East LA is the undisputed taco capital of Los Angeles. After spending three months eating my way through every taco stand, truck, and restaurant in the area, I'm ready to share my definitive list.
Best Al Pastor: Tacos El Gordo
Located on Whittier Boulevard, Tacos El Gordo serves al pastor that rivals anything you'd find in Mexico City. The trompo spins all day, and the meat is shaved directly onto warm corn tortillas with a slice of pineapple. At $2.50 per taco, it's also one of the best deals in town.
Must try: Al Pastor with everything. Don't skip the salsa roja — it's house-made and has a smoky chipotle kick that complements the sweet pineapple perfectly.
Best Carnitas: Carnitas El Momo
This family-run operation on Olympic Boulevard slow-cooks their pork in copper pots the traditional Michoacán way. The result is carnitas with crispy edges and tender, juicy centers. Get there early on weekends — they often sell out by 2pm.
Must try: The maciza (lean pork) and cueritos (crispy pork skin) combo plate. Comes with fresh tortillas, salsa, and all the fixings.
Best Birria: Birrieria Gonzalez
The consomé here is so rich and flavorful it should be bottled and sold. Their quesabirria tacos — crispy griddled tortillas filled with melted cheese and birria, served with consomé for dipping — are worth the inevitable 20-minute wait.
Honorable Mentions
- Mariscos Jalisco — Famous for their shrimp tacos dorados. The taco de camaron is a crunchy, saucy masterpiece.
- Guisados — For slow-braised stews on handmade tortillas. The cochinita pibil and chicharron verde are standouts.
- Leo's Tacos Truck — The al pastor here is legendary, especially at the La Brea and Venice location late at night.