Skip to Content
News

Highland Park’s Charlie’s Tacos Returns to York Boulevard After City Removes ‘Unauthorized’ Red Paint

It is still unknown who painted the curb to attempt to kick out Charlie’s Tacos from vending on the same block the truck has been on for years, but the taquero has returned to its location to sell its famous birria, tacos al pastor, and other Mexican street food. 

Photo via: Charlie’s Tacos

Two weeks ago, on Sunday, July 22, Charlie Cardenas, owner of Charlie’s Tacos in Highland Park, arrived at his location in front of the CVS on York and Eagle Rock Boulevard, just like he does every other day, only this time, the curb where he usually parks his food truck was painted red.

While Cardenas is no stranger to having to move from location to location due to painted curbs, city rules, and the occasional issue with neighboring businesses, something about this situation did not sit well with him. 

Years of going through similar situations gave him a hunch, and in part, he was right. 

At the time, L.A. TACO reached out to LADOT to see if they knew any details about when the curb was painted and for what reasons. To which LADOT responded with:

“LADOT installed a red curb at York & Ave 50 as part of the bike rack installation at this location. The red curb near Eagle Rock Blvd does not appear to be an authorized installation. LADOT crews will review this location to confirm and remove it if it is determined to be unauthorized.”

Photos via: Charlie Cardenas. On Wednesday, Cardenas contacted L.A. TACO to confirm that the red curbs had been painted back to grey. Sending photos showing the sidewalk freshly painted.

After hearing that the city was possibly not responsible for the red curb, Cardenas disclosed that he believed it could have been one of the businesses in the area. However, as of last week, that has yet to be proven true. 

L.A. TACO followed up with LADOT this week, and they confirmed that a crew went out to inspect the location, saying: 

“The red curb near Eagle Rock Blvd was unauthorized and removed/repainted at 11:30 a.m. this (Wednesday) morning." 

It is still unknown who painted the curb, but Charlie’s Tacos has returned to its location to sell its famous birria, tacos al pastor, and other Mexican dishes. 

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More Stories

Public Outcry Sparks Over California City Officials’ Approvals of Immigration Detention Center

California City Chair David Brottlund told one attendee to “shut their mouth.” He issued warnings throughout the meeting that he could have individuals removed from the chambers.

Raised On Highland Park’s Legendary Mariscos Truck, This Street Omelet Chef Is Striving For His Dream Restaurant

Phillip Cejudo grew up serving tostadas at El Mar Azul, and currently oversees his own Venice breakfast street stand by a truck he calls home. His hope is to open Rosie's Canteen in a vintage Airstream and bring wholesome food back to the community that raised him.

July 8, 2026

The Best New Breakfast Sandwich in L.A. Is Hiding In La Mirada

At the center of it all? An all-beef longanisa patty, made entirely from scratch by Filipino-American chef Anthony Evan.

July 7, 2026

Venezuela’s Earthquake Victims Are Hurting. This Is How Angelenos Can Help

Continue supporting Venezuela's earthquake victims with L.A. TACO's list of donation requests, drop-off locations, and charities.

July 7, 2026

‘Mr. B Baby’ Is Painting Wings of Resistance and Representation on East L.A. Streets Against AI Art

"I essentially feel like the communities that I paint in have some sort of ownership towards the murals that I'm creating," says the City Terrace-based artist. "And I really like creating artwork that is accessible, much different than a gallery piece.”

July 7, 2026

These 4 Black L.A. Businesses Are Stepping Up Against Food Deserts in Their ‘Hoods

From a curated farmers market on wheels to visiting local community gardens, these organizations are combatting inequity with fresh produce and education.