Tacos 1986

Mexican restaurant · Downtown

Tacos 1986

Mexican restaurant · Downtown

2

20 Union St #140, Pasadena, CA 91103

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Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
Tacos 1986 by null
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Tacos 1986 by null

Highlights

TJ-style tacos with fresh tortillas, guacamole, and salsas  

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20 Union St #140, Pasadena, CA 91103 Get directions

tacos1986.com

$10–20 · Menu

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20 Union St #140, Pasadena, CA 91103 Get directions

+1 626 460 8450
tacos1986.com

$10–20 · Menu

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Last updated

Aug 17, 2025

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@eater

Downtown LA’s Pez Cantina Restaurant Group Expands to Pasadena Next - Eater LA

"Pez Modern Coastal Kitchen lands this summer at 61 N. Raymond Avenue, right at the corner of what may be Pasadena’s busiest restaurant block with Union, Perle, Tacos 1986, and Maestro all just steps away." - Farley Elliott

https://la.eater.com/2023/4/6/23673383/pez-modern-coastal-kitchen-cantina-downtown-pasadena-coming-opening-restaurant-new
View Postcard for Tacos 1986
@eater

Pasadena Is on the Rise as LA’s Most Talked-About Restaurant Scene - Eater LA

"Hip LA-wide option Tacos 1986 opened on Union Street in October as part of a massive redevelopment effort there." - Farley Elliott

https://la.eater.com/2021/5/6/22423103/pasadena-california-dining-moment-new-panemic-openings-restaurants-news
View Postcard for Tacos 1986

Buddy Enright

Google
What a dump Surprised Health Dept hasn’t closed it Like a dead zone of hospitality too. Disgusting floors Some kind of closet is open in the back The handicap counter is broken and Chipped The doors to the sidewalk are stuck, broken, slam shut Staff does not care Stupid

C B

Google
Food was really good. I had the multitasking de asada and the vampiro adobada But I have a hard time recommending a place that doesn’t provide water cups. I genuinely don’t understand and don’t agree. Really disappointing. I will say though, my initial reaction was “I can’t support a place that doesn’t provide cups for water”, especially when it was for a 4 year old but the food was so good it’s making me reconsider. Also if you’re going with young children bring their strollers. It’s a taco stand with a few tall bar stools.l so real safe place for the to sit. See photos. Hope you enjoy the food as much as I did. NOTE TO OWNER: spring for the water cups please.

Kevin Chen

Google
Ordered the #1 combo with a adobada (pork), carne asada (steak), and hongo (mushroom veggie). They're really loaded up on guacamole which is pretty nice. The soft tacos are easy to hold and the protein in each of them is really good. You might be surprised how good the mushroom one is. Between pork and steak, I think the pork was more tasty but I'd still recommend one of each to diversify your palate when ordering this.

Ray Kim

Google
The tacos are so good here, and the house made corn tortillas are standout-excellent. The place itself is tiny with little seating and not much of an atmosphere, but there's some outdoor seating around the corner in the nice little alley.

Josh Baltazar

Google
The parking was a mess and with all the outdoor dining it was just a tight space but lots of cool little places. Anyways inside the restaurant wasn’t too busy. I ordered a adobada mulita and an asada taco. My friend ordered 4 different tacos. The corn tortillas were hella tasty and fresh while the meat was seasoned really good. Overall it was great tacos.

Ben L (Benz)

Google
About 13 dollars for a breakfast asada burrito, not a bad price. It is a bad price, however when it’s a super skimpy burrito the price is terrible. The taste was pretty good and the salsa was too, just not worth the price. I included their picture vs what I received. They wrapped the burrito twice in paper and foil.

