30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Mexican in LA Arts District
Best Tacos in LA Arts District
Best Burritos in LA Arts District
Best Cheap Tacos in LA Arts District
Master Critic Review
Adrians Tacos
8.0
A cash-only taco truck that has held its spot on Mateo St since 2008, grilling fish, al pastor, and asada to order at prices that keep the whole meal under $20. The Arts District regulars treat it like a fixed address rather than a pop-up, and the 18-year run speaks to a kitchen that doesn't drift. Show up knowing what you want, bring cash, and eat standing up—that's the format, and it delivers.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fish Tacos, Al Pastor Tacos, Carne Asada Tacos
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Cash-only Arts District taco truck parked on Mateo since 2008, grilling fish, al pastor, and asada to order at under $20 a plate.
Who should go: Budget-minded taco lovers near the Arts District
When to visit: Weekday mornings for breakfast burritos; closes at 4 PM
What to order: Start with a fish taco and an al pastor taco to compare proteins, then add an asada mulita if you're hungry—portions are generous for the price.
Insider tip: Bring cash—they don't take cards—and ask for the mango and mustard salsas on your fish tacos.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Mateo St in the Arts District industrial area—generally easy to find a spot during business hours
Dress code: Come as you are—it's an outdoor taco trailer with picnic-style seating
Weekday lunch: Fast service, rarely a long wait—reviews note it doesn't get too busy and seating is usually available
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Veggie burritos and veggie tacos are on the menu
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No — this is a taco trailer parked on Mateo Street in the Arts District, not a sit-down restaurant. There's no interior, no mood lighting, and seating is limited to fold-out tables and milk crates on the sidewalk. It's a great casual hangout, but not the move for a first date unless you're both street-food enthusiasts looking for something ultra-low-key.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — no reservations here. It's walk-up ordering at the trailer window. The lunch rush (11am–1pm weekdays) draws a crowd from the Arts District, so expect a short wait in line during peak hours. Off-peak, you'll order and get your food fast. Open Monday–Saturday, 7am–4pm.
Is it kid-friendly? It's fine for kids in the sense that it's casual and low-pressure, but there are no kid-specific amenities — no kids menu, no high chairs, and seating is makeshift (fold-out tables and milk crates). Best for older kids who can handle standing or perching on basic seating. Keep it to a quick taco stop rather than a sit-down meal.
Is it good for groups? Not ideal — seating is extremely limited to a handful of fold-out tables next to the trailer. A group of 4–5 could manage if you're fine eating standing or grabbing the few available seats, but there are no large tables, no private space, and no catering option. Most customers grab their order to-go.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — all seating is outdoors since this is a taco trailer, not a brick-and-mortar. There are a few fold-out tables and milk crates set up on the sidewalk next to the trailer. No cover, no heaters, and no shade structure — you're in the open air. Works well during LA's mild weather, but plan accordingly on hot days.
Best For
Better for: A fast, cheap, no-frills taco lunch outdoors in the Arts District—cash in hand, eat in 15 minutes, back to your day
Consider Alternatives If: You want dinner (closes at 4 PM), Sunday plans (closed Sundays), or a sit-down restaurant experience
Hours
Monday7am - 4pm
Tuesday7am - 4pm
Wednesday7am - 4pm
Thursday7am - 4pm
Friday7am - 4pm
Saturday7am - 4pm
SundayClosed