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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Carnitas in California

Carnitas that actually respect the slow-cooked tradition instead of just rushing the meat to the plate.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Evaga image 1
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Mexican restaurant

Spacious interior with club-style lighting sets a lively mood while multiple TVs keep energy high. Carnitas are crispy and juicy, especially in the simple, perfect quesadilla. Music blends classic and modern Latin tunes, often with live bands and DJs.

Carnitas come crispy and juicy with an option for no skin. The carnitas quesadilla is simple and perfect, and the red hot spicy salsa adds a nice kick to the carnitas plate.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, homemade, and absolutely delicious."

"These handmade tortillas are fresh, warm, and unmatched in quality."

"The carnitas were crispy, juicy, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Evaga offers $2 tacos during Taco Tuesday every week.

2

Happy hour menu features discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties or special events.

02
Provecho CaliMex image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot offers super tender carnitas in dishes like quesadillas and burritos. Homey vibe with authentic recipes draws locals. Outdoor seating with flower-adorned tables adds charm to this relaxed Mexican eatery.

Super tender meat defines the carnitas here. The carnitas quesadilla and breakfast burrito stand out as favorites, both praised for their rich flavor and texture.

People are saying

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

"This breakfast burrito is so flavorful, I couldn't stop eating it."

"I've never had carnitas this good before."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in front of the restaurant.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

3

Taco Tuesday is a popular weekly event.

03
Contodo Fresh Mexican Eats image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with juicy carnitas in tacos and burritos. Spacious patio offers a pleasant outdoor vibe with cool, relaxed atmosphere. Fresh flavors and comfortable seating make it a casual favorite.

Juicy and crispy textures define the carnitas here, delivering authentic and flavorful bites. Options include tacos, burritos, and plates, all noted for their rich flavor and satisfying quality.

People are saying

"The carnitas burrito was excellent and very flavorful."

"The salsas here are flavorful and complement the food well."

"The carnitas here are juicy and crispy."

Good to know

1

$1.99 fish taco special is available, making it a great deal.

2

The taco shop has a drive-thru for convenient ordering.

3

Expect reasonable prices and good portion sizes.

04
Primo Foods image 1
Grocery store

Local grocery store offers a relaxed atmosphere and affordable street tacos with prices under a dollar on discount days. Carnitas tacos are a favorite choice, known for their rich flavor. Enjoy a strong neighborhood vibe and free samples while shopping smoothly.

Carnitas tacos stand out as a favorite, offering a delicious and satisfying option alongside other meats like birria and pollo asada. The carnitas are consistently flavorful and a go-to choice for tasty tacos.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were authentic, fresh, and delicious."

"The tacos here are cheap and delicious."

"You gotta try these 69-cent carnitas tacos on Tuesdays and Fridays!"

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $0.69 on Tuesdays and Fridays, $0.99 on other days.

2

Expect long lines on Taco Tuesdays and Fridays, sometimes wrapping around the corner.

3

Parking options are limited and can be quite challenging.

05
Carnitas Michoacanas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy tender carnitas with authentic flavor that pairs well with menudo and birria. Cozy spot offers a playground for children, making it great for families. Tables stay clean and prices are reasonable, but food sells out fast due to popularity.

Carnitas here are tender and perfectly flavored with an authentic taste. They consistently rank among the best in the area, paired well with menudo and birria.

People are saying

"The carnitas here are the best Mexican food in the area."

"I found the carnitas here to be the best in town."

"I highly recommend the carnitas food here."

Good to know

1

Arrive early as they sell out quickly, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant maintains a clean environment with regular table cleaning.

3

Prices are reasonable for the generous portions served.

06
carnitas casa de zaragoza image 1

Food truck offers a casual, quiet spot with easy parking and fair prices. Carnitas are crispy and flavorful, making tacos a standout choice. Popular for fast, tasty meals in an office area setting.

Carnitas come out perfectly crispy without being greasy. They have a flavorful taste and good chew. Tacos with carnitas stand out as very good and consistently delicious.

