Taco Spot LA: From a Dream to a Neighborhood Gem
Discover the story of Taco Spot LA, a beloved Eagle Rock eatery known for its bold flavors, creative twists on Mexican classics like carne asada fries and mole enchiladas, and a welcoming community vibe. Visit today!
Joshua always knew he wanted to own a restaurant. Starting out as a dishwasher and working his way up the kitchen ranks, he dreamed of creating a place that reflected his love for diners and neighborhood joints. That dream became a reality in 2012 when he and his lifelong friend Tracy took over Taco Spot LA in Eagle Rock. What began as a leap of faith has turned into a beloved eatery, celebrated for its inventive dishes and warm, welcoming vibe.
“When we started, the restaurant was struggling,” Joshua recalled. “But I saw the potential, especially here in Eagle Rock. We knew we could turn it into something special.”
Bold Flavors, Creative Twists
Taco Spot LA’s menu is a vibrant tribute to Mexican classics, each dish crafted with creativity and care. Their Enchiladas Mexicanas are a must-try: crispy, layered enchiladas topped with a trio of sauces—rojo, verde, and ranchero—and tender carne asada. “We wanted to take something familiar and elevate it,” Joshua explained.
The Carne Asada Fries, another fan favorite, played a big role in putting Taco Spot on the map. “We were one of the first in the area to serve them,” Joshua said. “The kids would pack the place after school for them.” These golden fries come loaded with marinated carne asada, melted cheese, guacamole, and sour cream—a combination that keeps customers coming back.
But it’s the chicken mole enchiladas that Joshua calls his personal favorite. “The flavor is out of this world,” he said. “You’d never expect it from a place with 20 seats.”
A Community-Driven Vision
For Joshua and Tracy, Taco Spot LA is about more than great food—it’s about building a sense of community. “We’ve had kids who came in as customers grow up and work here,” Joshua shared. “Everybody knows everybody.”
Collaboration is at the heart of the restaurant’s kitchen culture. “We’re a team,” Joshua said. “Our chef Anthony, who’s Salvadoran, brings his own influence to the menu. Last year, we introduced vegan tamales for the holidays, and they’ve been a huge hit.” This focus on inclusivity extends throughout the menu, with vegan and vegetarian-friendly options like enchiladas and refried beans that cater to all dietary preferences.
Resilience Through Challenges
Running a restaurant isn’t without its hurdles, and Taco Spot LA has weathered its fair share. Rising food costs, labor shortages, and the challenges of the pandemic have tested the restaurant’s resilience. For Joshua, the key to overcoming these obstacles lies in investing in people.
“When you treat your team as partners, they’ll invest in your vision,” he said. “It’s about creating a space where everyone feels proud to contribute.”
What’s Next for Taco Spot LA?
While expansion isn’t on the immediate horizon, Joshua remains open to new opportunities. “You only live once,” he said with a smile. “If the right opportunity comes along, we’ll be ready. But for now, we’re focused on continuing to serve our community and doing what we love.”