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16 Best Carne Asada in Los Angeles

For those craving authentic Mexican cuisine in Los Angeles, carne asada is a must-try dish. This flavorful grilled meat, typically marinated in citrus juices and spices, can be found at numerous restaurants and food trucks throughout the city.

Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor wanting to experience the best of LA's culinary scene, finding top-quality carne asada is essential. From tender cuts of beef to mouthwatering marinades, each place offers a unique twist on this beloved dish.

Explore the list below to discover the 16 Best Carne Asada in Los Angeles and embark on a delicious culinary journey in the city known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine.

How this guide is ordered

Experience, customer ratings, clear contact details and distance shaped these Los Angeles picks for carne asada.

Businesses can opt into paid services to be featured.

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Compare 16 local options

Sonoratown, Los Angeles#1
What stands out
  • Customers praise the authenticity of the Mexican food served at Sonoratown.

  • The portions are generous, especially the guacamole, which is described as "lovely" and "massive."

  • Patrons appreciate the quick service and the friendly staff, creating a pleasant dining experience.

  • The atmosphere of Sonoratown is described as being casual and cosy, perfect for enjoying a tasty meal.

Sonoratown

4.52,781 reviews
208 E 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014, United States

Sonoratown is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Los Angeles that has gained a reputation for its delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine. Customers rave about the mouth-watering tacos and burritos that are served with handmade tortillas that elevate the flavors.

With a high ranking of 4.5 stars and over 2700 reviews, Sonoratown is a must-visit Mexican restaurant in downtown LA. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a casual dining experience, Sonoratown offers a delicious taste of Mexico right in the heart of the city.

Taqueria Los Anaya, Los Angeles#2
What stands out
  • The place is super clean and decorated very nicely.

  • The Happy Hour specials are a great deal with delicious food options.

  • The chilaquiles are a must-try and the pancakes are fluffy and flavorful.

  • Staff members are extremely friendly and helpful, with clear knowledge of vegan options.

Taqueria Los Anaya

4.51,416 reviews
4651 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016, United States

Taqueria Los Anaya is a renowned Mexican restaurant located in Los Angeles, CA. The restaurant offers a range of dining options from breakfast to dinner, as well as catering services. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in experiences. The atmosphere is highlighted by its casual and trendy vibe, making it a favorite among groups and tourists alike.

With a ranking of 4.5 based on 1416 reviews, Taqueria Los Anaya has garnered a loyal following. Customers praise the restaurant for its excellent service, diverse menu offerings, and cosy ambiance. Some key points from recent reviews include:

Whether you're craving traditional Mexican favorites or looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a meal, Taqueria Los Anaya is a top choice in Los Angeles.

El Huero Drive Thru, Los Angeles#3
What stands out
  • Taco hard shell with chicken has a crunchy texture and good seasoning, although a bit greasy. Fajita chicken is tender and flavorful, especially when paired with green chili.

  • The food is made with care, and the staff, like Diana, provide excellent service. Highly recommended for carne asada fries.

  • Fast and friendly service, with delicious food. Customers are eager to return for more.

El Huero Drive Thru

4.33,978 reviews
3000 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90007, United States

El Huero Drive Thru is a popular Mexican restaurant in Los Angeles that offers a variety of delicious dishes. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, delivery, drive-through, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant is known for its breakfast, lunch, dinner, and solo dining experiences.

Tacos Los Guichos, Los Angeles#4
What stands out
  • Customers love the authentic flavors of the tacos.

  • The service is quick and friendly.

  • The restaurant has a trendy and casual atmosphere.

Tacos Los Guichos

4.41,783 reviews
320 W Slauson Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90003, United States

Tacos Los Guichos is a popular taco restaurant located in Los Angeles, CA. They offer a variety of services such as delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers rave about the delicious food and fantastic atmosphere at this establishment.

With a high ranking of 4.4 stars based on 1783 reviews, Tacos Los Guichos is a must-visit spot for anyone craving tasty Mexican cuisine in the area.

King Taco # 6B, Los Angeles#5
What stands out
  • Outstanding and friendly service

  • Great flavors and classic original tastes

  • Fast service with lots of parking and indoor seating

  • Delicious chicharron tacos and high-quality carne asada

King Taco # 6B

4.24,583 reviews
645 E Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States

King Taco #6B is a popular taco restaurant located in Los Angeles, CA. They offer a variety of delicious options for customers to enjoy, including coffee, comfort food, and late-night bites. With delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options available, customers can choose how they want to enjoy their meal. The restaurant has received 4583 reviews with a respectable ranking of 4.2 stars.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

If you're in the mood for authentic Mexican cuisine in a casual and trendy atmosphere, King Taco #6B is the place to be!

