I had driven by this place countless times when working in that area but never tried it. One day about 2 months ago, at the stop sign beside it, I kept staring at the big photo/sign saying FISH TACOS $2.49 each. I was starving. I parked and went in. I ordered 2 fish tacos and the cook instantly got 2 FRESH (not frozen) larger than expected, fish fillets, THEN dipped them into HOMEMADE BATTER right in front of me and dropped them into the fry basket. Where will you ever see that nowadays? They were ready almost instantly, and were done perfect Baja style, with lots of that good salty mayo+crema white sauce. THEY WERE AWESOME. And BIG. And would have cost WAY MORE at any other place...for $5. Really satisfying, I was NOT hungry after 2 of them. Since then I have probably been there 7 times, the quality has never varied. And they make all their own salsas, etc. I have even taken jobs down in that area just so I can eat there! ;-) The only other thing I have tried is taco de lengua, it was equally excellent, with LOTS of meat, not some skimpy little street taco thing. But just go there and see what $5 will get you with the fish tacos, this has to be the best deal in today's food world that I have found and I work all over the San Gabriel Valley and eat at dozens of places. Its not fancy though, old school with lots of handmade cardboard signs showing lots of other dishes, but this is the ambiance you will find in some of the BEST mom and pop type cafe's. The ratio of deliciousness and quality to price is insanely in favor of the customer!! read more

This is small mom and pop shop where you literally see the couple (el señor y la señora) behind the counter and kitchen area. We ordered for pick up and had: - macho fries (they were pretty darkly fried but very soggy even though picked up within 15 mins -- they throw refried beans on them so not great if you really wanted carne asada style fries) - FISH tacos - YES I'd come back for these at $2.50 a piece - they were still crunchy by time I got home 5 mins later and had plenty of flavors - good price, - lengua burrito - lady never said the price but burrito was OK, just rice and lengua - steak combo plate - flavors were ok - macho burrito - they got this wrong bc we didn't want wet burrito but they did it anyways :( -- this was quite SALTY. OVERALL - if you're really hungry and need basic food, some dishes are better than others. I think it was OK to try this out but still going back to my old time favorite Mexican restaurant. Mom and pop -- especially mom is funny and has sense of humor. Indoors they have a few tables and they have TV playing soccer games too. They accept credit cards. read more

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machocafesangabriel #menudodaily #authenticnexicanfood #posoledaily 4/4/26 Got menudo, albondigas, machaca combo & carne asada combo. This place has been serving the community since 1979. Street parking only. Service is friendly, prompt. No frills but appears authentic enough. There are about 20 indoor seating (booths & tables). The cafe is fairly clean. Our order was ready in a jiffy. Got fresh salsa from the counter along with pickled carrots, onions & jalapeños. Not bad but the menudo lacked depth & richness, so did the albondigas. Overall a good experience at least once. read more

Macho Cafe - 4/4/26 Yelp has limited bandwidth, I posted a dozen photos/videos, only about 4 made the cut (took a long while to load) - Mexican Near Me - San Gabriel, California

TL;DR: Fish tacos were good. Al pastor meat is burnt and crummy. There are better hole-in-the -wall places you can find. Decided to stop by here are rely in Yelp to find a good hidden hole-in-the-wall place for a quick burrito and fish tacos. Guess they have a lot of fish because the fish tacos were on $2.49 each and the other regular meats are like a dollar more. The fish tacos were actually good. Friend also got a asada taco and that was a little dry and pieces were burnt. A little surprised because it's just a basic taco and disappointed that the meat wasn't better. We also got an al pastor combination burrito. Don't know why but I was hoping it was like those big burritos you get at a taco stand or food truck. It's just meat, beans rice and cheese. First, it had very little flavor. Felt like I was eating a rice and bean burrito. The kicker was that the Al pastor meat was really burnt and just crumbs. It just didn't taste like much. For these hole-in-the -wall places I just expect something good like at a taco stand all over Los Angeles. But it was not worth it to me. I've had food trucks and taco stands way better. Sorry but I can't recommend this restaurant read more

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The service was quick and with a very friendly cashier. There were 2 of us and we had the fish tacos and some hard shell beef tacos. Both were good. They have a mini salsa bar. Some agua frescas are offered with free refills. I would return to this establishment. They have albóndiga soup and cocido as well. read more

