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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in the US

Carnitas and queso

A warm, melted bowl of queso is the only companion a plate of carnitas needs.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Taqui Taqui image 1
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Restaurant

Small, clean space with comfortable seating and bright, warm decor creates a welcoming atmosphere. Vibrant energy fills the room, enhanced by a Spanish rock playlist that sets a lively tone. The vibe balances casual dining with a sense of care and attention to detail.

Tender texture and deep seasoning define the carnitas here. They taste like they've been slow cooked with care, offering perfect tenderness and flavorful condiments.

Queso tacos come with carne asada, al pastor, and birria options, all very flavorful. The birria queso tacos stand out with rich birria broth and a satisfying melt of cheese.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, full of flavor and always fresh."

"The brothers here treat you like family and make sure you don't leave hungry."

"The carnitas are so tender and deeply seasoned."

Good to know

1

First-time customers receive a complimentary drink.

2

They have weekly specials.

02
Taqueria Allende image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with minimalist decor and folding chairs creates a casual, comfortable setting. Atmosphere stays quiet and authentic, ideal for conversation and relaxed dining. Dogs are welcome in the semi-outdoor area, adding to the laid-back vibe.

Carnitas come out tender and juicy in both tacos and burritos. The tacos and burritos showcase rich flavor and pair well with other Mexican staples like al pastor and chorizo.

Creamy queso fundido comes with chorizo and homemade tortilla chips. It pairs well with tacos like al pastor and birria.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be so tasty and delicious."

"The queso fundido here is creamy and a meal highlight."

"I found the carnitas tacos here to be so tasty."

Good to know

1

$16 for two tacos is the average price, reflecting the quality of ingredients.

2

The breakfast burrito costs $18, which may seem high for the offerings.

3

The torta is priced at $16, higher than similar options in the area.

03
Landeros Mexican Grill + Cantina image 1

Mexican restaurant with colorful murals and traditional folk art creates a cool vibe inside and on the dog-friendly patio. Atmosphere suits both intimate dinners and lively gatherings, with shaded outdoor seating featuring misters. Strong, tasty margaritas and standout dishes like guacamole and carne asada tacos complement the inviting setting.

Carnitas here come well seasoned and tender, served in dishes like burritos and Michoacรกn style. They stand out alongside other meats like asada and chorizo.

Queso Fundido features tasty, not-greasy chorizo and melts smoothly. The queso holds up well alongside dishes like chilaquiles and asada fries.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is much better than normal Tex Mex."

"These carnitas are so delicious and authentic, tasting like Guadalajara."

"I loved their queso, especially the Fundido."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using nearby lots.

2

Rice and beans cost an extra $5 with entrees, unlike many other places.

3

Expect large portion sizes that provide good value for the price.

04
Guanatos City Mexican Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with family-oriented Latino culture and clean, well-kept seating featuring counter height tables. Atmosphere stays chill and pleasant despite somewhat loud TV music. Known for authentic Jalisco-style dishes and homemade corn tortillas.

Carnitas come with authentic birote and salsa that complement the meat well. They appear in various dishes like tacos and the El Torta Especial, offering a pretty good flavor.

Birria beef queso tacos stand out with their rich flavor and delicious taste. These queso birria tacos offer a satisfying, flavorful experience.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the birria with handmade tortillas."

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

"The carnitas here tasted authentic."

Good to know

1

$1 tacos are available on Tuesdays.

2

Expect extra charges for mix meat and service fees.

3

The restaurant often has long wait times due to staff shortages.

05
Zona Rosa Brooklyn image 1
Mexican restaurant

Rooftop seating offers great views and heat lamps for comfort. Loud music with speakers directed downward creates a high-energy vibe. The menu features spicy margaritas and a mix of flavorful Mexican dishes, with some items standing out more than others.

Carnitas tacos come with rich flavor and a tasty, satisfying profile. They pair well with mezcal cocktails and stand out alongside other options like tacos arabes and steak.

Queso fundido stands out with its melty cheese and chorizo topping. It pairs well with other starters like elote and enchiladas for a flavorful appetizer experience.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the enchiladas, is amazing."

"The service on the Rooftop was always really great."

"The carnitas tacos were good and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant adds 20% gratuity automatically for tables of four or more.

2

Parking is very limited around the restaurant.

3

The restaurant has a brunch menu available until 5 PM.

