Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Tucson

Carnitas and taco spots

Made for those who treat the taco as a culinary art form and prioritize the quality of the carnitas above all else.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Carnitas el Huracan del Sur image 1
Carnitas el Huracan del Sur image 2
Carnitas el Huracan del Sur image 3
Mexican restaurant

Covered outdoor seating offers a shaded, landscaped environment with a well-stocked salsa bar. The atmosphere is casual and clean, attracting those seeking affordable, generous portions of authentic Mexican food. Simple, fresh tortillas and flavorful carnitas define the menu's appeal.

Carnitas have a lot of depth and rich flavor. Staff are very friendly, and the carnitas stand out as delicious and highly recommended.

Tacos come with normal-sized tortillas and simple meat fillings like chicken, carne asada, chorizo, and chicharron. The salsas add a delicious kick, and the mixto taco combo offers a solid variety.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is nicely shaded and clean."

"The corn tortillas here are made fresh for you."

"I thought the mixto tacos were the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The prices at Carnitas el Huracan del Sur are very affordable.

2

They accept card payments.

3

Condiments are available at the salsa bar.

02
Las Originales Carnitas el Michoacano image 1

Small, family-run Mexican restaurant with fresh handmade tortillas and juicy carnitas served by the pound in bags. Atmosphere feels down to earth and lively, with a welcoming vibe and a condiment cart for customization. Offers affordable prices and a drive-through window for easy pick-up.

Carnitas here match the taste of those from Michoacán with fresh, tasty meat and exceptional flavor. Burritos and tacos come with a good amount of carnitas, and chicharrones also stand out as very tasty.

Carnita tacos stand out with rich flavor and tender pork. The spot offers a variety of tacos, including cabeza, recalling classic tastes from long-closed markets.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas here were the best I had ever tasted."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were cooked to perfection."

"The bathrooms here are really clean."

Good to know

1

The restaurant requires customers to pay first before sitting down.

2

There is ample parking space available for visitors.

3

The menu includes birria, hielitos, and various desserts.

03
Carnitas los Reyes Tucson image 1

Food truck offers homey Mexican style with Michocan-style tacos featuring moist, flavorful carnitas and freshly made tortillas. Atmosphere stays casual with some seating and a unique touch of table-side salsa preparation. Prices remain reasonable, attracting a steady local crowd.

Moist and flavorful carnitas come in generous portions, including a 1 pound option with corn tortillas. The carnita tacos with pork skin stand out, paired with fresh tortillas and salsa at reasonable prices.

Tacos here feature Michoacan style with fresh tortillas and flavorful, spicy salsas. The carnitas tacos with pork skin stand out for their size and rich taste.

People are saying

"The salsas here are amazing and homemade."

"I found the carnitas to be the most delicious I ever had."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Prices at the food truck are reasonable for the portion sizes offered.

2

The food truck maintains a high standard of cleanliness and hygiene.

3

Outdoor seating is available, making it a nice spot to enjoy your meal.

04
Carnitas La Yoca image 1

Open space layout creates a casual, family-friendly atmosphere that gets loud when crowded. Hand-made tortillas and a salsa bar allow for personalized meals. Known for authentic carnitas and tacos, it draws long lines that move quickly.

Carnitas here taste authentic Mexican and come with scrumptious tortillas. The pork is very tasty and cooked the way it should be, making the carnitas tacos stand out.

Carnitas and Cabeza tacos stand out with rich, authentic flavors. Freshly made tortillas and a touch of red chili oil elevate the tacos to a memorable level.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be authentic, flavorful, and delicious."

"These carnitas are the best I've ever had, so flavorful."

"I thought the tacos here were the best in town."

Good to know

1

Carnitas La Yoca is not open for dinner.

2

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially around noon.

3

The restaurant closes at 3:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

05
Rancheros Carnicería Grant image 1

Butcher shop deli combines fresh meat grilling with a small seating area serving authentic Mexican dishes. The space feels modern, clean, and welcoming, with an airy layout that invites browsing. Friendly energy fills the room as customers enjoy both shopping and eating on-site.

Pork carnitas come with a rich, savory flavor and a tender texture. They pair well with other dishes like shrimp ceviche and pozole, all showing consistent quality.

Carne asada tacos stand out with fresh, flavorful meat. The menu offers a great variety of tacos and burros made with quality ingredients.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"The meats at this market are so fresh and flavorful."

"You have to try the quesabirria tacos; they're amazing."

