Los Angeles is arguably the greatest taco metropolis on earth. From curbside spit-roasted pork trompos flamed over live oak coals to James Beard and Michelin-recognized coastal seafood counters, here is our definitive field guide to genuine late-night dining without compromise.

01. Live-Coal Al Pastor Trompos (East LA & South Central)

Under the halogen glow of portable street stands along Whittier Boulevard and Olympic, master taqueros slice razor-thin ribbons of achiote-marinated pork shoulder directly from spinning vertical trompos, flicking roasted pineapple wedges straight onto steaming, freshly pressed corn tortillas.

02. Mariscos Jalisco (Olympic Blvd, Boyle Heights)

Parked on East Olympic Boulevard in Boyle Heights, the legendary Mariscos Jalisco truck serves the gold standard of Los Angeles seafood: Tacos Dorados de Camarón. Deep-fried to a blistered crunch and stuffed with a velvety spiced shrimp filling, each taco is finished with cool sliced avocado and a vibrant tomato salsa.

03. Holbox (Mercado La Paloma, South LA)

Inside the bustling Mercado La Paloma at 3655 S. Grand Ave, Chef Gilberto Cetina Jr.’s Michelin-starred counter serves Yucatecan coastal seafood, kanpachi ceviche, smoked kanpachi tacos, and fresh Baja blood clams with uncompromising culinary technique.