Ruben's Tacos - Santa Monica — Restaurant in Los Angeles

A pause on momentary confusion—the Jaimaica and Huaraches with the “works” were ordered but the can Coke was forgotten. The same with the handing of the ticket. They were short a dollar. That night must have been really slow. There was no change for a 20 dollar bill. The customers after me got their order first. The confusion began. The window showed a little quiet drama. They weren’t sure if the order was given to make or already handed out—if it’s free Mexican food the rule of thumb is to just take it without questioning the universe. I had to ask all 3 what happened to the Huaraches? They made it quickly on the spot.

The carne asada was warm to the tongue. The corn or masa was not fresh but warmed up again on their stove. The avocado was fresh as fresh can be. Cotija queso on fleek! Warm beans....yummm and fresh refrigerated shredded lettuce!? No tomatoes though cause they got something against tomatoes or was it extra? Who really knows, who really knows. Come try it...

What? These annoyed with life people know someone at the permit office? Wait until one of their customers does too. I'd like to assume an isolated incident. It seems like that sort of place where they are benefting, even existing, from no competition. Angry and annoyed staff. Burnt and stale pastor (pretty much the meat that keeps any taco truck in business). Asked for chicken tacos as well for the kids with lettuce and cheese. 100% of the time you get chihuahua, Oaxaca or some white Mexican cheese...dudes put that sort of Signature brand/Velveeta cheese like you're making a grilled cheese as a 13 year old kid waiting for mama to come home and cook a real meal. Two plastic cups with lids that wouldn't close, wide open, uncovered, LA brake dust salsas...I live in LA where you live for these places. In all honestly,. You all know that sort of place. God bless competition.

Atmosphere at 2 because...

The menu offers the usual suspects: carne asada, al pastor, fish tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Tacos are priced around $3 each, and burritos range from $12.50 to $15.50 . Portions are decent, and the food is prepared quickly, making it a convenient option for a quick bite.  

However, the experience can be hit-or-miss. Some customers have noted inconsistencies in seasoning and occasional issues with customer service . The salsa bar, while a nice touch, sometimes comes with limitations on the number of containers provided.

In summary, Ruben’s Tacos delivers on the basics: it’s a straightforward, no-frills taco truck that satisfies late-night hunger. While it may not offer a culinary revelation, it serves its purpose well for those in the area seeking a quick and...