Good to know

1

The store offers a wide selection of fresh meats and Mexican products.

2

Prices are considered very low for the quality of meat available.

3

Catering services are available for events and gatherings.

06
Chavindecas las Marías image 1

Simple mobile stand with covered patio and festive music creates a casual vibe. Air conditioning and heaters maintain comfort year-round. Known for fresh handmade tortillas and flavorful carnitas, it draws a crowd seeking affordable, high-quality tacos.

Flavorful and affordable, the carnitas stand out for their rich taste. They come highly recommended and deliver on being delicious.

Tacos come with birria, cabeza, tripe, and carne asada options. The stand serves unreal tacos that stand out on the south side of town.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best in Tucson."

"The salsa here is a delight for the palate."

"I thought the carnitas were flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

Chavindecas las Marías accepts debit and credit cards for payment.

2

The place is very clean and well-maintained.

3

Business hours are not consistently enforced, which may lead to frustration.

07
Primos Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic atmosphere with a family-friendly vibe and vibrant decor featuring a photo wall for celebrations. The space stays clean and cozy, creating a pleasant and welcoming environment.

Carnitas come freshly made on weekends and have a Michoacán-style flavor. They pair well with tacos al pastor and enchiladas, offering a delicious and authentic taste.

Tacos feature a generous amount of steak with flavors matching those found in Mexico. Varieties include carne asada, al pastor, carnitas, chicken, pork, and ground beef, all well-seasoned and delicious.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"I thought the carne asada tacos were the best I've had in years."

"The carnitas here are delicious and freshly made."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger groups.

2

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

The restaurant offers a special on wings every Thursday.

08
HUMO COCINA MEXICANA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, renovated Mexican restaurant offers covered patio with live music and comfortable outdoor seating with heaters and misters. Atmosphere feels authentic and fun, with a clean and cozy interior. Known for top-notch margaritas and standout dishes like chilaquiles and carne asada tacos.

Crispy, flaky, and juicy shredded pork defines the Carnitas tacos here. They come with standard toppings and stand out alongside other dishes like Pastor and Dorado tacos.

Authentic Mexican street tacos come with a drive-thru option and reasonable prices. The Al pastor tacos stand out as amazing, and the tacos overall are consistently delicious.

People are saying

"The food here is great and a fantastic value."

"I loved the fresh asada tacos with corn tortillas."

"The carnitas taco was crispy, flaky, and juicy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers $1.99 taco specials on Tuesdays.

2

Happy hour runs from 2:00 - 5:00 with $5 margaritas.

3

Live music is featured on Thursday nights.

09
Carnitas & Birria El Tarasco image 1

Mexican restaurant offers authentic Michoacán-style carnitas and handmade tortillas prepared on the spot. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming with a self-serve salsa bar enhancing the casual, cozy vibe. Locals frequent the place for its real Mexican flavor and simple menu.

Carnitas here are authentic Michoacán-style, made with quality meat and served with handmade tortillas. Mixed carnitas tacos stand out for their flavor and consistency.

Tacos feature hand made tortillas prepared on the spot and come with rich, authentic flavors like carnitas and birria. The QuesaBirria and mixed carnitas tacos stand out for their taste and value.

People are saying

"The carnitas here are authentic and absolutely delicious Mexican food."

"I thought the carnitas here were the best in town."

"I found the tacos here to be amazing and well-flavored."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and accessible near the restaurant.

2

The menu is simple and easy to navigate, even with a language barrier.

3

Expect little to no wait time during peak hours.

10
Taquería Juanitos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with authentic interior and vibrant decor creates a warm, lively atmosphere filled with live music and friendly chatter. The space is clean and comfortable, often busy and loud, reflecting a family-run, local vibe. Outdoor seating and a food truck add convenience and variety to the experience.

Carnitas tacos come with large portions and pair well with beans. The carnitas are consistently very good and appear in various dishes like sope and tacos.

Carne asada and Al Pastor tacos stand out with rich, authentic flavors. Fish and carnitas tacos also deliver solid taste, making the taco selection consistently delicious and highly rated.

People are saying

"The carne asada here is tender and flavorful."

"I thought the carne asada tacos were surprisingly good and flavorful."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were great."

Good to know

1

Ordering online results in different prices compared to in-person prices.

2

The restaurant is currently under renovation but has a food truck serving outside.

3

Everyone handling food wears gloves, ensuring cleanliness.

