Best Hidden Gems Heaven Mexican Restaurants in Pico Union
4 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
El Taurino
Open till 3 AM with iconic salsas and carne options.
Notable Picks
#1
El Taurino
8.9
An LA late-night legend since 1991, El Taurino excels at bold, richly flavored tacos and burritos, particularly their pork-heavy specialties. The mural-adorned dining room stays bustling well past midnight, making it a staple for both locals and night-shift workers.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Taco, Carnitas Burrito, Red Salsa Tacos
What Makes it Special: Open till 3 AM with iconic salsas and carne options.
8.7
A Pico-Union landmark since the mid-1990s, El Parian is best known for its Jalisco-style birria and handmade tortillas, but its carne asada and carnitas burritos pack the same deep, slow-cooked flavor. The room is simple and loud, yet locals keep coming back for generous portions, cash-only prices, and food that feels straight out of a family kitchen.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Burrito, Carnitas Burrito, Tacos de Birria
What Makes it Special: Decades-old birria and burritos with handmade tortillas in a true neighborhood institution.
8.1
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Hidden Gems Heaven
On the western edge of 90015, Sabor Mexicano serves homestyle Mexican breakfasts and combo plates that feel straight from a family kitchen. Locals come for hearty chilaquiles, huevos plates, and everyday staples at fair prices in a low-key dining room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chilaquiles with red or green salsa, Huevos rancheros breakfast plate, Quesadillas with house salsas
What Makes it Special: Casual neighborhood spot for classic Mexican breakfasts and daily plates.
Worthy Picks
7.9
Food truck favorite, Tacos El Jefe draws regulars with its handmade tortillas, smoky mulitas, and affordable taco plates. Happy hour means fast service, plenty of seating outdoors, and a no-frills atmosphere ideal for quick eats.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mulitas de Asada, Al Pastor Tacos, Quesadillas
What Makes it Special: Authentic mulitas and tacos made fresh from a local truck.