Karina's Tacos, located at 2025 Durfee Ave in South El Monte, CA, is a culinary gem in the realm of Mexican cuisine. Renowned for its authentic offerings, this restaurant has garnered a loyal following, with many customers praising the flavorful and well-prepared tripas. Richard Rojas, who traveled hours for a taste, emphasized how Karina's captures the essence of his favorite dish after a four-year absence. Similarly, Jimmy Si has cherished their tripas since childhood, relishing the delightful crunch paired with their spicy salsa. While some have noted the asada can be slightly on the salty side, this has not deterred fans from returning for more. Affordably priced, Karina's provides a cozy yet bustling environment, ensuring diners never feel overcrowded. Edgar Duran highlights the convenience of their late-night food truck, which serves taco enthusiasts even after the restaurant closes. Customers like Joseandres Chavez drive considerable distances, drawn by the irresistible flavors of head, tongue, and tripa tacos. Each taco is a testament to Karina's commitment to quality and authenticity. It’s a spot that not only satisfies cravings but also evokes nostalgia, making it a must-visit for Mexican food lovers. Remember, it's cash only, so come prepared to indulge in an unforgettable culinary experience.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves late-night food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has seating
Amenities
No toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with university students
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For Karina's Tacos
Richard Rojas
Jun 3,2025
I live in Central Oregon. i can't find a place that serves tripas. I haven't had tripas in a 4yrs time. Karina's makes them the way I like, my bro inlaw told me about it I'm going back we ordered from the Karina food truck restaurant was closed
Jimmy Si
May 18,2025
I've been coming here since I was a kid. The one thing that never fails to be great is the tripas they have here. Nice and crunchy and their salsa is pretty spicy. I like their asada, but I do understand that it tends to be a bit more on the salty side and cooked/fried a bit more than your usual carne asada.
Edgar Duran
Apr 28,2025
The food is great and inexpensive. There's usually some people in it most times but it never gets insanely crowded. From my understanding, they also have a food truck that operates well after the establishment closes for the night (at around 9pm). The food truck can be found on peck. Overall a pretty delicious hole in the wall place. Highly recommend it. Also, it's cash only so be prepared.
Joseandres Chavez
Apr 9,2025
I drive an hour to get to these tacos. They are the best, their sauce is so flavorful and the tacos even more. My favorite are the head and tongue also tripa.
Ricky Covarrubias
Mar 18,2025
Good spot for Mexican food tacos,sopes,an burritos an the salsa is good as well I come here aleast once every two weeks
Anna Aguirre
Mar 9,2025
Tiny little place. The food is delicious here. If your in the area? Must try the tacos.
Junior Reyes
Mar 1,2025
I L O V E this place !!! This is hands down the best Mexican food in the city I’m sorry I have been coming here for over 13 years !!! This place is so good there’s 3 locations in the same shopping center !! One around the corner the lunch truck and the one next to the donut shop !!! If you have never tried “tripe” I suggest you try them here !! Get tripas tacos but make sure you ask the lady to tell the cook to make them crunchy !!! OMG I can’t get enough of this place !!! Take my word for it !! Also try the pastor nachos !!! You will not be disappointed!!! Everyone I bring here loves it and comes back without me !! Thank you
Stephiie Gzmn
Feb 19,2025
The taste of homemade food is excellent!!! All type of antojitos mexicanos!!! Maybe the restaurantes need a little cleaning or remodeling but the food is great
Reviews For Karina's Tacos