The Original Carnitas Michoacan, Los Angeles#6
What stands out
  • Came here as a recommendation that touted best nachos… the nachos especial were not that special compared to others.

  • Carnitas Michoacan is one of those places that everybody goes to because it's always open, but everything else struggles in its business.

  • 24 hours, great prices, and portions are enough to share but you definitely don't have to.

  • Best burritos in town! Been going here for over 20 years. Still open 24 hours too!

The Original Carnitas Michoacan

4.22,644 reviews
1901 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90031, United States

The Original Carnitas Michoacan is a renowned Mexican restaurant located in Los Angeles, CA. This establishment is highly regarded for its 24-hour service, delicious carnitas tacos, and mouth-watering caldo de rez. Customers rave about the generous portions and reasonable prices, making it a great spot for solo dining or group gatherings.

Street Tacos and Grill, Los Angeles#7
What stands out
  • Customers compliment the great service and flavorful food.

  • Many enjoy the outdoor seating and the refreshing drinks like the kale and pineapple juice.

  • Some note the difficult parking situation, suggesting pick-up for a smoother experience.

  • Reviewers praise the juicy and savory tacos, especially the carne asada and al pastor.

Street Tacos and Grill

4.7177 reviews
1843 1/2 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90033, United States

Street Tacos and Grill is a renowned Mexican restaurant located in Los Angeles. Known for its delicious tacos de carne asada, carnitas, and barbacoa, this eatery has captured the hearts of many customers. The welcoming staff, along with the tasty food, has left patrons raving about their experience.

With a high ranking of 4.7 stars and a total of 177 reviews, Street Tacos and Grill continues to be a favorite spot for Mexican cuisine enthusiasts. Come and indulge in their mouth-watering dishes!

Rodeo Mexican Grill, Los Angeles#8
What stands out
  • Sunday lunch was fantastic with a diverse and appetizing menu selection.

  • Visitors rave about the fresh and delicious healthy options like the asada meat and flour tortillas.

  • Reviewers appreciate the friendly staff and their great recommendations for food and drinks.

  • Many guests find the service quick, the food delicious, and enjoy the green sauce, beans, and rice.

Rodeo Mexican Grill

4.31,329 reviews
1717 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026, United States

Rodeo Mexican Grill is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Los Angeles. With a superb ranking of 4.3, it's evident that customers enjoy the delightful food and excellent service this establishment offers. The restaurant provides a variety of service options, including kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, and outdoor seating.

Customer reviews highlight a few key points:

Rodeo Mexican Grill is lauded as a go-to spot for those looking for a genuine Mexican dining experience. Make sure to check it out if you're in the area!

Carnes Asadas Pancho Lopez, Mexican Food in Los Angeles CA#9

Carnes Asadas Pancho Lopez, Mexican Food in Los Angeles CA

4.5391 reviews
3326 Pasadena Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90031, United States

Carnes Asadas Pancho Lopez, Mexican Food in Los Angeles CA · Mexican restaurant · 3326 Pasadena Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90031, United States

Zamora Brothers, Los Angeles#10
What stands out
  • Food looks better than their other locations, definitely coming back to this one.

  • One of my favorite places to get a nice birria and la cabeza de borrego is the best served on the weekends. The staff is very friendly.

  • The food tastes amazing. Homemade tortillas. I haven't bought anything that wasn't a 10 out of 10.

  • Walking in, the staff were not just friendly and helpful but warm. Invitations to sit down, recommendations on what to order, and attentiveness to how long you have been waiting fortified what could have been an intimidating experience.

Zamora Brothers

4.3528 reviews
1559 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States

Zamora Brothers is a well-established Mexican restaurant located in Los Angeles. They offer a variety of services such as Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options. Known for their breakfast, lunch, and dinner choices, they cater to solo diners and families alike. The restaurant is wheelchair-accessible and provides amenities like toilets for customer convenience.

Customer reviews praise Zamora Brothers for their delicious food and friendly staff. Some key points from reviews include:

With a ranking of 4.3 and over 500 reviews, Zamora Brothers is a go-to spot for authentic Mexican cuisine in the heart of Los Angeles.

