Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Carnitas brunch in California

Carnitas is the ideal anchor for a weekend brunch. You want a hearty, savory start to your day that leans into tradition rather than breakfast gimmicks.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
User
User
User
Updated
01
Martiniz Fresko Kitchen image 1
Martiniz Fresko Kitchen image 2
Martiniz Fresko Kitchen image 3
View all

Family-owned restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and clean, stylish interior. Seating includes half booth/half table options but tables often connect closely. The vibe suits casual dining with a calm, pleasant environment.

Carnitas tacos come with tender meat and appear alongside dishes like beef empanadas and Chicken Marsala. They serve as a consistent menu item paired with various sides and desserts.

Weekend brunch features French toast that stands out. Breakfast and brunch options offer an awesome variety.

People are saying

"I thought the French toast was the best in existence during brunch."

"I ordered the carnitas tacos."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a frequently changing menu based on the chef's inspiration.

2

Martiniz Fresko Kitchen is suitable for both quick lunches and relaxing dinners.

3

Catering services are available for events, provided by the restaurant.

02
El Canton De La Patrona image 1
El Canton De La Patrona image 2
El Canton De La Patrona image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant combines lively yet comfortable atmosphere with Spanish music playing softly in the background. Small space includes a fully stocked bar along one wall and offers outdoor seating for warmer evenings. Seating is comfortable, and a semi-private area accommodates small groups.

Pieces of carnitas come clean cut and crispy on the outside with a bursting flavor. Portions are more than enough in dishes like the burrito and pair well with items like potato taquitos.

Sunday brunch offers a buffet with tons of fresh and well-prepared options. The food is consistently delicious and the buffet price is around $19.99.

People are saying

"The Sunday brunch buffet has tons of excellent choices."

"The carnitas here are delicious and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Karaoke night is every Friday starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

3

The Sunday brunch buffet offers a wide variety of fresh options for $19.99.

03
Franco's Famous Laguna Hills image 1
Franco's Famous Laguna Hills image 2
Franco's Famous Laguna Hills image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant with colorful design and an outside patio offers a fun, energetic atmosphere often enhanced by live music. The space feels welcoming and lively, suitable for celebrations and casual dining. Margaritas stand out as a popular feature alongside tasty, generous tacos.

Carnitas show up in street tacos and a burrito, both with solid flavor. The carnitas stand out alongside the smash tacos for good taste.

Sunday brunch offers a standout menu with a great vibe. It draws attention as an awesome weekend option.

People are saying

"I thought the brunch here had excellent food and service."

"I thought the carnitas street tacos were delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $3 tacos, but only fried options are available.

2

Happy hour runs weekdays from 3 to 6 PM with discounted snacks and drinks.

3

Live music happens every Thursday after 5 PM, creating a lively atmosphere.

04
El Tio Alex Mexican Restaurant image 1
El Tio Alex Mexican Restaurant image 2
El Tio Alex Mexican Restaurant image 3
View all

Small Mexican restaurant offers a cozy, friendly atmosphere with bright, clean decor and multiple big screen TVs. It features a large back room for groups and a family-owned vibe with loyal customers. The energy stays relaxed and welcoming throughout.

Carnitas tacos come with a Chile Verde sauce that adds a tasty kick. Portions include three tacos, rice, beans, chips, and salsa, making for a satisfying meal.

Sunday brunch offers pozole, ceviche, and chilaquiles in an all you can eat style. The menu features a variety of flavorful dishes enjoyed by families.

People are saying

"The brunch here has pozole, ceviche, and chilaquiles."

"I loved the Carnitas with Chile Verde sauce."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, 3-6 PM.

2

They offer Sunday brunch with Mimosas.

3

Steak Thursday is a special event every Thursday.

05
Tlaquepaque Restaurant image 1
Tlaquepaque Restaurant image 2
Tlaquepaque Restaurant image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant with authentic decor and a welcoming atmosphere features live Mariachi music that energizes the space. Guests enjoy strong, flavorful margaritas alongside exceptional traditional dishes like tamales and mole. The setting combines traditional hospitality with a vibrant, festive vibe.

