0 Followers
Taqueria Frontera
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Taqueria Frontera
8.7
Cypress Park’s buzzy Tijuana-style taqueria built around a trompo-driven al pastor program and fresh tortillas made to order. The tacos land with sharp smoke, juicy meat, and salsa balance that feels dialed-in beyond a typical neighborhood stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Adobada (al pastor) tacos, Vampiro with asada, Quesataco
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Trompo-fired pastor and handmade tortillas with Tijuana DNA.
Who should go: Pastor fans and taco purists.
When to visit: Weekdays right at opening.
What to order: Adobada tacos, vampiro, quesataco.
Insider tip: Ask for a fresh tortilla batch if it’s busy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Cypress Ave and adjacent residential blocks; generally manageable before peak dinner but can tighten after 7pm.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; most guests arrive in everyday wear.
Noise level: Moderate—busy counter energy but still easy enough to talk without shouting.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes, especially if the trompo line is moving slowly.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal; 0–10 minutes depending on tortilla batch timing.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—usually a bean-and-cheese or veggie taco option depending on the day.
Vegan options: Very limited—may offer plain bean tacos or nopales; verify on arrival.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, and most meats are safe; cross-contact possible in shared spaces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Great for a casual, low-pressure first date if you both love tacos. The energy is lively but not chaotic, and the food comes fast enough to keep the flow easy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's counter-service only. Tables are first-come but turnover is quick; standing bar spots help during peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who can handle counter seating and a busy environment; limited space for strollers and no high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Exceptional al pastor from a proper trompo, freshly pressed tortillas, and punchy salsas that outshine many neighborhood taquerias.
Skip if: You want a full sit-down experience, expanded vegetarian choices, or very quiet seating—this leans fast, focused, and meat-centered.
Taqueria Frontera
7.6
A newer Cypress Park taqueria focused on Tijuana-style tacos with bright marinades and strong grilled char. Best when you want a quick, flavor-forward stop that feels modern but still rooted in street-food tradition.
Must-Try Dishes:
Adobada tacos, Birria tacos, Agua fresca
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Tijuana-leaning adobada and birria with clean, modern execution.
Who should go: Taco fans chasing bold marinades.
When to visit: Evenings for peak grill energy.
What to order: Adobada tacos, birria tacos, agua fresca.
Insider tip: Order adobada slightly crisped for extra edge.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Figueroa and nearby residential blocks; spots open up after 7pm but can be tight during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual—anything from everyday wear to slightly trendy works fine.
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively, especially near the grill; still manageable for casual conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during the peak rush, especially after 7:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick counter service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—typically a bean-and-cheese or veggie taco option depending on the day.
Vegan options: Very limited—ask about veggie tacos without cheese; sides vary.
Gluten-free options: Most corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but no dedicated prep area for strict sensitivity.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a casual, energetic first date—especially if you want something fast, flavorful, and low-pressure. Not ideal if you need a quiet, linger-friendly setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's counter-service with open seating. Arrive early in the evening for the best shot at grabbing a table quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy tacos and casual seating. Space is tight and noise picks up, so strollers and very young children may find it less comfortable.
Best For
Better for: Bold, char-heavy Tijuana-style tacos with a modern edge and fast service.
Skip if: You want a full sit-down meal, quieter atmosphere, or a wide range of vegetarian/vegan choices.
Taqueria Frontera
8.3
A neighborhood taqueria that keeps burritos stout and savory, with well-marinated meats and a balanced rice-bean ratio that doesn’t feel filler-heavy. The tortillas stay pliant, and the salsa bar brings real heat options. Best as a reliable, repeatable Cypress Park stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Burrito, Carnitas Burrito, Chorizo Breakfast Burrito
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Marination-forward burritos with a strong salsa bench.
Who should go: Anyone wanting a fast, satisfying burrito.
When to visit: Weeknights before 7 for smooth ordering.
What to order: Al pastor burrito, carnitas burrito, horchata.
Insider tip: Mix two salsas for custom heat and acidity.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Cypress Ave is usually available, though it can tighten during peak dinner hours. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Completely casual. Come as you are—hoodies, tees, and post-errand comfort fits all work.
Noise level: Low to moderate. Mostly takeout foot traffic, so conversation is easy at the indoor tables.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes depending on rush; orders move quickly even when busy.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait, with food ready within 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — basic veggie burritos and bean-rice combos are available, plus customizable builds.
Vegan options: Limited — can request a rice-bean-veggies build without cheese or crema; verify tortilla ingredients if strict.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free program; flour tortillas dominate, but some proteins may be served on corn tortillas. Cross-contact likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if the goal is casual and fast—this is more of a no-frills taqueria than a vibe-driven date spot.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — reservations aren’t used here. Small dine-in area is first-come, first-served with quick turnover.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — straightforward menu, quick service, and casual seating make it easy for families. Best for kids comfortable with simple plates and mild salsas.
Best For
Better for: Fast, flavorful burritos with strong marinated meats, plus a salsa bar that outperforms nearby competitors.
Skip if: You want a sit-down experience, heavy customization, or gluten-free assurance—other spots are better fits.