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ZipPicks Awards
Best Mexican in Downtown LA
Best Tacos in Downtown LA
Best Burritos in Downtown LA
Best Late Night Tacos in Downtown LA
Best Cheap Mexican Food in Downtown LA
Best Cheap Tacos in Downtown LA
Master Critic Review
Mexicali Taco & Co
7.9
A Northern Baja California-style taco shop where every protein hits a charcoal grill to order, producing a smoky char that separates it from steam-table competitors—the garlic-laced vampiro alone earned its own LA Weekly write-up. It runs as a quick-service counter with outdoor seating on Figueroa, priced for a weekday lunch habit rather than a special occasion. The move is to treat it like a Baja street stand: order two or three tacos, eat them standing, and get back to your day.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Taco, Taco de Camarón, Battered Fish Taco
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Northern Baja California-style taco shop where every meat is charcoal-grilled to order and the signature garlic-laced vampiro has drawn its own LA Weekly feature.
Who should go: Taco obsessives who want Baja-style street food done right
When to visit: Weekday lunch to skip the weekend lines
What to order: Lead with an al pastor taco, add a vampiro with a fried egg on top, and grab a fish taco for contrast — load everything from the salsa bar.
Insider tip: Order the cachetada — a grilled-crispy corn tortilla with melted cheese and chipotle aioli that rarely appears on the board but is a house specialty.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Figueroa—feed the meter. A small paid lot sits next to the building. Neither is hard to find on weekdays during lunch, but spots fill fast with the government-worker crowd.
Dress code: Very casual—this is an order-at-the-counter spot with communal wooden benches inside and out. Come as you are.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Cheese & potato deep-fried crunchy tacos served with sour cream, salsa casera, iceberg lettuce, and cotija cheese.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a traditional first date — this is a casual, counter-service taqueria with communal wooden benches and long shared tables. The vibe is laid-back and informal, and its location near the 110 Freeway means ambient noise can be noticeable. That said, it could work well for a low-key, no-pressure first hang where you bond over excellent Baja-style tacos. Best for someone who values great food over atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — this is a walk-in, counter-service spot. No reservations needed. There's plenty of seating both inside and outside, so finding a table is rarely a problem. Typical visits run 20-45 minutes. For large group or catering orders, you can email them in advance, but for everyday dining just show up.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the casual, relaxed atmosphere means kids won't feel out of place. The noise level is forgiving, portions are shareable, and the straightforward taco-focused menu has options most kids will enjoy. Counter service means no long waits for food. Outdoor seating gives families extra room. A dedicated kids menu has not been confirmed — call ahead if that matters.
Is it good for groups? Yes — long communal wooden tables make it easy to seat groups of 6-8+, and there's ample seating both indoors and on the patio. The casual counter-service format means everyone orders at their own pace, which simplifies things for larger parties. For organized group events or catering, contact them at info@mexicalitaco.com. No private dining room has been confirmed.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — there is both a patio area and sidewalk seating. The outdoor space is dog-friendly. Details on whether it is covered or heated have not been confirmed online — call (213) 613-0416 to check, especially during cooler months or if rain is expected.
Best For
Better for: A fast, affordable Baja-style taco run with outdoor seating—ideal when you want generous portions without a sit-down commitment.
Skip if: You want a full-service dining experience or need to eat on a Sunday (they're closed).
Hours
Monday11am - 8pm
Tuesday11am - 8pm
Wednesday11am - 8pm
Thursday11am - 8pm
Friday11am - 8pm
Saturday11am - 8pm
SundayClosed