You might think the title of this list is redundant but it speaks to an interesting debate about marinated pork in the Mexican community. Whether you believe that al pastor and adobada are the same things or that they are completely different, the argument speaks to the growing literacy of Mexican food in L.A. Fortunately, we are blessed with a bounty of Comida Mexicana in the city of Angels, where you can find both.
What is the difference between the two?
Adobada purists, aside from the difference in language, believe that it differs in preparation and cooking method. Instead of being spit-roasted it is grilled or oven-roasted, but in L.A. and parts of Baja, you’ll see spots that call their trompo adobada as well. At times, it can feel like the argument is splitting hairs and the debate goes further than that but for the purposes of this list, L.A. Taco is going based on self-identification. If a place calls their marinated pork adobada, then that’s how it is grouped. Whether it’s shaved from a beaming red trompo or grilled over coals, they're both delicious.
Dare I say it has become L.A.’s favorite taco? No, because that would be an insult to our city’s outstanding asada scene. But for a certain type of Angeleno, al pastor is their number one.
Al pastor is the most recognized of the two but there’s no denying that adobada has its place in L.A.’s tacosphere, especially with the invasion of Tijuas-style tacos. Places like Leo’s set the standard for good al pastor in L.A. and has also become one of the symbols of our strong taco culture. But there are so many other great trompos out there in this big city, here are a few that are worth dropping a pin on and driving for.