Smoked pork shines in the carnitas, offering rich flavor and tender texture. It pairs well with homemade guacamole and smoked beans, creating a satisfying meal.

Sunday brunch features a buffet with menudo, pozole, tacos, enchiladas, and chilaquiles. Live music plays every Sunday, adding to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"The brunch food here is amazing and delicious."

"I thought the carnitas were great and exceptionally good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a Sunday brunch with live music starting at 11am.

2

Parking is available in a small lot behind the restaurant.

3

Reservations are recommended for the Sunday brunch due to high demand.

06
La Casita Olvera image 1
La Casita Olvera image 2
La Casita Olvera image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant combines lively atmosphere with vibrant decor and a nice patio for outdoor dining. Sports play on multiple TVs, creating a fun environment that feels like a party. Margaritas stand out as a highlight alongside flavorful tacos and other dishes.

Carnitas come tasty and moist in tacos and burritos. The meat stands out as excellent and to die for in street taco selections.

Sunday brunch features an all-you-can-eat buffet with authentic Mexican dishes like menudo, chilaquiles, and tacos. The $25 price includes mimosas and fresh-made ceviche.

People are saying

"The brunch here has amazing authentic Mexican dishes like menudo and pozole."

"I found the carnitas to be tasty and moist."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays feature $1 street tacos.

2

The Sunday buffet offers made-to-order food items.

3

Expect a wait of over 30 minutes during peak dinner hours.

07
MADRE MEXICAN RESTAURANT & MEZCALERIA image 1
MADRE MEXICAN RESTAURANT & MEZCALERIA image 2
MADRE MEXICAN RESTAURANT & MEZCALERIA image 3
View all

Modern design blends with outdoor patio seating and an airy, open layout to create a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Live mariachi music and a DJ add vibrant energy, especially on weekends. The focus on mole dishes and extensive mezcal selection sets it apart from typical Mexican restaurants.

Carnitas tacos stand out with great flavors. Mole nachos come topped with carnitas, adding a rich twist.

Brunch includes a lamb dish and features Mexican flavors. Meals come with a mezcaleria option for drinks.

People are saying

"The carnitas tacos here have great flavors."

"The brunch vibes here are great, with a chic and elegant atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner service; walk-ins are only accepted at the bar.

2

Expect a 45-minute wait during peak hours, especially on Fridays.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted food and drinks.

08
Cocina 35 Brunch image 1
Cocina 35 Brunch image 2
Cocina 35 Brunch image 3
View all

Super fancy dining room with Instagramable decor and a beautiful tree inside creates a vibrant, lively atmosphere filled with loud music and festive noise. Popular spot draws energetic crowds who enjoy unique Mexican pastries and a full bar featuring standout cocktails. Tables have a strict 90-minute limit, emphasizing a fast-paced, social vibe.

Chilaquiles come with carnitas as a key option, featured in both green and red styles. The carnitas add a rich, savory element to the dishes.

Brunch here features excellent service and very tasty dishes. Reservations are recommended to secure seating for celebrations or casual visits.

People are saying

"Jesi made my brunch experience so worthwhile and attentive."

"I loved the chilaquiles with carnitas."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect to wait 1 to 2 hours for a table on weekends without a reservation.

3

The atmosphere can be loud due to frequent birthday celebrations.

09
Chulita image 1
Chulita image 2
Chulita image 3
View all

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.

Menu offers a nice array of brunch options with many vegetarian and vegan choices. Serves brunch alongside lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"The cassava waffle at Brunch is delicious and not too sweet."

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.

10
The Rose Wine Bar image 1
The Rose Wine Bar image 2
The Rose Wine Bar image 3
View all

Wine bar offers quaint indoor space and a lovely outdoor patio with dog-friendly seating. Atmosphere feels warm and comfy with a neighborhood vibe and moderate noise from street traffic outside. Natural wines and unique drink options stand out among the offerings.

Huge portions of carnitas appear in dishes like the breakfast sando and carnitas hash. Carnitas empanadas come with chimichurri for added flavor.

