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Carnitas and chili in California

The richness of carnitas finds its perfect match in the heat of a well-made chili. You are looking for a combination that balances deep, savory fat with a persistent, spicy kick.

Based on 813 Opinions
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01
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Old style Mexican restaurant with beautiful wall art and two dining rooms creates a friendly, calm atmosphere despite loud music. Back patio and small bar add to the inviting setting. Frequented by families, it offers a mix of traditional and new elements.

Excellent carnitas stand out with rich flavor and tender texture. They pair well with dishes like chilaquiles and keep you wanting more even after you're full.

Tender pork chunks simmer in a special Chile Verde recipe that stays true to a 1964 original. The Chile Verde burrito is known for its rich flavor, and the chili rellenos are made in-house, avoiding watery textures.

People are saying

"This pork chili verde is the best I ever had."

"I found the carnitas to be excellent, a real chef's kiss."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available, offering discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Parking is available right up front or in a small lot in the back.

3

The restaurant can get busy, so be prepared for potential wait times.

02
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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.

Chile Verde burrito comes huge and filling with a rich flavor. Chile Relleno and the chile verde plate offer solid, satisfying options.

People are saying

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

"The chili here is tasty and well made."

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.

03
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Mexican restaurant with a homey, friendly vibe and large portions of authentic dishes like chili rellenos and shrimp enchiladas. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and unassuming to loud, making conversation sometimes difficult. Pricing tends to be on the higher side compared to nearby options.

Very tender carnitas come with tortillas, rice, beans, and guacamole. Options include a Carnitas Chimichanga dinner and a carnitas plate.

Chile verde dishes show a true homemade flavor, especially in the burrito. Chile rellenos come with rice and beans and pair well with chips and salsa.

People are saying

"The carnitas here are so juicy and tender."

"The chili here is so flavorful and wonderfully spicy."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos and drinks.

2

Happy Hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended for Taco Tuesday.

04
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Small, family-run Mexican restaurant with old-time charm and a cozy, homey atmosphere in a residential setting. The vibe is kickback and chill, welcoming guests like part of the neighborhood. Outdoor seating adds a functional dining option beyond the intimate indoor space.

Addicting flavor defines the carnitas here. The plate offers really good portions that satisfy easily.

Big chunks of beef fill the chili, served with chips and melted cheese. Chile verde and Chile relleno both show up as popular choices with good flavor. Portions often leave enough to take some home.

People are saying

"I found the carnitas here to be addicting."

Good to know

1

La Chiquita Restaurant is within walking distance from the Santa Ana Amtrak and Metrolink train depot.

2

The restaurant has been in business since 1950, offering authentic Mexican cuisine.

3

Expect generous portion sizes for the price at La Chiquita Restaurant.

05
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Spacious and open dining area offers a family-friendly and welcoming atmosphere with home-style Mexican music playing softly. The vibe is quiet and pleasant, creating a comfortable setting for enjoying authentic, homemade Mexican dishes.

Carnitas come with homemade tortillas and show up in plates and tacos. The meat is consistently well-prepared and served at a reasonable price around $17.

Chili verde features tender meat that falls apart easily with minimal fat for a smooth texture. The chile relleno stands out as delicious and well-prepared.

People are saying

"I found the carnitas dinner really good."

Good to know

1

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

2

The restaurant offers large portion sizes for all menu items.

3

Prices vary, but most dishes are reasonably priced.

06
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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.

Camarones en chile morita offers a rich, flavorful experience. The chile relleno and mole enchiladas also stand out for their solid taste.

People are saying

"The carnitas tacos here have great flavors."

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.

07
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Small Mexican restaurant offers a homey interior with a welcoming family vibe and a self-serve salsa bar featuring multiple salsas. Outdoor patio provides a casual spot to enjoy meals under the sun. Atmosphere feels warm and cozy, attracting those seeking authentic flavors in a relaxed setting.

