NYC has their bagels, Seattle their Coffee, and New Orleans their Jambalaya, but to me, the tacos in Los Angeles reign on high.  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and even at midnight…our tacos here are THE best in the U.S.   So even if you’re feeling blue, grab a Jarritos and remind yourself, it’s okay to fall apart sometimes, because tacos fall apart all the time and everyone still loves tacos.

Mariscos Jalisco – Boyle Heights – @mariscosjalisco

Truly the cream of the crop, Mariscos Jalisco has been at the top of every list since Jonathan Gold discovered it back in 2012.  Down on Olympic Boulevard amidst multiple other taco trucks, you must drive all the way down to the simple nearly unmarked white van.  With only 8 items, the Tacos dorados de camarones (Crunchy Shrimp Tacos) are the sure fire winner.  Post covid, grab your tacos to go or take them to their interior dining hall of plastic tables and chairs and sit down and enjoy.  After your first bite, you’ll feel as if you saw the face of God and had him tell you that “you are my most wonderful creation”.

Tacos Delta – Silver Lake – @tacos_delta

Tried and true, with the best homemade tamarindo drink I’ve had the privilege of enjoying, Tacos Delta sits comfortably on Sunset Blvd next to its tiny, yet completely functional parking lot.  This place has some of the best all around Mexican food in LA, BUT, their tacos are a true delight.  Choose between beef, fish, shrimp, and even potato tacos for all the vegetarians out there.  Let the incredible flavors wash over you as you soak up the sun on their colorful, cozy, and tucked away outdoor patio. 

Tu Madre – West Hollywood- @tacostumadre

If you’re looking for a slightly more elevated experience, and one that involves alcohol, Tu Madre is calling your name.  With a stunning outdoor patio and attentive staff, Tu Madre is the perfect place for a first date, an afternoon snack, or power lunch.  Tu Madre gives your choice of meat and how you want it delivered;  taco, burrito, or bowl!  With choices like fried chicken, lime barbacoa, and ahi tuna, you cannot go wrong.  Don’t forget to pair it with one of their signature drinks, the strawberry froze in the summer or my personal all around winner, the chamoy margarita.  

Chiquis Taco Truck – Hollywood – @chiquistacos

Late night drunken tacos at what I like to call “That one taco truck in the parking lot of Three Clubs”, Chiquis Taco Truck absolutely slaps.  With their incredible al pastor tacos to their loaded table of toppings and sauces to help accent whatever you decide to indulge on, Chiquis Tacos is always there and serves with quality.   I understand that this is a blog about tacos, BUT THE nachos are top notch, covered with corn and beans and cheese and the best pico de gallo around, after a night exploring the bars of Hollywood and Vine, Chiquis should always be your final destination of the night.

Best Fish Taco in Ensenada – Los Feliz – @bestfishtaco

Here we find ourselves in a Sophie’s Choice of Tacos, fish or shrimp.  Obviously the correct answer is to get one of each and take a seat on their quaint patio.  Classic.  Simple.  Hands down one of the freshest fish tacos I’ve ever had, with a batter so perfectly coated you will feel complete, whole, and full of pure joy.  With lots of free and convenient street parking, this is a delightful place to settle down for a break from your Best Day Ever in LA.

Chulita – Venice – @chulitalosangeles

Slightly higher priced on this list is Chulita, but their tacos are worth it.  It’s hard to find a grilled nopales (cactus taco) that is done right, and Chulita pulls it off!  With their coliflor Al Pastor and hanger steak taco, this place is perfect no matter your dietary restriction.  Special shout out for one of the best bowls of Vegan Tortilla Soup a girl could dream of.  To drink you ask?  Their seasonal mango margarita was simply perfect, light and fresh and not overly sweet and matches perfectly with every order!