Al & Bea's Mexican Food

"The combination of beans, cheese, and tortilla is a simple thing—but somehow this well-worn stand in Boyle Heights has taken that trifecta to a whole other level. Open since 1966, Al & Bea’s is a family-owned East LA staple with a loyal fan base that spans from Boomers to the TikTok generation. Though they serve a long list of Mexican bites like taquitos and hard shell tacos, we usually hone in on their classic bean and cheese burrito. Each one starts with a stretchy flour tortilla filled with refried pintos that are gloriously flavored with lard and a handful of shredded yellow cheese that liquefies against the molten hot beans. Ask for red and green salsa." - brant cox, nikko duren, garrett snyder, sylvio martins

"This Boyle Heights burrito spot is legendary for its simple, but excellent, bean and cheese burrito. Refried beans meet stretchy melted cheese for a deeply satisfying burrito that is far more than the sum of its parts." - Rebecca Roland, Eater Staff

"You had the best first date of your life last night, and this morning you get a text saying they had a great time, too…and that they’re moving to Portugal next month. Grab the friend who’s seen you cry the most times, and head to Boyle Heights for some bean and cheese burritos. Open since 1966, Al & Bea’s is a family-owned East LA institution that serves the best version in town. Each one is made with a stretchy flour tortilla filled with refried pintos that are gloriously flavored with lard and a handful of shredded yellow cheese that liquefies against the molten hot beans. The cute, shaded front patio is the perfect place to sit and scheme a besties trip to Portugal. " - brant cox

"Al & Bea’s, the diminutive walk-up stand known for its simple Mexican American delights, is all about the delightful bean and cheese burrito along with tacos, tostadas, burgers, and antojitos. Be prepared to wait in a short but speedy line for some of the best Mexican food in town." - Eater Staff, Rebecca Roland

"Restaurants like El Tepeyac and Al & Bea’s in Boyle Heights are known for their saucy, stew-filled bean-and-cheese creations." - Eater Staff