Skip to Content
My Favorite Taco

My Favorite Taco ~ Daniel Hernandez

DanHern.jpg

LA Weekly writer and former Times staffer Daniel Hernandez has always been a good friend to TACO, just as we've always admired his honest, fearless coverage of street-art, politricks, and the city we love and live in. We got super-stoked (!) when Daniel started his own website just days within publication of his fantastic story on his former grey-lady's scant coverage of the contributions, lives, and culture of the Mexican, South and Central American Latinos of Los Angeles. Now we eliminate the middle-man for the straight dope on what's on Daniel's and often, the rest of our, minds.

Speaking of what's on our minds, Daniel what's your favorite taco, brother?

"My favorite taco...tough one. I am absolutely devoted to carnitas. Most places have good carnitas. Asada is not always consistent. Sometimes places give you too much fat. And everyone marinates al pastor differently. I stick with carnitas.

My favorite spot is the old guy on Alvarado just north of the 101. I've mentioned him before. The truck farther up Alvarado next to the Vons is good, too. They'll put beans in your tacos if you ask.

Otherwise, carnitas tortas at the amazing Mexican juice bar on Main across from Olvera Street, next to the Subway, are hot and fresh. The carnitas sopes at el Taurino on Hoover near 11th are really really good, so are the huaraches at Huarache el Azteca #1 on York in HP... That's the only time I'm willing to eat asada."

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from L.A. TACO

What You Need To Know About ICE At The FIFA World Cup

Plus, CHIRLA and LAARN published a “Know Before You Go” safety guide for fans attending World Cup-related events.

June 13, 2026

L.A TACO’s 2026 Guide To Free Summer Concerts in L.A.

Los Lobos, Keyshia Cole, DJ Quik, Kurupt, The Paranoias, Jungle Fire, and Delfonics are among the many artists you can catch for free in L.A. this summer, if you know where to look. Just don't look at that Rivers Cuomo too closely.

A Ninja Turtles-Themed Pizzeria with a Serious New York Slice

Take it from a California-raised food writer who did ten years in NYC, these slices slaughter the competition like a sai to Shredder's face.

June 12, 2026

When Pedro Arrests Juan: Why Latinos Join Border Patrol and ICE 

Many Latino families inherited the same lesson generation after generation: When society views you as foreign, proving your Americanness can become its own form of survival.

June 11, 2026

Daily Memo: Ms. Rachel Visits D.C. With 545 Letters From Children Currently Being Detained By I.C.E.

Speaking of children, Jacob Soboroff reports that ICE is holding an average of at least 25 children a day who are three or under. There have been at least 500 babies and toddlers who have spent significant time in ICE detention.

He Went To Celebrate The Lakers Win. And Came Home With His Arm Broken By LAPD.

In 2022, Pablo Vera sued the City of Los Angeles and the LAPD for excessive force and violating his civil rights. Six years after the alleged attack, Vera finally had his day in court.

See all posts