West Hollywood is often recognized for its bustling nightlife, extravagant Pride celebrations, and a rich musical history, but it is also home to an impressive taco scene that many have yet to discover.
While some may claim that good tacos are scarce in the area, a closer look reveals a culinary treasure that is both diverse and delicious.
As Pride celebrations kick off in Los Angeles, it’s the perfect time to explore some of the best taco spots in and around West Hollywood.
**Madre**
Ivan Vasquez, the owner of Madre, is not just a restaurateur; he is a mezcal aficionado with one of the largest collections in Los Angeles.
The experience at Madre isn’t solely about mezcal—though there is plenty of it; it’s also about the incredible Oaxacan-inspired dining experience that accompanies it.
The bar’s mission highlights Vasquez’s dedication to showcasing only the finest bottles he can personally source.
The culinary offerings at Madre must match the quality of its mezcal, evident in its barbacoa tacos.
These tacos are marinated for a full day before they are cooked in banana leaves, served in handmade tortillas, and complimented with onion, cilantro, lime, and green salsa.
To properly enjoy this dish, roll the contents back up, dip it in the consomé served alongside, and savor the rich, flavorful goat barbacoa in its thick marinades.
In addition to the barbacoa, don’t miss out on the grilled al pastor octopus tacos topped with pico de gallo, avocado salsa, pineapple, and cucumber.
Madre is not only about great food; it embodies a sense of community, having generously provided meals to first responders during devastating L.A. fires, further enhancing its reputation.
Located at 10426 National Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90034, Madre sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.
**Tacos 1986**
Next up is Tacos 1986, which presents a simple yet satisfying menu featuring chicken, carne asada, puerco adobado (also known as al pastor), and a vegetarian mushroom option.
The generous portions here provide an exceptionally filling meal with tortillas that allow for ample fresh fillings compared to standard taco truck offerings.
A special customer favorite, not listed on the menu, is the perrón—this dish features a flour tortilla oozing with melted Monterey Jack cheese, topped with lean carne asada, pinto beans, and guacamole.
Dining here is a grease-free affair, with the tacos balancing flavor and chewiness without the mess.
Pair your meal with refreshing drinks like ice-cold horchata or jamaica to elevate the experience.
Tacos 1986 is located at 7235 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036.
**MXO by Wes Avila**
At MXO by Wes Avila, the taco de papa has achieved iconic status, particularly the sweet potato flautas that impress even the most discerning taco enthusiasts.
These flautas, now made with fluffy steamed Okinawan sweet potatoes, are crunchy and fried in rice bran oil, showcasing a harmonious blend of flavors.
Chef Wes Avila’s taco formula combines crunchy elements with creamy cheese, spicy salsa roja, and fresh ingredients like minced chives.
You can’t go wrong with selections like the fish tacos or ribeye perron tacos accompanied by frijoles, salsa roja, cheese, and avocado.
Besides tacos, MXO offers other delightful dishes including chile colorado ribs and carnitas that also tempt diners.
Find MXO at 826 N. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90069, where every dish delivers satisfaction.
**Guisados**
Guisados stands out in the taco landscape by specializing in stewed meats and vegetables, diverging from the typical grilled or confit meats often found in taco shops across Los Angeles.
Here, the long-cooked proteins and vegetables create a deeper, more satisfying flavor profile that invites exploration.
The sampler plate offers a small taste of Mexico, where the restaurant’s commitment to quality is showcased through its nixtamalized yellow corn masa and handmade tortillas.
For those avoiding meat, options like tender calabacitas or rajas ensure that everyone can enjoy a great taco experience.
From breakfast tacos to chicharrones and seafood options, Guisados guarantees a delicious bite.
A practical tip for visiting Guisados? Point to the tacos that catch your eye and try one of each.
You can find them at 8935 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069.
**Escuela Taquería**
At Escuela Taquería, the culinary offerings elevate the taco experience with options like carne asada, shrimp, and carnitas tacos, alongside a sumptuous wagyu skirt steak burrito.
