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El Taurino

4 5,361 reviews 12:00 AM - 02:00 AM 09:00 AM - 02:00 AM 1104 Hoover St, Los Angeles, CA 90006, United States

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El Taurino is a Mexican restaurant located at 1104 Hoover St in Los Angeles. The establishment offers a selection of traditional Mexican dishes, emphasizing authentic flavors and simple preparation. The menu features items such as Torta De Cabeza (beef head sandwich), Bistec steak with melted cheese and red sauce, and classic sopes. Consommé, a daily staple, highlights the kitchen’s focus on comforting, hearty options. Specialty dishes like Costillas Rancheras come with traditional sides including guacamole, beans, and grilled onions. The atmosphere at El Taurino is straightforward and unpretentious, serving as a local gathering spot for those seeking genuine Mexican fare. Beverage choices include familiar options like beer and Agua De Horchata, complementing the rich, savory dishes. The restaurant is noted for its adherence to Mexican culinary traditions and its role as a neighborhood staple in the Los Angeles dining scene.

Photos

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Amenities & More

Service options

  • Delivery
  • Onsite services
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in

Highlights

  • Fast service
  • Great beer selection
  • Serves local specialty

Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining

Dining options

  • Breakfast
  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Counter service
  • Table service

Amenities

  • Restroom

Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cozy
  • Historic
  • Trendy

Crowd

  • College students
  • Groups
  • Tourists
Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with El Taurino before visiting.

Reviews for El Taurino

4
5,361 reviews
5
100%
4
34%
3
19%
2
9%
1
20%

Review highlights

Based on 5,361 reviews

El Taurino is widely praised for its authentic Mexican cuisine, particularly its fresh, flavorful meats and exceptional sauces, with both red and green salsas frequently highlighted. Customers appreciate the variety of menu options, including standout tacos and tortas, which feature tender, well-prepared fillings. The restaurant is recognized for its efficient service and accommodating atmosphere, suitable for both dine-in groups and takeout orders. Patrons also value the availability of beer and ample parking. Although occasional minor service oversights are noted, the overall consensus emphasizes the addictive quality of the food and a strong likelihood of repeat visits, making El Taurino a beloved local spot for Mexican flavors in Los Angeles.

Carolina Tamayo
Apr 03, 2026

Came from Texas. My friend brought me to this hole in the wall place fr the tacos and salsa but ended up getting a Torta Cubana . Mannnn it was so goood n the meat was super soft. Definitely goink when im in Cali

HairFreek Barbers
Mar 24, 2026

We've eaten here twice and it's going to be a regular place for lunch. Their meats are cooked fresh and flavorful. The service is fast and efficient. You can dine in with a large crowd or take out. Plenty of room. They sell pitchers or bottles of beer, yum! Too much parking!

Laura Flores
Mar 15, 2026

This place makes me want to tear up everytime I come out. I grew up around here and I come every so often now . This place is so delicious . Everything is so good . Especially their red salsa .

J Shin
Mar 02, 2026

I heard it is the best taco place in LA. It is!! Meats are fresh and sauce is amazing. I recommend beef suadero taco. It is my favorite!

Christina Han
Jan 29, 2026

The meat is good, but the sauce is legendary. I’m personally team Green Sauce, though my friends all love the Red. Docked one star because they missed my request for onions and cilantro on the side for my to-go order, but honestly, the food is so addicting I’ll be back regardless.

Miguel Reina
Jan 25, 2026

If you’re looking for a solid spot to satisfy a late-night craving in LA, El Taurino especially when it comes to their tacos al pastor. Seriously, the pastor here is flavorful, juicy, and perfectly charred. The meat is well-marinated and the balance of sweetness and spice hits just right. You can tell they’ve been doing this for a while, and they know what they’re doing with that trompo. That being said, the overall experience could definitely improve. The place feels a bit dated and cramped, especially when it gets crowded which is almost always. It has that old-school taquería vibe, but a little freshening up wouldn’t hurt. As for the salsas, they’re not terrible, but I wasn’t blown away. The red salsa in particular tastes a lot like the typical “salsa botanera” that you’d usually find paired with chips or fries in Mexico not exactly the bold, smoky salsa I expected to complement such good tacos. Overall, it’s a must-visit for the pastor alone, and if you’re in the area, definitely worth the stop. Just don’t come expecting a refined or elevated taquería experience come for the flavor and leave happy.

Helena Wu
Jan 13, 2026

El Taurino is a true hidden gem in Los Angeles. The food is consistently delicious and full of flavor. I especially love their carne asada and al pastor tacos, which are always cooked perfectly. The salsas have just the right amount of heat and really bring everything together. The service is fast and friendly, and the prices are very reasonable for the quality you get. It is one of those places that you end up coming back to again and again because it is just that good.

Vincent
Dec 22, 2025

Great authentic tacos and sopes. Sometimes there’s a long wait but it’s worth it.

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Quick info

Address
1104 Hoover St, Los Angeles, CA 90006, United States
Price range
$10–20
Category
Mexican restaurants

Opening hours

  • Monday (Today) 12:00 AM - 02:00 AM 09:00 AM - 02:00 AM
  • Tuesday 09:00 AM - 02:00 AM
  • Wednesday 09:00 AM - 02:00 AM
  • Thursday 09:00 AM - 02:00 AM
  • Friday 09:00 AM - 12:00 AM
  • Saturday Open 24 hours
  • Sunday Open 24 hours

Location

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