Cielito Lindo

"Cielito Lindo is a food stand on Olvera Street that looks like a fake cantina from the set of Zorro or any other Mexican historical drama. However, this Downtown spot has been open since the early 1930s, which makes it a piece of literal history instead of a stand that just looks like one. You come to Cielito Lindo for the specialty: crispy, golden-brown beef pan-fried taquitos covered in their famous tangy avocado salsa. It’s a simple, quick snack that delivers when you need a little something between meals. And while they might be the perfect bite while you're shopping for ceramic bowls on Olvera Street, these taquitos also double as a nearly century-old symbol of LA's Mexican-American community and its deep roots that run through the city. Our suggestion: skip the refried beans and order the two taquito combo, which comes with a spinach and cheese tamale (double the carbs, double the salsa).  " - brant cox, nikko duren, garrett snyder, sylvio martins

"There’s no room for nostalgia here, but these legendary taquitos aren’t just the original taco in Los Angeles. They might be solely responsible for the current taco craze in the U.S., and they’re delicious. Order deep-fried beef taquitos drowned in a runny avocado salsa oozing with a piquant beefiness thickened with avocado. It’s like being one with the taco universe. Since 1934, the story of the taco north of the Rio Grande begins and ends here." - Bill Esparza

"Open since 1934, Cielito Lindo is one of the best stands in Los Angeles. Stationed in the historic Olvera Street, Cielito’s deep-fried taquitos drowned in avocado salsa are worth a trek to this charming area just north of Downtown. Afterward, walk through the city’s first official street for more bites and knick-knacks." - Eater Staff

"This historic, ‘30s-era stand is famous for pan-fried taquitos covered in tangy avocado salsa. They’re the perfect snacks to eat on the sidewalk before getting back to ceramic bowl shopping, as well as a nearly century-old symbol of LA's Mexican American community (and just plain old delicious). Skip the refried beans and order the two taquito combo with a spinach and cheese tamale—double the carbs, double the salsa. " - nikko duren, brant cox, sylvio martins

"Cielito Lindo has been serving its famous rolled tacos slathered in avocado salsa since 1934. The proud tradition continues today as the restaurant anchors bustling Olvera Street in Downtown's northern edge." - Matthew Kang, Eater Staff