06
Verdes El Ranchero image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a cozy bar and relaxed, friendly atmosphere plays classic rock music, creating a Southern California vibe. The space is dark and loud, attracting a lively crowd. Pets are welcome, adding to the casual, inviting feel.

Carnitas Burrito stands out as a highlight here. The Carnitas cheese crisp special offers a tasty twist, while the carnitas plate tends to be milder and could use more flavor.

Homemade queso stands out with a rich, creamy texture. It pairs well with shrimp tacos and complements dishes like queso blanco, tostada, tamale, rice, and beans.

People are saying

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

"I thought the queso was delicious and homemade."

"I always ordered the Carnitas Burrito to compare quality."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Reservations are not required, but the restaurant gets busy quickly.

3

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating available.

07
Super Burrito image 1
Burrito restaurant

Retro diner booths and vintage light fixtures create a 90s Californian vibe with a full bar offering excellent margaritas and cold beers. Music ranges from salsa to live DJ sets, adding to a lively yet chill atmosphere. Outdoor seating complements a spot known for affordable, tasty burritos and a fun night out.

Carnitas stand out with rich flavor and tender texture. Burritos and tacos showcase this well, especially the California burrito and Mission slim burrito options.

Large size stands out with the queso here. Chips and queso come together with a really good flavor and great pairing.

People are saying

"I thought this burrito was the best I ever tasted."

"I found the carnitas to be insanely good."

"I thought their chips and queso were the best."

Good to know

1

There is no waiter; you need to order at the bar.

2

The restaurant offers affordable prices for a fun night out.

3

The place is known for its cocktails and burritos.

08
Javelina image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

Tex-Mex restaurant offers authentic cuisine with phenomenal queso and killer margaritas. Indoor and outdoor seating create a warm, intimate atmosphere suitable for quiet meals and socializing. The vibe stays relaxed and welcoming, with music enhancing the experience.

Carnitas tacos come very well-filled, often needing a second tortilla. The carnitas are delicious and pair well with mango margaritas.

Bob Armstrong Queso stands out with its rich, creamy texture and bold flavor. It pairs well with the Frozen Margaritas, creating a taste that feels authentically Texan.

People are saying

"You have to try their queso and phenomenal margaritas."

"I came for the queso; it was excellent."

"The carnitas here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy nights.

2

Happy hour runs daily from 4 PM to 6 PM with $8 margaritas.

3

Taco Tuesday offers a free frozen margarita with three tacos.

09
Taco Bout Good image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a clean and inviting space with a family feel and chill atmosphere. Dining area includes a TV playing sports, creating a quiet but pleasant vibe. Known for authentic tacos with rich flavors and a great selection of meats.

Tacos with carnitas stand out for their burst of flavor and are a favorite choice. Both adults and kids prefer the carnitas tacos over other options.

Queso birria stands out with its rich, flavorful blend. Chips and queso dip come as a solid side, complementing tacos and burritos well.

People are saying

"The tacos here are delicious, especially the shrimp."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were excellent."

"The queso birria tacos are my go-to choice here."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for under $2 each.

2

The Sunday special features $1 tacos from 12 pm to 3 pm.

3

Taco Tuesday deals do not include carne asada tacos.

10
Sobre Masa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with an intimate, artistic vibe and charming Mexican accents creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. The space feels upscale and fresh, suitable for dates and casual gatherings. Gluten-free menu options and mezcal margaritas add distinctive touches to the experience.

Carnitas come on the bone and look impressive, with a generous portion that could serve two. They are perfectly fatty and flavorful, paired with freshly made, lukewarm tortillas and tasty toppings.

Grilled queso comes with extra tortillas and stands out as a popular choice. Fried queso and Queso Asado also feature on the menu alongside dishes like tuna tostada.

People are saying

"The food here is inventive with an elevated take on Mexican classics."

"The carnitas here are fatty and flavorful."

"I loved starting with the fried queso."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 pm and includes a free steak taco.

2

The entire menu is gluten-free, making it safe for those with celiac disease.

3

Reservations are easy to make, ensuring a spot for your visit.

11
Mezcali image 1
Mexican restaurant

Two-level Mexican spot offers a cozy vibe downstairs and a party atmosphere upstairs with loud music and open windows. Carnitas tacos are exceptionally good and pair well with classic drinks. Crab queso is a rich appetizer that complements elotes and quesadillas perfectly.

