Guerrilla Tacos: From Street Cart to LA's Taco Royalty
Celebrating the Best Tacos in Los Angeles and More
Guerrilla Tacos is not just a restaurant; it's a celebration of Los Angeles' diverse cultures, showcasing inventive tacos and one of the best agave mezcal bars in Los Angele (LA Times). Guerrilla Tacos is a women-led establishment run by Latinas born and raised in LA— Chef Crystal Espinoza and Managing Partner Brittney Valles, and proud to contribute to the vibrant culinary scene in the in the Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA).
Our Location: In the Heart of DTLA's Arts District
Nestled at the bustling intersection of 7th Street and Mateo Street, Guerrilla Tacos stands as a testament to the city's melting pot of cultures and flavors. Our journey from a beloved taco truck to a thriving brick-and-mortar establishment at 2000 E 7th St., Los Angeles, is a story of passion and innovation. Our claim to fame, the vegetarian sweet potato taco, is a must-try, celebrated in the restaurant with a silhouette mural of the one-and-only LA Times Food Critic Jonathan Gold for his love letter to Guerrilla Tacos.
Our Menu: Elevated Tacos for All
The high-end menu at Guerrilla Tacos can only exist in Los Angeles where the variety of cultures and flavors influences our elevated tacos. Each dish is crafted with tasty and diverse flavors. From the popular Baja fried fish taco to the rich pork belly, and from the perfectly grilled Lomo Salto skirt steak to the Pasture Bird chicken, our selection caters to a wide range of palates, including gluten-free options, vegetarian options, and vegan options.
The Mezcal Bar: A Haven for Agave Spirits Enthusiasts
And it's not just about the food; Guerrilla Tacos offers a culinary experience heightened by its celebrated agave mezcal bar, recognized as one of the Best Agave Bars in Los Angeles. With a spirits list that's a comprehensive study in agave, our mezcal flights are expertly curated for an immersive tasting journey.
Mezcal Mondays: A Unique Tasting Experience
Join us for Mezcal Monday with Rocío Flores, featuring tastings of three unique agave expressions, each paired with unconventional garnishes. Our signature cocktails blend traditional flavors with modern mixology, creating a symphony of taste in every sip.
Chef Wes Avila and Brittney Valles: Pioneers of Guerrilla Tacos
Guerrilla Tacos' story intertwines with the visions of its founders, Chef Wes Avila and Brittney Valles. Chef Wes, an icon in LA's culinary landscape, launched Guerrilla Tacos as a street cart in 2012, blending California and Mexican cuisines. His culinary journey, enriched by global experiences, led to the creation of an award-winning restaurant, earning accolades like a Michelin Bib Gourmand and recognition from the James Beard Foundation.
Brittney Valles: Steering Guerrilla Tacos to New Heights
Brittney Valles joined Guerrilla Tacos in 2016, bringing her entrepreneurial vision and hospitality expertise. Under her leadership, the restaurant expanded its reach and navigated the challenges of the pandemic with innovative solutions like “Emergency Taco Kits.” When she’s not at the restaurant, she's making a difference in the community and giving back. She’s a James Beard Foundation Fellow in their Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership Program, a proud founding member of the Independent Hospitality Coalition, RE:Her, and the Juan Carlos Cantoni Foundation supporting transitional-age youth with mental health services.
A New Chapter: Brittney's Leadership and Chef Crystal Espinoza
In 2020, Chef Wes Avila stepped away to pursue new ventures of Angry Egret Dinette and Ka'teen Restaurant, marking a new chapter for Guerrilla Tacos. Brittney Valles took the helm as the sole operator, transforming Guerrilla Tacos into a beacon of community spirit and culinary innovation. Today, the kitchen team is lead by Chef Crystal Espinoza, whipping up culinary magic. So, swing by and taste what makes Guerrilla Tacos a legend in LA's food scene – it's a taco party, and you're invited!