Carnitas here are crispy and juicy, cooked to perfection with a rich flavor that melts in your mouth. Dishes often come topped with a roasted jalapeรฑo adding a spicy kick.

People are saying

"The carnitas here just melt in your mouth."

Good to know

1

On Fridays, they make tacos outside with their taco stand.

2

The restaurant can accommodate larger parties with pop-up tents.

3

They offer flexible combination plates with various options.

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Cozy restaurant with beautiful Latin decor and three TVs showing soccer games. Atmosphere feels lively but not loud, filled with laughter and conversation. Known for authentic Mexican food and 5-star quality margaritas.

Carnitas come fried to perfection, offering a crispy and juicy texture. Portions are generous, enough for a family of four, and they pair well with salsa verde.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available Monday through Thursday from 2 to 5 PM.

2

The restaurant has plenty of parking available, even during lunch hours.

3

The bill for two people with drinks and appetizers averages around $51.

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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.

Chile Colorado stands out for being super spicy and extremely delicious. The chili verde ranks among the top three ever had and tastes very good.

People are saying

"The chili verde here is really good and tasty."

"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.

10
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Mexican restaurant with outdoor seating and a chill atmosphere featuring contemporary Mexican music and soccer on television. The vibe is comfortable and relaxing, reminiscent of a beach shop in Mexico. Generous portions and flavorful dishes like burritos and rib eye tacos define the experience.

Carnitas show up in tacos and breakfast burritos with eggs, cheese, and cilantro. Tacos stand out for their rich flavor and burritos mix carnitas with beans and eggs, though sometimes the meat portion is light.

Chili verde burrito stands out with rich, tender pork and vibrant green sauce. It pairs well with La Gringa tacos for a flavorful meal.

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 3 pm to close on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

2

Taco Tuesday offers great deals on tacos and is popular among locals.

3

On Wednesdays, enjoy fresh fish tacos with chips and salsa for $6 during Happy Hour.

11
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Small Mexican restaurant with limited indoor seating and a sunny outdoor patio featuring tables under umbrellas. Atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, with a clean and modern design. A standout feature is the self-serve salsa bar offering a wide variety of options to customize meals.

Carnitas burritos come with rice, beans, lettuce, and chipotle. Some dishes mix carnitas with other meats, but the Chile Verde burrito has mostly refried beans, a bit of carnitas-style pork, and is very oily.

Chili relleno stands out with its rich flavor and pairs well with cheese enchiladas in combo plates. The dish appears consistently as a popular choice on the menu.

Good to know

1

There are only 6-7 parking spots on site, and street parking is often full.

2

The price for a large California burrito is $11, which is reasonable.

3

They offer a large selection of Mexican dishes beyond just tacos.

12
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Spacious Mexican restaurant with cool decor and an expanding covered patio offering garden seating and views. Atmosphere is loud and lively, often with patrons drinking and celebrating with singing and sombreros. Known for artfully crafted margaritas and fresh, flavorful dishes like fajitas and green chili.

Four large pieces of roast pork arrive tender and juicy with crisp edges and perfect seasoning. Fresh made tortillas complement the outstanding carnitas.

Green chili stands out with its fresh flavor and vibrant heat. Chile Colorado features tender beef chunks in a thick, deep red sauce served over rice.

People are saying

"The carnitas are juicy, crisp on the edges, and seasoned perfectly."

"The mole chili sauce was delicious, rich, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

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

2

Taco Tuesday offers $2 soft street tacos all day.

3

Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 2pm.

13
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Spacious Mexican restaurant with three seating areas that get quieter further inside and tight table arrangements. Atmosphere feels dated and dimly lit, but maintains a great family vibe with plenty of booths. Known for authentic Mexican food and excellent margaritas despite high prices.

Carnitas vary here, with some plates offering six pieces alongside tortillas, rice, and beans. Quality ranges from average-tasting to off the hook, with taco salads featuring carnitas also available.

Chili Verde stands out with its rich flavor and tender texture. The Chili Colorado and green chile beans also offer bold, satisfying tastes that complement the menu well.