For seafood lovers, fresh Maine lobster served with cabbage slaw and chipotle crema provides a luxurious alternative.
This taco spot is also dog-friendly, making it a perfect place to enjoy a meal with your furry friend in their outdoor seating area.
Pair your meal with signature drinks, including spiked ponche or a selection of fresh sangrias, tequila, mezcal, and beer.
Escuela Taquería is found at 7450 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036, ready to serve up flavorful dishes.
**Gracias Madre**
Renowned for its vegan tacos and plant-based Mexican cuisine, Gracias Madre is a chic spot along Melrose Avenue where diners can indulge in a unique take on traditional tacos.
Among their popular offerings is the mushroom chicharron taco with crispy oyster mushrooms, salsa verde, and house-made tapatio, presenting a mouthwatering delight.
Equally loved is the lentil quinoa barbacoa, enhanced with salsa pasilla, chipotle aioli, cilantro, and Aleppo pepper, making it a hit among diners.
Their sweet potato flautas on crispy corn tortillas filled with sweet potatoes are also not to be missed.
Gracias Madre is located at 8905 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood, CA 90069, redefining plant-based dining in style.
**Tacos Guelaguetza**
As the nightlife kicks into gear, Tacos Guelaguetza serves as a favorite 24-hour taco stand conveniently located outside of Pavilions on Melrose and Vine.
Their vibrant red trompo draws crowds with its aroma of charred meats billowing from the grill, creating an irresistible call for taco enthusiasts.
With a lineup of nine different meat options, including asada, chicken, suadero, cabeza, tripas, and chorizo, there’s something for every late-night craving.
For those seeking an alternative to tacos, their famed $10 burritos come with a delectable grilled cheese skirt for an added touch of indulgence.
Find Tacos Guelaguetza at 5848 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90038, where the flavors come alive.
**Tu Madre**
Tu Madre draws in diners with its vibrant atmosphere, known for margarita pitchers and their signature red velvet churros, alongside a variety of Mexican classics.
Their menus highlight both vegetarian options and rich meat choices, ensuring there’s something appealing for everyone in your party.
From plant-based tacos like the V-KBBQ, made with house-made mushroom bulgogi and topped with kimchi and cilantro, to the sweet and sour chicken taco featuring marinated grilled chicken, there’s diversity on the plate.
Tu Madre is located at 1111 Hayworth Ave., West Hollywood, CA 90046.
**Zarape Cocina & Cantina**
At Zarape Cocina & Cantina, the menu is designed to please any palate, whether you’re looking to dine for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Their taco flight provides a delightful sampling, featuring bite-sized tacos filled with birria, asada, cochinita pibil, mole poblano, carnitas, al pastor, chicken tinga, and nopalitos.
This versatile menu guarantees that you’re covered, no matter what time of day you visit.
You can find Zarape Cocina & Cantina at 8351 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069.
**Walking Spanish**
Walking Spanish offers a unique twist on Central American cuisine, run by the husband-and-wife team Rene and Stephanie Coreas.
Currently, they operate out of Las Perlas in West Hollywood, delivering popular twisted pupusas and a flavorful taco flight.
Their taco flight showcases a range of flavors, including a gluten-free soy-marinated portobello mushroom taco served on a confit garlic-infused tortilla, topped with salsa macha and charred scallions.
Don’t miss out on their skirt steak and chicken aji verde tacos in this flavorful combination.
You can visit Walking Spanish at 7511 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90046.
**El Carmen**
For those who appreciate an ambiance steeped in nostalgia, El Carmen offers a bar-themed around the golden era of Mexican cinema and wrestling.
This venue is known for its remarkable selection of tequilas and an inviting margarita made with house-made pineapple tequila.
When you’re there, make sure to try their tacos, including carnitas and potato flautas for a well-rounded culinary experience.
El Carmen is located at 8138 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048.
As the vibrant culture of West Hollywood continues to evolve, its culinary scene, particularly the taco offerings, remains an exciting facet for locals and visitors alike.
With such an array of options, there’s no excuse not to explore the best tacos that West Hollywood has to offer.
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