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The FISH TACOS here are excellent! I been in search of a great fish taco spot ever since Ricky's Fish Tacos ceased its operation in 2022. Ricky's was in my opinion the BEST in LA for fish tacos (at least for my palate). Macho cafe does an AWESOME fish taco and it is one of their best sellers. What makes a good fish taco to me? Crispy PERFECT tempura like batter that's non-greasy or soggy in taste. White fish that is tender and moist NOT fishy. Great salsas (verde/spicy or mild red) that are balanced with natural roasted ingredients and not too much dried seasonings that not bland. Topped off with right amount of crema, cabbage and pico de gallo. This spot nailed it. My other favorite places for fish tacos are : TACO NAZO and TACO ENSENADA. However, MACHO CAFE is even better! While I miss Ricky's Fish Tacos, this place Macho Cafe is up there. The higher end restaurants in LA that have fish tacos serve better fish quality but their salsas sux, so I prefer Mexican family restaurant hole-in-the-walls for this street taco humble item. Seriously you can't go wrong with anything on their menu, we tried a few items and they were so good! Macho's Cafe has been around since 1979 and the restaurant definitely needs an update, but remember you're there for the food not the ambiance, lol. Easy street parking or a few parking spaces in front of restaurant. Cash and Card accepted. read more

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What We Ordered: -4 Fish Tacos @ $2.49 Each Another day, another recommendation from my friend Cindy S.! She recently found Macho Cafe in San Gabriel, looking for a new favorite fish taco spot after her old one closed. The tacos are a great value at $2.49 each, and you can order them a la carte. The fish tacos are perfectly battered and fried - crispy and not soggy. They have a good balance of cabbage, sour cream, and pico de gallo. We both gave them two thumbs up! They have a self-serve salsa bar, which is nice to see in the post-COVID world. We loved trying the different salsas, especially the pickled carrots, onions, and jalapeños. Macho Cafe will definitely be in our fish taco rotation from now on. We'll be back soon! read more

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Best fish tacos in this area!! The fish was so tasty and nicely breaded! The cabbage was nice and finely chopped.. I hate when the cabbage strips are to chunky! The sour cream and special sauce they used was made correctly and did not overpower all of the flavors of the tacos! Honestly can't wait to go again and enjoy some More.. it's definitely a mom and pop shop it's small inside but there's a lot of seating .. inside and outside... the gentleman at the register was very nice and also let me Know they have breakfast deals in the morning And provided me with a flyer.. great place! Definitely send it and try some fish tacos read more

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The food is excellent! The fish tacos are very well made, fresh, and crispy. I also enjoy the Al Pastor and Carne Asada tacos and burritos. Service was quick and didn't take long. Overall, the atmosphere is great for dine in or take out. Highly recommended and I would definitely come here again! read more

Great mexican spot that has been serving the surrounding community for decades. Always solid and consistent and has some of the best portions for their price. Absolutely delicious. read more

The BEST!!! Chile rellenos are amazing. My husband loves the Chile rellenos with the cheese enchilada. My brother loves their beef enchiladas. I love their chips and guacamole and tacos. You cannot go wrong. The Menudo is great as well. What a find! Great job guys! read more

What's up: My aunt works nearby and she likes grabbing the fish tacos from here every so often. Since she recommended them, I decided to grab some too! Parking: Small parking area right up front. There's also street parking. Environment: My aunt called them ahead of time to place an order. After a short drive, we came by and picked them up; payment was made upon pickup. What was ordered: - Fish Taco (hot, crunchy, and tasty. The fish is pretty big and yummy with the hot salsa) Yay/Nay/Meh: Yay. Food was yummy and they were quick. Cash is best since there is a transaction fee to use credit cards. read more

Macho Cafe - Exterior - Mexican Near Me - San Gabriel, California

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Great service! I asked for chile verdes burritos with Asada and the guy, probably the boss, was willing to accommodate my request. The burritos was good and will go back again. read more

I was getting my car windows Tinted across the street and decided to try their fish tacos. It's a pretty good deal at $2.49 each. They were decent. The pros were that they were a good size and had good flavor. My main con was that they maybe put a little too much crema. Something unique they do is adding a green salsa on top. It's not spicy but adds some unique flavor to a fish taco. I also tried a papa(potato) taco and thought it was pretty good too. The restaurant itself isn't in the best condition and could use a face-lift but the food is decent. There seemed to be a steady stream of customers as I sat and ate at 1030am on a Thursday so that must be a good sign. Would I come here again? Perhaps if I was craving a fish taco and was getting my car washed across the street. read more

