Los Angeles is known for its diverse food scene, and one of the city's culinary highlights is the fish taco. With its flavorful combination of fresh fish, tangy sauce and crispy shell, the fish taco has become a staple in L.A.'s gastronomic landscape. If you're a seafood lover or simply looking for a delicious meal, here are 12 of the best fish tacos in Los Angeles.
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Website/ 8801 Washington Blvd 90232
For trendy rooftop vibes and savory fish tacos, Canopy Club is the place to be. The Culver City restaurant is perched atop The Shay and delights with its crispy fish tacos. Made with Baja bass, guacamole, fresh slaw, crema and hot sauce, it's the perfect complement to tequila-based Chicle Pop or Twin Palms pilsner.
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Website/ Various
Coni'Seafood is a Bib Gourmand-awarded spot that has satisfied appetites since 1987. The Nayarit-style seafood eatery is an amalgamation of fresh ingredients from Mexico and family recipes that result in mouthwatering mariscos. From the classic Tacos de Pescado Empanizado (lightly buttered fried fish with cabbage, tomato, onion, dressing and chili oil sauce) to the shrimp-loaded Tacos al Gobernador, any order is the right order here.
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Website/ 21150 Pacific Coast Hwy 90265
You can’t beat fish tacos that come with a side of Pacific Ocean views. Lingering above the Malibu beachfront, Duke’s Hawaiian-inspired menu offers a variety of seafood dishes, and the fish tacos are a standout. Made with grilled or beer-battered fish, you’ll revel in bites of queso fresco, pico de gallo, cabbage and tomatillo sauce.
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Website/ Various
As the name suggests, Ensenada Surf N Turf specializes in seafood, making the fish taco a must-try. Promising authentic Ensenada-style fish tacos, this Baja cuisine rising star rounds out the experience with quality service and a family-fun atmosphere.
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Website/ 3655 S Grand Ave 90009
Holbox in downtown has racked up a James Beard nominee and Michelin Guide approval, so you know you’re set when you venture here for fish tacos. Between ceviche and aguachile orders, be sure to consider the taco lineup. The Baja fish taco is a masterclass in the art of fish tacos, while the Taco de Pulpo en su Tinta (octopus) and the scallop taco ignite vibrant flavor fireworks.
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Website/ 4820 W Century Blvd 90304
Lalo's Mariscos is the result of chef Lalo’s lifelong interest in the food industry, a longtime passion evident in every bite. A restaurant that specializes in seafood and pastas, its fish tacos are excellent and come topped with pico de gallo, avocado and signature salsa. The combination of fresh ingredients and homemade flavors is truly delightful.
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Website/ 25653 Pacific Coast Hwy 90265
Just a stone’s throw from the ocean, you know Malibu Seafood’s fish is fresh because it’s not open in the morning. “The reason we don’t serve breakfast is we’re out catching lunch,” it explains on its website. In other words, you can’t go wrong here with fish tacos.
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Website/ Variation
As you can tell from the name, Mariscos Jalisco is all about fish, meaning true wizardry happens when you order its fish tacos. Its trucks are spread out across the city and have been treating Angelenos to seafood goodness for more than 20 years. Many rejoice over the avocado and tomato-sauce-topped crispy shrimp taco, but you’ll also want to also consider leveling up with a Triton Taco: a shrimp taco with avocado, salsa, aguachile and octopus.
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Website/ 5385 Whittier Blvd 90022
Tacos Baja is a no-frills taco stand that serves fish tacos made with fresh fish, lightly battered and fried to perfection. Topped with cabbage, salsa and creamy white sauce, these tacos are a true delight. Come by on Wednesdays for fish tacos that are only $1.59 each.
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Website/ 18661 Pacific Coast Hwy 90265
Another Malibu favorite, Reel Inn corrals locals vying for its top-notch seafood meals. Among the top-to-bootom-good menu, the fish tacos are not to be missed and are made with fresh catches of the day, ensuring the highest quality and taste. The tacos are piled up with cabbage, pico de gallo and salsa, offering a delightful mix of flavors.
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Website/ 3667 W Sunset Blvd 90026
Simón continues the Southern California tradition of great food by way of food trucks. Posted up in Echo Park, it has gained a loyal following for its delicious fish tacos. Variety is the name of the game here, and you’ll be caught deciding between a saucy Baja fish taco and shrimp-bacon taco laid with black bean puree. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible.
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Website/ Various
Laying claim as a fish taco pioneer, Taco Nazo has perfected its Ensenada-style dishes since first opening in 1978. It has several locations across Los Angeles and has earned a reputation for generous portions and affordable prices. The crisped-to-perfection fish tacos are a classic choice and feature Alaskan, wild-caught fish, Taco Nazo seasoning, cabbage, salsa and crema. It's a no-frills taco that delivers on taste.
The fish taco scene in Los Angeles is thriving, offering a wide range of flavors and styles. Whether you prefer a classic Baja-style taco or a fusion creation, these 12 establishments are sure to satisfy your fish taco cravings.
See also: The 12 Best Green Juice Spots In Los Angeles
Photography by: grandriver/Getty Images