People are saying

"I loved the quality of meat and flavor of these tacos."

"I found the carnitas here to be the best I ever tasted."

"This burrito is humongous and packed with meat."

Good to know

1

They sell a variety of items including tacos and burritos.

2

I found the prices to be fair.

3

I could call in my order to save time.

07
Rubyโ€™s image 1
Restaurant

Woodwork with Redwood finish sets a casual vibe perfect for outdoor seating. Carnitas tacos shine with rich flavor and tender texture, while kids love the carnitas quesadilla. Locals enjoy fresh tacos and well-crafted margaritas in a lively spot.

Tacos feature carnitas that stand out for their flavor and texture. Kids plates include a carnitas quesadilla that is a family favorite.

People are saying

"The tacos here have such fun flavors and generous sizes."

"You've got to try the guacamole with the homemade salsa."

"I loved the carnitas tacos; they were off the charts good."

Good to know

1

Ruby's has both indoor and outdoor seating options.

2

Parking in this neighborhood can be very difficult.

3

The menu offers a good variety of tacos and flavor options.

08
Suavecito Birria & Tacos SF image 1

Big sliding window and one small table create a chill vibe perfect for quick bites. Carnitas tacos shine with green sauce that lifts flavor. Late weekend hours and reasonable prices make it a great spot for casual takeout.

Carnitas tacos come with a green sauce that really lifts the flavor. The mix of carnitas and beef birria in tacos stands out as a solid choice.

People are saying

"This food is packed with flavor and perfectly seasoned."

"The birria tacos were so good, I'd return just for them."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be amazing, especially with the green sauce."

Good to know

1

Currently, they operate with an order-at-the-window takeout setup.

2

They are open late on weekends.

3

The restaurant has limited seating available.

09
Carniceria Los Robles image 1

Small butcher shop shines with fresh meat variety and expert cuts. Carnitas tacos offer rich flavor and tender meat. Enjoy stellar music that lifts the atmosphere while prices stay fair and the experience feels authentic.

Carnitas tacos stand out for their rich flavor and tenderness. Burritos and plates with carnitas also deliver super delicious and well-seasoned meat.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very tasty and flavorful."

"The Mexican food here, especially the menudo, has a special, unique flavor."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were super delicious."

Good to know

1

The butcher is a second-generation expert with years of experience.

2

Carniceria Los Robles offers a variety of meats.

3

Prices for the meat are good.

10
Mission Baja Tacos image 1

Small Mexican spot shines with handmade tortillas and a lively salsa bar. Carnitas are fresh, tender, and packed with incredible flavor. Inside, piรฑatas and warm lighting create a friendly, authentic vibe.

Meat comes fresh and tender, roasted to perfection. Tacos are generous in size and packed with incredible flavor.

People are saying

"The tacos here are delicious and brimming with meat and toppings."

"The salsa bar has a delicious variety of fresh options."

"The carnitas tacos were stuffed with tender roasted pork."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $2.99 each.

2

They have dedicated gluten-free fryers to avoid cross-contamination.

3

Parking can be challenging near the restaurant.

11
Bubu's Restaurant image 1

Small, cozy spot feels like grandmother's kitchen with comfy chairs and a lively vibe. Carnitas are tender and seasoned, shining in both burritos and tacos. Customizable dishes make it a hidden gem for flavor lovers.

Carnitas here come tender and perfectly seasoned. The burrito packs flavor in every bite, while the taco has its own unique dressing and stands out from others.

People are saying

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

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and home-style."

"The carnitas burrito was insanely good and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Customers should bring cash to avoid the card fee.

2

Bubu's Restaurant offers the option to customize dishes.

3

The portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

12
Tipzy's Tacos & Beer image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant buzzes with hand-painted murals and lively music from a TouchTunes Jukebox. Carnitas shine with moist, crispy texture in tacos and combos. Guests savor homemade tortillas and strong drinks at a full bar.

Moist and crispy carnitas stand out with a great balance of texture. The carnitas taco and combo plates highlight this award-winning quality well.

