Beloved by Angelenos and visitors alike, Tito’s Tacos has been a culinary institution in Los Angeles since it first opened its doors in 1959. Known for its unchanged menu of classic Mexican fare, Tito’s Tacos is now making headlines with their recently launched chicken burrito, which debuted on Cinco de Mayo. This isn’t just another menu addition; it’s a significant milestone for a restaurant that has stayed true to its roots for over six decades.
The New Chicken Burrito: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Menu
The new Chicken Burrito features a fresh, hot-off-the-grill flour tortilla stuffed with seasoned chicken, refried beans, and freshly grated cheddar cheese. True to Tito’s tradition, it comes with their famed chips—made fresh daily from corn tortillas sourced from La Gloria Tortillas in DTLA—and that iconic Tito’s Tacos salsa that has been delighting taste buds for generations. This new offering is a testament to Tito’s commitment to quality and tradition, while also embracing a bit of culinary innovation.
While a Mexican restaurant adding a chicken burrito might not seem like groundbreaking news, for Tito’s Tacos, it’s a big deal. The menu has remained largely unchanged since founder Benjamin Davidson opened the doors, focusing on perfecting each dish to create a loyal following that includes celebrities and locals alike. Now, under the leadership of Davidson’s granddaughter, Lynne Davidson, and her husband, Wirt Morton, Tito’s Tacos just recently introduced this new item with the hope of adding another beloved staple to their repertoire.
A Legacy of Flavor and Tradition
Founded by Benjamin Davidson in 1959, Tito’s Tacos quickly became known for its “folded” hard shell tacos and burritos, drawing crowds with its delicious, homemade recipes. Over the years, the restaurant has maintained its original charm and dedication to quality, serving thousands of loyal fans daily. From crispy beef tacos to tamales, enchiladas, tostadas, and guacamole, every dish at Tito’s Tacos is made from scratch using time-honored recipes. This dedication to authenticity and flavor has earned the restaurant numerous awards and a steadfast place in the hearts of its patrons.
Interview with Owner Lynne Davidson
Lynne, Tito’s Tacos has been a beloved institution in Los Angeles for decades. What inspired you to introduce a new item like the Chicken Burrito after so many years?
Lynne Davidson: “We’ve always been deeply committed to preserving the tradition and authenticity of Tito’s Tacos, but we also understand the importance of evolving to meet our customers’ needs. Our loyal fans love our classic menu, and we believe the Chicken Burrito will become a new favorite while staying true to the flavors and quality they expect from us. We wanted to introduce something that felt fresh yet familiar, and we’re excited to see how our customers respond.“
How has it been carrying the torch of Tito’s Tacos?
Lynne Davidson: “Obviously, it’s a family business, but at the same time, you know, my grandpa has touched so many Los Angelenos everywhere. Being able to continue the tradition and see how it impacts people is incredibly fulfilling.”
Do you ever get tired of eating Tito’s Tacos, or do you have a specific order you enjoy?
Lynne Davidson: “I love tacos and tacos are great (she said this while laughing). I order the same thing every time:taco’s with cheese and chips with guacamole on the side. It was two before but now one because of my age.”
How is business so far with the new addition of the Chicken Burrito, and has the transition been smooth?
Lynne Davidson: “The last big menu change was in 1966, and it’s still the same. We’ve played around with tamales over the years and are really happy with the new addition. We’re excited about the chicken burrito and so far, the response has been great. The main reason for the change was the rising price of beef. We wanted to maintain a menu where the price doesn’t change the value of our restaurant. We make everything fresh every day, and that’s something our customers appreciate.”
Do you plan on making more changes to the menu?
Lynne Davidson: “This was the big change, and most likely not for now. We’ll see how this goes and what everyone thinks of the new dish, which I am pretty excited about. Change can be quite nice if presented properly.”
What is something you are particularly proud of about Tito’s Tacos?
Lynne Davidson: “Everything staying the same. The fryers and other equipment, the structure of the building—it’s all the same. We used to be in the building on the corner of this boulevard, then moved to this vacant lot next to it. This building opened up in ’72. I’ve been working here since I was a kid with my father and grandfather. For me, it brings back a lot of memories. The connection I have with this place makes it more special than I can ever imagine. I want to be able to serve customers that same joy I had with my family when experiencing this place because good food is good food. Making it with the highest quality is important.”
Why Tito’s Tacos is a Must-Visit
Tito’s Tacos isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a cultural landmark in Los Angeles for all the locals. The ambiance, the flavors, and the history all contribute to an experience that transcends the simple act of eating. It’s a place where memories are made, where the food evokes nostalgia and comfort. The introduction of the chicken burrito is an exciting chapter in the Tito’s Tacos story, inviting both longtime fans and new visitors to share in the tradition.
So make your way to Tito’s Tacos. Indulge in the new chicken burrito, savor the freshly made chips and salsa, and immerse yourself in a piece of Los Angeles culinary history. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Tito’s Tacos offers a taste of home, a slice of tradition, and a whole lot of flavor.
For More Information Visit titostacos.com
Location: 11222 Washington Place, Culver City
Hours: Open Daily, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Photo credit courtesy of Jared Cowan
