This Content Is Only For Subscribers
Celebrating King Taco: A Los Angeles Culinary Landmark on the Path to Historic Recognition
The vibrant streets of Los Angeles have long been synonymous with diverse culinary scenes, but one establishment holds a special place in the hearts of many Angelenos: King Taco. Known for its soft tacos, this taqueria is poised to become a city-designated historic-cultural site, commemorating its invaluable contributions to the cultural fabric of the city.
A Legacy of Taste
Founded in 1975 by Raúl and Lupe Martinez, the original King Taco location in Cypress Park transformed the local taco landscape. At a time when hard-shelled tacos dominated the menu—stuffed with ground beef, cheddar cheese, and shredded lettuce—Raúl and Lupe introduced Angelenos to the comforting flavors of soft corn tortillas, filled with grilled meats, cilantro, and fresh salsas. Their innovative approach not only revolutionized local taco culture but also paved the way for softer, more authentic representations of Mexican cuisine across the nation.
From Food Truck to Cultural Icon
The Martinezes were pioneers, operating one of the first taco trucks in the United States out of a former ice cream van, making delicious Mexican fare accessible to communities across Los Angeles. Their humble beginnings began at local soccer matches, where they gained a loyal following. Through their food trucks and the Cypress Park storefront, the Martinezes created an ideal platform for authentic flavors to flourish.
On opening night, they reported sales of $70—an optimistic start that quickly grown into a thriving business as demand surged. The original King Taco location became a community hub, enriching the cultural landscape not just of Cypress Park but of the entire city.
City Recognition and Historic Designation
The Cultural Heritage Commission in Los Angeles unanimously voted in favor of designating King Taco as a historic-cultural monument. This decision signifies its “significant contributions to the broad cultural, economic, or social history of the nation, state, city, or community.” This designation could lead to preservation efforts, ensuring that the original building retains its historical integrity for future generations.
The commission highlighted how the Martinezes “created the first taco truck in the United States,” further cementing their legacy within both local and national culinary narratives. Should the City Council validate this designation, any future alterations to the restaurant would be closely regulated to protect its historical significance.
A Restaurant with Deep Roots
Beyond tacos, King Taco has established itself as a foundational element of the Cypress Park community. It has nurtured generations of Angelenos who fondly remember their first visit. Jaime Martinez, a long-time customer, shared, “This is the original one—it’s always been ‘the one.’” His story reflects the sentiment of many who view King Taco as a cherished neighborhood staple, enduring and unchanging.
David Hernandez, another loyal patron, underscores the importance of the original stand by expressing hopes for its historic designation. “I know the story: At first, it was a stand, then they bought this [restaurant], and then it became huge.”
Culinary Innovations
Signature creations at King Taco, such as their al pastor, cabeza, and slow-cooked meats, set the standard for what tacos should be. Lupe Martinez’s smoky salsa roja remains a customer favorite, carried through to the current menu. The importance of these recipes cannot be overstated; they encapsulate a lineage of flavors that connect present-day customers to their Mexican ancestry.
A Cultural Beacon
The Cypress Park location not only served as the foundation for King Taco but also became a central hub for a growing fleet of taco trucks. The community-oriented nature of the establishment has allowed it to thrive for nearly five decades. For many patrons, King Taco represents not just a meal, but a link to family traditions and cultural heritage.
As discussions around official recognition continue, one thing is certain: King Taco is more than just a restaurant. It is a cultural touchstone, with flavors and stories interwoven into the history of Los Angeles.
Hours of Operation & Location
The original King Taco is located at 1118 Cypress Ave., Los Angeles, operating from 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and 8:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, this cornerstone of the community invites everyone to experience its rich history and delectable cuisine.