People are saying

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

"I found the shrimp tacos really good with fresh ingredients."

"The Carnitas here are so moist and crispy."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every night at 7 p.m.

2

Thirsty Thursdays offer special drink deals.

3

Discounts on food are available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

13
Esteban's Family Tacos Taqueria image 1

Small Mexican spot offers cozy atmosphere and fresh tacos with generous portions. Carnitas tacos shine with rich flavor and tender meat. Affordable prices make it a great choice for authentic, tasty meals.

Carnitas tacos stand out with rich flavor and tender meat. They pair well with other options like tripas and Al Pastor in soft tacos or wet burritos.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious, especially the tender, flavorful carne asada."

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious and totally worthy."

"I found the carnitas here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $2 each, making them an affordable option.

2

Expect to pay an extra 75 cents for debit card transactions.

3

Taco Tuesday offers great deals on tacos.

14
Carnitas Mi Rancho image 1
Mexican restaurant

Rustic hacienda-style decor creates a family-friendly atmosphere with friendly staff and ample parking. Carnitas are fresh and juicy, served in giant portions with homemade tortillas. Multiple ordering options make dining easy and enjoyable.

Carnitas come fresh and juicy with a flavor very similar to those from Michoacรกn. Portions are giant and served with many different toppings to load up, making them delicious and highly recommended.

People are saying

"These carnitas tacos are juicy, flavorful, and delicious."

"The carnitas here taste just like the ones from Michoacรกn."

"I thought the carnitas served in tortillas were the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect a long line during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Salsa is sold separately and is no longer included with the pound of carnitas.

3

This location has ample parking available for customers.

15
Tannya's Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating with a covered patio and a Napa mural creates a relaxed vibe. Carnitas offer rich, tender pork that stands out in tacos and burritos. Authentic Mexican flavors come at affordable prices in a casual, comfortable spot without air conditioning.

Carnitas stand out with rich, tender pork that shines in tacos and burritos. The flavor feels exceptional and magical, making it a clear favorite among pork dishes.

People are saying

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

"The carnitas here were amazing and felt like magic."

"The tacos are delicious and authentically prepared with onions and cilantro."

Good to know

1

The prices are super affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

The menu offers a large variety of tacos, burritos, and platters.

3

Expect generous portion sizes with every order.

16
El Veganito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright mall food court offers a casual vibe with 100% vegan Mexican cuisine. Shredded Jackfruit carnitas shine in tacos and sopes with generous portions. Eco-friendly to-go boxes add a thoughtful touch to this tucked-away spot.

Shredded Jackfruit carnitas appear in tacos, sopes, and fries, offering a plant-based take on the classic. Portions come generous, and the carnitas deliver strong flavor across dishes.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be so fresh and delicious."

"These tacos are just damn good, vegan or meat."

"I found the jackfruit carnitas to be delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

El Veganito is located inside the food court of a mall.

2

El Veganito is open on Tuesdays and closed on Mondays.

3

The burrito costs $16 after taxes.

17
El Canario Carnitas image 1

Cozy spot with a peaceful atmosphere and authentic Mexican tunes sets a warm mood. Carnitas here are rich and authentic, served with hearty sides like beans and rice. Large portions like Mixed Carnitas make meals filling and satisfying.

Authentic Mexican carnitas come with the skin still on and offer a rich, true flavor. Plates like the Mixed Carnitas and Carnitas Taquitos are large, stuffed, and filling, paired well with beans, rice, salsas, and pickled onions.

People are saying

"I'd drive from Orange County just for these carnitas."

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

"I found the most authentic carnitas, juicy and filled with flavor."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Weekend specials are available, offering unique dishes at a discount.

3

The restaurant is located in an industrial area, making it less visible.

18
Mi Burrito Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot boasts a full bar and ocean view patio where dogs are welcome. Carnitas shine with juicy flavor in tacos and burritos. Patrons enjoy a casual vibe with sports on TV and friendly chatter.

