Finding the perfect burrito in Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With countless taquerias, Mexican restaurants, and food trucks vying for your attention, how do you choose? Fear not, burrito enthusiasts! This comprehensive guide unveils the 25 best burritos in Downtown Los Angeles, offering a flavorful journey through DTLA's vibrant culinary scene. We've explored hidden gems and established favorites, considering factors like ingredient quality, preparation, size, and overall experience to compile this definitive list. Prepare your taste buds for an epicurean adventure!
Top 10 Burritos: A DTLA Burrito Bucket List
These ten burritos represent the cream of the crop, offering unparalleled flavor and quality. Consider this your essential DTLA burrito itinerary.
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Guerrilla Tacos: Known for its innovative and upscale approach, Guerrilla Tacos' burritos are far from your average street food. Expect unexpected flavor combinations and high-quality ingredients. Their Carnitas Burrito is a standout, featuring tender, slow-cooked pork and a vibrant slaw.
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Leo's Tacos Truck: A DTLA institution, Leo's Tacos Truck is famous for its al pastor, a marinated pork that’s cooked on a vertical spit. Their Al Pastor Burrito is a classic for a reason—tender meat, fresh toppings, and perfect tortillas. Expect lines, but they move quickly!
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Sonoratown: This taqueria elevates the traditional Sonoran-style burrito to new heights. Their Carne Asada Burrito is a masterpiece, generously filled with flavorful carne asada, beans, cheese, and all the fixings. The large size is almost legendary.
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La Serenata de Garibaldi: For an authentic Mexican experience, head to La Serenata. Their burritos are made with love, and their Chile Relleno Burrito is a unique and delicious option, showcasing their mastery of traditional Mexican flavors.
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Mariscos Jalisco: While primarily known for their seafood cocktails, Mariscos Jalisco also serves up some seriously impressive burritos. The Shrimp Burrito is a must-try, bursting with fresh, flavorful shrimp and a perfect blend of spices.
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Angel City Brewery: Don't let the brewery fool you. Angel City also has a killer food menu, and their Breakfast Burrito is a great option for brunch or a late-night snack.
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Tacos Tu Madre: Tacos Tu Madre is a popular spot offering creative takes on classic Mexican dishes. Their burritos are no exception, with interesting flavor combinations and high-quality ingredients. Their Spicy Chorizo Burrito is a crowd-pleaser.
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Gracias Madre: A completely vegan taqueria, Gracias Madre proves that delicious burritos can be made without any meat. Their Jackfruit Burrito is surprisingly satisfying and flavorful.
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Guelaguetza: Guelaguetza offers a taste of Oaxacan cuisine, with their burritos often featuring mole or other regional specialties. Their unique offerings make it a must-try for adventurous eaters. Look for their daily specials.
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Burrito Heaven: The name says it all! This spot lives up to its moniker, offering a wide variety of burritos at reasonable prices. Their California Burrito is a great example of what they do well.
15 More Downtown Los Angeles Burrito Gems
These additional 15 burritos deserve a spot on your DTLA exploration list. They offer a diverse range of styles, flavors, and price points.
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Baco Mercat (Upscale option)
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Bottega Louie (Italian-influenced)
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Grand Central Market (Variety of vendors)
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Wurstküche (Sausage-centric burritos)
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The Original Farmers Market (Diverse options)
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Mexicali Taco & Co.
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El Cholo (Classic LA spot)
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Pink's Hot Dogs (Surprisingly good burritos!)
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Casa Vega (Westside location, but worth the trip)
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Loteria Grill (Multiple locations, often ranked highly)
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RiceBar (Asian fusion influence)
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Broken Spanish (Upscale, innovative)
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Bestia (Italian-inspired, unique burritos)
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Otium (Fine dining, exceptional burrito option)
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Sqirl (Creative, seasonal ingredients)
Choosing Your Perfect DTLA Burrito
The best burrito in DTLA is subjective, depending on your personal preferences. Consider these factors:
- Type of Meat: Al pastor, carne asada, carnitas, barbacoa, chicken, or vegetarian?
- Style: California-style (fries, cheese), Sonoran-style (grilled flour tortilla), or traditional?
- Spice Level: Do you prefer mild, medium, or spicy?
- Price Point: DTLA offers options for every budget.
Beyond the Burrito: Exploring DTLA's Food Scene
This guide focuses on burritos, but Downtown Los Angeles offers a vast culinary landscape. Be sure to explore other cuisines and neighborhoods!
This list provides a fantastic starting point for your DTLA burrito adventure. Remember to try multiple options and form your own opinion on the best burrito in the city. Happy eating!