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The Basket Taco Company (Smorgasburg LA)
Master Critic Review
The Basket Taco Company (Smorgasburg LA)
8.2
At Smorgasburg LA inside ROW DTLA, The Basket Taco specializes in tacos de canasta, stacking soft, oil-bathed tacos in a traditional basket and serving them with salsas and toppings. It’s one of the few places in the city focused on this Mexico City style, drawing Sunday lines from diners who plan their market route around a plate of steamy basket tacos.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tacos de canasta (basket tacos), Potato tacos dorados with birria, Mixed basket taco trio
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: A Smorgasburg stand dedicated to tacos de canasta, a style rarely spotlighted in LA.
Who should go: Curious taco fans exploring regional Mexican styles.
When to visit: Late Sunday morning before Smorgasburg’s peak midday rush.
What to order: Tacos de canasta trio, potato tacos dorados, birria-topped basket tacos.
Insider tip: Grab tacos first, then circle back for sweets and drinks elsewhere in the market.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: ROW DTLA offers a large on-site garage with paid hourly parking; Sundays can fill quickly during Smorgasburg, so arriving before 11am helps. Limited street parking exists but is difficult during market hours.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; outdoor market setting means anything from shorts to weekend streetwear fits in.
Noise level: Moderate to lively due to open-air crowds and music; still manageable for conversation while eating.
Weekend wait: Not applicable; Smorgasburg operates daytime only.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable; stand opens only on Sundays during market hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — potato-based tacos de canasta and occasional specials provide solid options.
Vegan options: Limited — potato tacos may qualify depending on salsa choice, but offerings vary week to week.
Gluten-free options: Partially — corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is likely in a shared prep environment.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for a casual daytime date — the Smorgasburg atmosphere is energetic and low-pressure, especially if you want something fun and informal. Not ideal for intimate conversation or a more traditional, seated date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — Smorgasburg has communal seating throughout the market. Seats can be scarce during peak hours, so be prepared to wander a bit or share a table.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the market environment is spacious and stroller-friendly. Young kids may enjoy the open layout, though long midday lines and heat can be challenging for very small children.
Best For
Better for: A focused experience with tacos de canasta, a style underrepresented in LA; great for trying regional specialties without a full sit-down commitment.
Skip if: You want a traditional taqueria with seating, late-night hours, or a broad menu. This is a Sundays-only, market-style stop meant for quick bites rather than full meals.