Striker 50

Google
Visited Thursday, 530pm take out No wait upon walking in Clean, simple design. The Adobada is fantastic, & the chicken. FYI, this is a taqueria, not a Mexican restaurant— to the woman in the comments complaining about not having beans and rice. Pros: Fresh yellow corn tortillas are the real deal. A LOTTT of places don't use fresh tortillas and you can absolutely taste the difference. Adobada & chicken taste great. Generous amount of guacamole added onto the tacos. Friendly staff Cons: LatinX sticker on the window ruins the "authenticity" of the restaurant. Don't use gentrified words & claim authentic Tijuana style. It's LatinO. LatinX isn't a real word. There is no where to sit here, just awkward low standing tables. Place stools to sit. (See pictures) There is no parking near this location and you'll either have to walk a good couple of blocks, or shell out $6+ on parking. The Carne Asada is a let down, and the mushroom is hit or miss being too salty at times. The Coke is overpriced at $3 for a 12oz. Bottle, offer a 20 oz at least. The cucumbers were VERY bitter and flavorless The vampiros are a bit stale. Overall, if you just order Adobada or chicken, you'll love this place and the flavors are very similar to Tijuana style tacos, but consistency in flavor is lacking for some items. The location is not ideal, the interior is WAY too barebones, basically only good to place orders or pick up & Gentrification of my culture doesn't sit well with me. Just focus on serving good food and having quality service to start

cesar soto

Google
Great area to take a stroll after your meal. Plenty of city patio seating a few feet away from the restaurant. Pull the door really hard as the AC is creating a vacuum making it hard to open the door and making it appear as the restaurant is closed.
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Juan V.

Yelp
Actually, 3.5 stars nails it. We ducked into this place on a whim and while the food was good, my biggest complaint is regarding the price points. As of this writing, $3.50 for a 4" taco is overpriced. The help didn't speak English, either, not exactly an advantage for an establishment in Old Pasadena... That said, the "proteins" (we tried al pastor, asada, and "hongo" (mushrooms)) are tasty, if a bit under-seasoned. Every taco has a nice chunky guacamole but they're kinda skimpy on the onions & cilantro. The "aguas" are apparently made in-house (or at some central location, since this is, after all, a chain) and tasty. The salsas are excellent as well, and they even have some "chili crisp", along with limes and radishes. Counter seating only, and Mexican music blaring over the sound system provides an almost "authentic" vibe. The food is good; whether it's worth the expense, I'm not so sure about. Parking is also a hassle, since you have to pay to park in the adjacent garage. This is a really crappy location and I wonder how long they'll be around, but if you're in the area and you don't mind spending extra for what is essentially "street food" check them out.
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Kimberly P.

Yelp
[ Food ] The carne asada burrito was decent, the beef was kinda chewy but it was flavorful. [ Service ] Questionable service.. One of the workers was rude to a delivery pick-up person, he kind of tossed the order on the counter for him. Then when I requested the burrito to be cut in half since I was sharing with a friend at a nearby outdoor movie event, the same worker said "I gotchu" but apparently not, since it was not cut in half and I had to rip it apart like a savage at the outdoor movie event. [ Parking ] The nearby parking garage is ridiculously expensive so I recommend parking further for the "$1/first 90 minute" ones (there's one by Blue Bottle). [ Restroom ] There's no restroom.
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Cyn N.

Yelp
Went during the afternoon on a weekend. There was only one other customer in there. The worker's kids were sitting in the limited amount of counter space available watching and playing around with the iPad. We had to sit on the sides since they were all over the front ones (which only have 5 stools) They let them run around in the place, climbing up and down on the stools. The worker seemed like she hated being there. No acknowledgement, no smile - just attitude. The couple times we thanked the lady, she would just look at us and turn back around. The tacos were ok. Pastor had flavor but the carne was a little chewy. They DID give a big dollop of guacamole though! I liked that the salsas were out for self serve, but the limes and cucumbers seemed stale. I really wanted to like this place. My friend raved about the one in Burbank so I was excited to see there was one in my hood. But sadly, I'd have to pass on this location. I just can't tolerate bad customer service.
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Juan B.

Yelp
A taco joint with lots of potential but just lacking in lots of ways. I know imma catch a lot of smoke for saying this, but damn.. it's mad hard finding some quality value tacos here in Pasadena. Back in San Bernardino I could walk out the door and there'd be a taco guy down the street or a taco joint at the shopping center on the other block that cooked up the BEST tacos at the best price, out here though... idk about all that lol I had walked by here several times but never gone in because of the reviews on Yelp. Well, today I decided to finally give it a shot see what's up. The service was poor, I hate walking into a place and having to awkwardly figure out the order process while employees just stare at or ignore you. After minute or two an employee finally greeted me and took my order, I was the only in the restaurant. An adobada and asada taco took about 5 minutes, definitely longer than I expect from any taco joint let alone one with no other customers. I watched as they made their tortillas handmade so I gave them the benefit of the doubt bc I know you can't rush good food. However, once I got the food was let down even further. All I could taste on both tacos, especially the asada, was the tortilla. I love the taste of a fresh handmade tortilla but when I'm biting into a taco I should taste many more flavors other than tortilla and avocado. The reviews are accurate and I'm glad I gave it a try, but I won't be back.
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Jen N.

