DineGuides

Cheap Eats in Southeast Los Angeles

17 restaurants in Southeast Los Angeles. Part of our Los Angeles Cheap Eats guide.

Carnitas el Puerquito Negro
#1Cheap Eats

Carnitas el Puerquito Negro

Mexicanยท$

This corner taqueria serves up authentic carnitas that rival those found in Mexico. Portions are generous, with each taco packed with well-seasoned pork, making for a filling and inexpensive meal.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ95Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ95Value
๐Ÿ‘‹78Service
โœจ60Vibe
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œThe best service I ever had, the owner treats you like family, great service, thanks to Puerquito Negro for serving the community.โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œVery good prices, excellent attitude and above all very good flavor in the carnitas, not to mention that they don't skimp on things like lemons, sauces, etc.โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œEvery time he came to Los Angeles he came for some tacos, they are always well stocked and tasty.โ€

Antojitos Jaimes
#2Cheap Eats

Antojitos Jaimes

Mexicanยท$$

This family-run spot serves up authentic, home-style Mexican cooking that tastes like it was made with generations of love. The warm, welcoming service makes every guest feel like part of the family from the moment they walk in.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ98Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ90Value
๐Ÿ‘‹95Service
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œI've been a customer for 8 years. The food is very flavorful and the service is excellent.โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œThe menudo was delicious and didn't smell bad like in some restaurants; the quesadillas were very tasty.โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œThe customer service is wonderful, making you feel like family.โ€

Ideal for
Families with kidsAuthentic Mexican food
Tacos Los Nopales
#3Cheap Eats

Tacos Los Nopales

Mexicanยท$$

Handmade tortillas are the star here, forming the base for generous portions of authentic fillings. Al Pastor and lengua tacos are frequently mentioned as highlights, complemented by a self-serve bar for toppings and salsas.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ92Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ90Value
๐Ÿ‘‹85Service
โœจ65Vibe
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œGreat tacos. They are big and worth the price. My favorite are shrimp and asada tacos.โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œMy whole family loves it; we have delicious dinners and the service is wonderful.โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œThe only thing is that I'm not sure if they only sell shrimp tacos that are not breaded.โ€

Ideal for
Casual weeknight dinnerTaco cravings
Las Palmas Pupuseria
#4Cheap Eats
2 photos

Las Palmas Pupuseria

Salvadoranยท$

This small, family-run spot serves up authentic Salvadoran flavors, with pupusas that are warm, fresh, and deeply satisfying. It's the kind of place where homemade taste and friendly service make you feel right at home.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ94Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ90Value
๐Ÿ‘‹88Service
๐Ÿ“75Location
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œIn the heart of the cityโ€

Ideal for
Authentic Salvadoran food seekersFamily casual diningPupusa enthusiasts
Tire Shop Taqueria
#5Cheap Eats

Tire Shop Taqueria

Otherยท$$

This is not a taqueria, but a tire shop that offers excellent service. They are known for their honest, friendly, and efficient work, often patching tires for free and providing clear explanations without upselling. Customers appreciate the fair pricing and the fact that they treat everyone with respect, regardless of their car knowledge.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ100Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ90Value
๐Ÿ‘‹92Service
๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ65Safety
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œContinued to provide outstanding serviceโ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œThey are so kind and human hereโ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œWalking distance from my officeโ€

Ideal for
Customers seeking honest, transparent tire service without upsellingBudget-conscious drivers wanting free patches and competitive pricingLocal residents valuing long-term relationships and personal service
Served 2 Enjoy
#6Cheap Eats
6 photos

Served 2 Enjoy

Americanยท$$

This casual, family-friendly spot serves up home-style meals with generous portions at affordable prices. It's a go-to for healthy, flavorful options, whether you're grabbing takeout or catering a large event.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ92Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ92Value
๐Ÿ‘‹88Service
๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ65Safety
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œBest customer service, good seatingโ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œFinding parking but once you doโ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œClean, great food, good serviceโ€

Ideal for
Busy professionals seeking healthy meal prepSouth LA families wanting affordable home-cooked foodEvent catering and office gatherings
Pizza Mar
#7Cheap Eats

