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ZipPicks Awards
Best Korean in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Burritos in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Best Cheap Tacos in Palms-Cheviot Hills
Master Critic Review
Kogi Taqueria (Palms Truck Stop)
8.2
Roy Choi's Korean-Mexican fusion truck parks at a Palms strip mall lot and delivers the same double-caramelized short rib tacos that launched LA's food truck movement in 2008. The technique punches well above the format—CIA-trained chef, house-made salsas, griddled corn tortillas—at prices that keep most items under $15. Order at the window, grab a spot in the lot, and eat with your hands.
Must-Try Dishes:
Korean BBQ Short Rib Taco, Spicy Pork Bowl, Kimchi Quesadilla
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: The original Kogi truck flavors in a fast-casual Palms home base.
Who should go: Korean-flavor lovers who want a quick, casual meal.
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for minimal lines and fresh grill runs.
What to order: Short rib taco, spicy pork bowl, kimchi quesadilla.
Insider tip: Ask for extra banchan-style salsas to mix into bowls.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot parking on-site — it's in a strip mall parking lot at Overland & Palms. Street parking also available on Overland Ave, generally easy to find a spot.
Dress code: Come as you are — it's a walk-up counter/truck window in a parking lot. Shorts, flip-flops, whatever. No indoor seating to dress up for.
Weekend wait: Expect 20-40 minutes in line during peak hours — the line moves but it builds up fast
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — Tofu Tacos ($4) and Tofu Burritos ($12) on the permanent menu. Tofu is marinated in chillies, garlic, and citrus then charred on the grill, topped with salsa verde. Kimchi Quesadilla ($12) also vegetarian.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No - this is a casual counter-service taco spot in a strip mall, not a date destination. You order at the window, seating is limited and mostly outdoors on basic tables, and the vibe is grab-and-go street food. Great for a low-key hangout where the food does the talking, but there's no ambiance, no intimate seating, and no table service to set a romantic tone.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - reservations aren't taken and aren't needed. This is walk-up, order-at-the-counter service. During peak lunch and dinner hours you may wait in line for a few minutes to order, but there's no host stand or seating wait. The only challenge is grabbing one of the limited outdoor seats, which fill up fast at peak times - many people take their food to go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - the casual, no-fuss atmosphere is naturally kid-friendly. It's an outdoor counter-service setup so noise and mess aren't an issue. There's no dedicated kids menu, but tacos and burritos are easy for kids to eat and portions can work for smaller appetites. No high chairs - not confirmed. Best for families looking for a quick, affordable meal rather than a sit-down experience.
Is it good for groups? Manageable for small groups of 3-5 who don't mind casual outdoor seating. Everyone orders individually at the counter, so there's no split-check hassle. However, seating is very limited - there are only a handful of outdoor tables, so a group of 6+ will have trouble sitting together. No private dining or large table options. For bigger gatherings, consider Kogi's catering service instead.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes - seating is almost entirely outdoors. There are a few basic tables set up outside the counter-service window in the strip mall area at the corner of Palms and Overland. Seating is limited and uncovered, so you're exposed to the elements. No heaters or shade structures confirmed. Many customers opt to take their food to go. Expect a casual, street-food-style eating experience, not a patio dining setup.
Best For
Better for: A fast, legendary Korean-Mexican taco fix under $15 per person — iconic LA street food without the food-truck-chasing. Perfect for a quick, flavorful bite when you don't want to sit down or spend time on a full restaurant experience.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a sit-down meal with table service, air conditioning, or cocktails. This is a walk-up window in a parking lot — no restrooms, no seating beyond a couple of outdoor spots.
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday5:30pm - 10pm
Wednesday5:30pm - 10pm
Thursday5:30pm - 11pm
Friday5:30pm - 12am
Saturday5:30pm - 12am
SundayClosed