We Ate All The Vegan Tacos In LA – Here Is Our Top 10
Looking for the best vegan tacos in LA? You’re in the right place.
Los Angeles is no stranger to the world of tacos. Whether it’s the classic al pastor on a street corner or something more experimental, LA’s taco scene is as diverse as its residents. But over the past decade, one niche has been steadily gaining traction in this taco-obsessed city: vegan tacos.
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LA’s Vegan Taco Scene
The vegan taco revolution in LA began as more people became conscious of the environmental and ethical implications of their food choices, and the city’s creative culinary community answered the call.
Vegan tacos have evolved far beyond just replacing meat with tofu or tempeh. Now, they come in all forms—innovative takes on traditional Mexican fillings, plant-based meats that taste shockingly real, and creative salsas and toppings that pack a punch.
Thanks to this movement, LA has become a mecca for anyone craving delicious, plant-based tacos. In fact, we were on a mission to try every vegan taco spot in town. After months of eating and a lot of taco research, we’ve narrowed it down to the top 10 places to get the best vegan tacos in Los Angeles.
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Best Vegan Tacos in LA
1. Tu Madre
Known for its playful, street-inspired vibe and impressive array of tacos, Tu Madre offers a fantastic selection of vegan-friendly options. With no fewer than 7 different vegan taco options, it’s quite possibly the best selection in all of Los Angeles. Think Korean mushroom bulgogi, squash blossom, fried avocado or eggplant soyrizo.
The jackfruit carnitas taco is a standout, too, featuring marinated jackfruit with vegan crema and pickled watermelon. The creative and bold flavor combinations set Tu Madre apart from other taco spots, and it’s a local favorite for anyone looking to mix things up while keeping it plant-based.
2. Trejo’s Tacos
When Danny Trejo, the beloved Hollywood actor, decided to open a taco joint, the city rejoiced. Trejo’s Tacos offers a wide range of tacos, including mouth-watering vegan options like the beloved Young Jackfruit taco, made with braised organic young jackfruit in citrus soy marinade, topped with vegan avocado crema, pico de gallo, verde slaw and tortilla strips.
We also love the mushroom carnitas and the cauliflower + avo crema tacos. The flavors are bold, and the space has a bustling, inviting atmosphere. It’s clear that Danny Trejo’s passion for food matches his on-screen energy. Plus, it’s one of the few places that genuinely caters to both meat-eaters and vegans alike, making it a hit for any group.
3. Hugo’s Tacos
Taco Tuesday just got better. Welcome to the little sister of Hugo’s in West Hollywood – the beloved weekend brunch hangout. Located in the San Fernando Valley, Hugo’s Tacos is a newer gem on the vegan taco scene, but it has quickly gained a loyal following. Their focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors is evident in every taco.
The vegan mushroom “carnitas” taco, made with savory heart mushrooms, has a perfect texture that mimics traditional carnitas. There’s also crispy tofu taco and soyrizo with potatoes. Hugo’s also offers a great selection of salsas, so you can customize each taco to your liking.
4. Sky’s Gourmet Tacos
Sky’s Gourmet Tacos brings a unique fusion of Mexican and Southern flavors to vegan taco options. Located in the heart of LA, Sky’s Tacos has earned a reputation for using plant-based ingredients that push the boundaries of tradition. Their mushroom taco is a crowd favorite—spicy, smoky, and packed with flavor. We also loved the smokey tofu.
If you’re looking for a vegan taco experience in Mid City, Sky’s Tacos has your back. The legendary Jonathan Gold described it as: “Tacos like mom used to make, unless mom happened to be Mexican. Soulful as hell.“
5. Chicas
Chicas is another hidden gem that’s been making waves in the LA taco scene. Known for their short menu of carefully curated vegan options, Chicas brings authentic Mexican flavors to the table, minus the animal products.
The Crispy Taco made with Abbot’s Butcher plant-based meat, radish, citrus vinaigrette on crispy corn tortilla shell is a must-try. It combines the crunch and flavor you’d expect from mince meat crispy taco but in a completely plant-based form.
Another must is the Jackfruit Taco served on La Princesita hand pressed tortillas. Founded by Chef Eduardo Ruiz, Chicas has remained committed to its core promise of serving a better taco and of honoring the taqueros and chefs who came before them.