Yelp
I don't know what happened to this place, it used to be one of my favorites. Tacos were sad. Meat was dry & crunchy - I got the asada & pastor. None of the condiments or lime & radish can save it last night. So disappointed. Service was cordial but don't expect a warm welcome so late at night. Place was clean. They've a few tables & chairs at the sides & the front.
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Mirrella B.

Yelp
I stopped by recently to try their food. I was drawn in by handmade tortillas. I love handmade tortillas. I ordered a taco de pollo, asada, y pastor. I also got to try their quesadillas de pollo. Quesadillas were made crispy, which was perfect. The tacos were delicious. The chicken was juicy and flavorful. The asada was seasoned well. The pastor was yummy, but I wish it had a little bit more of a char. The customer service was great. The staff was so friendly. The inside was clean, but they do have limited seating areas. I'm looking forward to trying more items.
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Ryan L.

Yelp
Taco 1986 servings can be small for the price, and the food sometimes comes out cold. The salsa bar is convenient but not that expansive or full. The interior of this place is tiny and loud as well, and it think it only functions as a pickup place. I don't think I understand why the restaurant chain is popular.
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Kevin L.

Yelp
Fresh ingredients make for very good tacos. I've tried every meat taco: Carne Asada, Adobada, Pollo Asado. All very good and the carne asada is better than nearby King Taco's. They also have a vegetarian (mushroom) option. The salsa bar is good and the service is quick. Limited counter seating. I wash all the tacos down with horchata or jamaica.
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Barndi K.

Yelp
I was excited to finally try Tacos 1986 but what a disappointment! I ordered two Al Pastor pork tacos and a medium guacamole and chips. The taco was filled w dry, almost burnt chips of pork that turns to powder when I chewed. The guacamole was good and serving was generous for three people but nothing special. And they played the music SO loud that we could barely converse while sitting on the five available stools. I know it's not really a done-in focused place but I don't know how the workers stand listening to that volume the whole day!
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Will M.

Yelp
Tacos 1986 in Pasadena, amidst recent mixed reviews, pleasantly surprised me during a post-work visit for a quick dinner. I ordered three tacos - carne asada, mushroom, and al pastor - along with an al pastor mulita. The addition of guacamole and a small sauce bar was appreciated. Despite the meat being a bit dry this time, the overall flavors were delightful, prompting me to devour the meal with plans to enhance it with a generous dose of hot sauce. The small bar seating area added a cozy touch, but do be mindful that these tacos are on the pricier side.
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Seb F.

Yelp
1986 was... a Good year!!! World Cup Champs ARGENTINA in MEXICO MARADONA had a field day...and won his first World Cup... !!! Now that Napoli are champs again... it's another nod to the soccer God ... Napoli hasn't been Champions since 33 years ago...!!! That's 1990 But that's just a bit of history... These tacos taste like my street style tacos from Tijuana or Mexicali... That smokiness fills the room ... the adobada (al pastor) on a spit... is the One to fill up on... get THREE Asada ; Chicken; are juicy and tasty... worth a taste... The Vampiro is a go to if you like guac... and crunchy shell taco action... It took em minutes to prep... and the fresh veggies to top or side your taco boat include limes; radishes; and cucumbers that cool the flavors down... really fresh side veggies !!! I'm sitting by the window We're in old town Pasadena proper... Kind and friendly staff... What more do I need !!?? We be traveling back to 1986 soon... for a World Cup Repeat!!! Wait... THREEPEAT!!! I'd say we earned our three stars ... But Taco 1986 !!??? They get 5 stars !!!!! El Tata is gone ...now... And where is Chicharrito??!! forget about it... I'm thinking about 1986!!!
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Jenny K.