11
Tacos y Mariscos Jaliscos image 1

Small, clean restaurant with patio seating and a self-serve salsa bar offering various toppings. Atmosphere is casual and family friendly, often crowded and lively. Ceramic plates and authentic drinks like micheladas add unique touches.

Carnitas come in tacos and burritos alongside birria and asada. They offer a meaty, flavorful option among a variety of taco choices.

Tacos come in a variety of authentic flavors like birria, cabeza, lengua, camarones, pescado, carne, and pulpo. The $2 Taco Tuesday deal offers loaded tacos including standout fish and shrimp options at a very reasonable price.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is excellent, especially the delicious salsa bar."

"I loved the $2 tacos on Tuesdays; they were so flavorful."

"I loved the carnitas burritos."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $1.99 tacos all day, making it a popular choice.

2

Cash payments can save you a 10% tax fee compared to card payments.

3

The restaurant is kid-friendly, making it suitable for family visits.

12
Ramiro’s Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with authentic Sonora style food and spicy salsas offers a mom and pop vibe with indoor and outdoor seating under a canopy. Energy is casual and welcoming, with a drive-thru adding convenience. Open late on weekends, it attracts those seeking large portions and traditional flavors.

Carnitas come perfectly cooked and juicy in burritos and tacos. The carnitas taco pack offers a full pound with salsa, tortillas, toppings, beans, and rice for a solid value.

Birria tacos with beans stand out for their flawless taste. Carne asada tacos and beef tacos offer strong, fresh flavors. The menu also includes bean tostadas and rollies, all made with quality ingredients.

People are saying

"The food here is so good, I still think about it regularly."

"The birria and carne asada tacos here are so fresh and flavorful."

"I found the carnitas here to be my favorite."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer special deals on tacos every Tuesday.

2

Ramiro’s Taco Shop is open until 3am on weekends.

3

Drive-thru service is available, but can have long wait times.

13
What’s Cookin Burrito Shop image 1

Bright dining area features sombrero lamps and plays Musica Mexicana, creating a clean and welcoming atmosphere. The space includes a drive-thru alongside a comfortable, air-conditioned interior. The vibe stays pleasant and inviting, suited for quick, flavorful Mexican meals.

Crispy and tender, the carnitas stand out with perfect seasoning and packed flavor. They appear in tacos and burritos, both fresh and well-portioned.

Tacos come in light, crispy rolled versions that are not greasy or hard. Options like carnitas, chicken, and green chili pork stand out for their fresh taste and perfect portion size.

People are saying

"The carnitas here are tender, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned."

"The rolled tacos here are light, crispy, and not greasy."

"The carnitas are tender, packed with flavor, and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

The drive-thru provides convenience for quick orders.

2

Expect higher prices compared to typical fast food options.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness, including restrooms.

14
El Taco Rústico image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with authentic flavor and varied taco selection including unique meats. Atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, with no-frills seating and a modest, clean space. Offers vegetarian options and a casual, family-friendly vibe.

Carnitas here come out moist with a perfect balance of flavor and fat. They stand out as some of the best carnitas tacos around, often highlighted alongside other meats like carne asada and tripas.

Quesabirria tacos stand out as a signature dish with rich flavor and tender meat. Tacos de tripa and Mahi Mahi tacos also feature prominently, served with beans and rice and accompanied by chips.

People are saying

"You have to try these tacos; they're outstanding."

"I thought these were some of the best tacos I'd ever had."

"The carnitas here are the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

They have all-you-can-eat tacos during Taco Tuesday.

2

Be sure to call ahead and order the food.

3

If you want the hotter salsa, ask for a red bottle from behind the counter.

15
AMELIAS MEXICAN KITCHEN image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers an intimate, modern space with arts-inspired decor and maximum seating capacity. Atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, enhanced by salsa and merengue music and a busy, energetic crowd. Outdoor patio adds a relaxed option for seating.

Carnitas appear in both burritos with green salsa and street tacos. The carnitas burrito stands out as very good, while the street tacos mix chicken, fish, and carnitas for a tasty combo.

Quesabirria tacos stand out with their rich flavor and melty cheese. Tacos come a bit smaller but pack a delicious punch.

People are saying

"I found the food to be wonderful and delicious."

"The birria tacos with caldo were delicious."

"I ordered the carnitas tacos and they were delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for Taco Tuesday to avoid long wait times.

2

Happy hour features buy one get one half off deals on select drinks.

3

Expect a busy crowd during Taco Tuesday; arrive early for the best experience.

