The Los Angeles taqueria where soft tacos were popularized starting 50 years ago is poised to become a city-designated historic-cultural site. The original King Taco sparked interest for generations of Angelenos in more varieties of Mexican cuisine and eventually influenced taco culture across the country. Four tacos at King Taco’s original location, in Cypress Park, clockwise from left: cabeza, chicken tinga, carne asada and al pastor. It’s also the birthplace of Lupe Martinez’s signature lightly smoky salsa roja, which can still smother King Taco’s dishes today. The patio at King Taco’s original location in Cypress Park.

Source: Los Angeles Times February 19, 2026 16:27 UTC