Yelp
My favorite favorite!!! I could eat adobada tacos everyday!!! It's the same price as before too. I expected it to be more but they kept the price the same even though labor costs went up. I do wish they would move to San Gabriel or Monrovia. Really would go more often if it was not Old Town Pasadena with its parking situation.
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Will C.

Yelp
Damn good tacos!! I honestly could have eaten 6! I got the three carne asada taco combo that came with a drink. I was content, but these tacos were so good I had to have another. This time I tried the pork and that was delicious as well. There is just something about those hand-made tortillas. These tacos were so good, I didn't even use their salsa bar. Next time I will though, just to try it out.
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Vy L.

Yelp
First time trying out this place and I love it!!! Fresh tortilla was the highlight of this place. Definitely try the mushroom taco. Service was quick and friendly. Parking on the street is fine. The only thing about this place that might bother you is the lighting here. Very bright white light that makes you feel a bit awkward dining cuz everyone who walks by can see you.
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Thomas K.

Yelp
Saw a youtube video on tacos 1986 and Jorge boasting how good the tacos are. I had to try it. I stop by at 11:30am for lunch. I am the only one there. Not a good sign. I get the carne asada vampiro, mushroom taco, and al pastor taco. Food comes out pretty soon (I'm the only order they are working on). The vampiro is crunchy and a bit drippy. The carne asada is juicy, flavorful, meaty. The mushroom taco surprises me. It works well. It is a veg option with a nice substantial heft to it. Good grilled mushroom flavor (grilled sliced white button- imagine grilled mushrooms on a premium burger). The al pastor was a let down. Looking at the trompo i was disappointed. It wasn't hot enough to sear and brown the meat. It looked like a dry rotisserie. The al pastor was a bit dry and not too flavorful. The best I had was in San Diego/chule vista. If you know what I'm talking about then you know. I would give the mushroom and carne asada tacos 3.5 stars. The al pastor was a 2 star. Overall a 2 star because of the let down after watching jorge hype it up so much on youtube.
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Ves S.

Yelp
Great quick taco joint. Limited menu focuses on the quality. This place has counters to eat in but no restrooms. The cashier was helpful and described the meats. I didn't know "adobada" is what I know as "al pastor" and we can see that pork on a spit. A selection of salsa are available. We got a adobada mulita and a carne asada taco. For the price we think they're a little small but maybe that's just inflation talking. Tasty though! We got them with everything ("con todo") so they really didn't need extra salsa from the bar.
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Christina C.

Yelp
Just wanna say wow, these tacos are very delicious! I had the carne asada and the chicken tacos. It's been a while since I had tacos in the area that actually used corn tortillas and I love the place already for that. The meat was really good with a great amount of guac and flavor by default. I could've eaten more tacos plus try the two other flavors but the only thing stopping me was the price. I was not full but not hungry anymore. The staff was great and the place looked clean. The menu is very clear and simple. Liked the view of the street and cars while eating inside. Definitely worth a try and a good place for a yummy taco walking around Old Town Pasadena. I will be back to try the mushroom for sure.
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Nijole T.

Yelp
The tortillas here are homemade and delicious! The spit roasted Al Pastor is tasty as well, and I love their guacamole. Prices are fair, the tacos are on the small side, so be sure to order several. Very fast and friendly service, nice option if you're looking for something casual in the area.
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Cindy M.

Yelp
I never thought 1986 could be such a great year. If you eat here I hope you will agree. I am not sure what style these tacos are or how authentic, but I don't care. They are amazing. Small menu big big taste. You can't go wrong with their 3 quesadillas for $13. The only thing different from the tacos is they are a bit bigger and they come with cheese. All the meats are so flavorful. The mushroom tacos and quesadillas are the best. Believe me, if you are not a fan of mushrooms this place will change your mind. Everything is fresh flavorful and plenty big. You should also try their salsa bar. They have a chili oil that is made with smoked Mexican style chilies and it adds just a hint of spice with a wonderful smokey flavor. Give this local place a try and you will become a fan.
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Oscar M.

Yelp
Tacos 1986 was a solid taco spot till today. Ordered 2 Adobada (aka Pastor) and 2 Asada Burritos all the burritos came with extremely burnt meat. The meat was so bad we threw all 4 Burritos away. This will be the last time we order from Tacos.
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Phuong X.

