Skip to main content

Best Cheap Tacos Restaurants in Sawtelle Japantown (90025)

4 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

$$ Sawtelle
Sonoran-style tacos and burritos built around flour tortillas that are pliant, lightly chewy, and clearly housemade. The mesquite-grilled meats and punchy salsas keep this a steady favorite on Sawtelle for both quick lunches and casual dinners.
Must-Try Dishes: Mar y Tierra Burrito, Carne Asada Taco, Al Pastor Burrito
What makes it special: Housemade Sonoran tortillas paired with mesquite-grilled fillings.

Worthy Picks

$ West LA (Santa Monica Blvd Corridor)
A nighttime Oaxacan street stand tucked along Santa Monica Blvd that locals treat like a secret. The tortillas skew handmade and the fillings—especially porky, chile-forward stews—feel closer to home-style than fast-casual. It’s a low-key, high-flavor stop that rewards a little patience.
Must-Try Dishes: Al Pastor Tacos, Tlayuda Mixta, Carne Asada Quesadilla
What makes it special: Late-night street-style tacos with a standout tlayuda.
$ West Los Angeles
A compact takeout-first Mexican-Salvadoran shop that’s quietly become a neighborhood standby. Tacos are straightforward, well-seasoned, and priced for repeat visits, with pupusas as a bonus move. Best for low-friction late meals you can grab and go.
Must-Try Dishes: Al Pastor Tacos, Carnitas Taco, Chicharrón y Queso Pupusa
What makes it special: Tacos plus pupusas in a tiny, local takeout shop.
$ Westwood
A polished fast-casual standby with a big menu and a reputation for fresh, to-order staples. It’s a reliable pick for families and groups who want Mexican basics plus a few lighter options.
Must-Try Dishes: Taco Combo Plate, Al Pastor Tacos, Huevos Rancheros
What makes it special: Fresh-made staples with faster-than-sit-down convenience.