Top Taco Spots in Los Angeles

Tacos are a Southern California way of life, and for many Angelenos, the search for tacos is a love affair, often leading to a quest to sample as many varieties as possible.

Los Angeles boasts one of the most exciting taco scenes in the US. Regardless of where you find yourself, street carts, trucks, taquerias, restaurants, and pop-ups offer unique spins on this beloved fast-food staple. If you’re eager to taste the best tacos in town, here are some stellar picks.

Loqui: Best Mushroom Tacos

Inspired by traditional Mexican taquerias, the soft and chewy flour tortillas at Loqui embrace a delightful blend of mushrooms, beans, cheese, guacamole, onion, cilantro, and salsa. While the pork, beef, and chicken options are also delicious, many meat lovers often search out these heavenly mushroom tacos.

Overhead shot of two mushroom tacos and a mushroom plate from Loqui — Even meat lovers could find themselves regularly running out for these fungi © Melissa Curtin

Escuela Taqueria: Best Branzino Tacos

The branzino taco, with crispy skin, cabbage slaw, and chipotle cream, will certainly entice you to return to this cozy cantina in Beverly Grove/Fairfax. Although on the pricier side compared to street vendors, the option to bring your own drinks enhances the experience.

George Lopez’s Chingon Kitchen at the Brews Hall @ Del Amo: Best Beer-Battered Fish Tacos

While craft beer and game-watching lure visitors to this food hall in Torrance, the two hefty beer-battered fish tacos, accompanied by shredded cabbage, spicy crema, cilantro, and lime, are worth the visit. Pair these delightful tacos with a refreshing Michelada for an unforgettable meal.

Socalo: Best Dobladita Tacos

This beachy canteen in Santa Monica, opened by renowned chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken, features a sizable taco menu with standout options like slow-roasted lamb birria, chorizo, and more. Their signature Socal dobladita is truly a tastebud explosion.

Overhead shot of the Socal dobladita — Socalo’s sizable taco menu has many standouts, but its dobladita is a tastebud explosion © Melissa Curtin

HomeState: Best Breakfast Tacos

This Tex-Mex kitchen has been recognized for its outstanding flour tortillas. Watch the crew make them fresh at all locations. Start your day off with the Pecos taco, featuring slow-cooked brisket and eggs, and don’t overlook other tasty options available all day.

Two crispy tacos filled with plant-based ground beef — You can add the first Whole30-approved plant-based meat to any menu item at Chicas Tacos © Melissa Curtin

Chicas Tacos: Best Plant-Based “Meat” Tacos

Chicas Tacos brings innovation with plant-based beef and chorizo. These options are available at all locations, providing delicious choices for those looking to enjoy tacos without sacrificing flavor or quality.

La Chingona Tacos: Best Vegan Tacos

In Topanga Canyon, this colorful roadside stand offers delightful street-style tacos, with options for vegans such as hibiscus stew and soy-chorizo. The fried plantains with black beans are a must-try, providing a sweet end to your meal.

Villas Tacos: Best Neighborhood Tacos

This backyard operation in Highland Park features tacos filled with seasoned meats and topped with fresh ingredients, offering a community-style dining experience.

El Granjero Cantina: Best Fried-Avocado Tacos

This lively cantina features freshly made tortillas filled with crispy avocado and flavorful toppings, creating a unique blend of textures and tastes.

Crispy avocado taco — The crispy avocado taco from El Granjero packs a lot of flavor © Melissa Curtin

Nueva: Best Pork-Belly Chicharron Tacos

Nueva offers exquisite tacos like pork-belly chicharron topped with cilantro and pineapple salsa, delivering a delightful culinary experience in Venice.

Tacos Por Favor: Best Crunchy Tacos

This family-run establishment serves up crunchy tacos that locals adore, making it a go-to for delicious Mexican fare.

Evil Cooks: Best Dessert Tacos

For those with a sweet tooth, Evil Cooks features dessert tacos that combine traditional flavors with innovative twists, ensuring a delightful ending to any meal.

The Goat Mafia: Best Birria Tacos

Bringing forth a family recipe from Jalisco, The Goat Mafia offers succulent birria tacos served with homemade tortillas, creating a flavor experience like no other.

Los Cochinitos: Best Carnitas Tacos

The carnitas at Los Cochinitos are fresh and flavorful, allowing patrons to select their preferred cuts for a truly authentic experience.

Brothers Cousins Tacos: Best Al Pastor Tacos

The vibrant outdoor setup of Brothers Cousins serves mouthwatering al pastor tacos that are sure to please taco enthusiasts everywhere.

Tacos Villa Corona: Anthony Bourdain–Approved Tacos

This family-run taco hut was featured on Anthony Bourdain’s show, highlighting its delicious and affordable offerings that keep customers coming back for more.

Mariscos Jalisco: Best Tacos Dorados

Renowned for its shrimp tacos, Mariscos Jalisco has attracted many fans, including celebrities, for its delectable offerings and outstanding seafood dishes.