Yelp
My fav spots to grab a quick bite!
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Olive J.

Yelp
Despite my order being wrong I really enjoyed my food! I ordered the quesadilla trio with chicken, carne asada, and pork. I received two carne asada and one pork instead. The tortillas were absolutely delicious and so was every single salsa they have! Guacamole was super tasty. Really casual spot. Garage and street parking only.
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Natasha D.

Yelp
As good as it gets! I had the carne asada taco and a horchata agua Fresca. Seriously my mouth is watering just thinking about both of these things, particularly the horchata. I'd never had one served in a plastic bottle without ice, and it made ALL the difference. It was a bit hot eating inside at the window counter but other than that, had a great experience. Friendly staff as well.
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Tiffiny H.

Yelp
My chicken quesadilla was quite tasty, but the two carne asada tacos I got were so fatty that I could not eat them. I will not order them again. Really nice staff and quick service.
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Natasha C.

Yelp
I only ordered Guacamole and Chips. Yuck and Yuck. No salt on the Guac, and it was $8.00 for a small one. but the chips were not chips, they're tostadas. No flavor.
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Antonia C.

Yelp
So good! I was craving some tacos on my way home and found this place walking around. Food was easy to order and not too expensive. I had three carne asada tacos and my husband had the chicken adobo mulitas. I really loved the guacamole and agua fresca. Everything just hit the spot. Service and environment was pretty chill. Highly recommend if you're in the downtown Pasadena area.
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Mario U.

Yelp
After attending Taco Madness 2023 over the weekend and trying some awesome tacos, I was in the mood for more tacos and to continue sampling some of the best rated tacos in LA. Besides, I always wanted to try Tacos 1986. Tacos 1986 has been on my list for a few months, and I finally had an opportunity to try them on my favorite food holiday, "Taco Tuesday." I ordered the al pastor and carne asada 3-taco plate and a Mulita. While eating my 1986 tacos, I was reminded of one of my favorite taco experiences in Mexico where freshly made tacos are handed to you, one after another until you are stuffed and finally put up your hand in a "no mas" gesture. The al pastor and carne asada tacos tasted very good and I enjoyed every bite. The meats are cooked and seasoned perfectly. The tortillas are handmade and very soft. My son tried the carne asada Burrito and he said it was very good as well. The dining area is limited, and a reasonably priced parking garage is available nearby.

Jasson G.

Yelp
Large cashier woman with RBF was rude for no reason. Seems like she's unhappy to work here. It wasn't busy either so it's not like she was stressed. Food sucked too. Don't go here
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Christina C.

Yelp
Inexpensive solid tacos with vegan options! The mushroom tacos are sooo good. They're generous with the guac which I love them for. They offer cucumbers and radish to munch on along with the tacos, which is a thoughtful touch. Parking is free for 15 minutes in the adjacent garage for pick up!
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Joriene M.

Yelp
Food (5/5 stars): I learned about this place because of their mushroom tacos, which are a great meat substitute in Mexican food for plant-based eaters. They were amazing, but my favorite was the adobada taco. The carne asada taco was also very satisfying. To top it off (literally), the tacos came with guacamole, which I don't often find at taquerias. Overall, I highly recommend, especially if you're looking for Mexican food in Downtown Pasadena. Experience (5/5 stars): * Price: a little pricier than most taquerias in LA, but the tacos are bigger and come with guac. Plus, it's Pasadena. * Wait Time: minimal wait time on a Saturday night * Service: great and fast * Parking: street parking can be somewhat difficult in Pasadena, but a lot easier than in the city * Ambiance: it's a simple taqueria with indoor and outdoor standing room for dining in (no seats!) * COVID Safety: they do not check for vaccination card
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Cecilia L.

Yelp
A few things to consider, while next door to a very very popular place one might come through to have a small taco or two to help ease the pain of waiting anxiously in hunger pains! The tacos.... Decent tj style meaning you get the carbon taste, the tortillas that are pretty legit and the guacamole that tops the pile of deliciousness. I think I liked the asada the best. I also tried adobada which is a take on the Al pastor close second and oh something for the vegans, mushrooms!!!
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Jessica W.