Brunch offers large portions with delicious and tasty food. Meals come with satisfying flavors and generous servings.

People are saying

"The brunch here is delicious, with large portions."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as it gets busy, especially during dinner hours.

2

You must be 21 or older to sit inside the venue.

3

Parking can be challenging; expect to find spots at least two blocks away.

11
Mercado image 1
Mercado image 2
Mercado image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant with upscale, modern design and both indoor and outdoor seating including private booths and a patio overlooking a common lawn. Atmosphere is intimate and cozy on weeknights with salsa music adding a fun vibe. The bar area is lively, offering well-crafted cocktails like spicy margaritas and mezcal drinks.

Carnitas dishes come with amazing flavor and are often grilled. Options include a big plate with tortillas, nachos packed with carnitas, and a sandwich noted for its taste.

Brunch offers a phenomenal menu with a happy hour that complements it well. Only brunch is served on Sundays, making it a focused and consistent option.

People are saying

"The carnitas nachos were amazing and full of flavor."

"I found their brunch to be phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

2

A 3% fee is added to all bills at the restaurant.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

12
Mariachi Loco Grill & Cantina image 1
Mariachi Loco Grill & Cantina image 2
Mariachi Loco Grill & Cantina image 3
View all

Bright, colorful decor with Mexican cultural portraits and comfortable booths creates a festive yet cozy vibe. Music plays a key role, featuring a live DJ on weekends and a mix of beats that energize the space. The atmosphere leans toward a bar-like setting with vibrant energy and warm hospitality.

Carnitas fries rank among the top nacho fries here. The Verde carnitas plate offers a solid option. Pork belly sometimes resembles carnitas in flavor.

Weekend brunch features chilaquiles and a brunch enchilada that stands out. A DJ spins Latin sounds to set a lively mood.

People are saying

"The Brunch food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"I enjoyed the Verde carnitas plate and the carnitas fries."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Brunch is served on weekends with a DJ playing Latin music.

3

Karaoke night happens every Thursday at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

13
Kalaveras image 1
Kalaveras image 2
Kalaveras image 3
View all

Restaurant occupies a second-floor space with balcony seating offering views of streets and mountains. Atmosphere is loud and high energy with loud music and festive celebrations involving rattles and flaming candles. Decor includes unique artwork and Day of the Dead themed Mexican style.

Carnitas come in tasty tacos and on nachos that cost $20. Both the nachos and carnitas have a solid flavor.

Saturday and Sunday brunches feature a $40 all-you-can-eat buffet with mimosas included. Early morning options and celebratory gatherings happen here often.

People are saying

"The Sunday Brunch buffet had bottomless mimosas and all-you-can-eat menudo and chilaquiles."

"The carnitas nachos were tasty and totally worth it."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features tacos priced at $0.99 each.

2

Sunday brunch is an all-you-can-eat buffet for $40, including mimosas.

3

The elevator has been out of service for over a month, affecting accessibility.

14
Congregation Brewery & Cocina - Azusa image 1
Congregation Brewery & Cocina - Azusa image 2
Congregation Brewery & Cocina - Azusa image 3
View all

Red brick building houses a bar with pink and purple neon glow and brewing vats on display, creating a modern hometown feel. Music plays loudly, often overpowering conversation, while patio seating offers a well-lit, relaxed atmosphere. Multiple big screen TVs and a sports package give it a sports bar vibe despite the cozy ambiance fading.

Juicy, tender carnitas meat shines in both tacos and pizza. The carnitas pizza offers a unique twist with rich flavors.

Offers a brunch menu suitable for groups like friends and family. Visits show it serves brunch but may not excel as a breakfast spot.

People are saying

"The brunch food here is amazing and flavorful."

"I'm telling you, the carnitas tacos are the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6pm daily with select drink specials.

2

Thursdays feature karaoke night starting at 9pm.

3

Margarita Mondays and Taco Tuesdays offer special deals.

