Skip to Content
Tacos

Taco Etiquette: Don’t Cross-Contaminate Or Be a Salsa Freeloader

Salsas at Asadero El Poblano. Photo by Cesar Hernandez for L.A. TACO.

@Treezfly on Twitter tweets, "the salsa bar por favor do not contaminate the salsas by mixing the different salsa ladles or serving utensils #respect the #salsabar use accordingly #gracias

Like an Emily Post of the panza, Treezfly brings up a great point here.

Show respect for the hardworking taqueros and taqueras who offer you wholesome sustenance at 11 PM for $2 a pop by only ladling as much salsa as your plate—or aluminum foil-packed package—of tacos really requires.

This goes without saying, but too many times, I've seen people fill entire plastic bags full of salsa containers to the brim with salsa; especially the coveted taquería guacamole.

While the allure of indulging in poor man's huevos rancheros the following morning sounds like a good idea at night, all you are contributing is the inevitable reality of watery salsas at your favorite spot.

A taco stand's salsa bar is not a buffet. (If it's not in your own favorite neighborhood, show respect to your fellow Taco Life devotees, since it may be their regular go-to spot).

While we're on the subject, if there is an assembly line-style salsa setup, wait your turn to ladle your salsa with each container's respective ladle. While hunger makes you voracious, your tacos will not get much colder after waiting 30 more seconds for your turn.

This courtesy should especially be applied to limes, lemons, cucumbers, cilantro, and radishes; please only grab what you will eat on the spot or with your take-out order.

Same with napkins, damnit.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from L.A. TACO

Tens of Thousands of Fans Showed up to San Pedro for NOFX’s Final Show Ever

After 40 years, NOFX ended their storied career next to the San Pedro water, with a sea of fans and supporting punk bands watching the band go off into the sunset.

October 7, 2024

This Weekend: Jalisco-Style Wings, Duck Tamales on Abbot Kinney, and THC-Infused ‘Halloweed’ Candy

Are you brave enough to drink a cocktail from an I.V bag while watching Freddy Kruger do what he does best? Then there's a rooftop in Hollywood waiting for you.

October 4, 2024

Eight Sick Halloween Haunts In Los Angeles

From a theater experience that will scar you to a chance to play a character in a Halloween haunt, we have seven of the most immersive experiences in the city for your Halloween terror.

October 3, 2024

The Taco 69: These Are L.A.’s Best Tacos, Ranked

To live and eat tacos in Los Angeles. As the L.A.'s first publication dedicated to finding the best tacos, we are ranking our fine taco scene for the first time ever. It's the guide to end all other taco guides and dedicated to our members who support us and to the best damn city in the world—complete with a map. Happy 69ing. TACOS FOREVER.

Johnny Marr’s Show In DTLA Reminds Us That Not all Manchester Music Is Miserable

The iconic ex-guitarist, co-founder, and co-songwriter of The Smiths (1982-1987) played a sold-out show at the Orpheum Theatre. And yes, the genius behind "This Charming Man" reminded all of us that only he can truly play that song the way it's meant to be heard, no vocals needed.  

September 30, 2024
See all posts