Carnitas tacos stand out as a favorite dish with a reputation for being exceptionally good. Recommendations often pair them with classic drinks like the old fashioned or the Santeria.

Crab queso stands out as a delicious and highly recommended appetizer. It pairs well with other dishes like elotes and quesadillas, adding a rich, flavorful touch.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible and served quickly."

"I loved the carnitas tacos; they were the best I'd ever had."

"You have to try the crab queso; it's the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 4pm to 6pm with great drink deals.

3

The happy hour offers delicious drinks and appetizers at reasonable prices for NYC.

12
La Popular Claremont image 1

Contemporary decor with dim warm lighting and a large outdoor patio decorated with string lights creates an elegant, inviting space. Live music plays regularly, adding energy, though game audio can be loud inside. The atmosphere feels welcoming and trendy, attracting a busy crowd early in the evening.

Carnitas show up in tacos and a torta, both with solid flavor. They pair well with other dishes like campechanos and pastor tacos.

Queso Fundido stands out with its cheesy richness and fresh chorizo, served hot in a cast iron skillet. The queso dip pairs well with starters like the Salsa Tray featuring house-made salsas.

People are saying

"The margaritas here are truly yummy and worth every penny."

"The queso fundido with chorizo is cheesy and delicious."

"I ordered the carnitas tacos and they were really tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long waits.

2

Expect wait times of 45 minutes to an hour during busy nights.

3

Happy hour features $5 margaritas and $2 tacos on Tuesdays.

13
Tipsy Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small indoor space offers clean, cute decor with sparkling seating and a pleasant atmosphere. Music plays softly, creating a cool vibe that invites relaxation without overwhelming noise. Outdoor seating faces a busy road, adding some traffic sounds to the experience.

Carnitas show up in several dishes like quesadillas, tacos with rice, and tostadas. The Carnitas y Al Pastor Tacos with grilled cheese stand out as a unique option.

Queso birria tacos stand out with juicy, tasty meat and rich cheese. The combination of birria and queso creates a flavorful, satisfying taco experience.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the birria tacos, is packed with flavor."

"The tropical ceviche here is fantastic and super delicious."

"I came back again and again for the carnitas tacos."

Good to know

1

Dine-in, togo, and delivery all take more than 30 minutes.

2

Parking is available around the back of the restaurant.

3

Food usually arrives at the table in less than 10 minutes.

14
Chulita image 1
Mexican restaurant

Stylish interior with impeccable design and acoustical tiles creates a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. Lighting is dim, setting a cute, date-night vibe reminiscent of Mexican coastal towns. A great bar offers quality cocktails, including standout margaritas and mezcal flights.

Vegetarian options include cauliflower queso and vegan queso that stand out. The Oaxacan queso pairs well with blue corn tortilla chips and draws repeat visits.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"I thought the dairy-free nachos were amazing."

"The queso here is fantastic and the servers are so attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features a DJ playing smooth jams on weekdays.

2

Chulita serves brunch until 5pm on weekends.

3

Reservations are recommended for weekend nights to avoid long waits.

15
Blanco Cocina + Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with an open floor plan and large windows creates a bright, airy feel. Outdoor patio seating with heaters offers a comfortable spot even in cooler weather. The vibe suits a younger crowd, blending stylish decor with a lively atmosphere.

Carnitas tacos feature tender meat with a warm, satisfying flavor. Portions lean slightly small but pair well with sides like queso and flan.

Queso stands out with its creamy texture and rich flavor that pairs well with chips and nachos. It complements a variety of dishes like tacos and bowls, making it a highlight of the menu.

People are saying

"Chloe was an absolute superstar serving our Mexican food."

"I thought the queso was delightful and delish."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2-4pm on weekdays and all day on Tuesdays.

2

The bar area offers a special happy hour menu with great options.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

16
Fonda Don Chon image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with authentic decor and a cozy, family-oriented atmosphere. Seating divides into two rooms plus a beautiful cobbled patio with heaters. The vibe is lively and sometimes loud, especially in the back room.

Carnitas come with good flavor and are less dry than the beef. They appear on plates alongside dishes like queso fundido and flautas, offering a solid meat option.

Queso fundido stands out with its chorizo topping and rich, melted texture. It often comes served in molcajetes, adding a traditional touch to the dish.

People are saying

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

"The queso fundido with chorizo was amazing."

