30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Westwood
Best Trendy Restaurants in Westwood
Best Late Night Mexican in Westwood
Best Late Night Tacos in Westwood
Best Cheap Mexican Food in Westwood
Best Burritos in Westwood
Best Tacos in Westwood
Best Mexican in Westwood
Master Critic Review
Tacos 1986
7.9
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
The Westwood Village location of Tacos 1986 brings Tijuana-style adobada tacos, mulitas, and quesadillas to a casual counter with sidewalk seating. Late student crowds and a constant line at the window turn the Kinross patio tables into one of the neighborhood’s most reliable cheap outdoor meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Adobada Taco, Mushroom Mulita, Carne Asada Quesadilla
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Tijuana-style tacos from a cult-loved stand with busy sidewalk seating.
Who should go: Students and taco fans wanting fast, affordable outdoor bites.
When to visit: Evenings when the walk-up window and patio are busiest.
What to order: Adobada tacos, mushroom mulita, carne asada quesadilla.
Insider tip: Grab your tray and claim a sidewalk table before you order.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; Kinross and surrounding blocks can be tight during UCLA peak hours but manageable later in the evening.
Dress code: Very casual — come as you are; students and locals show up in everyday wear.
Noise level: Moderate to lively outdoors, especially with late-night student crowds; still easy to hold a casual conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes at the walk-up window during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal or no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — mushroom fillings and cheese-focused items offer solid vegetarian options.
Vegan options: Limited — mushroom tacos without cheese are the main vegan-friendly choice.
Gluten-free options: Yes — corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but note there is no dedicated gluten-free prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only for very casual first dates — it's counter-service, busy, fast, and better for low-pressure hangs than romantic setups.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — all seating is first-come, first-served; grab a sidewalk table quickly during rush hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy tacos and outdoor seating; no booster seats or dedicated kid amenities.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable Tijuana-style tacos with lively outdoor energy — ideal for late-night, solo bites, or casual hangs.
Skip if: You want a sit-down meal, quieter patio, more expansive menu, or substantial vegan/gluten-free options.
Hours
Monday10am - 12am
Tuesday10am - 12am
Wednesday10am - 12am
Thursday10am - 12am
Friday10am - 3am
Saturday10am - 3am
Sunday10am - 12am