Finding a late night taco truck in Los Angeles isn't as difficult as you might think. But finding…read moreone that is tasty, affordable, and hits all the high notes can be a bit trickier. Which takes me to the West LA/Sawtelle neighborhood where I had the chance in trying out "El Paladar Oaxaqueno Taco Truck". Located directly on Santa Monica Blvd and just west of the 405 freeway, this popular mobile food truck has been around since the mid-2000's. And if you're looking for something that operates in the wee hours of the night, they are opened for business 7 days a week from 6:30am-3:00am.
I arrived here a little after 8:20pm as I was looking for a meal to hold me through the night. As for the parking, it can be a bit challenging but I was able to find something just around the block. This truck is highly visible from Santa Monica Blvd and not hard to miss. As far as the ordering process goes, this place also offers food delivery (as of 2024) to all the major apps; DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Postmates. But I am someone that enjoys going to place as well as conversing with the employees/staff. Since there was no line during my visit, I walked right up and told the gentleman I would like three Carne Asada tacos (toppings on the side) and one Carne Asada burrito with no rice. Total price came out to around $24 which is quite a bit higher than the trucks in East LA/South Central LA.
After making the 20 minute drive back to my hotel room, the tacos and burrito are still piping hot. As far as the flavor, these definitely have that distinctive LA "flavor" as this was seasoned very well and a very unique and acquired taste that you can't find in cities such as San Francisco, San Jose, and Sacramento. Their menu is as extensive as you'd expect as they carry several proteins; Asada, Pastor, Pollo, Chorizo, Cabeza, Lengua, and many more. And as for the selection goes, you have your choice of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tortas, tlayudas, tostadas, mulitas, enfrijoladas, nachos, and salads. And finally the Mexican refreshments that include Coca-Cola, horchata, aguas frescas, and much more.
The pros of "El Paladar Oaxaqueno Taco Truck" are arguably the amazing flavor that these things pack into them as well as a great location that is easily accessible. The cons were the very high prices (I believe my Asada burrito was around $15) and the salsas were just too watered down. Overall not a bad meal but I've had way better, especially in the Los Angeles area. When you factor in great service, above average food, but mediocre prices, I will have to rate this place 4-stars. But they are open until 3:00am so a night out of drinking at the bar/club and your opinion might change.