Carnitas come juicy and flavorful with a plentiful, fresh, and moist presentation. Options include tacos, burritos with green sauce, and a taco salad with good beans and rice.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the shredded beef."

"I found the salsa here to be the best I've ever tasted."

"The carnitas here are so juicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays feature special deals on tacos.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drink prices from 4-6pm.

3

The restaurant allows dogs on the patio with water bowls available.

19
House of Tacos & Sandwiches image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot offers authentic tacos including standout carnitas served in variety trays. Cozy, casual vibe with mountain views and cold air conditioning makes it a relaxing place to enjoy generous portions.

Carnitas come in tacos that stand out alongside other flavors like pastor and carne asada. They appear in variety trays offering multiple flavors, making it easy to sample carnitas with other options.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were fresh and tasted great."

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

"I thought the carnitas tacos were excellent."

Good to know

1

During Taco Tuesday, the tacos cost less than $2 each, which could lead to a wait.

2

Prices for tacos on Tuesday are unbeatable.

3

There is no public restroom available at the establishment.

20
Nakazo Ramen Bistro image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small space with cozy seating offers a relaxed vibe and freeway views. Tender carnitas shine in a rich, savory broth with a bold kick. Fans of authentic ramen enjoy the fusion twist and flavorful experience.

Tender carnitas packed with umami flavor star in the Las Carnitas Ramen. The broth is rich, savory, and comforting with a bold kick that complements the meat well.

People are saying

"The carnitas ramen has tender carnitas and a savory broth."

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

"The carnitas ramen here is so good, with tender carnitas and a savory broth."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a shared strip mall lot, easily accessible from the freeway.

2

The restaurant has a clean environment and well-maintained facilities.

3

Ramen prices are generally lower than at other local ramen shops.

21
Tacos El Flaco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck offers authentic Tijuana-style tacos with a spicy carnitas flavor enhanced by cilantro and onions. Lively atmosphere with faint mariachi music and bright blue patio lights creates a festive vibe despite limited outdoor seating.

Simple street tacos with cilantro and onions highlight the carnitas here. The meat has a spicy flavor and sometimes could use a bit more salt.

People are saying

"These tacos are amazing and exactly what I wanted."

"The salsa here has a great spicy kick."

"I loved the carnitas with onion and spicy flavor."

Good to know

1

Each taco costs $3.50, which is considered an exceptional value.

2

There are only a few seats available, and most people buy their tacos to go.

3

The dining area is dirty, which may affect your experience.

22
Gabys Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating offers a shaded patio with heaters and turf, perfect for families and couples. Carnitas tacos pack tons of meat with classic toppings like onions and cilantro. A lively salsa bar and music create a fun energy that matches the authentic Mexican street vibe.

Carnitas tacos come with tons of meat and classic toppings like onions and cilantro. The pork is flavorful and served with fixings such as radish and grilled onions.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The outdoor seating area is beautiful."

"The carnitas here are so juicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Tacos are priced at $2 each, except for seafood tacos.

2

Restroom facilities are available next door at the Smog Station.

3

Gaby's Tacos is a family-owned food truck known for their tacos and quesadillas.

23
Tigres Fuego image 1
Mexican restaurant

Tiny spot serves best breakfast burritos and exceptional tacos with turkey carnitas that pack great flavor. Seating is limited, so expect a quick, busy vibe. Quality ingredients shine in every bite, making it a local favorite for takeout.

Turkey carnitas stand out with exceptional flavor and consistent enjoyment. Fish and carnitas tacos offer good spice and solid taste across orders.

People are saying

"These breakfast burritos are the best Mexican food in the South Bay."

"The breakfast burrito here is excellent, with fluffy eggs and seasoned rice."

"I enjoyed the turkey carnitas tacos every time."

Good to know

1

They no longer serve dinner, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Breakfast burritos are available until sold out, especially on weekends.

3

Expect a line for breakfast burritos during peak hours.