Pizza Mar

Pizzaยท$$

Pizza Mar serves up a classic, no-frills pizza experience that's a hit with families and solo diners alike. The thin crust pepperoni special and veggie pizzas are well-regarded, offering great flavor at a surprisingly low price point.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ92Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ88Value
๐Ÿ‘‹78Service
๐Ÿ“65Location
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œPizza is always good hereโ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œFresh, the flavors well-balanced, and the crust perfectly preparedโ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œSo good make you wannaโ€

Ideal for
Pizza lovers seeking affordable qualityFamily casual dining and takeoutSouth LA neighborhood comfort food
Tacos Los Guichos
#8Cheap Eats

Tacos Los Guichos

Mexicanยท$

This is a no-frills taco truck that excels at al pastor, a dish many consider the best in Los Angeles. While the setting is basic, the authentic flavors and long-standing tradition make it a destination for those seeking a true taste of street tacos.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ92Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ85Value
๐Ÿ‘‹75Service
๐Ÿงน70Hygiene
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œThe place was packed. The Al pastor was over the top, the best I've ever had.โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œTo me and my family, these tacos are the best. We love getting tacos al pastor, and let's not forget the tortas cubanas. 10/10 recommend.โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œSituated in the parking lot with a tire and alignment shop blasting Spanish music and in the middle of a busy intersection, the โ€ฆโ€

Ideal for
Late-night eatsSolo diningAuthentic street tacos
Cano's
#9Cheap Eats

Cano's

Mexicanยท$$

This small, cozy spot serves up some of the best breakfast burritos in South L.A. The friendly staff treats everyone like family, making it a welcoming place for a casual meal.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ90Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ85Value
๐Ÿ‘‹92Service
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œI like he the employees interact with the customers like family.โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œThey always make sure I am good before I leave.โ€

Ideal for
Families with kidsBreakfastCasual meals
Mariscos El Rey Estilo Nayarit
#10Cheap Eats

Mariscos El Rey Estilo Nayarit

Mexicanยท$$

This Nayarit-style seafood truck serves up authentic flavors, with shrimp empanadas and fried mojarra earning particular celebrate. Expect generous portions and prices that feel like a steal, though be prepared for potential inconsistencies in operating hours.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ92Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ90Value
๐Ÿ‘‹85Service
โฐ65Wait
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œIt has a delicious flavor, and if it's Nayarit style, the only thing is they don't accept cards, only cash or Zelle.โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œMy friend Rey's seafood is 100% recommended, and the shrimp empanadas are delicious ๐Ÿ˜‹โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œYes it's a lunch truck! You won't regret it. Everything here is delicious ๐Ÿ˜‹โ€ฆโ€

Ideal for
Authentic seafood cravingsBudget-friendly meals
Jk Fish Market
#11Cheap Eats

Jk Fish Market

Seafoodยท$$

This casual fish market serves up Louisiana-style fried seafood with bold flavors. It's a family-friendly spot where you can grab lunch or dinner combos, with options for takeout.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ88Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ88Value
๐Ÿ‘‹85Service
๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ70Safety
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œGreat people = Great foodโ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œFish is always on pointโ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œFresh every time I orderโ€

Ideal for
Local seafood lovers seeking fresh fried fishBudget-conscious diners (EBT accepted, good value)Quick lunch or dinner takeout
Witcho's Tacos
#12Cheap Eats

Witcho's Tacos

Mexicanยท$$

This is a no-frills taco stand operating out of a tire shop parking lot, serving some of the best al pastor in Los Angeles. While the setting is basic, the focus is squarely on the food, especially the signature spit-roasted pork.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ90Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ85Value
๐Ÿ‘‹70Service
๐Ÿงน65Hygiene
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œAl Pastor Tasted Amazing, I liked that when the cashier was done taking order they offered if we wanted our food plain which some places don't offer pastor plain.โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œThe reception is real. This place is good ! Best tortas I have ever had.โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œSituated in the parking lot with a tire and alignment shop blasting Spanish music and in the middle of a busy intersectionโ€

Ideal for
Late-night eatsFamilies with kidsSolo dining
Mariscos El Pariente
#13Cheap Eats
4 photos

