2

Parking is limited, but some street parking is available nearby.

3

A molcajete costs $50, which is higher than average.

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Market blends vintage architecture with a lively festival vibe and live DJ music. Tacos shine with unique styles like Tijuana asada and soft pulpo, offering bold flavors. Outdoor bar and ample seating create a casual spot for diverse food and drinks.

Tacos here come in many styles, including tacos de canasta, asada Tijuana style, and soft pulpo tacos with excellent taste. Unique options like McSatan and Goth Tacos add variety to the taco selection.

People are saying

"I tried some amazing ethnic tacos here."

Good to know

1

Entry to the market is free.

2

The market is open only every Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

3

Parking is free for the first two hours in a six-floor structure.

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Small Mexican spot shines with crispy potato tacos and rich picadillo. Cozy, historic vibe blends with lively market buzz. Staff in white shirts add to the nostalgic atmosphere.

Tacos come in carne asada, potato, and picadillo ground beef varieties, all with strong flavors. Crispy potato and shredded beef tacos offer a satisfying texture contrast.

People are saying

"I thought the potato tacos were the best."

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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Long alley offers traditional Mexican market vibes with colorful crafts and live music. Fried and carnitas tacos shine on handmade tortillas, best enjoyed on a shaded terrace. Adobe house museum adds a historical feel, while dancing brings a joyful community spirit.

Fried tacos stand out with great flavor and texture. Carnitas tacos come with handmade tortillas. Eating on a shaded terrace with Mexican music adds to the experience.

People are saying

"I loved the great tacos with handmade tortillas."

Good to know

1

The museums and exhibits are free of charge.

2

The next event is the Day of the Dead Celebration on November 2nd, 2025.

3

Expect crowds during the Cinco de Mayo celebration.

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Warehouse-style space offers spacious seating with self-serve kiosks and a polished yet approachable vibe. Hard shell tacos shine with crispy shells and rich, smoky shredded beef or creamy Potato Taco with bright acid. Loud music and poor ventilation add to the lively atmosphere.

Hard shell tacos feature a perfectly crispy shell with flavorful fillings like shredded beef that is slow-cooked with deep umami and smoky notes. The Potato Taco offers a golden crunch exterior with a creamy, silky interior and bright acid that balances the richness.

People are saying

"I found the tacos to be delicious and perfectly crispy."

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.

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