To plan a taco run without overspending, check what the current prices are for King Taco’s al pastor, carnitas, and their famous red and green salsas. You want the full King Taco Menu with Prices before you walk up to the window, because nobody likes fumbling for cash or cards when the line is long. This guide breaks down the real costs, the best items, and how to order like a regular.
King Taco has been a Los Angeles staple since 1974. They started with a single truck in East LA, and now they have over 20 locations. The menu is simple, but the flavors are big. Let’s get into what you will actually pay today.
King Taco Menu With Prices
Prices can shift slightly between locations, but these figures reflect the standard current rates across most stores in California. I checked the recent receipts and the official menu boards. Here is the breakdown you need.
Tacos And Mulitas
The taco is the heart of this joint. You can get them with cilantro and onion, or ask for it “con todo” which means with everything, including their signature salsa. The tortillas are hand-made, which makes a big difference.
- Asada (Steak) Taco: $3.49
- Al Pastor (Pork) Taco: $3.49
- Chicken Taco: $3.29
- Carnitas Taco: $3.29
- Lengua (Beef Tongue) Taco: $3.79
- Tripa (Tripe) Taco: $3.79
- Buche (Pork Stomach) Taco: $3.49
- Chorizo Taco: $3.49
If you are hungrier, go for the mulita. This is a double tortilla with cheese melted in the middle, plus your choice of meat. It is messy, but it is worth it.
- Mulita Asada: $5.49
- Mulita Al Pastor: $5.49
- Mulita Chicken: $5.29
I always grab at least two tacos. The portions are decent, but they are not huge. You are paying for quality meat and fresh tortillas, not for a massive burrito bulk.
Burritos And Quesadillas
The burritos here are wrapped in a large flour tortilla. They include rice, beans, and your choice of meat. You can ask for “wet” style if you want sauce on top, but that costs extra.
- Burrito Asada: $10.99
- Burrito Al Pastor: $10.99
- Burrito Chicken: $10.49
- Burrito Carnitas: $10.49
- Quesadilla Asada: $9.99
- Quesadilla Al Pastor: $9.99
Note that the quesadilla is not a grilled flour tortilla like you see at some spots. King Taco uses a crispy folded tortilla, almost like a giant taco shell, with cheese and meat inside. It is a different texture, but very good.
Platos And Sides
If you want a full plate with rice and beans on the side, the “Platos” are the way to go. These come with hand-made tortillas on the side, so you can make your own tacos.
- Plato Asada: $13.99
- Plato Al Pastor: $13.99
- Plato Carnitas: $13.49
- Plato Chicken: $13.49
- Side of Rice: $3.99
- Side of Beans: $3.49
- Hand-made Tortillas (3 pcs): $2.49
The platos are a lot of food. I usually split one with a friend if we are not super hungry. The asada plate comes with guacamole and pico de gallo on the side, which is a nice touch.
Drinks And Extras
You need something to wash it down. They have the usual sodas, but also offer Jarritos and Mexican Coke in the bottle.
- Mexican Coke (Bottle): $3.99
- Jarritos: $3.49
- Regular Soft Drinks: $2.99
- Horchata: $3.99
- Agua Fresca: $3.99
Do not forget the salsa bar. The red salsa is spicy and smoky, while the green salsa is tangier and has a bit of a kick. You can also grab pickled carrots, radishes, and limes.
How To Order Like A Pro
Ordering at King Taco can be a bit chaotic during rush hour. The staff moves fast, so you need to know what you want before you reach the counter. Here is a step-by-step guide to make it smooth.
- Decide your meat first. Are you getting asada or al pastor? This is the main question. Do not ask for a menu at the counter; they expect you to know.
- Specify your tortilla. You can ask for corn or flour. Corn is standard for tacos, but flour is good for burritos.
- Choose your toppings. Say “con cebolla y cilantro” if you want onions and cilantro. If you want it simple, say “solo carne” (meat only).
- Pick your salsa. They will ask “¿Roja o verde?” (Red or green?). You can say “ambas” if you want both.
- Pay quickly. Have your cash or card ready. They do not accept checks, obviously.
If you are eating in, grab a tray and find a seat. If you are taking out, make sure they give you extra napkins because the al pastor is juicy.
