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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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Updated May 2026
01
Tacos el chivo image 1
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Tacos el chivo image 3
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Taco restaurant

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."

"I thought the Al Pastor here was the best I ever had."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

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.

02
Tacos La Cuevita image 1
Mexican restaurant

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

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

"The street food here is amazing and authentic."

"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.

03
Tacos El Compita INC. image 1
Taco restaurant

Outdoor seating under a big shade tree creates a casual vibe. Crunchy tacos dorados with barbacoa fillings deliver bold flavor. Lines form often, but quick service keeps wait times short.

Crunchy tacos dorados stand out with exceptional flavor and a satisfying crispy texture. Barbacoa fillings shine, especially in the fried versions, and adding lemon, cilantro, and salsa enhances the taste.

People are saying

"These tacos dorados were the best I ever had."

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

"I thought the tacos were really good and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect a long line during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Street parking is available but can get busy at times.

3

Prices are fair, with tacos costing $2.45 each.

04
Chevillos Mexican Cuisine image 1
Mexican restaurant

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

"The food here is amazing, especially the meats and elote straight off the grill."

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

"The tortillas here are freshly made and hand-pressed."

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.

05
LOQUI image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with bold seasoned meats and gourmet shrimp tacos on fresh tortillas. Outdoor patio offers a chill vibe while homemade hot sauces spice up every bite. Canned cocktails and margaritas make dining quick and flavorful.

Tacos here have great flavor and come in varieties like gourmet shrimp, beef, and vegetarian. Corn tortillas hold consistent chicken tacos, while peanuts add depth to some options.

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 thought the vegetarian tacos were the best I ever had."

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.

06
Taco House 3 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot serves authentic tacos with spicy hot sauce and fresh bolillo bread. Seating inside invites diners to enjoy bold flavors, while parking out front makes takeout easy. Breakfast burritos offer great value and a tasty start to the day.

Authentic tacos come with salsa sauce and a variety of beverages. Seating options make it easy to enjoy the meal on site.

People are saying

"The breakfast burritos here are awesome and a great value."

"I found the breakfast burritos to be great."

"I found the tacos here to be authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in front of the restaurant for easy access.

2

Breakfast burritos are a good value for the price.

07
Crazy Tacos On 9th image 1
Mexican restaurant

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 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."

"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.

08
Tacos El Comelon (Food Truck) image 1

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."

"The tortillas here are grilled to perfection with a nice crunch."

"The Birria Plate from the Food Trucks was quite good."

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.

09
Doña Estela image 1
Mexican restaurant

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

"The seafood here is flavorful and satisfying."

"I found the tacos here to be great."

Good to know

1

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

10
WILDBIRD image 1
Chicken shop

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

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

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

"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.

11
El Patroncito Mexican Cuisine image 1

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

"The seafood here, especially the shrimp, tasted incredibly fresh."

"The wet burrito with mole was awesome and tasty."

"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.

12
Bar Amá image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

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

"The food here is creative, fresh, and always delicious."

"The margaritas here are strong and tasty."

"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.

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

Outdoor taco stand buzzes with el pastor tacos known citywide. Salsa bar adds zest while club vibes energize the crowd. Free parking and security presence keep it safe and easy.

Tacos here stand out for their el pastor variety, often considered the best in the city. Each taco costs around $2.25, offering a great deal for such unworldly good flavor.

People are saying

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

"I found plenty of parking available, even on a busy Monday night."

"It's the best late night spot for tacos and quesadillas."

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
Imperial Night Market image 1

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

"I found a great variety of good food options here."

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

"I loved the sushi; it was the best and freshest."

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.

15
District image 1
New American restaurant

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 food's presentation is a visual delight."

"It's a chill spot where you'll want to hang out all night."

"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.

16
Tacos de barbacoa estilo Hidalgo image 1

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

"The barbacoa tacos here taste like authentic Mexican food."

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

"The barbacoa food here is styled after Hidalgo."

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.