24
Taqueria El Cruzero image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a comfortable local vibe with authentic decor and lively music. Carnitas are crispy and juicy, fried in their own fat for rich flavor. Seating is ample in a clean, decorative space that feels like a true neighborhood spot.

Carnitas come out crispy and juicy, cooked perfectly with a mix of crispy strips and tender chunks. They fry in their own fat, delivering a rich flavor that stands out in both tacos and burritos.

People are saying

"I found this Mexican food to be authentic and full of true flavor."

"The carnitas burrito is delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The carnitas here are cooked to perfection, crispy and juicy."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky, but street spots are usually available nearby.

2

Prices are affordable, with meals for two under $40 excluding tip.

3

Portion sizes are generous, often leaving leftovers for later.

25
El Sabor Serano image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, family-run spot serves tender carnitas that melt in your mouth. Cozy, casual vibe with freshly grilled meat scents fills the air. Perfect for those craving authentic Mexican street food in a laid-back setting.

Pork cooks perfectly and melts in your mouth. Tacos and burritos offer a balanced size with rich, tender carnitas.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Mexican food here to be the best."

"I believe these are the best tacos in town."

"The carnitas melted in my mouth and were perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, so arrive early or consider alternative transport.

2

The menu features classic carne asada, al pastor, and vegetarian options.

3

Prices are reasonable, with meals averaging around $16.

26
Guadalupana Carniceria image 1

Butcher shop offers free samples and a fun vibe while waiting. Delicious carnitas shine with green and red sauces. Tacos and tortas bring tasty variety, especially the torta de carnitas.

Carnitas come out delicious and pair well with green and red sauces. The torta de carnitas also stands out as a tasty option.

People are saying

"The carnitas here are delicious and taste great."

"I found the carnitas here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The place offers a variety of products including Menudo and Chicharron.

2

It's a good spot for a quick meal.

27
Tacos Don Valle image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck near a gas station offers generous meat portions in tacos and burritos. Carnitas stand out with a big, flavorful profile and mix well with carne asada and barbacoa. Outdoor seating creates a casual, lively atmosphere despite noise from passing cars.

Carnitas show up in tacos and burritos with a big, flavorful profile. They pair well with carne asada and barbacoa in various taco combinations.

People are saying

"The barbacoa and al pastor Mexican food here is so flavorful and tender."

"I found the super burritos to be amazing and flavorful."

"The carnitas tacos here are really delicious."

Good to know

1

The tacos cost $4 each with generous meat servings.

2

They offer a variety of flavorful hot sauces.

3

The place is a food truck with a couple of tables.

28
Taqueria Los Altos image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco spot shines with juicy carnitas and handmade tortillas. Quick service and authentic Mexican flavors make it a hit. Enjoy a great salsa bar and generous portions in a clean, welcoming space.

Juicy carnitas stand out with handmade fresh tortillas and flavorful salsas. Well seasoned and savory, they appear in tacos and burritos alongside other meats.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were incredible, especially the carnitas and carne asada."

"The salsa here tastes so fresh and authentic."

"The carnitas here are so juicy and seasoned super well."

Good to know

1

The tacos are priced at $11 for two, with generous portions.

2

Expect food to be ready in 10-15 minutes during busy hours.

3

The restaurant includes a free cup of consomรฉ with each meal.

29
Casita's Taco Cocina Mexicana image 1

Cozy space buzzes with lively Spanish music and friendly staff. Juicy carnitas shine in moist, tender bites wrapped in homemade tortillas. A salsa bar offers mild to spicy options, perfect for savoring authentic Mexican flavors indoors or outside.

Juicy carnitas come moist and tender with perfect seasoning. Homemade tortillas and a well-balanced carnitas burrito add to the fresh, flavorful experience.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is perfectly seasoned and delicious."

"I loved the fresh veggie burrito with homemade tortillas."

"The carnitas here are so moist and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Tacos are all $3.50 on Taco Tuesday.

2

Everything is made fresh when you order.

3

The corn tortillas are made in-house and are the right thickness.

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