Despite the fact that there’s a lot of interesting and high-end stuff going on in the LA food scene, there’s equally something restorative about visiting a place with absolutely no frills and no attitude.

Let’s not fool ourselves, there’s an abundance of expensive gourmet trucks out there. And believe me, I truly enjoy a lot of them, but spending $15 at a truck just seems a bit wrong. And so, every once in a while, if you want to maximize your LA food scope (and be a bit uncouth), don’t forget to visit your local hole in the wall. You (and your wallet) will be very happy and perhaps even a little pleasantly surprised. As was the case at La Playita in SaMo.

<Tacos are $1.25> We tried the chicken, pastor, fish and chorizo. All come with different accoutrements, pickled carrots and radishes.

<The chorizo quesadilla> This chorizo was good. It’s your mom’s Mexican chorizo. The quesadilla came with beans – not veggie friendly. In fact, I think there’s not only lard in these beans but also some sort of heavenly mystery meat (probably chorizo) that makes them oh so delicious. The quesadilla plate also comes with a decent but strong guacamole and sour cream.

<And their outdoor dining area> Uncouth.

<Pastor Torta> Meh! Bread and ingredients were good but it’s main attraction, the pastor, was bland and not very flavorful.

<The fish taco also $1.25> The fish taco is pan prepared and not fried. My first mate didn’t think he’d like it (because, depending on who you ask – a fish taco should always be fried) but he ended up loving it. The generous plate also comes with rice, beans, and modest salad for a whopping buck and a quarter.

The Verdict: This place is all about the meats. They will make or break whatever vessel you choose (torta, burrito, quesadilla or taco). We tried them all for you and recommend the fish and chorizo.

La Playita 3306 Lincoln Blvd Santa Monica, CA 90405