Mariscos El Pariente

Mexicanยท$$

This unassuming spot serves up surprisingly robust seafood dishes, from unmatched mojarras to fire-hot camarones a la diabla. Don't let the humble exterior fool you; the flavors here are a serious draw, especially for those craving authentic Mexican tastes.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ90Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ88Value
๐Ÿ‘‹85Service
๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ70Safety
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œBeen coming here for 25+ years. The camarones a la diabla are the best I've ever had - with extra sauce is so fire ๐Ÿ”ฅโ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œThe food is delicious but the wait time was long. Ordering before you go helps ๐Ÿ˜Š โ€ฆโ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œIt's a great place do not judge by appearance, we tried Caldo Del Mar which is a kind of seafood stow. Great quality food.โ€

Ideal for
Casual seafood cravingsAuthentic Mexican flavors
House Of Boba
#14Cheap Eats

House Of Boba

Mixed/Fusionยท$

This casual "hole in the wall" spot serves up surprisingly diverse and flavorful fare, from spicy Buffalo Chicken Fries to customizable boba drinks. The owners are noted for their community engagement and friendly demeanor, making it a go-to for many locals.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ88Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ85Value
๐Ÿ‘‹60Service
๐ŸŽฏ70Consistency
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œLove their Horchata Frap! If you want to try this place grab the Buffalo Chicken Fries theye spicy and so deliciousโ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œThis place is delicious! No wait time, friendly staff and reasonable prices. They're playing 2pac right now. Dam, I love this place, dear mamaโ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œGood food, big portions, and some of the best boba drinks in all of LA.โ€

Ideal for
Casual weeknight dinnerQuick boba fix
Tacos Los Poblanos #1 Estilo Tijuana
#15Cheap Eats
5 photos

Tacos Los Poblanos #1 Estilo Tijuana

Mexicanยท$$

Tijuana-style tacos are the draw here, with handmade tortillas and smoky, charcoal-grilled meats. The menu spans beyond tacos to include quesadillas, mulitas, and tortas, all prepared fresh.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ88Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ85Value
๐Ÿ‘‹65Service
โœจ70Vibe
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œThe tacos are delicious ๐ŸŒฎ ๐ŸŒฎ Tijuana style!! Very fast and the service is very good ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿปโ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œThe tacos are very good, but the people are not that friendly. They should consider it is very important to make customers feel welcome.โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œI give it a two starts for the food and customer service. Itโ€™s like they have zombie people working their. They donโ€™t even acknowledge when you order.โ€

Ideal for
Families with kidsCasual weeknight dinner
El Taco Mexicano
#16Cheap Eats

El Taco Mexicano

Mexicanยท$

This is a classic, no-frills spot that has been serving homestyle Mexican food for generations. The chunky beef burrito is a long-standing favorite, a comforting taste that many have grown up.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ85Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ85Value
๐Ÿ‘‹70Service
๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ65Safety
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œReal Mexican food made with love and doesn't cost 20 bucks to feed ur family. Delicious and affordable ๐Ÿค— โ€ฆโ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œWow they food is absolutely amazing it's so good me and my daughter loves it and you don't have to wait to long for your food trust me ๐Ÿ’ฏ๐Ÿฆ Birdie!!!$$$โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œExcellent food, great pricing and super friendly staff! We go at least twice a week and have never been disappointed!โ€

Ideal for
Casual weeknight dinnerComfort food cravings
Tacos Juliet ( Mary)
#17Cheap Eats
2 photos

Tacos Juliet ( Mary)

Mexicanยท$

This unassuming taco stand serves up authentic, homemade Mexican flavors, particularly excelling with their custom-built burritos. It's a straightforward spot where the focus is squarely on delicious, no-frills food.

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ82Food
๐Ÿ’ฐ80Value
๐Ÿ‘‹70Service
๐Ÿ“50Location
๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œThis place is perfect for the local high school next-door it has tacos and burritos just like any other Mexican stand.โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œBrandy service the men you couldn't get any easier it's just tacos and burritos and both are delicious!โ€

๐Ÿ’ฌ

โ€œIt's easy to miss this place, if you are not looking for it. I thought it was closed, but it wasn't.โ€

Ideal for
Quick lunchCasual bite
๐Ÿ—บ๏ธ