If you are a regular reader, you will notice that I have an obsession with tacos. While that may seem unusual to you, I have found that there are very interesting differences between some of the vendors. Some specialize in the Jalisco tacos de birria and others have a signature taco that dominates Instagram pages. One such signature taco vendor is Tacos 1986.
Like many small businesses, Tacos 1986 started out with a modest operation. Initially, they set up their red and white stand in the parking lot outside the Confection Co-op in Hollywood. They later set up on the corner of Western Ave and 6th Street in Koreatown. Due to their tremendous success, they now have 5 brick and mortar restaurants scattered throughout LA.
I recently visited their location in Westwood. Fortunately, two 10 minute parking slots exist in front of their restaurant on Kinross Ave. The place is extremely clean; the red and white tile makes it look like a Mexican In and Out restaurant. Due to their interior size, they only allow two people inside at a time. Overflow and those that have already ordered are expected to wait outside.
The tacos are served Tijuana-style which means that if you order “con todo” (the works), your taco includes chopped onions, cilantro, salsa, and liberally covered with guacamole. Tacos 1986 provides a generous amount of guacamole, but not too much where it overtakes the overall taste of the ingredients.
The carne asada taco is made with marinated steak and nicely grilled. Most order it “con todo” to elevate the experience. The seasoning on the pork in the taco adobada is delicious and was my favorite taco. In addition, the salsa morita on the adobada taco gives this a slightly smoky flavor.
The standout, however, is the hongos or mushrooms. It is available as a taco, quesadilla, mulita, perron, or as a vampiro. It was hard for me to believe that a vegetarian dish gets the spotlight over a meat taco, but it is the real deal. The vampiro was ideal because it really showcased the additional flavors like nuts and oregano. Salsa macha nicely complements the mushrooms.
Tacos 1986 is a worthy destination for people that enjoy tacos. Their meat tacos are top-notch, but what makes this place shine is their hongos (mushrooms). You can be happy inviting a vegan to this place.
Tacos 1986, 10874 Kinross Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024; 310.824.2000
tacos1986.com