Discover the authentic flavors of Tacos 1986 in downtown Los Angeles's vibrant food scene.

Nestled at 609 South Spring Street, Tacos 1986 offers a no-frills, modern taco experience that captures the essence of Tijuana-style street food. This local gem is revered for its hand-pressed tortillas made to order, perfectly cradling savory carne asada and adobada tacos packed with bold, fresh flavors. Whether you're a foodie or a casual diner, the vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff make every visit memorable.

Menu highlights and dining experience

Tacos 1986 prides itself on offering authentic Mexican dishes that stay true to their roots. The carne asada and adobada tacos are crowd favorites, bursting with juicy, well-marinated meat and complemented by their signature homemade tortillas. Vegetarian options such as the mushroom quesadilla and mushroom tacos cater to diverse palates, ensuring everyone finds something delicious. Diners appreciate the fresh guacamole topping and the variety available at the self-service salsa bar.

Parking and accessibility

Located in the bustling Downtown Los Angeles area, parking around Tacos 1986 can be a bit challenging, especially during peak hours. However, visitors can find paid lots, free street parking, and paid street parking nearby. Be prepared to walk a short distance, and note that this lively neighborhood has a mix of city life elements, including visible homelessness. Despite these urban realities, the restaurant’s welcoming vibe and quality food draw loyal patrons and newcomers alike.

Operating hours and services

Tacos 1986 serves lunch and dinner with extended hours on weekends — open Sunday through Thursday from 10:00 AM to midnight, and Friday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 AM. The restaurant supports dine-in, takeout, and delivery options, accepting credit, debit, and NFC payments for convenience. Though there is no outdoor seating or restroom facilities on-site, the casual setting and reasonable prices make it a favored spot for quick, authentic eats in downtown Los Angeles.

Community sentiment and visitor insights

Tacos 1986 is beloved for its authentic, fresh flavors and friendly service, earning positive reviews from many locals and visitors. However, some diners have noted inconsistencies in quality, particularly concerning meat freshness and flavor balance. Despite occasional critiques, the overall community sentiment remains positive, highlighting the restaurant’s place as a staple for Tijuana-style tacos in Los Angeles.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most popular items at Tacos 1986? Carne Asada and Adobada tacos are highly recommended, along with the Mushroom Quesadilla and Vampiro Tostada.
Do they offer vegetarian options? Yes, they have Mushroom Tacos and Quesadillas for vegetarian diners.
Is there parking available? Street parking is available near the restaurant.
What are the operating hours? Sunday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM; Friday and Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 AM.

History of Tacos 1986 in Los Angeles Downtown Districts

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown Los Angeles at 609 South Spring Street, Tacos 1986 offers an authentic taste of Tijuana-style tacos, rooted in a rich story of growth and community love. From its humble beginnings as a street cart, this establishment has become a beacon for taco lovers seeking genuine flavor wrapped in hand-pressed tortillas.

From street cart to city staple

Tacos 1986 embarked on its culinary journey in late 2018 as a modest street cart stationed in the bustling streets of Hollywood. This initial venture introduced Angelenos to traditional Tijuana-style tacos, crafted with passion and an emphasis on authentic ingredients. The street cart quickly gained a dedicated following, drawn by the quality and freshness that set it apart in a competitive food scene.

Milestones and expansion

In 2020, Tacos 1986 took a significant leap by opening its first brick-and-mortar location in Downtown Los Angeles. This move allowed for an expanded menu and a more comfortable dining experience while maintaining the no-frills, modern appeal of their original setup. The focus remained on freshly hand-pressed tortillas and flavorful carne asada and adobada, delivering a genuine taste of Baja California right in the city center.

The following year, 2021, marked further growth as Tacos 1986 expanded to multiple locations throughout Los Angeles. This expansion made their beloved tacos accessible to a wider audience, solidifying their place as a standout in the city's vibrant Mexican food landscape.

What makes Tacos 1986 unique

Tacos 1986's commitment to authenticity is evident in every hand-pressed tortilla and every flavorful bite of carne asada or adobada. The brand has cultivated a reputation for delivering a no-frills, yet deeply satisfying taco experience. Their Downtown location, while modest, welcomes diners eager for fresh, bold tastes without the fuss, capturing the true spirit of street food elevated.

2018 - Tacos 1986 began as a street cart in Hollywood, introducing authentic Tijuana-style tacos.
2020 - Opened first brick-and-mortar location in Downtown Los Angeles, expanding their reach.
2021 - Expanded to multiple locations across Los Angeles, becoming a beloved citywide taco destination.

Experience Authentic Tijuana-Style Tacos at Tacos 1986 Los Angeles Downtown Location

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles at 609 South Spring Street, Tacos 1986 offers an inviting spot for food lovers seeking authentic Tijuana-style tacos. This no-frills modern eatery is celebrated for its hand-pressed to order fresh tortillas that perfectly embrace flavorful carne asada and adobada fillings. Known for their casual and comfortable atmosphere, Tacos 1986 serves up quality Mexican street food with a local-friendly vibe.

What Makes Tacos 1986 Stand Out

Tacos 1986 has earned a loyal following for several reasons that appeal to foodies, families, and casual diners alike. Its fresh, handmade tortillas provide a superior texture and taste, elevating the taco experience beyond typical fast-food offerings. The self-service salsa bar invites guests to customize their meals with a variety of vibrant, flavorful salsas, catering to all heat preferences.

Authentic Tijuana-style tacos made with fresh, handmade tortillas.
Self-service salsa bar offering a range of spicy and mild options.
Vegetarian and gluten-free options available to accommodate diverse dietary needs.
Friendly and speedy service ensures a pleasant dining experience even during busy times.
Affordable prices make it accessible for families and groups looking for a casual meal.
Pet-friendly establishment welcomes guests to bring their furry friends along.

Considerations Before You Visit

While Tacos 1986 excels in delivering flavorful tacos and a warm atmosphere, there are some challenges guests should be aware of. Seating is quite limited, so during peak hours you might encounter waits or need to opt for takeout. The restaurant does not accept reservations, which can add to wait times. Additionally, parking in the Downtown Los Angeles area can be tricky; street parking is available but often competitive, and there are paid parking lots nearby. The venue does not offer public restrooms or serve alcohol, which could be a consideration for some visitors. Furthermore, although delivery is offered, it is not available through third-party apps, so ordering is direct only.

Limited seating and no reservations may require planning your visit outside peak times.
Street parking can be challenging especially during busy hours in Downtown LA.
No public restrooms or alcohol service may limit amenities for some guests.
Delivery available only directly from restaurant and not via third-party apps.

In summary , Tacos 1986 is a fantastic choice for anyone craving authentic, affordable Tijuana-style tacos in Downtown Los Angeles. The fresh tortillas and customizable salsas elevate the experience, while the friendly service and pet-friendly vibe make it a welcoming spot for all ages. Be sure to plan ahead for parking and seating to make the most of your visit to this local gem.

4.0

609 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90014, USA

(213) 988-7202

Open Now - Closing 12:00 AM

Monday

08:00–00:00

Tuesday

08:00–00:00

Wednesday

08:00–00:00

Thursday

08:00–00:00