15
Kalaveras - Burbank image 1
Kalaveras - Burbank image 2
Kalaveras - Burbank image 3
View all

Bright colors and black-light reactive graffiti create a lively, fun environment filled with upbeat Spanish music and multiple big screen TVs showing sports. The atmosphere is loud and energetic, attracting people ready to have a good time rather than quiet or romantic. A self-serve salsa bar adds to the interactive dining experience.

Pork carnitas come out tender and flavorful. The Carnitas plate stands out as a solid choice among other taco options.

Sunday brunch offers reasonably priced dishes with Horchata and agua fresca included at no extra cost. Brunch is served with a fixed menu, and wait times are short even when arriving early.

People are saying

"The brunch here has great food and bottomless mimosas."

"I had some of the best pork carnitas I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 7pm Monday through Friday with $1.50 tacos.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to all dining bills.

3

Kids can be present, but the kids' menu is not listed.

16
Fonda Don Chon image 1
Fonda Don Chon image 2
Fonda Don Chon image 3
View all

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.

Weekend brunch offers creative, flavorful dishes with generous servings that make it worth the price. Sunday and Saturday brunches stand out for their good value and taste.

People are saying

"The brunch here is delicious and authentic Mexican food."

"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
Dova Cafe image 1
Dova Cafe image 2
Dova Cafe image 3
View all

Modern space with open seating and tasteful decor creates a cozy, urban vibe ideal for brunch and casual dining. Atmosphere feels clean and inviting, though noise levels can rise with busy crowds. Coffee and dessert bar adds a relaxed touch to the overall experience.

Urban modern vibes create a relaxed setting for Sunday brunch with friends. The spot serves mimosas and offers breakfast, brunch, and lunch until early afternoon.

People are saying

"The French toast at brunch was immaculate and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Payment options are cash or Zelle only; no credit cards accepted.

2

The cafe closes at 2 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect longer wait times during busy brunch hours on weekends.

18
El Torito Redondo Beach image 1
El Torito Redondo Beach image 2
El Torito Redondo Beach image 3
View all

Restaurant offers spectacular beach views and a pleasant atmosphere with background music. Guests enjoy fresh seafood and creative margaritas while dining in a setting that balances tranquility and lively energy.

Slow cooked in spices, the carnitas pack a lot of flavor. They come in tacos and fajitas, making them a solid choice for a flavorful meal.

Sunday brunch offers an all you can eat menu for $38 with bottomless mimosas included. The experience feels special and consistent every time.

People are saying

"The brunch omelet station is made right in front of you."

"I asked myself if the carnitas tacos were worth it."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 7 p.m. with various food options.

2

Kids eat free on Wednesdays, making it a great family option.

3

Happy hour is only available in the bar area, not the dining room.

19
Cocina del Charro image 1
Cocina del Charro image 2
Cocina del Charro image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with a covered patio and comfortable chairs. Atmosphere ranges from inviting and calm to somewhat noisy and crowded, especially around central tables. Margaritas and tequila selections stand out as a distinctive feature.

Brunch features an all-morning buffet running until 2 PM with a spectacular spread. The buffet offers high-quality dishes and a delicious variety.

People are saying

"The brunch buffet is a spectacular spread with so many delicious options."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM, Monday to Friday.

2

Sunday brunch is available until 2 PM with a wide variety of dishes.

3

Parking is wheelchair accessible.

20
DIOSA Downey image 1
DIOSA Downey image 2
DIOSA Downey image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant offers a stunning interior with elegant decor and a relaxed yet fancy atmosphere. Lively music and an entertaining bar with a tequila cart add energy to the space. The place balances luxury with comfort, creating an inviting setting for intimate evenings or celebrations.

Scrambled egg and carnitas come together well in the roasted chilaquiles. The carnitas stand out as excellent alongside other dishes like lobster fettuccine.

An amazing brunch menu pairs with a brunch drink menu that suits casual gatherings. The spot works well for Sunday brunch dates or celebrations with friends.

People are saying

"The brunch food and drinks here are outstanding and delicious."

"The carnitas here were really good with the roasted chilaquiles."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with many sharable food options and drinks.

2

Valet parking is available throughout the shopping center area.

3

A 3% surcharge is added to the check, which may be unexpected.

Discover more

California

Area guide