10 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Burritos in LA Arts District
Master Critic Review
Taqueria San Miguel
7.8
A Tijuana-style taco stand operating out of a tire shop parking lot on Hooper Ave, grilling carne asada over mesquite charcoal and pressing corn tortillas to order. The format is stripped-down and cash-only, built for late-night runs where the smoke and char off the grill matter more than a place to sit. Pricing stays firmly in street-taco territory, making it easy to order deep across the menu without thinking twice.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carne Asada Tacos, Chorizo Tacos, Carne Asada Quesadilla
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: One of the first stands in LA to serve Tijuana-style tacos, with hand-pressed corn tortillas and carne asada grilled over mesquite charcoal in a tire shop parking lot.
Who should go: Late-night taco seekers who value smoke and char over ambiance
When to visit: Late night when the mesquite grill is at full blaze
What to order: Start with two carne asada tacos to taste the mesquite char, add a chorizo quesadilla for contrast, and grab a horchata to cool down the heat.
Insider tip: Order the mulita — two tortillas pressed around melted cheese and asada, a lesser-known format that lets the mesquite flavor come through differently than the tacos.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Hooper Ave—easy to find a spot in this industrial stretch. Cash only, no cards accepted.
Dietary Options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you both love no-frills street food adventures. This is a casual outdoor taco stand in an industrial stretch of Downtown LA — no tablecloths, no mood lighting, no romantic ambiance. That said, if your idea of a great first date is sharing incredible tacos at a legendary neighborhood spot, the laid-back vibe and affordable prices take all the pressure off. Best for someone who values authenticity over atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — this is a walk-up, order-at-the-counter taco stand. No reservations taken or needed. You may wait a few minutes during peak lunch and late-night rushes, but turnover is fast since most people eat quickly or take food to go. They stay open late, so off-peak hours are easy to find.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, in a casual way — the open-air setup and low-key vibe mean nobody will bat an eye at kids. Tacos, quesadillas, and burritos are easy crowd-pleasers for younger eaters. However, there's no dedicated kids menu, high chairs, or family amenities — this is a simple street food stand. Seating is basic outdoor tables. Fine for kids who are comfortable in a no-fuss environment.
Is it good for groups? It works for small to mid-sized groups grabbing tacos together, since the outdoor seating area is open and informal. There are no private rooms or large formal tables — everyone orders individually at the counter. For groups of 6+, space at the outdoor tables may be tight during busy periods. No booking needed or available, just show up.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — the dining area is primarily outdoors with open-air tables. This is a street-side taco stand, so expect a simple setup rather than a landscaped patio. Seating is uncovered, so it's weather-dependent. Great on a sunny LA day, but no heating or cover for cooler evenings. The California sunshine is part of the experience here.
Best For
Better for: Late-night $2 mesquite-grilled street tacos—no frills, just legit carne asada with cilantro, onions, and avocado sauce at sidewalk prices.
Consider Alternatives If: You need indoor seating or want to pay with a card—outdoor street vendor setup, cash only.
Hours
Monday7:30am - 3:30pm
Tuesday7:30am - 3:30pm
Wednesday7:30am - 3:30pm
Thursday7:30am - 3:30pm
Friday7:30am - 3:30pm
Saturday7:30am - 3:30pm
Sunday7:30am - 3:30pm