An Internet search of Campos’ Mexican food will yield several results. There is one you should know: The Original Campo’s Famous Burritos at 10352 Venice Blvd., Culver City. The family-owned restaurant has been in business since 1980. Luis Campos’ father started his restaurant business in the late 1960s in nearby Hermosa Beach. Today, a third generation of the Campos clan is making the same great food that attracts diners from all over the county.
“I drive all the way from Burbank,” said restaurant patron Durie Purvis. “It’s equivalent, if not better, than anywhere in San Diego,” where Purvis went to college and frequently dined on authentic Mexican food.
“My son was raised on tacos,” Purvis said.
The plates are enormous and the prices are impossibly low. In addition, the selection is very broad and will appeal to most palates and, includes meatless options. In fact, one of the most popular items on the menu is the avocado burrito (a steal at $4.15), which includes beans, cheese, lettuce and guacamole.
The el panzon ($7.49), however, is a burrito lover’s dream-come-true. Begin not only by selecting a choice of meat, but by choosing the preparation of it (for those capable of enjoying pork, I highly recommend it the marinated option – although I have yet to try the carnitas). El panzon is served with a red or green sauce. And it is a behemoth, so come hungry.
The restaurant seats about 100 people and has a hi-def TV that generally plays news or sports. The atmosphere is casual and the staff is friendly.
Campos Mexican food is open seven days a week between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. Breakfast is served every morning until 11:30 a.m., and all day long on weekends. All major credit cards are accepted. Party platters are also available.