"I really enjoyed the carnitas plate."

Good to know

1

Expect a 40-minute wait for tables on weekends, especially for larger groups.

2

The brunch buffet is available Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 3 PM.

3

Saturday and Sunday brunch runs from 9 AM to 3 PM.

17
Bark Barbecue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Rooftop setting offers breathtaking views of Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges with both indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere is loud and busy, featuring live Latin music and a lively bar scene. The place combines sensory experiences with energetic crowds and cityscape vistas.

Carnitas come chopped to perfection with spot-on flavors. Serving them on tostones with green sauce creates an explosion of flavors.

Crispy fried queso features a crunchy exterior with melted cheese inside. House-pickled onions and pickles add a sharp contrast, and the queso frito with honey offers a sweet twist.

People are saying

"The brisket here is the best American Food I've ever had."

"The pulled pork here is so juicy and tender."

"I found the carnitas to be the best I ever tried."

Good to know

1

Get there early because food runs out quickly.

2

Expect a long line on Saturdays, often over an hour.

3

Saturday features specials like beef rib.

18
La Popular Porter Ranch image 1

Loud house music and a DJ create a high-energy atmosphere with a strong dance vibe. Seating options include lounge chairs, sofas, booths, and regular tables, all set in a beautiful interior with aesthetic lighting and decorations. Patio seating offers a quieter, more peaceful experience away from the music.

Outstanding flavor and tasty presentation define the Carnitas tacos here. They pair well with other dishes like Ceviche, making them a solid choice.

Queso Fundido stands out with chorizo and chicharron options, making it a popular starter. Queso Birria tacos also feature rich, melted cheese paired with flavorful fillings.

People are saying

"I had the best Enchiladas al Pastor I have ever had."

"The queso fundido is excellent, especially with chorizo."

"The carnitas tacos here are outstanding and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on Tuesdays from 3-6 PM with great deals on food and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended during busy times to ensure seating.

3

Expect additional charges for modifications to menu items, like adding chicken.

19
Toro Loco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Vibrant Mexican restaurant with sugar skull murals and an updated, uniquely Mexican decor. Atmosphere buzzes with lively music and interactive performers, complemented by a beautiful outdoor patio perfect for relaxing. Bottomless brunch cocktails and authentic dishes like birria and Al Pastor tacos add to the energetic vibe.

Pork carnitas come fresh and delicious with a tasty flavor profile. They appear in both hard shell tacos and Tacos Dorados, offering a solid choice for carnitas lovers.

Chips and queso come really tasty and pair well with drinks served in a super fun glass. The spicy queso fries stand out as a flavorful option alongside classic chips and queso.

People are saying

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

"I thought the spicy queso fries were the real deal."

"I found the carnitas fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Make a reservation for the drag brunch to secure your spot.

2

The brunch includes a drag show that starts at noon.

3

Happy hour drinks are available before the brunch at great prices.

20
Vida Verde - Tequila Bar image 1

Three floors plus a rooftop deck create a vibrant, festive atmosphere filled with loud music and a young, lively crowd. A DJ and bar dancer add to the energetic vibe, while colorful, edgy decor enhances the space. The setting encourages socializing despite the high noise level.

Juicy and meaty, the carnitas tacos come packed with savory flavors and plenty of vegetables. They offer a flavorful delight that stands out among Midtown options.

Queso stands out with its rich, creamy texture and pairs well with chorizo for added flavor. It complements the guacamole and other dishes like birria tacos effectively.

People are saying

"The cocktails were creative, balanced, and made with care."

"The queso and guacamole were the best I had."

"The carnitas tacos are juicy, meaty, and savory."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to be seated at a table.

2

The bottomless brunch is offered until 5PM on Saturdays and until 8PM on Sundays.

3

Customers only have 1 hour to eat during busy times.

21
Cerveceria Havemeyer image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with recycled bowling alley tables and graffiti decor creates a cool, buzzing atmosphere filled with authentic vibes. Music plays a key role, enhancing the fun and positive energy throughout. The place draws a crowd that appreciates authentic Mexican food and spicy mezcal margaritas.

Carnitas tacos come with a rich, savory flavor that stands out among other options like duck carnitas and brisket. They pair well with other bold choices like Al pastor and shishito peppers.

Queso Fundido comes with carne asada or peppers. Sometimes core items like queso are unavailable.