Tacos 1986, Los Angeles#11
What stands out
  • Authentic Mexican fare that satisfies cravings.

  • Delicious mushroom tacos with generous portions.

  • Fresh and straightforward menu with a variety of options.

  • Great service and clean environment.

Tacos 1986

4.2717 reviews
609 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90014, United States

Tacos 1986 is a renowned Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Los Angeles. With a rating of 4.2, this place is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The business offers a variety of services including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers rave about the delicious tacos and the friendly service they receive. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Experience the taste of Mexico at Tacos 1986 and indulge in flavorful dishes that will leave you coming back for more.

La Parrilla Restaurant, Los Angeles#12

La Parrilla Restaurant

4.01,346 reviews
2126 E Cesar E Chavez Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90033, United States

La Parrilla Restaurant · Mexican restaurant · 2126 E Cesar E Chavez Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90033, United States

Tacos Al Pastor, Los Angeles#13
What stands out
  • Customers appreciate the variety of tacos available, including options like pastor, lengua, and cabeza, all bursting with flavor.

  • The friendly staff and quick service make dining at Tacos Al Pastor a delightful experience.

  • Visitors also enjoy the authentic street taco experience and recommend this spot for anyone looking for a quick bite or a taste of Mexican cuisine in LA.

Tacos Al Pastor

4.2358 reviews
5179 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90029, United States

Tacos Al Pastor is a renowned Mexican restaurant located in Los Angeles, CA, known for its delectable tacos and excellent customer service. With a solid ranking of 4.2, it has garnered numerous reviews from satisfied customers praising its delicious offerings and cozy atmosphere.

Whether you're craving savory tacos, burritos, or carne asada fries, Tacos Al Pastor is the place to be. Don't miss out on this gem that offers a mix of comfort food and late-night options, perfect for a satisfying meal any time of day. Schedule a visit to indulge in their mouthwatering dishes and experience a slice of Mexican culinary heaven.

Tres de Asada Mexican Grill, Los Angeles#14
What stands out
  • Fresh food at a great price

  • Delicious and perfect flavors

  • Wonderful customer service

  • Casual and family-friendly atmosphere

Tres de Asada Mexican Grill

4.2153 reviews
2851 S Crenshaw Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016, United States

Tres de Asada Mexican Grill is a well-known restaurant located in Los Angeles, CA. They offer a variety of services such as Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in, making it convenient for customers to enjoy their delicious meals. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, creating a welcoming environment for anyone to dine in.

Customers have praised the restaurant for its fresh food at a great price and wonderful customer service. The flavors are described as perfect and delicious, with highlights on menu items like the Seafood soup, burrito, and elote. One review even mentioned the Elote being the best they ever tasted, reminiscent of childhood memories.

Some customers have pointed out areas for improvement, such as inconsistencies in ingredients and issues with certain dishes. Despite this, the majority of reviews highlight the positive aspects of the restaurant, showcasing its dedication to providing tasty meals and excellent service.

La Parrilla Restaurant - DTLA, Los Angeles#15
What stands out
  • Delicious food and cozy atmosphere.

  • Great service with friendly staff.

  • Generous portions and tasty margaritas.

  • Authentic Mexican cuisine that feels like home-cooked.

La Parrilla Restaurant - DTLA

3.8714 reviews
1300 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90017, United States

La Parrilla Restaurant - DTLA is a well-known Mexican restaurant located in Los Angeles, CA. They offer a variety of services and features that customers love, making it a popular choice for dining out. With a ranking of 3.8, this restaurant has received 714 reviews from satisfied customers.

Some key points from the customer reviews include:

If you're looking for a place to enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner, La Parrilla Restaurant is a great option. They offer takeaway and dine-in services, as well as a variety of highlighted options such as great cocktails and great coffee. The restaurant is known for its fast service and popular menu items such as comfort food and vegetarian options.

With its casual and cozy atmosphere, this restaurant is a favorite among both locals and tourists. Customers also appreciate the wheelchair-accessible options available. Don't miss out on the opportunity to dine at La Parrilla Restaurant and experience the flavors of Mexico in the heart of Los Angeles!

California Mexican Grill, Los Angeles#16
What stands out
  • Phenomenal carnitas tacos with beans, rice, salsas, and chips.

  • Freshly made food with friendly staff and good value for money.

  • Absolutely delicious tacos with fresh salsa and friendly service.

  • Convenient lunch spot with a tasty Burrito Ranchero and fresh salsa bar.

