Los Angeles is a city renowned for its diverse and vibrant culinary scene, and when it comes to Mexican street food, it’s a paradise for food enthusiasts. From savory tacos to spicy salsas, the streets of LA offer an array of delicious and authentic Mexican treats. Let’s dive into the top 7 best Mexican street food spots in the City of Angels.
1. Guisados
Located in Boyle Heights, Guisados is a beloved spot for those craving delicious stewed tacos. Their menu features an array of braised meats, such as carne asada, cochinita pibil, and chile verde, all served on fresh, homemade tortillas. Don’t miss their sampler plate to try a variety of flavors in one go!
2. Leo’s Taco Truck
No list of Mexican street food in LA is complete without mentioning Leo’s Taco Truck. Known for their succulent al pastor tacos, this food truck has gained a cult following. The marinated pork is sliced fresh off the spit and served with pineapple, onions, and cilantro—a true taste of Mexico City street food right in LA.
3. La Reyna Tamales
Tamales are a Mexican comfort food staple, and La Reyna Tamales in the Grand Central Market crafts some of the best in the city. These steamed bundles of masa filled with meats, cheeses, and chilies are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Pair your tamale with their homemade salsas for an extra kick of flavor.
4. Tire Shop Taqueria
A hidden gem in South LA, Tire Shop Taqueria offers authentic Mexican street tacos with a unique twist—they’re served out of an actual tire shop. Don’t let the unconventional location fool you; the tacos here are top-notch. From carne asada to lengua (beef tongue), each taco is bursting with flavor and freshness.
5. Mariscos Jalisco
For seafood lovers, Mariscos Jalisco is a must-visit. This food truck in Boyle Heights is famous for its crispy shrimp tacos, filled with plump shrimp, avocado, and a spicy salsa verde. The combination of textures and flavors in each bite is simply heavenly.
6. El Chato Taco Truck
Another iconic taco truck in LA, El Chato can often be found on the corner of La Brea and Olympic. Their tacos de cabeza (beef head tacos) are particularly popular among locals and visitors alike. Served with fresh lime and radishes, these tacos are a true representation of traditional Mexican street fare.
7. Sonoratown
Bringing the flavors of Sonora, Mexico, to the heart of LA, Sonoratown specializes in Sonoran-style carne asada tacos. Grilled to perfection and served with flour tortillas, these tacos are simple yet incredibly satisfying. Be sure to try their grilled green onions, a perfect accompaniment to the savory meat.
Whether you’re a longtime Angeleno or just visiting, exploring the Mexican street food scene in Los Angeles is a culinary adventure not to be missed. These top 7 spots offer just a glimpse into the rich tapestry of flavors and traditions that make Mexican cuisine so beloved around the world. So grab some friends, hit the streets, and indulge in the best that LA’s Mexican street food scene has to offer!