From Boyle Heights to West Hollywood, these five taco joints are a must-try for any Angeleno. Taste the best tacos in LA today!
Los Angeles is a taco lover's paradise, from the family-run stands of East LA to the hip taquerias in the Westside. With so many choices, it's hard to know where to eat. That's why we've rounded up five iconic taco destinations that you simply cannot miss—each with its own unique flavor and story.
Top 5 Taco Spots in LA
These aren't just any taco joints—they're the ones locals swear by. Get ready to taste the best of the city:
- Guisados – 2100 E Cesar E Chavez Ave, Boyle Heights
- Leo's Taco Truck – 5520 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles
- Sonoratown – 208 E 8th St, Los Angeles
- Mariscos Jalisco – 3040 E Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles
- Kogi BBQ – Food truck, locations vary (follow their Twitter)
1. Guisados – Boyle Heights
At 2100 E Cesar E Chavez Ave, Guisados is famous for its slow-braised meats and handmade tortillas. Try the sampler tray to taste all six daily guisados, like the spicy chicharrón or the savory picadillo. It's a local favorite that's been featured on food shows, and for good reason.
2. Leo's Taco Truck – Multiple Locations
Leo's has been serving al pastor tacos from its iconic yellow truck for over 20 years. With locations around the city, including the flagship at 5520 N Figueroa St, you can watch the meat spin on the vertical spit as you order. Each taco is topped with fresh cilantro, onion, and a slice of pineapple—just $2.50 each.
3. Sonoratown – Downtown LA
Sonoratown at 208 E 8th St specializes in Sonoran-style tacos with charred flour tortillas and grilled carne asada. The taquería's minimalist menu keeps things simple, but the flavor is anything but. Their 'Taco de Carne Asada' is a must-order.
4. Mariscos Jalisco – Boyle Heights
For seafood lovers, Mariscos Jalisco's taco dorado de camarón (crispy shrimp taco) is legendary. Located at 3040 E Olympic Blvd, this humble taco truck serves a crunchy golden shell stuffed with sweet shrimp, topped with avocado and salsa. It's a one-of-a-kind experience that transports you to the coast of Mexico.
5. Kogi BBQ – Food Truck
Kogi BBQ's short rib tacos with Korean chili paste and sesame oil are a true LA invention. Founded by chef Roy Choi, the truck can be found at different spots around the city—follow them on Twitter for daily locations. It's a fusion that celebrates LA's diversity.
Tips for Your Taco Crawl
Before you head out, keep these tips in mind:
- Go on weekdays to avoid long lines—many trucks see a lunch rush from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Bring cash; some spots like Mariscos Jalisco are cash-only.
- Order multiple tacos at each place—you'll want to taste as much as possible.
Now that you know where to go, grab your friends and hit the taco trail this weekend. Don't forget to share your favorites with us on Instagram @DailyBitesLA and tag your photos with #DailyBitesTacos. Happy eating!
