Los Angeles is a city where culinary diversity thrives, and nowhere is this more evident than in its vibrant street food scene. On my recent trip to LA, I set out on a mission to discover the best street food the city has to offer. From food trucks to roadside stands, I found a tantalizing array of flavors that reflect the multicultural fabric of the city. Each bite was a story, each dish a new adventure. Here’s a journey through the top ten street food experiences that you absolutely can’t miss in Los Angeles.
1. Tacos from Leo’s Taco Truck
My adventure began with a stop at Leo’s Taco Truck, one of LA’s most beloved taco spots. Located on the corner of Venice Boulevard and La Brea Avenue, this food truck is famous for its al pastor tacos, and for good reason. As I approached, the smell of marinated pork sizzling on the spit drew me in. The meat is cooked to perfection on a vertical rotisserie, then sliced thin and served on a warm corn tortilla, topped with a slice of pineapple, cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime.
The flavors were out of this world. The sweetness of the pineapple balanced the savory, slightly charred pork, while the fresh cilantro and lime added a zesty kick. It’s easy to see why Leo’s has such a loyal following. If you’re craving authentic Mexican street food, this is the place to start.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid the lines, especially on weekends. You can also find Leo’s Taco Truck on food delivery apps like Uber Eats if you want to enjoy their tacos from the comfort of your home.
2. Korean BBQ Tacos from Kogi BBQ
Next up was a fusion of flavors that has become an LA street food icon: the Korean BBQ taco. Kogi BBQ is the food truck that started it all, blending traditional Korean flavors with the simplicity of the taco. As I stood in line, I could feel the excitement build, and when I finally took my first bite, I understood why Kogi has such a cult following.
I tried the short rib taco, which was a perfect marriage of tender, marinated beef, spicy salsa, and fresh slaw, all wrapped in a soft corn tortilla. The kimchi was the star, adding a tangy, spicy crunch that elevated the taco to another level. Kogi’s innovative approach to street food has set the standard in LA, and it’s a must-try for anyone exploring the city’s culinary scene.
Tip: Follow Kogi BBQ on social media to track down their current location, as they move around the city. You can also order their tacos for delivery through Grubhub.
3. Hot Dogs from Pink’s Hot Dogs
A trip to LA wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Pink’s Hot Dogs. This iconic stand has been serving up delicious hot dogs since 1939, and it’s a true Los Angeles institution. Located on La Brea Avenue, Pink’s is famous for its long lines and even longer list of hot dog options.
I opted for the classic chili cheese dog, which was loaded with Pink’s signature chili, onions, and a generous helping of shredded cheddar cheese. The dog itself was juicy and had a satisfying snap with every bite. The chili was rich and flavorful, making this an indulgent treat that’s worth every calorie.
Pink’s menu also features creative variations like the “Martha Stewart Dog” and the “Lord of the Rings Dog” (topped with onion rings, of course). With so many options, there’s something for everyone at Pink’s.
Tip: Pink’s is open late, making it a great spot for a late-night snack. You can skip the line by ordering ahead on Postmates.
4. Pupusas from Delmy’s Pupusas
Pupusas are a staple of Salvadoran cuisine, and Delmy’s Pupusas brings this traditional dish to the streets of Los Angeles with flair. Located in the heart of Echo Park, Delmy’s stand is always buzzing with activity, a testament to its popularity among locals.
Pupusas are thick, handmade corn tortillas stuffed with various fillings. I tried the cheese and loroco pupusa, which was packed with gooey cheese and the unique, slightly bitter flavor of loroco flowers. The pupusa was served hot off the griddle, with a side of tangy curtido (pickled cabbage slaw) and a tomato-based salsa. The combination of textures and flavors made for a comforting and satisfying meal.
What I loved most about Delmy’s Pupusas was the authenticity of the food. Each bite transported me to the streets of El Salvador, a true testament to the power of street food to connect cultures.
Tip: Delmy’s Pupusas is a cash-only stand, so come prepared. If you’re planning a visit, consider using Yelp to check the stand’s hours and read customer reviews.
5. French Dip Sandwich from Philippe The Original
For a taste of LA history, I visited Philippe The Original, the birthplace of the French dip sandwich. Located in Chinatown, Philippe’s has been serving this iconic sandwich since 1908, and stepping into the restaurant feels like stepping back in time.
The French dip sandwich here is simple but incredibly flavorful. I ordered the classic beef dip, which comes with tender, thinly sliced roast beef on a freshly baked French roll. The sandwich is dipped in au jus before being served, and you can add more au jus at your table. The bread soaks up the savory juices, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s pure comfort food.
What makes Philippe’s stand out is not just the food but the atmosphere. The sawdust-covered floors, communal tables, and old-school counter service add to the charm. It’s a place where generations of Angelenos have gathered to enjoy good food and good company.
