My Favorite Taco ~ Daniel Hernandez

LA Weekly writer and former Times staffer Daniel Hernandez has always been a good friend to TACO, just as we've always admired his honest, fearless coverage of street-art, politricks, and the city we love and live in. We got super-stoked (!) when Daniel started his own website just days within publication of his fantastic story on his former grey-lady's scant coverage of the contributions, lives, and culture of the Mexican, South and Central American Latinos of Los Angeles. Now we eliminate the middle-man for the straight dope on what's on Daniel's and often, the rest of our, minds.

Speaking of what's on our minds, Daniel what's your favorite taco, brother?

"My favorite taco...tough one. I am absolutely devoted to carnitas. Most places have good carnitas. Asada is not always consistent. Sometimes places give you too much fat. And everyone marinates al pastor differently. I stick with carnitas.

My favorite spot is the old guy on Alvarado just north of the 101. I've mentioned him before. The truck farther up Alvarado next to the Vons is good, too. They'll put beans in your tacos if you ask.

Otherwise, carnitas tortas at the amazing Mexican juice bar on Main across from Olvera Street, next to the Subway, are hot and fresh. The carnitas sopes at el Taurino on Hoover near 11th are really really good, so are the huaraches at Huarache el Azteca #1 on York in HP... That's the only time I'm willing to eat asada."