People are saying

"The chili verde nachos were just what we needed."

"I considered the carnitas to be off the hook."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6pm with discounted drinks.

2

Expect a 45-minute wait for dinner during peak hours.

3

The restaurant accommodates large groups with prior notice.

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Old school interior sets a family-friendly atmosphere with a focus on authentic Mexican dishes like menudo served daily and spicy salsa. Lunch hours bring a busy, lively vibe with many lunch specials and no dinner service. The place stands out for excellent catering options and flavorful, well-prepared traditional meals.

Carnitas appear in several dishes like tacos and tortas. The tortas carnitas come greasy, while carnitas tacos are part of combos and individual orders with fries and other sides.

Chili Verde stands out with rich flavor and spices. Options include a Chile Verde omelet, Chile Verde fries, and customizable dishes like carne aside chimichanga and chili relleno.

People are saying

"I ordered the carnitas tortas and liked them."

Good to know

1

They offer a free dessert for mothers on Mother's Day.

2

They close at 4 pm and do not offer dinner service.

3

Credit cards incur an additional 4% fee.

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Modestly decorated Mexican restaurant with a clean, cozy atmosphere and a nice patio. Strong, well-balanced margaritas draw consistent orders, creating a lively bar scene with TVs and a party room. Prices run high compared to similar spots, but the place maintains a relaxed, welcoming vibe.

Chili Verde stands out as superb and perfect here. The chili verde burrito offers a large portion, enough for multiple meals, and the chili relleno is also worth trying.

Good to know

1

Parking is free and readily available.

2

Expect to pay around $30 per person for a weekend lunch.

3

A side of guacamole costs $16.

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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.

Buffet offers chili red and chili verde alongside albondigas and menudo. Chile verde and Colorado stand out as very tasty options.

People are saying

"The chili here is loaded with plenty of vegetables."

"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.

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Large dining room displays military tributes and veteran photos, creating a patriotic atmosphere filled with Latino music and sports on big screens. The vibe feels family-friendly and lively, with a warm, nostalgic energy. Crowds gather early for popular dishes, adding to the bustling environment.

Very tender and not greasy carnitas appear in several dishes. The carnitas taco and carnitas omelet stand out for their flavor and texture.

Chile Colorado and chili Verde stand out with rich, authentic flavors. Dishes like the Texas Tostada with Colorado chiles and the Chile relleno also highlight the menu's strong chili presence.

People are saying

"You have to try the chili Verde, it's my favorite dish."

"I loved the carnitas; they were so tender and not greasy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers all-you-can-eat menudo for $16 daily.

2

Expect large portions at reasonable prices.

3

They charge $1.50 for card payments.

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Small, intimate space with authentic Mexican decor and vibrant art creates a laid-back, family-run vibe. A cozy full bar offers standout margaritas and cold cervezas. Atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, reflecting a genuine Pueblo setting.

Wet carnitas appear in burritos with a juicy texture. The torta with carnitas stands out for its rich flavor. Carnitas also feature in tacos alongside fish and machaca options.

Good to know

1

Dinners at Talpa are around $14 to $17.

2

Expect to spend $20 to $30 for a meal with drinks.

3

Street parking is available, but can be challenging at times.

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Modern Mexican restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating and a freshened look from recent remodeling. Atmosphere feels relaxed and contemporary, with big screen TVs showing football games and contemporary music playing. Food and drinks include homemade tortillas, fresh margaritas, and standout dishes like chile relleno and carne asada tacos.

Tacos feature tender carnitas with a rich flavor. They pair well with other dishes like carne asada fajitas.

People are saying

"The carnitas tacos here are excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Taco Tuesday offers discounts on tacos and add-ons every Tuesday.

3

Tequila specials are available every Thursday night.

20
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Taco shop vibe with quiet atmosphere and worn appearance creates a casual setting. Salsa bar offers a variety of well-regarded salsas, enhancing the experience. Affordable prices and easy parking attract a steady local crowd.

