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Mesa's best

Carnitas spots

Carnitas that are actually slow-cooked until tender, rather than just fried into dry, flavorless bits.

Based on 518 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Carnitas Cochiloco image 1
Carnitas Cochiloco image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Former bank turned Mexican spot offers flavorful carnitas with handmade tortillas and rich salsa. Elegant Zen decor and a huge bar with leather couches create a comfortable atmosphere. Live Mariachi music and a small trinket shop add authentic charm.

Shredded carnitas come flavorful and tender, not overcooked or over seasoned. Plates include generous portions with handmade tortillas and great salsa. Carnitas Mac n Cheese offers a rich, meaty twist on the classic dish.

People are saying

"These carnitas are tender and flavorful; I've never had better."

"The house-made yellow corn tortillas were tasty and fresh."

"The carnitas here are a must-try for your next date spot."

Good to know

1

They offer a free refill on horchata per person.

2

The patio is dog friendly.

3

They just received a liquor license, so a bar will be opening soon.

02
Burritoholics image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with hand-painted murals and a lively Main Street patio. Carnitas tacos and burritos are fresh and flavorful, especially the made to order burrito. Live bands boost the fun, creating an energetic vibe.

Carnitas come fresh and flavorful in tacos and burritos. The carnitas burrito stands out for its made to order freshness and pairs well with a Modelo beer.

People are saying

"The chile relleno burrito here is a 10 out of 10."

"The carnitas tacos here are unique and full of flavor."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were unique and flavorful."

Good to know

1

They serve breakfast burritos all day.

2

The price of $15 is reasonable for the quality and service.

3

Chips are complimentary with your meal.

03
Chikiliquis Taco Stand image 1
Taco restaurant

Low-frills taco stand offers a quiet atmosphere with authentic Mexican vibe and cool air conditioning. Juicy carnitas have a light crisp exterior and outstanding flavor. Family-run spot feels clean and cozy with a bench that says Good Vibes only.

Juicy meat with a light crisp exterior defines the carnitas here. The flavor stands out as delicious and outstanding in every bite.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be amazing."

"The salsas here are delicious and have a great kick."

"The carnitas were juicy with a perfect crisp exterior."

Good to know

1

Chikiliquis Taco Stand offers a wide selection of tacos.

2

Fish tacos are listed at $0.49, but actual prices may vary.

3

The taco stand is very clean and well-maintained.

04
The Bread and Honey House Mesa image 1

Bright murals and a family-friendly vibe create a welcoming space. Tender carnitas shine in dishes like the Carnitas Omelette and green chili, which is flavorful without being wet. Music plays softly, making it easy to relax and enjoy casual dining.

Tender, clean-tasting carnitas appear in several dishes like the Carnitas Omelette and build your own burrito. The pork carnitas green chili stands out as impressively flavorful without being too wet.

People are saying

"The omelettes here are fantastic, with perfectly cooked eggs and just the right amount of fillings."

"I loved my classic burger; it was juicy and spectacular."

"The carnitas green chili here is the most impressive I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

You cannot stay for more than 45 minutes.

2

There may be a wait for parking.

3

Accessible parking and entrance are available.

05
Carniceria Los Amigos III image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican grocery store buzzes with wood-fired grill and fresh tortillas. Carnitas are tender and melting, paired with cueritos or chicharrones for rich flavor. Small seating and outdoor tables create a casual, happy vibe perfect for families enjoying treats like ice cream and panaderia.

Carnitas come out extremely tender and melting in the mouth. They often pair with cueritos or chicharrones, adding variety to the rich, flavorful meat.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so flavorful and authentic."

"I thought the carne asada was amazing and melted in my mouth."

"The carnitas here are delicious and melt in your mouth."

Good to know

1

The store offers a great variety of fresh cuts of meat at low prices.

2

Prepared meals are available for families, making dinner easy.

3

Everything is clean and well organized, ensuring a pleasant shopping experience.

06
Salt & Sugar at the FARM image 1

Small, cozy spot shines with Hocus Pocus decor and pink neon lights for a fun vibe. Carnitas tacos on pink tortillas deliver bold, incredible flavor. Family-friendly warmth and unique mason jar lemonades make it lively and inviting.

Carnitas tacos come served on famous pink tortillas and stand out for their incredible flavor. They appear alongside other meats like birria and chicken, all noted for being incredibly delicious.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best I'd ever had."

"I found the lemonade here to be amazing."