California Mexican Grill

4.160 reviews
11106 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064, United States

California Mexican Grill is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Los Angeles. Known for its delicious food and friendly atmosphere, this restaurant offers a variety of services to its customers. Some of the key features and services include no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options.

Customers have left glowing reviews about their experiences at California Mexican Grill. Here are some key points summarizing their opinions:

With a solid rating of 4.1 stars, California Mexican Grill continues to attract customers looking for authentic Mexican cuisine in a casual and welcoming environment.

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Sonoratown 4.52,781
#2Taqueria Los Anaya 4.51,416
#3El Huero Drive Thru 4.33,978
#4Tacos Los Guichos 4.41,783
#5King Taco # 6B 4.24,583
#6The Original Carnitas Michoacan 4.22,644
#7Street Tacos and Grill 4.7177
#8Rodeo Mexican Grill 4.31,329
#9Carnes Asadas Pancho Lopez, Mexican Food in Los Angeles CA 4.5391
#10Zamora Brothers 4.3528
#11Tacos 1986 4.2717
#12La Parrilla Restaurant 4.01,346
#13Tacos Al Pastor 4.2358
#14Tres de Asada Mexican Grill 4.2153
#15La Parrilla Restaurant - DTLA 3.8714
#16California Mexican Grill 4.160

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Map of Carne Asada in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a city renowned for its vibrant food scene, and one staple that Angelenos can't get enough of is carne asada. Whether you're craving tender, marinated beef grilled to perfection or looking to savor traditional Mexican flavors, there's no shortage of options in LA. Check out this map to discover some of the best carne asada spots in the city.

How to choose carne asada in Los Angeles

  1. Location and atmosphere.
  2. Price and portion size.
  3. Quality of meat and marinade.
  4. Customer reviews and ratings.

Frequently asked questions

What is carne asada and why is it so popular in Los Angeles?

Carne asada is a traditional Mexican dish consisting of marinated and grilled steak. It is popular in Los Angeles due to the city's large Hispanic population and the availability of high-quality ingredients. The smoky flavor and tenderness of the meat make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Many restaurants and food trucks in Los Angeles specialize in carne asada, offering a variety of dishes such as tacos, burritos, and bowls. Its versatility and delicious taste have contributed to its widespread popularity in the city. For those looking to try authentic Mexican cuisine in Los Angeles, carne asada is a must-try dish. Its flavorful marinade and juicy beef make it a satisfying and hearty meal that is sure to please your taste buds.

Where can I find the best carne asada in Los Angeles?

There are numerous restaurants and food trucks in Los Angeles that serve delicious carne asada. Some popular spots known for their flavorful and tender carne asada include Taqueria los Anaya, El Chato Taco Truck, and Cactus Taqueria. For a more upscale dining experience, consider trying the carne asada at Guelaguetza, a renowned Oaxacan restaurant in Los Angeles. Their grilled steak is marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and cooked to perfection. If you prefer a more casual setting, visit Leo's Carne Asada Tacos, a local favorite for delicious tacos filled with juicy and savory carne asada. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, Los Angeles has plenty of options for enjoying this popular dish.

What makes Los Angeles carne asada unique compared to other regions?

Los Angeles is known for its diverse culinary scene, which has influenced the way carne asada is prepared and served in the city. The Mexican population in Los Angeles has brought traditional recipes and flavors, giving the carne asada a unique and authentic taste. Many restaurants and food trucks in Los Angeles put their own twist on the classic carne asada recipe, incorporating local ingredients and flavors to create a fusion of Mexican and Californian cuisine. This creative approach sets Los Angeles carne asada apart from other regions. Additionally, the abundance of fresh produce and high-quality meats available in Los Angeles allows chefs to experiment with different marinades and cooking techniques, resulting in a wide range of delicious carne asada dishes that cater to various tastes and preferences.

How can I make authentic carne asada at home like they do in Los Angeles?

To make authentic carne asada at home, start by selecting a high-quality cut of beef such as skirt steak or flank steak. Marinate the meat in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, onions, and spices for at least a few hours to allow the flavors to develop. When grilling the carne asada, make sure to cook it over high heat for a short amount of time to achieve a charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Slice the meat thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness and flavor. For an authentic touch, serve the carne asada with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, guacamole, and lime wedges. Garnish with cilantro and onions for added flavor. With a few simple steps and quality ingredients, you can enjoy homemade carne asada that rivals the dishes found in Los Angeles.

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