Tip: Philippe’s is a popular spot, so it can get crowded during peak hours. Consider ordering ahead for pickup through DoorDash.
6. Churros from Mr. Churro
No street food tour of Los Angeles would be complete without something sweet, and Mr. Churro in Olvera Street delivers just that. This small stand has been serving up freshly made churros for decades, and it’s a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike.
The churros here are everything you want them to be: crispy on the outside, soft and doughy on the inside, and coated in just the right amount of cinnamon sugar. I couldn’t resist the filled churros, opting for one with dulce de leche and another with chocolate. The fillings were rich and indulgent, oozing out with each bite and adding an extra layer of decadence to the already delicious churro.
Olvera Street itself is a vibrant, historic part of LA, and enjoying a churro while strolling through its colorful market is an experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Tip: Mr. Churro can get busy, especially on weekends. To avoid the wait, try visiting during off-peak hours, or check out Zomato to see if they offer delivery options.
7. Shrimp Tacos from Mariscos Jalisco
For seafood lovers, Mariscos Jalisco is the go-to spot for some of the best shrimp tacos in LA. This food truck has earned a cult following for its unique take on the taco, and after trying it, I can see why.
The shrimp tacos here are unlike any I’ve had before. The taco is deep-fried, creating a crispy shell that encases a perfectly seasoned shrimp filling. It’s topped with fresh salsa and slices of avocado, adding a cool, creamy contrast to the crunchy taco. The flavors are bold, with a hint of spice that keeps you coming back for more.
What sets Mariscos Jalisco apart is their commitment to quality. The ingredients are fresh, and each taco is made to order, ensuring that you get the best possible experience every time.
Tip: Mariscos Jalisco is a mobile food truck, so their location can vary. Be sure to follow them on social media or use apps like Roaming Hunger to find out where they’ll be next.
8. Smashed Burgers from Burgers Never Say Die
I’ve always been a fan of a good burger, and Burgers Never Say Die has taken the classic smashed burger to new heights. Located in Silver Lake, this unassuming spot has gained a massive following for its simple yet insanely delicious burgers.
The burgers here are all about the crispy edges. The beef patty is smashed onto the griddle, creating a caramelized crust that adds incredible flavor and texture. It’s then topped with American cheese, pickles, onions, and a tangy sauce, all served on a soft, toasted bun. The result is a burger that’s both nostalgic and utterly satisfying.
What I love about Burgers Never Say Die is their dedication to keeping things simple. There are no frills here, just high-quality ingredients and expert cooking. It’s proof that sometimes, less really is more.
Tip: Burgers Never Say Die is a popular spot, so be prepared for a wait, especially during peak hours. You can also order ahead for pickup through Tock.
9. Ramen from Men Oh Tokushima Ramen
For a taste of Japan in the heart of LA, I made my way to Men Oh Tokushima Ramen in Little Tokyo. This ramen shop offers a unique take on the classic dish, and it’s a must-try for any ramen enthusiast.
The specialty here is the Tokushima-style ramen, which features a rich, pork-based broth that’s simmered for hours to develop deep, complex flavors. The ramen is topped with tender
slices of pork belly, a soft-boiled egg, bamboo shoots, and green onions. What sets this ramen apart is the addition of stir-fried pork, which adds a savory, slightly sweet element to the dish.
The noodles were perfectly cooked, with just the right amount of chewiness. The broth was rich and comforting, making it the perfect meal for a cool evening. Men Oh Tokushima Ramen offers a different take on ramen that’s both satisfying and memorable.
Tip: Little Tokyo can get busy, so consider visiting during off-peak hours. You can also make a reservation through OpenTable to secure your spot.
10. Pastrami Sandwich from The Oinkster
To round off my street food adventure, I visited The Oinkster in Eagle Rock, known for its delicious pastrami sandwiches. This modern take on the classic American diner serves up hearty, comforting dishes that hit the spot every time.
The pastrami sandwich here is a thing of beauty. The pastrami is smoked in-house, resulting in tender, flavorful meat that’s piled high on rye bread. It’s topped with Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, and a tangy mustard sauce. The sandwich is rich and satisfying, with the smoky, savory pastrami being the star of the show.
The Oinkster also offers a variety of other comfort food favorites, including burgers, fries, and milkshakes. But the pastrami sandwich is a standout, and it’s something I’ll definitely be coming back for.
Tip: The Oinkster is popular, so expect a crowd. You can avoid the wait by ordering ahead for pickup on ChowNow.
Exploring Los Angeles through its street food has been a culinary adventure that I won’t soon forget. Each bite told a story, each dish offered a new perspective on the city’s rich cultural tapestry. From tacos and hot dogs to ramen and churros, LA’s street food scene is a reflection of its diversity and creativity. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these must-try stands and snacks are sure to leave you with a taste of the city that lingers long after the last bite.