"The carnitas tacos are some of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat taco deal for $20 from 4 to 8 PM.

2

Happy hour runs from 4 to 7 PM with affordable drink specials.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during happy hour; items may sell out quickly.

07
El Herradero Carniceria y Restaurante image 1

Small butcher shop and taqueria serves authentic Mexican eats with fresh homemade tortillas and high-quality grilled meats. Carnitas tacos feature variety of meats like cueritos and chicharrรณn. Clean, organized space offers a genuine atmosphere and Mexican groceries.

Carnitas tacos come with a variety of meats including cueritos, buche, and chicharrรณn. The roasted chicken and other meats also stand out for their flavor.

People are saying

"I loved their freshly made flour tortillas."

"I loved the carnitas, especially the cueritos and chicharrรณn."

"The Bakery staff here is so friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

The market offers a variety of authentic Mexican products, including nopales.

2

The butcher shop sells high-quality meat ideal for grilling.

3

The restaurant is clean and well-organized, making it easy to navigate.

08
Paco's Tacos & Sip image 1
Taco restaurant

Small indoor space with plenty of outdoor seating and patio misters offers a relaxed vibe despite freeway noise. Carnitas tacos feature flaky, crispy edges and pair well with asada fries. Music adds a fun atmosphere for casual dining or takeaway.

Flaky and crispy edges define the carnitas here. Carnitas tacos stand out as on point and pair well with asada fries and sopes.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best tacos I've had in a while."

"The California burrito here is huge and delicious."

"I found the carnitas to be flaky and crispy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers fantastic deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

Be cautious about food allergies when ordering from the menu.

3

The restaurant has counter service; order at the counter and pick up your food.

09
Maskadores Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Walls show legendary wrestlers and masks, setting a lively vibe. Spicy salsa bar pairs well with fresh tacos and burritos. Red carnitas with red chile flavor shine in tacos and wet burritos, alongside chicken and barbacoa beef.

Red carnitas stand out with red chile flavor and appear in tacos and wet burritos. Chicken and barbacoa beef also feature alongside the carnitas in various dishes.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here are super tasty and delicious."

"I ordered a burrito that was huge and provided two meals."

"The red carnitas were amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a points system through their app for first-time orders.

2

Bring your own metal utensils if dining in, as they are not provided.

3

The restaurant is primarily a takeout spot with limited seating.

10
Los Taco Chefs image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, colorful spot with a homey feel and lively music. Carnitas tacos boast fresh corn tortillas and rich flavor. Enjoy top-notch margaritas at the tequila bar in a warm, family vibe.

Carnitas shine with incredible flavor in tacos and burritos. The tacos come with freshly made corn tortillas that enhance the taste.

People are saying

"The food here is amazingly delicious and cooked perfectly."

"The tortillas here are made fresh in-house by hand."

"I thought the carnitas taco was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

On Halloween, the staff dresses up and gives out candy.

2

They have Taco Tuesdays with special deals.

3

Prices for homecooked food are very affordable.

11
Calitacos Mesa image 1
Restaurant

Small spot with excellent tacos and efficient service offers a comforting atmosphere and affordable prices. Carnitas shine on tostada-flavored corn tortillas, making them a must-try alongside birria. Music outside adds to the nice vibe.

Corn tortillas have a tostada flavor that pairs well with the carnitas. The carnitas stay consistently good across visits and come highly recommended alongside birria.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing and tastes so fresh."

"The red and green salsas here are so delicious."

"The carnitas are moist and flavored so well."

Good to know

1

The taco combo costs $7.99, which is a great deal.

2

Expect a wait at the drive-thru as food is made fresh.

3

The nachos are priced at $10.99, offering good value.

12
Carniceria Del Rancho image 1

Newly renovated store shines with fresh hot tortillas and a full bakery. Carnitas come as a taco plate with beans and guacamole, standing out among Mexican favorites. Spacious, bright interior invites guests to enjoy excellent carne asada and a wide meat selection.

Great carnitas come with a taco plate that includes beans, rice, and guacamole. The carnitas stand out alongside other Mexican favorites like chicharron and carne asada.

People are saying

"I thought the carne asada was seriously the best I've ever had."

"I found the bakery items to be extensive and the staff friendly."

"I enjoyed the delicious carnitas."

Good to know

1

They sell a great variety of products including carne, tortillas, and Mexican pastries.

2

The market is known for its cleanliness and organization.

3

Prices are very affordable, making it a budget-friendly shopping option.

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Mesa, Arizona

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