17
Taqueria Los Twins image 1
Mexican restaurant

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

"You have to try the birria tacos with consommé."

"This is the only late night spot open when nowhere else is."

"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.

18
Pinches Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

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

"These tacos are packed with filling and delicious."

"The breakfast burrito is excellent and filling."

"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.

19
ADRIANS TACOS image 1
Mexican restaurant

Busy taco truck serves authentic Mexican tacos with fresh avocado and unique sauces like mango. Carnitas tacos are high quality and perfectly cooked. Fans keep the small seating area cool while Brazilian phonk music adds a unique vibe to the experience.

Tacos come with fresh avocado and options like mustard and mango sauce on top. Carnitas tacos stand out for their high quality and are cooked to perfection without greasiness.

People are saying

"The tacos here are bomb, especially the pastor."

"The food here is amazing and cooked to perfection."

"I found the pastor burrito to have a really great flavor."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of around 67 minutes during peak hours.

2

Prices for menu items can vary daily without notice.

3

They accept cash, card, or Zelle for payment, but card use incurs a $1 fee.

20
Sincerely Yours image 1
Restaurant

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

"You can walk through the art gallery with your drinks."

"The cocktails are carefully crafted and perfectly balanced."

"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.

21
Cilantro Lime image 1
Mexican restaurant

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

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

"I loved the marinated meats on these nachos."

"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.

22
DTLA After Dark Night Market image 1

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 Market's street food, like tacos and potatoes, was amazing."

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

"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.

23
Tacos Tumbras a Tomas image 1
Taco restaurant

Metal counter and handwritten signs create a simple setup with trays of sizzling meat. Tacos come in huge portions loaded with meats like Al pastor and lamb, offering fresh flavors and great value. Communal tables add to the lively atmosphere amid a vibrant market crowd.

Big tacos come loaded with meat and offer generous servings that can stretch to feed multiple people. The extensive meat choices include standout options like Al pastor and lamb, delivering pure flavor and great value for five dollars.

People are saying

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

"The food portions here are so generous, you'll definitely leave full."

"The carnitas are rich, tender, and perfectly seasoned."

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.

24
Villa Moreliana 🇲🇽 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Carnitas tacos shine with juicy meat and a salsa bar for toppings. Prices stay low around $5.50 and staff often offer free samples. Casual, lively spot has crowded indoor seating and some sidewalk tables on a busy street. Beer on tap can be flat.

Tacos here feature juicy carnitas with overflowing meat portions and a salsa and topping bar. Prices stay low around $5.50, and the staff often offers free sample tacos to customers.

People are saying

"I was instantly hooked on these tacos."

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

"I thought these were probably the best carnitas tacos I ever had."

Good to know

1

Four tacos cost $24, which may feel pricey for some.

2

Credit card payments incur a $1 fee, which is questionable in California.

3

You can eat at the bar, inside, or outside.

25
El Chinanteco Mexican Grill Restaurant image 1

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."

"Their handmade corn tortillas are a game changer."

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

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.

26
CULTURAS RESTAURANT image 1

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 Peruvian food here is authentic, fresh, and flavorful."

"The cocktails here are flavorful and perfectly balanced."

"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.

27
Sonoritas - DTLA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with flavorful tacos like barbecue short rib and shrimp, topped with guacamole. Outdoor patio offers a relaxing atmosphere with reggaeton beats and long tables for groups. Known for popular margaritas, it closes early and is cashless.

Tacos come with corn tortillas and are filled with options like barbecue short rib, shrimp, and barbacoa. They arrive loaded with guacamole and offer a tasty, filling meal.

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."

"I thought the tacos were delicious and loaded with guacamole."

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.

28
Placita Olvera 🇲🇽 image 1
Mexican goods store

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

"It's a beautiful historical site that feels like stepping back in time."

"I loved the taquitos; they were the best Mexican food I've had."

"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.

29
La Noche Buena Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

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

"The carnitas tacos and tamales here are delicious."

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

"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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Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles

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