Relocated last summer from Downtown Fullerton to just a few blocks north on Harbor sits Gonzo’s Tacos, an ode to East LA food culture. The newest idea to come from local restaurateur Bryan Gonzales [Hopscotch, Commonwealth Lounge] features a menu rooted in traditional street style Mexican food.

Ranging from burritos to flautas, as well pozole and chilaquiles on the weekends, Gonzo’s covers traditional and familiar ground. The standouts are the eponymous tacos, especially the carnitas, which struck the harmonious balance between succulent and crispy.

The al pastor and carne asada style tacos definitely pulled their weight as well, the latter obviously marinated to perfection. The tacos can be paired easily with a selection from their craft beer beverage, or even more aptly with a house-prepared agua fresca.

Gonzo’s owes a lot of its distinct and delicious flavor to Yolanda, Bryan’s mother. Not only serving as an inspiration for the menu, she preps and cooks at the restaurant on a regular basis.

The taco spot further differentiates itself by offering fideo [mexican style pasta normally reserved for a hearty soup] in its burritos and on the side.

The ambiance is distinctly SoCal casual, the hip hop quotes adorning the walls are juxtoposed with neon pink tables. Outdoor seating in front allows for a pleasant afternoon taco lunch, or an instagram worthy dinner when the pink lights turn on.

There are hints of East LA in the decor here and there, like the row of jars containing familiar dulce [de la Rosa Mazapan, anyone?]. Although likely just out of walking range for most from the Downtown Bar scene, Gonzo’s Tacos is more than worth the detour.

Gonzo’s Tacos
825 N Harbor Blvd, Fullerton, CA 92832
(888) 945-8226
Tuesday-Sunday 11a.m.- 9 p.m.