Little Llama Peruvian Tacos: A Whole Lot of Taco

To say Downtowners miss Smorgasborg at Row DTLA would be an understatement. The food trucks, vendors, beer garden, and Dessert Alley on a bright Sunday morning were part of a ritual for some. Despite the pandemic however, a Smorgasburg favorite has opened its own brick-and-mortar.

Little Llama Peruvian Tacos, which is just a brisk walk from City Hall to Main & 2nd, got its start at Smorgasburg four years ago. Co-owners Angela Wagner and Chef Jean Valcarcel knew from the get-go that Downtown LA would always be home. “I wanted to do something very true to my Peruvian roots, but I am an Angeleno,” Valcarcel tole me, “I have been here for 20 years now. I wanted to mix those two things and create something new. I wanted to introduce Peruvian flavors in a new way, and in a taco... kind of like a trojan horse.” 

Opening a brick-and-mortar is of course no easy feat. Given the events of this year, Valcarcel and Wagner faced plenty of challenges, yet they were fixated on making Downtown LA their permanent home. When asked why they were so determined, Valcarcel said, “we love the energy of Downtown, it feels like one of those few neighborhoods that actually feels like a city. There’s still a mix of old and new here, and sure everything has changed with the pandemic, but the energy is still here.” 

Valcarcel previously worked alongside famed Peruvian Chef Ricardo Zarate at Mochica. In all reality, he is incorporating nearly three cuisines into his dishes, such as the irresistibly seared Ahi Tuna Tostada Nikkei (Gluten Free). There’s plenty more on the menu to go around; from staples like Chips & Guacamole, to very creative tostadas, all the way to the main courses like Tacos with Pollo A La Braza, or Lomo Saltado. The portions are huge and the hand-pressed organic tortillas are strong enough to hold everything together. 

All types of dieters will find something delicious, as food is prepared with a great attention to detail by the Little Llama team. Drinks are South American staples: Maracuya and Chicha Morada for example, but if you stop by during Happy Hour, you can also enjoy a refreshing glass of wine or beer.

As their two month anniversary approaches, Wagner and Valcarcel are happy to be greeted by such a loyal and welcoming community. “We’ve already become some people’s regular lunches from the nearby office buildings, and residents above us come down for regular dinners. We’re on a first-name basis with most folks and their dogs. It’s such a great community.” 

Patrons can enjoy Little Llama as early as 11AM everyday, and have the option of two excellent patios. Pop by from 4 to 6 PM during Happy Hour, and don’t forget your selfie with the neon llama on your way out. 

Written by Mariana Ramos | Photographed by Rebekah Lemire

222 S Main St #101, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | www.littlellamatacos.com