Yelp
I love this taco place for their adobada meat. The vampiro is a crunchy taco shell that was tasty and loved a good crunch. The mulitas are on the softer side, almost like the taco. We ordered the mushroom for the first time today and it tasted amazing! I will order the mushroom tacos every time I come here from now on. Definitely do not skip on it. It is definitely the best with the adobada. I love that you can get your own sauce yourself. The green sauce is my favorite and love the cucumber. TIP- check in on Yelp for 10% off
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John S.

Yelp
The basics done right! Great tasting street tacos at a restaurant environment. The crew working there are passionate about the food they make and the customers they serve. Bonus points for being bilingual.
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Teri K.

Yelp
I ordered these for delivery. They were pretty tasty. I'm bias because 1986 is my favorite year. All the meats are good. Try it out if you are in the Pasadena area.
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David C.

Yelp
Definitely not like the OG street version in K Town that I tried a few years back, but hit the spot on this day. The version I tried before, with the service, banter and meat right off the trompo by the master was perfect. If anything, the prices were high for the times (a few years before Covid), but otherwise all good. The Pasadena version had the trompo and a few more salsas than I remember (6 total now), but missed a little something. Pasadena was pretty lively the Wed before Thanksgiving, but 1986 was dead. Maybe that was the reason for what was missing from the food. I always say a busy restaurant has the freshest food. Anyway, food was good, just not 5 star worthy on this visit. Love that you can serve your own salsa and service was very friendly. Bonus review: Could not decide between King Taco and 1986, so tried both on this day. Spoiler alert, King Taco on this day lost! Generally my go to, but not today :(
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Jennifer K.

Yelp
Came here after being blown away by the tacos 1986 in Toluca Lake. Was excited to get to eat again here in Pasadena... but am upset with how horrid the food is. You can tell the food is not fresh. The tortilla is hard and cold. The meat is burnt and old. I'll never eat Tacos 1986 again.
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Carlos M.

Yelp
Take out order: 2 asada and 2 pork tacos. Asada was dry and pork burnt, felt like I was eating jerky (not an exaggeration).
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Iris C.

Yelp
Got 3 carne asada (steak) tacos yesterday and it was ok. I liked the guac but the steak was not really flavorful. They have a machine that makes the tortillas fresh to order. Service was really quick too. Currently they have two small tables outside where you can stand to eat. They don't allow indoor dining currently and the tables outside were occupied so we just stood on the side to eat
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Coco C.

Yelp
spent $90 for 4 burnt up burritos! ordered 2 carne asada and 2 al pastor. boo boo!! do not spend your money here. theyre garbage!
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Sunny S.

Yelp
Huge fan of tacos 1986 we usually go to the location in Downtown LA. Tried the Pasadena location and it's just as good as DTLA. I always end up getting the same two tacos every time I go. I love all salsas they have! It's a casual spot that's quick and good!! Highly Recommend: - Mushroom Taco 10/10 this is the best mushroom taco I have ever had - Carne Asada Taco 10/10

Joel L.

Yelp
Was excited to finally try this place because of the awesome YouTube videos of the LA location. Taste was good but the meat portion was too small on the asada taco for $3.50. The photos on Yelp from two years ago look way bigger. The tacos in the video from the LA location look loaded with meat and guacamole. I should have gone to king taco. LA Loves These Tijuana-Style Tacos Food insider https://youtu.be/nTt1cHdXmUQ Asada Taco Adobada Vampiro
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Chris P.

Yelp
I have been here at Tacos 1986 a few times. The Chicken and Carne Asada tacos are very good, So are the Chicken and Carne Asada Mulitas. I realy liked them a lot, very tasty. As to the Adobada, Mulitas and Vampiros very oily for me. Love the Guacamole was very good and fresh. As for the eating counters they all in and out of the restaurant needed to be cleaned. Clean eating spaces at all times should be a priority. Overall I like the food and will be back.
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Alex M. ..