6. Sugar Taco
Sugar Taco has become a beloved staple in the LA vegan scene. Known for its vibrant, Instagram-worthy decor and deliciously innovative taco creations, Sugar Taco serves up one of the best vegan taco experiences in the city. Their jackfruit carnitas taco is a fan favorite. It’s the perfect combination of hearty texture and satisfying meaty flavor making it a must-try for vegan taco enthusiasts.
Get the mixed plate of 3 tacos with rice and beans and try their other creations like “fish” tacos, too. And hurry, sadly Sugar Taco will be closing down soon. They’ll be dearly missed.
7. Stuff I Eat
Thursday is the new Tuesday. Head there on Throwback Thursdays for 2 for $10 vegan tacos. Tacos by chef Babette Davis are a community favorite for many years now. They stand out thanks to their attention to detail and the use of carefully selected organic non GMO ingredients.
The wild rice and tofu taco topped with crispy kale is a hit, perfectly complemented by their signature green salad with amazing house made dressing and organic chips. The vibe is casual but welcoming, the tacos are always packed with flavor, and fellow patrons are some of the friendliest in the city.
8. Guisados
Famous for its hearty, flavorful meat stews and hand made corn tortillas, Guisados has been a go-to spot for taco lovers in LA for years. Their vegan options are equally impressive. The bell pepper taco is a comforting and satisfying option, as is the “vegan medley” taco with grilled mushrooms.
For those who want something more filling, the nopales taco offers a hearty texture with a savory flavor (ask for no beans). In business of making tacos since 2010, Guisados has certainly perfected the art of crafting vegan tacos that feel just as hearty as their traditional meat-filled counterparts.
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9. Hijo de Su Madre
This unassuming spot in West LA offers one of the most unique takes on vegan tacos. The menu at Hijo de Su Madre is full of Yucatecan bold flavors and creative options that highlight Mexican street food with a twist. The Cochinita taco, made with jackfruit, is a must-try, as is the Yucatecan with trumpet royale mushroom and avocado.
Hijo de Su Madre’s laid-back atmosphere only adds to the experience of enjoying these plant-based masterpieces. Make sure to try the sikil pak pumpkin seed dip, too. It’s the Yucatan version of hummus.
10. Cena Vegan
If you’re looking for an all-vegan taco spot with plant base take on all the meaty classics, Cena Vegan is the place to be. This low key restaurant offers all the usual options like carnitas, birria, carne asada, pollo and barbacoa.
The bold and complex flavors are a testament to their dedication to creating exciting, high-quality vegan options. Be sure to try the tortas, burritos and nacho boats, too. Cena Vegan provides the perfect mix of innovation and tradition, making it a must-visit for taco lovers of all kinds.
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Best Vegan Tacos in LA – Honorable Mentions
These taco spots didn’t quite make top 10 best vegan tacos in LA list, but they are making a good effort and definitely deserve a try:
- Gracias Madre – the most elevated vegan Mexican food on the list, this your spot for a vegan taco date night
- Más Veggies Vegan Taqueria – this place is still relatively new but as the name suggests they are dedicated to serving vegan tacos, give them a try
- Doomies Next Mex – come for the tacos, stay for the wet chimichanga
- Leonor’s Vegetarian Mexican – a reliable vegan/vegetarian Mexican spot in the Valley
- La Azteca – this East LA institution may be best known for their chile relleno burrito but the nopales taco is highly underrated
- Tocaya Organica – with 3 different kinds of plant based tacos and multiple location around LA, Tocaya is a great fast casual option
- Sonoritas Prime Tacos – the grilled veggie taco with roast zucchini, nopales, avocado and red onions is a delicious vegan option
Want to explore Los Angeles food scene with a local expert? Book highly in-demand LA Food Tour: Exploring America’s Culinary Frontier or Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour
LA Vegan Tacos – What’s Your Favorite?
Los Angeles offers a wide variety of vegan taco options that can satisfy anyone’s cravings. From traditional flavors with a plant-based twist to bold, creative innovations, the vegan taco scene in LA has exploded in the best way possible.
Whether you’re a long-time vegan or simply someone looking to try something new, these top 10 vegan taco spots are guaranteed to hit the spot and leave you craving more. So, grab your taco-loving friends and start your own taco tour—it’s an adventure you won’t regret!
What else would you add to the list of best vegan tacos in LA? Let us know in the comments or tag @eightyflavors on socials!
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