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Loved by locals

Unique carnitas spots in California

Carnitas that break away from the standard preparation to offer something genuinely distinct.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
BunGraze: Flatbread Hamburgers image 1
BunGraze: Flatbread Hamburgers image 2
BunGraze: Flatbread Hamburgers image 3
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Flatbread hamburgers served with Indian fusion sauces create a unique flavor experience. The space offers a casual, welcoming vibe with both indoor and outdoor seating in a clean, quaint setting. Free arcade games like Mortal Kombat and Pac-Man provide entertainment while waiting.

A carnitas burger features juicy and tender meat combined with chargrilled grass-fed beef. It comes in a flatbread pocket, offering a flavorful twist on a traditional burger.

Burgers use a unique flatbread bun that is crispy outside and soft inside. Indian fusion sauces add distinctive flavors that make the burgers stand out from typical versions.

People are saying

"I loved their house-made flatbread instead of traditional burger buns."

"The burgers here are a unique fusion of Indian flavors and flatbread."

"I loved the Carnitas Burger on handmade flatbread."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is validated for an hour with a stamp from Bungraze.

2

The restaurant offers kosher options.

3

They recently introduced a breakfast menu.

02
Cabrillo image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop setting offers beautiful views and a calm, relaxed atmosphere with stylish, spacious decor. The vibe blends casual elegance with an upbeat cafรฉ music backdrop. It attracts diners seeking a vegetarian and pescatarian-friendly menu in a memorable environment.

Carnitas come with a noticeable saltiness and pair well with sweet potato hash. Portions suit sharing between two people.

Offers a pretty unique dining experience with delicious and unique food that stands out.

People are saying

"The oyster mushroom omelet with goat cheese had a great creamy texture."

"This was a pretty unique dining experience with delicious food."

"The carnitas and sweet potato hash were great and could be split."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Cabrillo offers private event hosting for groups of 50-70 people.

3

The restaurant features a diverse menu with vegetarian and pescatarian options.

03
Maiz Picante Taqueria image 1
Taco restaurant

Small, clean space with a modern, simple design echoes trendy Mexican taquerias. Loud, hype music sets an energetic vibe while the dining area feels tight and warm. Known for authentic tacos, vegan options, and notable margaritas, it offers a focused, no-frills experience.

Crispy carnitas stand out in tacos and burritos, offering a satisfying texture. Dishes often pair carnitas with birria, rice, beans, and a variety of salsas that complement the rich flavors.

Tacos come with a unique flavor and the menu offers distinctive options. The enchiladas present a different concept of delicious and the atmosphere feels fun and unique.

People are saying

"These tacos are seriously delicious and flavorful."

"The tacos here have a unique flavor that's amazing."

"I loved the crispy carnitas, especially in a burrito."

Good to know

1

Parking is available behind the building via Alamar.

2

The restaurant is open late for takeout but not for dine-in after 9 PM.

3

The menu includes great vegan and vegetarian options.

04
Tahona Mercado image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with custom hardwood tables and premier tequila and mezcal selection creates a refreshingly remodeled space. Atmosphere feels easy and inviting, suited for casual dining or a date. Tacos stand out with fresh tortillas and unique flavors, complemented by a well-curated market of authentic Mexican products.

Carnitas come out super juicy and fatty, packed with flavor in tacos, tortas, and mulitas. The richness stands out alongside other bold menu items.

Mexican tacos stand out with mushroom tacos that are both unique and well made. A distinctive tequila and mezcal selection complements a varied snack lineup, including treats like tutuli and 'What the Flan'.

People are saying

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

"These carnitas are super juicy and fatty."

"I loved their unique and distinctive tequila and mezcal selection."

Good to know

1

Mezcal tasting events are held on select evenings; check the schedule for details.

2

Pop-up events occur on weekends, featuring local vendors and unique offerings.

3

The shop offers a curated selection of authentic Mexican products and artisan goods.

05
La Vecindad Neighborhood TACOS image 1

Colorful outdoor seating and kitsch Mexican vecindad decor create a lively, fun atmosphere with cool vibes. Unique salsa bar and flavorful micheladas add to the experience. The place feels like a casual trip south of the border with inviting, spacious surroundings.

Tacos feature crispy, flavorful carnitas that stand out. Options include classic carnitas and combinations with other fillings like cochinita and shrimp.

Unique salsa bar stands out with a variety of options. Decor features a real Mexican style that shapes the original atmosphere. The pepino margarita offers a distinct flavor.

People are saying

"I ate the best tacos I have ever eaten here."

"The tacos here are insane, especially the Al Pastor."

"The carnitas tacos tasted like they were just pulled out of the pot."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers 2 tacos for $8 and $9 house margaritas.

2

Happy hour runs Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3 to 6 pm.

3

Each canned or bottled soda is priced at $4.

06
IZOLA image 1
Bakery

Bright, open bakery with heated patios and live local music creates a warm, inviting vibe. Small indoor space fills quickly, making it lively and social with families, dogs, and shared tables. Unique entry by buzz-in adds a speakeasy feel to the experience.

Fusion croissants stand out with the Carnitas Croissant offering a unique blend of flavors. These croissants have 96 layers of butter and deliver a taste that rivals traditional French versions.

