Mexicali Taco & Co.

Mexicali Taco & Co. has one of those origin stories that makes you believe in the power of great food. What started as a tiny taco stand on a downtown parking lot has grown into a beloved Chinatown destination, all thanks to word spreading about their authentic Baja-style tacos. In a city with more taco spots than you could visit in a lifetime, the fact that Mexicali managed to stand out says everything about the quality they’re putting out.

The star of the show here is undoubtedly the Vampiro Taco. Despite the name, there’s nothing scary about this creation—unless you count the addictive garlic sauce that sets it apart from everything else in the city. It’s essentially a quesadilla-like taco that has earned its place on every “Best Tacos in LA” list for good reason. The freshly-shipped Baja tortillas provide the perfect canvas for their exceptional carne asada, which is some of the best you’ll find anywhere.

Walk in on any weekday afternoon and you’ll find an eclectic mix of downtown office workers, neighborhood locals, and folks who made the trek specifically for these tacos. The menu is refreshingly focused, and for around twelve bucks you can sample several items without breaking the bank. Don’t sleep on the Cachetada if you want to experience that carne asada at its finest, or try the surprisingly delightful shrimp taco with its adobo glaze and melted cheese.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or stocking up on serious takeout, Mexicali delivers authentic Baja flavors in a no-frills setting where the food does all the talking. Just be prepared—once you try that garlic-laden Vampiro, you’ll understand why people keep coming back.