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I think the food is great. But I got some real weird energy from the dude working there. I ordered a burrito and the whole time the guy is looking at me like I offended him. I don't see myself going back. read more

This place has been one of my favorite places for fish tacos! Was craving flautas and a chile rellenos burrito and this satisfied the cravings! The burrito was huge and flavorful. I really liked it! The flautas were pretty good! The plate came with rice and beans along with some lettuce and sour cream :) service is always kind and attentive whenever I order in or over the phone. The restaurant is a small place with a few tables and it can get pretty crowded. read more

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Absolutely love their chile verde. The service is great, staff is very friendly and they definitely know how to cook Mexican food!! I've only been here once so far and I'm definitely looking forward to coming back here and try new things. read more

Absolute worst burrito I've ever had. The combination Burrito comes dry. Just dry meat, rice and beans. They don't bother telling you it doesn't even come with the bare minimum salsa cilantro or onions. Absolutely disgusting and a waste of money. Do not come here if you expect decent food. read more

I got the Macho Burrito. Hardly any meat. Mostly lettuce. Meat had no flavor. Sauce topping sucked. Was barely warm. Salsa was decent but it'll be the last time I eat there. Don't know how they have 3.8 stars. Very disappointing. read more

No need to drive to taco nazo anymore. These are just as good. I always have them add extra cream. Excellent food servers, always fresh food. Great prices... 5 stars from me read more

Macho Cafe - Mexican Near Me - San Gabriel, California

Hidden spot... let me start with right across from Tia Gladys.. I always passed this place been there for ever. Went her because Tias was closed (not my choice). I suggested let go across the street (Macho Cafe) on weekends went with 5 family members. Ordered Chile Relleno plate, fish Tacos.. Both Mmmmm good. But let's get to me. A Mojarra Plate (fish fry Talapia) . Man 110% delicious. Served with papa as Fritas, rice beans Salad and tortillas. Guys add the Gralic chopped on top just take me to Tijuana style Mojarra... guess what went again this weekend for my Fish fry... Vamos!!!!!! read more

It's an unassuming little Mexican restaurant across from the car wash and another Mexican eatery. The fish taco I had was a little disappointing; the fish seemed a little burnt. They tried to compensate with lots of crema. However, I also got the carne asada burrito and though it had more rice and beans than I would have liked, it was tasty and filling. The ambience was warm--sociallg and temperature-wise. I think they were just using fans. I saw some people come out with a whole fish that looked good, and another gent had some type of soup that seemed tasty. Perhaps those are more of their specialty. read more

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I was craving constillas de puerco and by my surprise they are super delicious. I can do without the nopales but either way leaves a watering taste. The green chilly they use is the bomb. With enough spice to satisfy and not over due it. I'll be back to try other dishes. The staff is friendly read more

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This place got some bomb ass steak tacos lmao I ordered them with cilantro and onions followed by some red sauce and omg best combo ever!!! First time here and I will be coming back ! Me and my best friend knew it was a hit when we started seeing 20+ people come in after we did read more

Macho Cafe - Steak tacos - Mexican Near Me - San Gabriel, California

The best Al Pastor at SGV...The staff and services is great. So if you craving Al Pastor try this one...

Okay so now I'm going to let everyone know if you have a Menudo graving Stop Here! I was in the area on a work day and stopped to have breakfast and found out that they serve fresh Menudo everyday of the week! Need I say more? read more

Been coming here since u was a kid and they have always been amazing. Everyone is really nice and the food is sooo good

I was craving menudo before going to church I saw this spot few times omw to church and decided to try it out. The two gentlemen working the kitchen very nice and personable ask to take a seat. Within minutes my food was ready and looks delicious. You can sit inside or outside. The tortillas was perfect and simple mom and pops place. The menudo was clean not greasy and visit again in the future. read more

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Dude inside was rude as heck $5 for a drink that was water down ! Please do not come here

Fast and friendly service, food was excellent , will come back and refer friends and family to this restaurant

If you are looking for good Mexican food, this is a place you need to try, the menu has a wide variety of selections and they are all delicious. The service is great as well, fast and friendly read more

Oh. My. Gosh. Why have I not eaten here sooner?! $1.29 for delicious fish tacos????? Yes yes yes. Not only is it affordable but it is flavorful, crispy, creamy, and oh so good! I ordered two fish tacos and a shrimp taco plus a small horchata and it all came in under $10 with tax. I was so happy and full. I recommend the fried shrimp tacos as well, they might actually be my favorite from here. Don't forget to ask for the salsa. It packs some heat and oh so good on the tacos! read more

