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ZipPicks Awards
Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Downtown LA
Best Cheap Tacos in Downtown LA
Best Cheap Mexican Food in Downtown LA
Best Cheap Eats in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Pinches Tacos - DTLA
7.7
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
A small, local taco counter that’s an easy family pit stop for affordable, no-fuss Mexican cravings. The dining is simple and quick, with straightforward tacos and plates that work well for kids and adults. Great for a budget downtown lunch between errands.
Must-Try Dishes:
al pastor tacos, carne asada tacos, chips and guacamole
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Local-chain tacos with real value in a quick counter setup.
Who should go: Families needing a fast, affordable bite.
When to visit: Lunch or early afternoon.
What to order: Pastor, asada, and guac with chips.
Insider tip: Order a mix of tacos and split—portions add up fast.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on surrounding blocks is hit-or-miss; the nearest paid garages at The Bloc or FIGat7th are the most reliable for quick in-and-out stops.
Dress code: Completely casual—come as you are, from office wear to weekend errands attire.
Noise level: Moderate during peak lunch hours due to the counter-service setup; otherwise easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: Typically no wait; traffic slows on weekends and evenings.
Weekday lunch: Short line during peak noon rush, usually 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—beans, veggie tacos, rice plates, and sides work well for vegetarian diners.
Vegan options: Limited but doable—look for bean-based options and specify no cheese or crema.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas are the default, but cross-contamination is possible in a small kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it's a counter-service taco spot built for speed and convenience, better for casual meetups than romantic first impressions.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's walk-in only, and seating is first-come, first-served. Turnover is quick, so open seats appear frequently.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—simple tacos, mild options, and fast service make it easy for families with kids of all ages, though there are no kid-specific amenities.
Best For
Better for: A faster, more affordable taco stop than many downtown competitors, great for families on a budget or anyone craving quick Mexican comfort.
Consider Alternatives If: You’re looking for a sit-down meal, craft cocktails, or a more polished dining environment—this is a counter-service spot built for speed.
Hours
Monday9am - 8pm
Tuesday9am - 8pm
Wednesday9am - 8pm
Thursday9am - 8pm
Friday9am - 8pm
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed