Best Upscale Tacos in Los Angeles | Top 4 Upscale Spots

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Tacos in Los Angeles | Top 4 Upscale Spots

• The Butcher, The Baker, and The Cappuccino Maker — American · rated 5/5: Sun-drenched and bustling, this artisanal haven blends the charm of a rustic bakery with the sophisticated energy of a modern bistro. The air carries the comforting scent of golden, skillet-baked omelettes and warm homestyle cornbread, while the kitchen artfully bridges the gap between hearty morning staples and refined global plates like Thai tuna tartare and coastal fish tacos. It is a soulful retreat where every dish celebrates craftsmanship, inviting guests to linger over a masterfully frothed cappuccino in a bright, airy setting.
• Baja California Tacos — Mexican · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams into this vibrant coastal escape where the sizzle of the grill and the satisfying crunch of golden-fried seafood transport diners straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Pacific. Whether tucking into a zesty Baja taco piled high with both fish and shrimp or savoring the comforting snap of a potato-filled hard shell, every bite celebrates the bold, fresh spirit of authentic street-side dining.
• HomeState — Mexican · rated 4/5: HomeState captures the sun-drenched soul of a Texas morning, where the comforting aroma of warm, house-made flour tortillas draws a lively crowd into its bright and breezy space. Guests tuck into hearty, namesake tacos like the Trinity and Brazos, savoring a rustic blend of fluffy eggs and savory fillings that perfectly distill the laid-back spirit of the Lone Star State.
• State Social House — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant social hub pulses with energy, drawing guests into a rustic-chic space where the scent of sizzling Tijuana steak tacos and golden-fried wings fills the air. Friends gather around communal tables to share towering plates of loaded nachos and crispy onion strings, creating a spirited atmosphere where elevated comfort food fuels lively conversation late into the night.
• Mixto Comida Latina — Mexican · rated 4/5: This vibrant Latin sanctuary pulses with energy as the savory aroma of slow-braised brisket and charred, grass-fed carne asada wafts from the open kitchen. Hand-pressed tortillas and hearty burritos serve as the canvas for premium, sustainably sourced ingredients, blending the rustic soul of traditional street food with a modern, elevated flair. Every bite offers a colorful explosion of flavor, inviting guests to linger in a space that celebrates the bold and authentic spirit of Comida Latina.
• Gracias Madre — Mexican · rated 4/5: Sun-drenched and spirited, this vibrant destination celebrates the soul of Mexican hospitality with a chic, airy atmosphere that feels like a perpetual summer afternoon. The air hums with the clinking of salt-rimmed margarita glasses and the irresistible aroma of charred tortillas, where golden-hour gatherings center around artfully crafted tacos and zesty, hand-shaken cocktails. Whether it’s a lively Taco Tuesday feast or a relaxed happy hour on the patio, every moment captures a bright, festive energy that honors traditional flavors with a modern, elevated touch.
• Olive and Thyme — Mediterranean · rated 4/5: Olive and Thyme invites guests into a sun-drenched space where the comforting aroma of golden-crusted chicken pot pie and simmering seasonal soups fills the air. The kitchen masterfully balances rustic charm with vibrant modern flavors, offering a menu where zesty lemon-kissed sandwiches and crisp arugula salads share the table with savory, flame-seared tacos and juicy smash burgers. It is a welcoming neighborhood retreat that celebrates the art of the handcrafted meal, turning simple ingredients into a soulful and satisfying dining experience.
• Loteria! Grill — Mexican · rated 4/5: Vibrant colors and the comforting aroma of steaming corn husks fill the air at Loteria! Grill, a lively destination where the soul of Mexican street food comes to life. Guests unwrap tender tamales to reveal treasures of smoky pork carnitas and rich, velvety mole, or savor the deep, savory complexity of slow-braised birria and beef tongue tucked into warm tortillas. From the charred spice of a chile relleno to the nostalgic sweetness of a pineapple tamale, every bite offers a festive journey through bold, authentic flavors.
• Mirate — Mexican · rated 4/5: Mirate unfolds as a spirited, sun-drenched escape where the rhythmic sound of pestle meeting mortar signals the arrival of vibrant, hand-crushed salsas and velvety smashed avocado. The dining experience balances rustic soul with modern elegance, pairing the deep, earthy complexity of artisanal moles with adventurous plates like spiced lamb albondigas and succulent mussels swimming in a chorizo-infused broth. Every meal feels like a curated celebration of bold textures and heritage flavors, inviting guests to linger over seasonal crudos in a space that pulses with contemporary energy.
• El Chato Taco Truck — Mexican · rated 4/5: The air around this legendary truck hums with late-night energy as the intoxicating scent of spit-roasted al pastor and sizzling carne asada drifts over the sidewalk. Diners gather under the glow of city lights to enjoy hand-held treasures like tender lengua tacos and overstuffed burritos, where every bite delivers a bold, smoky explosion of authentic street-side soul. This vibrant corner serves as a communal sanctuary where the rhythmic chop of the cleaver and the zing of fresh salsa create a quintessential urban dining ritual.
• Pink Taco — Mexican · rated 4/5: Vibrant energy pulses through this edgy cantina, where the air is alive with the zesty aroma of charred street corn and the satisfying crunch of towering nachos. Guests feast on a kaleidoscope of bold flavors, from the iconic pink-shelled tacos to decadent fried lobster enchiladas, all elevated by the playful chill of a frozen strawberry margarita or a Paloma served straight from a Squirt can. This spirited destination reimagines Mexican street food with a rebellious flair, offering a high-octane dining experience that feels like a perpetual summer celebration.
• El Coyote Cafe — Mexican · rated 4/5: El Coyote Cafe pulses with the vibrant energy of a sun-drenched cantina, where the air is thick with the irresistible scent of toasted corn and zesty citrus. Friends gather around tables laden with overflowing platters of golden flautas and creamy guacamole fresca, sharing a communal feast that bridges the gap between traditional Mexican comfort and playful culinary invention. It is a spirited retreat where every bite—from the sharp crunch of a jalapeño popper to the savory, melted layers of their signature pizza—celebrates the bold, festive heart of casual dining.
• Ay Papa Que Rico — Mexican · rated 4/5: Ay Papa Que Rico captures the soulful essence of Latin Caribbean comfort, where the irresistible scent of flame-kissed rotisserie chicken and smoky baby back ribs fills the lively, welcoming space. Every plate is a vibrant mosaic of textures, from the golden crunch of fried yuca and savory stuffed potato balls to the honeyed sweetness of perfectly caramelized plantains. This is a destination where traditional Salvadoran tamales and hearty combos celebrate the rich, sun-drenched flavors of the tropics in every satisfying bite.
• Prado's — Mexican · rated 4/5: Sun-drenched and inviting, Prado’s captures the essence of a perfect morning where the scent of toasted banana bread and sizzling breakfast staples fills the air. Artfully plated blue smoothie bowls and creamy avocado toast offer a vibrant, fresh start to the day, while stacks of fluffy hotcakes and hearty breakfast burritos provide a comforting embrace for a more indulgent escape. It is a bright neighborhood sanctuary where every dish is crafted to turn a simple morning meal into a soulful, lingering ritual.
• Mi Corazón Mexican Cuisine — Mexican · rated 4/5: Mi Corazón Mexican Cuisine pulses with the vibrant energy of a modern Chicano kitchen, where the bold colors of traditional salsas meet the comforting warmth of an American diner. Mornings here are a soulful celebration of flavor, from the spicy crunch of chilaquiles and the artful symmetry of huevos divorciados to the decadent pairing of golden chicken and waffles. Every plate, from the towering breakfast stacks to the savory, melted goodness of traditional molletes, offers a heartfelt bridge between cultures that invites guests to linger over a truly spirited meal.
• Villa's Tacos — Mexican · rated 4/5: Villa’s Tacos pulses with a vibrant energy where the irresistible aroma of sizzling proteins and hand-pressed tortillas fills the air, drawing guests toward the signature, satisfying crunch of the Grilled Golden Taco. The kitchen masterfully balances land and sea, layering smoky surf-and-turf combinations alongside earthy wild mushrooms and citrus-brightened mahi mahi to create a kaleidoscope of bold, artisanal flavors that celebrate a modern, soulful take on the classic taqueria experience.
• Señor Fish — Mexican · rated 4/5: The air hums with the vibrant energy of a coastal escape, drawing guests in with the irresistible aroma of sizzling marinated meats and the golden, crispy promise of perfectly battered seafood. Each hand-pressed tortilla serves as a canvas for bold textures, from the succulent richness of slow-cooked carnitas to the delicate, smoky char of grilled fish and savory vegetarian creations. It is a lively celebration of the taco, where every bite delivers a sun-soaked explosion of flavor and a true taste of the sea.
• Coffee Commissary — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through expansive windows into this vibrant neighborhood hub, where the rhythmic hum of espresso machines sets the stage for a quintessential California morning. The kitchen crafts a colorful tapestry of flavors, from artisanal toasts piled high with creamy avocado to robust, smoke-kissed brisket burritos and Austin-style tacos that marry West Coast freshness with bold Texas soul. It is an inviting space that elevates the daily ritual, offering a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere perfect for lingering over a velvety soft scramble or fueling up for the day ahead.
• Sabor y Cultura Café — Mexican · rated 4/5: Step into a vibrant sanctuary where the intoxicating scent of golden, griddled batter mingles with the warmth of spiced Mexican chocolate and freshly brewed tea. Here, the humble waffle is transformed into an edible canvas, boasting everything from the earthy hum of matcha and red velvet to decadent layers of toasted marshmallow and dulce de leche. Whether you are tucking into a savory pesto-slathered sandwich or a fruit-laden masterpiece, this eclectic café offers a soulful retreat that celebrates the art of the creative breakfast.
• Ashland Hill — American · rated 3/5: This sun-drenched coastal hangout invites guests to linger over vibrant plates in a breezy, open-air setting where the social energy is as infectious as the food. The kitchen reimagines comfort classics with a modern flair, serving up everything from zesty ahi tuna tacos and crispy roasted Brussels sprouts to indulgent, smoky bacon mac and cheese. It is a neighborhood gem where the crunch of golden wings and the warmth of a giant shared pretzel set the stage for a relaxed, flavor-forward dining experience.
• Canyon Bistro and Wine Bar — French · rated 3/5: Canyon Bistro and Wine Bar offers a spirited escape where the warmth of a rustic retreat meets a sophisticated selection of fine wines and chilled craft brews. The kitchen sends out bold, soul-warming plates like zesty Cajun calamari and fiery hot wings alongside vibrant shrimp tacos that burst with fresh, coastal flavors. It is a place where relaxed elegance and punchy seasonings converge, creating an inviting backdrop for a lively evening of shared plates and spirited conversation.
• Los Toros Mexican Restaurant — Mexican · rated 3/5: Los Toros Mexican Restaurant hums with the vibrant energy of a traditional kitchen, where the savory aroma of sizzling chorizo and slow-simmered menudo invites guests into a world of authentic spice. From the zesty crunch of morning chilaquiles to the robust richness of steak marinero, each plate captures the soulful essence of Mexican comfort food in a warm, festive atmosphere.
• Reel Inn — Seafood · rated 3/5: This quintessential roadside retreat invites diners to kick back in a breezy, no-frills setting where the rhythmic sound of the fryer promises a feast of perfectly battered calamari and golden-brown zucchini. The experience is a celebration of simple coastal pleasures, from the satisfying crunch of jumbo fried shrimp to the vibrant, lime-kissed flavors of fresh fish tacos enjoyed under the warm glow of the sun.
• Story Tavern — American · rated 3/5: Step into a spirited, wood-clad sanctuary where the convivial hum of a neighborhood gathering place meets the comforting aroma of sizzling burgers and golden, beer-cheese-smothered tots. The kitchen masterfully reimagines pub-fare indulgence, turning out everything from crispy, salt-dusted pretzels to inventive Irish tacos that invite guests to linger over a cold pint and a shared platter of savory, soulful delights.
• Playita Mariscos — Mexican · rated 3/5: Sun-drenched flavors take center stage at this vibrant coastal escape, where the bright acidity of lime and the kick of fresh chilies transform the day’s freshest catch into refreshing masterpieces. Guests can linger over crisp tostadas piled high with citrus-cured ceviche or dive into chilled bowls of aguachile, all served in a lively atmosphere that captures the breezy, effortless spirit of a seaside getaway.
• Home State — Mexican · rated 3/5: This vibrant homage to the Lone Star State captures the laid-back spirit of a Texas morning, where the air is thick with the comforting aroma of toasted flour tortillas and freshly brewed coffee. Guests gather in a sun-drenched, communal space to savor soulful tacos named after iconic rivers like the Guadalupe and Brazos, creating a nostalgic dining experience that celebrates the simple, hearty flavors of Austin-style comfort food.
• Somos Oaxaca — Mexican · rated 3/5: The morning air at Somos Oaxaca is thick with the comforting scent of simmering black beans and toasted chilies, inviting guests into a space where the vibrant spirit of southern Mexico comes alive. Plates of golden chilaquiles and velvety entomatadas arrive alongside hearty, hand-rolled breakfast burritos, each bite bursting with the bold, earthy flavors of traditional Oaxacan kitchens. It is a sun-drenched sanctuary for early risers, where every dish feels like a warm embrace and a celebration of authentic heritage.
• Millie's Cafe — American · rated 3/5: Millie’s Cafe is a vibrant neighborhood gem where the air is thick with the savory aroma of sizzling scrambles and zesty, house-made salsas. Guests gather in a lively, sun-drenched space to dive into hearty plates like the spicy Devil’s Mess or colorful Huevos Rancheros, each dish bursting with bold, home-cooked flavors that wake up the palate. It’s a soulful morning retreat where the clinking of coffee mugs and the warmth of traditional Mexican-inspired breakfast staples create a comforting, energetic start to the day.
• HomeState — Mexican · rated 3/5: This vibrant slice of Texas soul invites guests into a sun-drenched space where the comforting scent of warm, hand-pressed flour tortillas lingers in the air. The kitchen honors the spirit of the Lone Star State through a parade of soulful tacos, from the smoky brisket of the "Don't Mess with Texas" to the hearty, potato-filled "Trinity," creating a communal atmosphere that feels like a nostalgic morning in the Hill Country.
• Maciel's Plant-Based Butcher Shop — Mexican · rated 3/5: Maciel's Plant-Based Butcher Shop reimagines the traditional deli as a vibrant hub of plant-powered artistry, where the savory aroma of sizzling plant-based brisket and freshly baked biscuits fills the air. From sun-drenched breakfast burritos bursting with bold flavors to elegantly stacked Italian sandwiches, each creation celebrates the hearty, satisfying textures of classic butcher-shop fare through a modern and compassionate lens.