Yelp
Been hearing a lot about this place but mostly in hipster/out-of-towner circles so I've always been a little hesitant to try it. i'm used to mostly tacos from the lady with the plancha but these were actually pretty nice! got Asada and chicken tacos along with an Adobada mulita. the tortillas have a great maíz flavor and were quite soft. the Asada and Chicken had a nice char but asada was a little chewy. the highlight was the Adobada which had a nice crunch due to the trompo. a huge drawback were the salsas. they were really awful and i've got to say i've never tasted salsas like that. the salsa verde was so bright and chunky but weirdly no heat or chile flavor. all tomatillo i guess? overall a really good meal but i can't really see myself seeking out this place when the price is relatively high and there's so many taco options all over.
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Natalie S.

Yelp
The service was awful here from the second I walked in. The environment just so unwelcoming and unfriendly (at least at this location). It was my first time checking out tacos 1986 and I had high hopes for a quick delicious meaty bite, but sadly it was a miss for me. The flavor of the carne asada just wasn't there and nothing tasted fresh. With all the excellent and authentic taco spots nearby I wouldn't stop by this place again.
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Danny L.

Yelp
What a complete let down. I was going to like this place, but so many flaws & whatnot. I ordered a chicken soft taco, one adobada militias & a Topo Chico to drink. The food was okay, nothing to brag about. As I was eating the chicken soft taco, the filling keeps on falling out. All this food for almost $14 dollars. I know that you're in a prime area of Pasadena & on top of that inflation. For almost $14 dollars, you can feed a village. I should have gone down to King Taco, some place in El Monte or San Gabriel & eat the same amount of food for 1/2 the price. On top of that, no seats to sit down when you're dining in.
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Emily V.

Yelp
I really wanted to love this spot but, for the most part, it fell a little flat. The service was quick and friendly but the food quality was mediocre. Additionally, street parking is difficult to find, so I recommend parking in the structure off of DeLacey (only a few blocks away). I mainly came here for the adobada tacos (I adore TJ style street tacos) but also ordered the mushroom taco and adobada mulita. The adobada in general was lacking in flavor and very oily; if it weren't for all the flavorful toppings and salsa, the taco would have been bland. The mulita's cheese was grilled/overcooked onto the tortilla - it wasn't terrible, but I prefer a gooey mulita. The best part of the meal was the mushroom taco - light, flavorful and tasty. We ordered a horchata as well and it was refreshing/not overly sweet. My point of reference for any adobada taco is Tacos El Gordo (locations in Vegas and SD) and this simply did not compare nor compete.
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Margaret P.

Yelp
I'm a HUGE fan of TJ style tacos and have been wanting to try this place ever since I first saw them at Smorgasburg in Downtown. I wasn't able to try it then since they had a long line, but was so glad to hear that they opened in Pasadena. Their menu kind of reminds me of Tacos El Gordo, especially since there aren't a lot of places I know that sell vampiro tacos (two crunchy flat tortillas). While this isn't the best taco I've had in my life, it's not terrible. The al pastor was good and so was the carne asada, but I think the overall winning factor of this place was this smoky chili oil salsa which went perfectly with the vampiro.
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Chris W.

Yelp
I've been wanting to try this joint in Downtown, but I have never got the chance. So, when they open in Pasadena, I was so excited to try these tacos. The first tacos that I recommend is the Adobada Pork and the Carne Asada. Each tacos packed with flavor! In the Adobada you can taste the spices that they used. In the Carne Asada, you can taste the smokey flavor of the tacos. The portion of the tacos is pretty big, I usually order one or two to fulfill my tacos craving. I mostly ordered on ahead of time on Yelp, which is useful considering the bad parking situation in Old Town Pasadena. Oh, also don't forget to ask for their spicy salsa if you like spicy!
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Colin B.

Yelp
Went in a few weeks ago since I work nearby and picked the 3 taco item. Chicken, al pastor, carne asada. The chicken was good but the al pastor and carne asada was burnt with hard to eat crispy bits. Tortillas were fresh. Finished tacos and there was a puddle of grease at the bottom. For $4 tacos there is a lot to be desired here... probably won't return.
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Jose R.

Yelp
It felt like a Mexicali taco stand, with the meat smells overpowering the small locale. The cashier quickly walked us through the different proteins and styles of tacos. The vampiro was a nice surprise with two tostadas, sandwich style with grilled cheese in the middle. Loved the mushroom option. A five star would have been given if the tortillas were a little warmer but the authentic taste was there with a slab of guacamole. Cozy and welcoming, would definitely stop by while in the old town Pasadena area.