In a city overflowing with tacos, one stands out from the rest. Operating out of a Pasadena auto shop, only takes cash, and has been consistently the local best for almost 50 years, Los California Tacos.
Every night at 5 p.m., after the mechanics at Nishikawa Auto Services go home, the employees at Los California Tacos start their workday, drawing in lines of people at 510 South Fair Oaks Avenue.
After going to Los Californias Tacos to inspect the quality of their food and to see what made these tacos so hyped, I must say, it was well earned.
These are clearly the best tacos Pasadena has to offer. So, what makes a taco truck that’s been around since 1979 hold the title of best tacos? Well, it starts with the tacos. First, Carne Asada, also known as grilled steak. Although it’s a standard, they make it really well and tender here.
Second, Al Pastor. This is chopped-up fried pork marinated in a Mexican BBQ sauce. Honestly, I’m not a big fan of BBQ sauce, but the way they did it made the flavor very soft and subtle, which was quite good!
Third, Carnitas. This is fried pork similar to Al Pastor, but from a different part of the pig and marinated with a more savory flavor. Excellent.
Fourth, Pollo. One of my favorite tacos to order, it’s great by itself, but when eaten with the agua de pina they have, it’s so damn good.
Fifth, Cabeza. Cabeza is a unique one; it’s a part of the cow that’s not usually expected, the meat around the cow’s head. Although it sounds kinda weird it’s actually the BEST taco that Los California Tacos has to offer. Jonathan Tseng, a food fanatic from EF Academy, also gave these tacos a try. “These are the best tacos I’ve ever had,” he stated emphatically. He later posted a story of his experience with the caption, “Best tacos ever.” As a Pasadena resident, he said confidently that Los California Tacos are the best he’s ever eaten. If that wasn’t enough, they’ve been featured online as well and have won a couple of awards and been highlighted in newspapers throughout their years. Most notably, they’ve won the #1 Food Truck in America by ZenBusiness, have 4.5 Stars on Yelp with over 1,000 reviews, and have been featured on many local “Best restaurants” lists and guides. So, all this to say that Los California Tacos have some seriously good tacos. This place is definitely worth a trip if you’re unsure what to eat. However, it is important to note that before you go, they are a CASH-ONLY establishment and they’re open from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. every day.
Los Californias Tacos – 510 S Fair Oaks Ave Final Rating: 5/5 Tacos