16
Salsa Verde Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a clean, warm vibe with green plants at the center of the dining area. A fresh salsa bar provides many options alongside sports on television, creating a chill and relaxing atmosphere. The place stays quiet during lunch and suits special occasions well.

Street carnitas tacos and burritos stand out with rich flavor. The machetes with carnitas offer a satisfying, meaty option. The gorditas platter includes a carnitas portion alongside other pork varieties.

Tacos feature in-house made tortillas and a variety of fillings like grilled shrimp with veggies and extra crispy options. The salsa bar and unique items like barbacoa and street carnitas add to the selection.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really tasty and amazing."

"I loved the crispy tacos, especially the barbacoa ones."

"The carnitas tacos and machetes were amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 PM with discounted drinks.

2

Enjoy $5 margaritas on Monday nights.

3

The restaurant offers large portions at reasonable prices.

17
Tacos los Compas image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco truck with large salsa bar featuring fresh, varied toppings and Mexican music playing. Covered seating area includes sit-down tables and hand sanitizer station, creating a clean and inviting atmosphere. Tacos come on heart-shaped platters and offer affordable prices with generous portions.

Perfectly seasoned carnitas stand out here, offering more flavor than the carne asada. Served on corn tortillas, the carnitas tacos deliver a satisfying taste.

Street tacos offer a large amount of fillings and come in varieties like cabeza, tripa, and birria. They serve authentic Mexican flavors with quick, friendly service and a covered eating area.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food, especially the tacos, was the best I ever had."

"I thought the tacos here were the most delicious I ever had."

"The carnitas here are better than the carne asada."

Good to know

1

Most tacos cost $2, and tripa tacos cost $2.5.

2

They only accepted cash and Zelle as payment methods.

3

There was plenty of covered outdoor seating.

18
Trocadero Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Former Chipotle space transformed into a cozy, authentic Mexican restaurant with clean, inviting decor and fresh flowers on tables. Atmosphere stays low key and pleasant, fitting a strip mall setting. Menu features high-quality, traditional dishes and refreshing margaritas, with unusual hours closing by mid-afternoon.

Pork braised overnight creates tender, flavorful carnitas. The dish stands out for its excellent preparation and rich taste.

Tacos come with good steak and no fat, served at the right temperature. The birria tacos and tacos dorados stand out, paired with salsa that tastes better than the chip salsa.

People are saying

"The tomatillo salsa on the enchiladas was the star."

"The carne asada tacos were great, with good steak."

"The carnitas here were next level and genuinely delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant opens from 8 AM to 3 PM every day.

2

Each bowl of menudo costs about $16 to $17.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties.

19
Carnicería Los Toritos image 1
Mexican grocery store

Mexican grocery store combines family-run atmosphere with well-stocked butcher and bakery sections. Warm, welcoming vibe fills the clean, organized space with authentic aromas. Fresh tortillas, homemade tamales, and a variety of meats stand out as distinctive offerings.

Tender carnitas stand out with rich flavor and juicy texture. The menu also features carne seca and soups that complement the carnitas well.

Tacos come with house-made tortillas that hold up well and taste great. Affordable options include a 5 dollar taco and a 2 taco combo plate with authentic flavors.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious and well-selected."

"I had the best carnitas I have ever tasted."

"I had the best authentic tacos I've ever tried."

Good to know

1

The butcher shop offers a wide selection of fresh meats and seafood.

2

The bakery features a variety of baked goods and Mexican candies.

3

The store is family-owned and family-run, providing a personal touch.

20
Street Taco & Beer Co. image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers all-you-can-eat warm tortilla chips and salsa bar with a quasi-bar serving beer and margaritas. Indoor space feels loud and modern, while outdoor seating provides shaded mountain views. Atmosphere blends peaceful and fun with a mix of ages and a relaxed vibe.

Carnitas tacos come with a mix of meats including chicken and steak, often served as a barnyard special. They pair well with guacamole and chips and appear alongside other options like carne asada.

Street tacos come in various protein options and styles, all consistently excellent. Tacos pair well with bowls and feature friendly service and reasonable prices.

People are saying

"You've got to try their salsa bar; it's fresh and has a great variety."

"I thought the tacos here were great and seasoned to perfection."

"I tried the carnitas tacos and they were excellent."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday starts at 3 PM with tacos priced at $2.49 each.

2

Expect large crowds and long wait times on Taco Tuesday evenings.

3

Parking is easy and convenient near the restaurant.

Discover more

Tucson, Arizona

Area guide
Loading Map...