After more than three decades catering to some of Hollywood’s biggest names, the iconic taco shop that drew in fans like Brad Pitt and Johnny Knoxville is shutting its doors for good.
Cactus Taqueria announced this week it will close on July 12, marking the end of a 34-year story in the community.
This cherished eatery was established in 1992 by Mario Tornell, an immigrant from Tijuana, Mexico, who brought his family’s cherished recipes with him.
Since its inception, the Tornell family has delighted locals and visitors with burritos, tacos, tortas, nachos, and other Mexican fast-food staples.
Tornell launched the original location just a short distance from where it currently sits on Vine and Barton streets in Hollywood, dedicating himself tirelessly to its success.
Even after the original shop was damaged in the 1994 Northridge earthquake, Tornell persevered, rebuilding and expanding the business.
Marlo, Tornell’s son, who now manages the family business, reminisces about their early days. He recalls how his father often missed important moments like soccer games and graduations to focus on making the business thrive.
Over the years, the flagship location became a haven not only for late-night taco cravings but also for celebrities like Pitt, Jimmy Kimmel, and Quentin Tarantino, who enjoyed the food so much that they requested catering for their events.
“When my dad opened this place, he said lightning never strikes twice, and here it is,” Marlo reflected.
Numerous famous faces frequented the shop, including the likes of Khloe Kardashian and Lamar Odom, along with celebrities like Paul Rodriguez and Olivia Rodrigo.
Marlo noted that the late Anthony Bourdain was also a regular at their Beverly Boulevard location, known for his fondness for their lunga tacos.
The place has made its mark as a Hollywood staple, appearing in various films and TV shows, including Flight of the Phoenix and Bosch. Knoxville even filmed segments for “Jackass” there, with Marlo recalling how he treated the crew to food during filming.
The memories are plentiful. One recollection involves a marriage proposal from a stranger while waiting in line late at night. Cactus Taqueria has been a part of many special occasions from weddings to birthdays and even funerals.
Though the business has faced challenges, including incidents during the 1990s related to gang violence in Los Angeles and the recent pandemic, it is closing not due to profit loss, but because the land is being repurposed.
Project Angel Food, a nonprofit providing meals to critically ill patients, is expanding and needs the space, with Cactus Taqueria and other occupants required to leave by July 12.
Marlo hopes people will remember the hard work and sacrifice that went into building this beloved taqueria, insisting their legacy should not be forgotten.
“We want to ensure that the effort we put in is recognized. If we don’t share that, it feels like we’re erasing our history,” Marlo said.
Devastated regulars have taken to social media to share their own experiences at the late-night taco spot, mourning the closure of such a cherished establishment.
“I feel bad. That’s my sticker on the window in slide 2. I’ve eaten here countless times. Good people,” wrote one loyal customer.
Another added, “One of our favorite foodie spots! We love the Tournels!” while someone else expressed, “This is my favorite burrito in Los Angeles. I’ve been coming here for 26 years and just visited last week.”
Such small, cherished venues like Burrito King, which recently closed after a lengthy run of 50 years, are becoming increasingly rare as the city undergoes development pressure and rising operational costs.
Looking ahead, Marlo mentioned that his father remains unfazed.
“My dad is very proud. He says, ‘We’ll do it ourselves; we’ll figure it out. If we have to sell food on the street, we’ll do it,'” Marlo recalled.
With only a little time left, he hopes people will stop by and share memories and experiences before the taco shop becomes just another story of Hollywood’s past.
“We hope people come to enjoy our food and remember the good times here before we close,” Marlo said.