People are saying

"I loved the great tacos and margaritas here."

"The vibe and decor make for a fabulous dinner spot."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with $3 tacos and $6 Mezcal Spritz.

2

Cerveceria Havemeyer now accepts credit cards, but there's a 3.5% fee for card payments.

3

The restaurant offers vegetarian-friendly options on the menu.

22
AVO TACO image 1
Taco restaurant

Spacious taco restaurant with lively decor and barcode ordering system creates a modern, casual vibe. Loud music and bar-style energy dominate, making it less suited for families. Strong, fresh margaritas and comfortable bar seating stand out as key features.

Slow-cooked carnitas show a clean flavor in the nachos. Carnitas nachos stand out as a favorite dish alongside yuca fries.

Green Chili Queso offers a tasty start with chips. Nachos bring an unexpected sweetness from pineapple paired with queso. Quesa Birria Quesadilla and tacos like Coco Loco and El Flaco include cheese-focused options.

People are saying

"These tacos are packed with flavor and absolutely delicious."

"The food and drinks during Happy Hour are great."

"The carnitas nachos had a slow-cooked, clean flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6 PM with great drink specials.

2

You can order using a QR code and pay at your convenience.

3

The menu is limited during the first few weeks, with many items unavailable.

23
Amor Loco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with live drag performances and loud music creates a lively vibe. Carnitas tacos offer very flavorful meat in small portions, perfect with birria nachos. Queso dishes like Queso Birria Empanadas and queso fundido stand out as tasty highlights.

Carnitas tacos come in orders of three small tacos with very flavorful meat. They pair well with dishes like birria nachos and guacamole with chips.

Queso shines in several dishes here, especially the Queso Birria Empanadas and Birria Queso Tacos, both packed with flavor and cooked well. The queso fundido stands out as a delicious appetizer that pairs nicely with other items.

People are saying

"Our server Rose was so attentive to our food and drinks."

"The carnitas tacos here are stunning and flavorful."

"The queso fundido appetizer was great and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The Sunday drag brunch starts at 1:30 PM and requires food purchase for bottomless drinks.

2

Happy hour ends at 6 PM, with drinks priced at $14 and up afterward.

3

The kitchen closes at 10:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

24
Ninaโ€™s Great Burrito Bar image 1

Vibrant, colorful space with fun authentic Mexican vibe and outstanding decor featuring hojalata art. Atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with cheerful music enhancing energy but noise can be high. Plenty of outdoor seating and tables spread out for comfort.

Carnitas tacos stand out with rich flavor and tender meat. The carnitas burrito offers a hearty, satisfying option to go.

Queso varies here, with some finding it soupy and like melted Velveeta, lacking texture, while others enjoy it alongside burritos and esquites.

People are saying

"I had the best Mexican food of my life here."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were top notch."

"Their queso was my favorite."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday until 7pm with $5 margaritas.

2

Brunch happy hour is available until 4 PM on weekends.

3

Expect at least 45 minutes to an hour for food orders.

25
Rosa Mexicano image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers spacious interior with high ceilings and outdoor seating that welcomes pets. Atmosphere balances lively yet comfortable vibes with music enhancing the festive mood. Guacamole served in large stone mortars on every table stands out as a signature feature.

Tacos feature juicy pork and duck carnitas with rich seasoning. Both versions deliver very delicious and well-balanced flavors.

Birria queso tacos stand out with rich flavor. The queso dip and Mac and queso both deliver creamy texture and balanced seasoning.

People are saying

"The table side guacamole is prepared right in front of you."

"The carnitas tacos are super delicious and very juicy."

"The queso is rich, creamy, and has a nice chipotle aroma."

Good to know

1

They offer a bottomless brunch every day.

2

The restaurant has a $5 margarita Monday special.

3

On Mondays, they have $5 Margaritas all day.

26
Baqba Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with limited seating feels cramped but lively, filled with friendly energy and the sounds of sizzling grill and music. Staff provide free water and umbrellas to ease long waits outside. Atmosphere suits families and creates a welcoming, vibrant environment.

People are saying

"I found the burritos to be huge and delicious."

"I loved the tortillas, they're handmade and pressed fresh when ordered."

"The Carnitas here are friendly and genuinely welcoming."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-40 minutes during peak hours.

2

Ordering online is recommended to avoid long lines.

3

Portions are generous and worth the price.

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