All-you-can-eat carnitas offer a generous portion size. The meat is consistently awesome and well-prepared.

Good to know

1

There is easy parking available near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant does not offer delivery service.

3

Burritos start at $4.50, with large portions providing good value.

21
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Mexican restaurant offers handmade tortillas and authentic dishes like chile rellenos and carnitas tacos. Atmosphere feels hot and loud, with fans that provide limited relief and a mix of TV and music playing. Located near a busy fashion district, it draws a crowd looking for solid Mexican food after shopping.

Carnitas tacos stand out with their very delicious flavor. The carnitas plate offers a solid, tasty option as well.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas tacos were very delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located near Santee Alley, a busy shopping area.

2

Expect minimal wait times during off-peak hours.

3

Restrooms are available for customer use.

22
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Mexican restaurant offers a self-serve salsa bar with house-made salsas in various colors and spice levels. Atmosphere feels quiet and family-oriented with casual interiors and friendly service. Regulars enjoy flavorful meats and breakfast burritos praised for consistency and taste.

Carnitas come out crispy yet tender with a juicy texture. They get reheated on a flat top, creating excellent grill marks and a flavorful outer crust.

Green chile dishes stand out with the chili verde plate and green chile burrito offering solid flavors. Chile relleno comes with homemade salsas that add a fresh touch.

People are saying

"The carnitas are succulent, juicy, and crispy."

Good to know

1

Prices for meals are generally reasonable, with burritos costing around $12 each.

2

The restaurant offers a salsa bar with a good variety of salsas.

3

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

23
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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.

Chili verde stands out with a flavorful burrito option. The red chili sauce is extremely hot and usually served on the side to avoid burning the mouth.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas tacos were excellent."

"The chili verde burrito was delicious."

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.

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Outdoor seating dominates with picnic-bench style dining under a covered patio and awning. Loud music plays, creating a lively atmosphere where staff seem to enjoy the energy. A self-serve setup with a classic drive-thru and no waiters defines the casual, accessible experience.

Carnitas show up in several dishes like huarache, burritos, and sopes with a spicy flavor. Fully loaded carnitas nachos and carnitas tacos also stand out as popular choices.

Unique chili sauce stands out with flavors not found elsewhere. The green Chile pork burrito and chili-cheese fries deliver consistent, memorable spice and richness.

People are saying

"I loved the chili cheese fries piled high with cheese."

"The carnitas here are amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a drive-thru service for quick orders.

2

This location has outdoor seating only, with limited availability.

3

Expect prices around $30 for two people, which some may find high.

25
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Mexican restaurant with authentic decor featuring Dia de los Muertos sculptures and carved wood seating creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere with high ceilings and glowing chandeliers. Large patio with ample shade offers lively outdoor seating accompanied by loud music, making conversation challenging indoors. Signature large margaritas complement the vibrant setting.

Carnitas come as a plate available only three days a week. The plate is considered healthy and generally recommended, though some find it less appealing.

Spicy chili flavors stand out in dishes like Chile Verde and the carne asada burrito with green chili. The Chile relleno also offers a rich chili experience.

People are saying

"I tried the carnitas plate, which was only available three days a week."

"You have to try the carne asada burrito with green chili."

Good to know

1

Elvira's Grill does not accept reservations.

2

Dogs are not allowed even outside dining areas.

3

They charge $3.25 for an extra bowl of spicy salsa.

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Large, spacious restaurant with a separate bar area featuring lots of TVs and karaoke. Atmosphere feels upbeat and festive, with a friendly, family vibe that welcomes groups and celebrations. Known for fantastic margaritas and a lively setting that suits both dining and socializing.

Carnitas vary here, with some dishes praised for being very good and others described as tough and burnt. Options include a carnitas plate, burrito, and additions to other items like bean burritos.

People are saying

"I recommend the carnitas plate because they are so good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Taco Tuesday features street tacos for only $3 each.

3

Karaoke night happens every Thursday at 9pm with no cover charge.

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