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Two stars just because i find the shrimp and fish tacos to be decent if you are in a pinch. Otherwise i struggle to see how this place can stay open. The older dudes that cook seem to absolutely hate all the customers, acting as if every burrito is taken directly from their own life force. The decor is meh, minda dingy and awkward. Try and use cash because they will charge you a dollar to use a card. I will say the salsa is pretty good as well. The bean and cheese burrito was a standout disappointment, as I am not sure how you mess that up. read more

Amazing food and service all the time! Macho Burrito is just simply amazing. The biggest most flavorful burrito you'll ever have!

Wonderful, mom and Pop place with exceptional food and pricing!! Stopped in for a quick dinner on the advice of a friend and saw they served menudo daily... after inquiring with the owner's daughter while waiting for our dinner, she was sweet enough to give me a sample bowl.... IT WAS DELICIOUS! Absolutely will return. So sorry it took me so long to find his hidden gym in our own backyard! The steady stream of local patrons tells it all-- get that amazing huge burrito they're known for. returning soon.!! read more

First time ordered two fish tacos for breakfast. Made fresh to order, crispy breading with tender fish. They were SO good. I had to go to taco nazo at lunch to compare. My experience here was like a 10 and taco nazo was a 7. Eat the fish tacos there. I took the second one home and it was still good but much better eaten fresh out the fryer. read more

First time here. A cute mom n pop place eith large picnic tables in front...a nice casual cafe vibe...inside dining also available.... ...I was told this place has been around for 23 years....that they survived the lockdown and Covid is a miracle...nice friendly service....quick to greet and nicely welcoming... ... Ordered the combo, lots of choices available...extensive menu posted above the order counter....order from cashier on the right once u enter.... ....I got everything to go.... the fish taco and chile relleno, came with rice and beans. The relleno is how I judge the quality of the cooking. Big thumbs up on the fluffy relleno. The fish taco was good: fried nicely... lots of garnish. Good!! But the fish was only two fingers wide, wish it were heartier....Rice was good. Beans were not schmushed,, mostly whole bean style...could be more generous with the scoop. Two spoonfuls, not enough to share. Also kinda watery. Also ordered the macho grande burrito...choice of asada, chicken and pastor....it was impressively built...definitely shareable. A red sauce is poured over it...probably better to ask for it on the side for a to-go order. Red sauce didn't really add flavor to the burrito, unless you like your burrito wet and red. Would love to go back and try the menudo....and the pollo mole. Authentic comida!!! Four stars bec the sides weren't as generous as the burrito. read more

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Albóndigas!!! Deeeeelicious!!!! $15.79. Big container! Served with tortillas, cilantro and onion, and lemon!! Tasty! It can serve 2 people. I will continue to order this and recommend!! read more

I give a two just because if it was the other guys who usually there is always friendly and knows that his there too work. But today I came to do my laundry and wanted to get ale Thing to eat cause I'll be busy today. However when I arrive I felt something odd. Right when I walked in, the lady didn't even greet, or say what would you like. Also, her attitude was the worse. Even the usually guy that always attends us came to pick up something and asked her if she was mad. Then to make it worse, the guy doesn't realize there are two orders of the same food, and he didn't even read the number he just read the order of the food. Why give me a ticket if they are not gonna use it. I was about to get someone else's plate. Then I asked my order to add a salad cause I always eat veggies on the side, and this pendent forgot to place my salad on my order. But to him everything was ok. However, when my order was done(incomplete) he just left it on the counter and went straight to his phone. I asked him if that my order and his said yes without noticing I asked for a salad. Really only pendejo y pendja working today. Not coming here. Rather go to the donut shop. They have better service. Lastly, after he notice he forgot my salad he started to stare at me the whole time. He made me feel uncomfortable. He sure knows how disturb a lady while she's eating and he sure doesn't know how to do h read more

Macho Cafe - Proof of time and location. But yea don't recommend it anymore. - Mexican Near Me - San Gabriel, California

My husband swears by this place But, just the initial phone call wasn't so pleasant I was placed on hold for close to 6 minutes, I ended up hanging up and calling back And my order was finally taken Overall the food wasn't so great, the salsa and rice are amazing I will say! The chilaquiles and asada lacked seasoning. My husband said the asada fries weren't as good as they usually are either. Maybe it was just a bad day ?? read more