If you’re a food lover living in Los Angeles, chances are you already know that some of the best meals in the city don’t come from white tablecloth restaurants—they come from food trucks, carts, and roadside grills. LA is a melting pot of cultures and flavors, and nowhere is that more obvious than in the city’s thriving street food scene. From tacos that rival those in Mexico City to Korean BBQ that sizzles with flavor, LA’s street food is bold, creative, and unforgettable. And the best part? These delicious finds are all within a 30-minute drive, making it easy to eat well anytime hunger strikes. Ready to hit the streets? Here are some of the best street food spots in Los Angeles that you absolutely need to try.
Leo’s Tacos Truck
Let’s start with a legend. Leo’s Tacos Truck, especially the one on La Brea Avenue, is an institution in LA. It’s best known for its al pastor tacos, carved straight off the trompo and served with pineapple, onion, and cilantro. Lines can get long, especially late at night, but the wait is absolutely worth it. The flavor is smoky, sweet, and savory all at once. Bonus: Leo’s is open late, making it a go-to for night owls craving a midnight snack.
Mariscos Jalisco
Craving seafood? Mariscos Jalisco has been serving up some of the best shrimp tacos in the city since the early 2000s. Their signature taco dorado de camarón (crispy shrimp taco) is a must-try: deep-fried to perfection and topped with fresh avocado and salsa. The truck is usually parked in Boyle Heights, and it’s become a pilgrimage site for foodies all over LA. One bite and you’ll see why the LA Times and Food Network have raved about it. Fresh, crunchy, and wildly flavorful.
Birrieria San Marcos
Birria is having a moment, and Birrieria San Marcos is one of the best places to get it in Los Angeles. Known for their quesabirria tacos—gooey, cheesy, and dunked in rich consommé—this food truck brings Jalisco-style comfort food to the streets of LA. It’s messy in the best way possible, and you’ll want to keep a stack of napkins handy. Find them regularly posted in Mid-City or South LA and follow your nose to that slow-cooked goodness.
Banh Mi My Tho
Just a short drive to Alhambra brings you to Banh Mi My Tho, a no-frills Vietnamese sandwich spot that serves some of the best banh mi in Southern California. Their crispy baguettes, savory meats, pickled veggies, and fresh cilantro make for an incredibly satisfying handheld meal. Try the BBQ pork or the grilled chicken banh mi for a flavorful punch. While it’s technically more of a takeout window than a truck, it fully embraces the spirit of street food: fast, affordable, and packed with flavor.
The Prince of Venice
Yes, pasta can be street food—and The Prince of Venice proves it. This gourmet food truck serves fresh, handmade pasta dishes with a dash of Italian flair. Their truffle mac and cheese, short rib ravioli, and creamy mushroom tagliatelle are unlike anything you’d expect to find on the curb. The truck rotates locations, but you can often catch it in Santa Monica or Westwood. It’s elevated, yes—but still accessible and oh-so-delicious.
Kogi BBQ
You can’t talk about LA street food without mentioning the OG fusion truck: Kogi BBQ. Chef Roy Choi started a movement with his Korean-Mexican mashups, and years later, the truck is still going strong. Think short rib tacos with kimchi and spicy pork burritos with a side of Korean slaw. Kogi isn’t just a food truck—it’s a cultural icon. It moves around LA, so check their social media for the latest locations.
Wrap-Up: Savor LA’s Street Food Scene
From sizzling birria and crispy shrimp tacos to fusion dishes that blend cultures in the tastiest ways, Los Angeles has one of the most dynamic street food scenes in the country. These spots aren’t just about quick eats—they’re about flavor, creativity, and community. Every bite tells a story, and you don’t need a reservation to join in.
While you’re navigating LA’s tastiest streets, why not ride in comfort and style? Longo Lexus has the perfect vehicle for your next culinary adventure, whether you’re chasing tacos at midnight or slurping noodles under the stars. So go ahead—turn your next meal into a journey worth taking!
Connect with us
