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ZipPicks Awards
Best Burritos in Sawtelle Japantown
Master Critic Review
La Poblanita Birria y Antojitos
7.7
A Poblano-style birria de res food truck parked on Santa Monica Blvd in Sawtelle, turning out slow-cooked beef birria across tacos, quesabirria, cemitas, and burritos at street-food prices. The focused menu rewards repeat visits to work through the variations, though the small review footprint means the kitchen is still building its track record in the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria Tacos, Quesabirria, Ham Cemitas
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Poblano-style birria de res food truck on Santa Monica Blvd specializing in slow-cooked beef birria prepared across tacos, quesabirria, cemitas, and burritos.
Who should go: Budget-minded birria lovers seeking authentic Poblano-style street food.
When to visit: Weekday lunch before 3 PM to avoid the afternoon rush.
What to order: Start with the quesabirria for the crispy cheese-meets-birria experience, then add a couple of birria tacos and dip everything in the consommé on the side.
Insider tip: Ask your server about off-menu specials or daily features.
Logistics & Planning
Dietary Options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No - this is a food truck on Santa Monica Blvd, so there's no sit-down dining room, no intimate lighting, and no quiet atmosphere. Street noise is the soundtrack. It's a great casual hangout spot, but save the first date for somewhere with actual tables and ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed or accepted - this is a walk-up food truck. You order at the window and grab your food. Wait times are generally short since it's counter service. They're open Mon-Fri roughly 11am-5pm and Saturday until 5pm, closed Sundays.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes in the sense that it's a casual food truck with zero formality - kids can be as loud as they want and nobody cares. The menu (tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tortas) is straightforward enough for most kids. No kids menu or high chairs, but the grab-and-go format means no need to keep children seated through a long meal.
Is it good for groups? It works for casual groups since everyone just walks up and orders individually - no need to coordinate a reservation or share a table. But there are no large tables, private rooms, or formal group accommodations. Great for a spontaneous crew grabbing lunch, not ideal if you need everyone seated together.
Is there outdoor seating? Limited - some basic seating is available near the truck, but don't expect a full patio setup. This is primarily a grab-and-go operation. Specifics on covered or heated seating are not confirmed - call ahead at (310) 882-0756 if sitting down matters to you.
Best For
Better for: A quick, affordable birria fix when you want authentic Poblano-style beef birria without the sit-down commitment—order at the window, eat in your car or standing up, and be on your way
Consider Alternatives If: You want a full sit-down dining experience, dinner service, or non-meat options—this is a weekday lunch food truck that closes by 5:30 PM and the menu is almost entirely meat-based