30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Mexican in LA Arts District
Best Seafood in LA Arts District
Master Critic Review
Mariscos Jalisco (10th & Towne Truck)
8.3
A 25-year-old food truck running a tight seafood operation where the taco dorado de camarón—shrimp folded into a crispy-fried tortilla—set the template that dozens of imitators still chase across LA. The aguachile and ceviches hold their own against full-service mariscos restaurants at street-food prices, which is why the line never really stopped forming. Cash only, no frills, just precise execution on a short menu that rewards repeat visits.
Must-Try Dishes:
Taco Dorado de Camarón, Tostada Poseidón, Aguachile Rojo
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Jonathan Gold-anointed food truck turning out LA's most iconic fried shrimp taco since 2001, with seafood so fresh the ceviche and aguachile compete with sit-down mariscos spots at a fraction of the price.
Who should go: Seafood lovers chasing LA's best street-level mariscos
When to visit: Weekday lunch to skip the weekend line
What to order: Start with a taco dorado de camarón — it's the move that made the truck famous. Add an aguachile or ceviche tostada for contrast, and if you're with a group, the Poseidón tostada is a towering split-worthy showpiece.
Insider tip: Order the campechana — the tomato-based cocktail packed with shrimp, octopus, abalone, and a raw oyster is the sleeper hit regulars come back for.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Parking lot directly across the street from the truck; street parking also available on surrounding blocks. Cash only—no cards accepted at this truck.
Weekday lunch: Expect a line—call ahead to order if possible. Food comes out fast once you reach the window. Truck operates Mon–Fri roughly 9:30 AM–4:30 PM only.
Dietary Options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No — this is a street food truck parked in an industrial stretch of Downtown LA near the Fashion District. You'll be eating standing up or on small stools at communal outdoor tables. The vibe is lively, casual, and focused entirely on the food — not atmosphere or romance. It's a great spot to share an adventurous, low-key meal together, but if you're looking for intimate conversation and ambiance, this isn't it.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — there are no reservations. It's a food truck, strictly first-come, first-served. You order at the window and grab a seat. Expect a line during peak lunch hours (roughly 11am–1pm), especially on weekends, but it moves fast. Come early or during off-peak hours to minimize your wait. Cash only — come prepared.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, with caveats — the casual open-air setup means kids won't disturb anyone, and the simple menu (tacos, tostadas, ceviche) is easy to share. However, there's no kids menu, no high chairs, and some items are spicy (like the aguachile). Best for older kids who are adventurous eaters. The industrial neighborhood and lack of formal seating make it less ideal for very young children who need a contained space.
Is it good for groups? Manageable for small groups of 4–6 who don't mind the informal setup — you'll be grabbing stools and standing around shared outdoor tables. There are no large tables or private areas to reserve. For bigger groups, Mariscos Jalisco does offer food truck catering for events, which is a better option than trying to seat 10+ people at the truck. Coordinate your order so everyone's food comes out together.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — all seating is essentially outdoors or semi-covered. There are small stools and communal tables set up near the truck, plus an adjacent covered seating area. It's basic street-food-style seating — no umbrellas, heaters, or polished patio furniture. You're eating in an open-air, urban setting on the sidewalk. Perfectly fine in LA weather, but don't expect a curated outdoor dining experience.
Best For
Better for: A bucket-list LA street food moment—standing in line for some of the city's most iconic crispy shrimp tacos, eaten off the trunk of your car
Consider Alternatives If: You want sit-down dining, shade, or anything beyond seafood—the menu is almost entirely mariscos with no apparent non-seafood options
Hours
Monday9am - 5:30pm
Tuesday9am - 5:30pm
Wednesday9am - 5:30pm
Thursday9am - 5:30pm
Friday9am - 5:30pm
Saturday9am - 5:30pm
Sunday9am - 5:30pm