What Is The Best Meat Option?
Honestly, the al pastor is the crown jewel. It is marinated pork that is cooked on a vertical spit, similar to shawarma. The edges get crispy and caramelized. It has a slight sweetness from the achiote and pineapple.
The asada is also excellent. It is grilled over high heat and has a nice char. The chicken is good, but it is not as exciting as the pork or beef. If you are feeling adventurous, try the lengua (beef tongue). It is super tender and rich, but it is an acquired taste for some.
Comparing The Salsas
The salsa bar is where you can customize the heat level. The red salsa is made with dried chiles, giving it a deep, smoky flavor. It is moderately spicy. The green salsa uses tomatillos and fresh jalapeños, offering a brighter, more acidic taste with a sharper heat.
My advice is to start with a small spoonful of each. You can always go back for more, but you cannot take the heat out of your taco once it is on there.
Are There Any Deals Or Combos?
King Taco does not have a ton of official “combo meals” like the big fast-food chains. However, they do have a few ways to save a little cash. They often have a “Taco Tuesday” special, but it varies by location. You should ask at the counter or check the signs posted on the window.
Some locations offer a slightly discounted price if you buy 10 or more tacos. This is great for feeding a group or a family. You can call ahead to place a large order and skip the line.
Also, they have a rewards app now. You can download it on your phone. You earn points for every dollar you spend. These points can be redeemed for free tacos or drinks later. It is worth signing up if you eat here often.
Why Are Prices Higher Than Other Taco Shops?
You might notice that King Taco is a bit more expensive than the taco truck down the street. There is a reason for that. They use higher-quality meat that is not filled with extenders. They also make their tortillas fresh throughout the day, which costs more labor.
The locations are also cleaner and more consistent than your average street vendor. You are paying for the brand and the reliability. If you want the cheapest taco in town, this is not it. But if you want a consistent, tasty taco without worrying about food safety, this is a solid bet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people have about the menu and pricing.
Does King Taco accept credit cards?
Yes, most locations accept Visa, Mastercard, and Discover. They also take Apple Pay and Google Pay. Some of the older kiosks might be cash-only, so it is best to have a little cash on hand just in case.
Is the salsa really that spicy?
The red salsa has a medium heat level. It is not going to blow your head off, but it has a good kick. The green salsa is a bit hotter and more acidic. If you are sensitive to spice, ask for it on the side.
Can I order just the meat by the pound?
Yes, you can. They sell their meats by the pound for parties and gatherings. The price varies depending on the meat you choose. Asada and al pastor are usually around $15 to $18 per pound. You need to call ahead for this.
What are the hours of operation?
Most King Taco locations open early, around 8 AM, and close late, around 2 AM on weekends. Some locations are open 24 hours on Friday and Saturday. It really depends on the specific store. Check the website for the location nearest you.
Are there vegetarian options on the menu?
There are not many. You can get a cheese quesadilla or a bean burrito. They do not have grilled vegetables or plant-based meat options. This is a meat-heavy menu, so vegetarians have limited choices.
Final Thoughts On Pricing
So, the King Taco Menu with Prices is pretty straightforward. You are looking at roughly $10 to $15 per person for a filling meal. If you are just grabbing two tacos and a drink, you can get out of there for under $10. If you are getting a burrito and a drink, expect to pay closer to $15.
The prices have gone up over the years, just like everywhere else. But the portion sizes have stayed the same, and the quality is still high. I think it is a fair trade. You are not getting ripped off, but you are also not getting a bargain basement deal.
One thing to remmeber is that the price you see on the menu board is the price you pay. There are no hidden fees or service charges at the counter. If you eat in, you are expected to bus your own table. If you get takeout, they will usually ask if you want a plastic bag, which might cost a few cents due to local laws.
I hope this guide helps you plan your next visit. Knowing the prices before you go makes the whole process faster and less stressful. You can focus on enjoying the food instead of worrying about the bill.
Go ahead and try the al pastor with the green salsa. You will not be disappointed. And if you see the pickled carrots at the salsa bar, grab a few. They are a nice crunchy contrast to the rich meat.
That is the full breakdown. Now you know exactly what to expect when you step up to the counter. No surprises, just good tacos.