Croissants come in unique flavors like bibimbap and carnitas, offering a memorable twist on the classic. The Lao Gan Ma sourdough balances spice and tang perfectly, adding to the distinct options available.

People are saying

"This croissant is impossibly flaky, buttery, and fresh."

"You have to try their unique croissants; they're flaky, buttery, and creative."

"The carnitas croissant is a unique and amazing fusion."

Good to know

1

Live music performances happen every Saturday morning.

2

Pre-ordering is recommended as popular items often sell out quickly.

3

Expect long lines on Saturday mornings, especially for croissants.

07
Sancho's Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Indoor and outdoor seating surround a space filled with colorful, edgy artwork and unique, nostalgic decor. Loud music featuring rap and metal creates a high-energy atmosphere that some find disruptive. The bar offers a variety of beers and excellent margaritas, complementing the casual, fun vibe.

Tender and tasty carnitas stand out in the Federale Tacos. Each carnitas taco offers a distinct and exceptional flavor that pairs well with other taco options like chicken and tri-tip.

Fun and unique atmosphere with great music sets the mood. Food includes unique tacos and salsas with twists on traditional recipes.

People are saying

"The tacos and burritos here are excellent."

"I found the carnitas here to be tender and tasty."

"The atmosphere here is fun and unique."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays feature half-price tacos on the first five menu items.

2

Salsa must be purchased separately; it's not included with tacos.

3

The special price for tacos is $2.50 each.

08
Cholita Linda image 1
Latin American restaurant

Wide open seating offers stunning bay views and a breezy outdoor patio. Lively Latin music creates a chill, Cuban-inspired atmosphere. The place draws a mix of locals and tourists enjoying casual, self-service dining by the water.

Tacos with tender carnitas stand out here, often preferred over carne asada. The carnitas tacos come with a flavorful, juicy filling that pairs well with other options like fish tacos.

Sandwiches stand out with their amazing and unique flavors. Tacos offer a tasty twist, and the mango drink features a tamarind flavor that sets it apart.

People are saying

"These fish tacos are out of this world."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be very tasty."

"The tacos and drinks here have such unique flavors."

Good to know

1

Cholita Linda does not provide table service.

2

Cholita Linda is handicap accessible.

3

There are no restrooms inside the restaurant, but public restrooms are available at the ferry building.

09
Hola Adios Coffeeshop image 1

Quirky, stylish decor fills a small space with lively, youthful energy and great music. Many locals gather here, creating a welcoming, chill vibe ideal for remote work with free Wi-Fi and ample seating. The atmosphere balances fun and comfort, making it a hidden gem for breakfast and coffee.

Menu includes carnitas street burrito and Carnitas Biscuit Sandwich with Spanish-inspired names. The carnitas breakfast burrito offers a savory, hearty option.

Bold, nutty flavor defines their GMS coffee. Unique food options like pacoโ€™s complement the charming decor.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee options were great and the Spanish lattes excellent."

"The staff here is so friendly, it's a unique experience."

"I tried the carnitas breakfast burrito and it was yummy."

Good to know

1

Their kitchen closes at 2pm.

2

Parking can sometimes be challenging, but street parking is available.

3

Food might require a wait if itโ€™s busy.

10
MADRE MEXICAN RESTAURANT & MEZCALERIA image 1

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.

Flavors here stand out with unique and delicious tastes not found elsewhere. The interior design feels classy and distinct, paired with a huge heated patio that changes the usual vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The food here is so good and beyond what you can get anywhere else."

"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.

11
Azul Cocina Artesanal & Cantina image 1

Outdoor courtyard offers beautiful patio with propane heaters and romantic lighting, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere. A large bar complements the modern, elegant design. Margaritas and cocktail flights stand out as popular drink choices.

Carnitas come mouthwateringly tender with pesto rice and black beans. The dish includes a modernized pico de gallo and is generally tasty, though sometimes a bit undersalted.

Elevated Mexican flavors come with a unique ambiance that blends food, drinks, and environment seamlessly. The dishes stand out for their delicious and unique taste.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious and truly unique."

"The carnitas here are mouthwateringly tender and fall apart."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges $10 for bottled water and $10 for tostadas.

2

Expect an additional $15 charge on your card without explanation.

3

The menu offers vegetarian options and local vegetables.

12
Cocina 35 Brunch image 1

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.

A beautiful tree inside creates a charming ambiance. The Mexican concha pastry cart adds a special touch. Food offers excellent and unique flavors not found elsewhere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and bursting with authentic flavor."

"Jesi's attentive service made the whole experience feel unique."

"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.

13
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.

Flavors combine in unique sauces and pairings that stand out. The desert rose cocktail offers a complex mix, while the chips and salsa deliver a distinct taste.

People are saying

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

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

"The Chile relleno's sauce is amazing and truly unique."

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.

14
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.

Creative cocktails stand out on the drink menu, offering many unique options. The salsa tray features a variety of spice levels and distinct flavors. Courteous service adds to the overall experience.

People are saying

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

"The carnitas tacos here are outstanding and tasty."

"The drink menu has unique, creative cocktails."

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.

15
City Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco shop offers outdoor seating with gas fireplaces and a dog-friendly patio. Atmosphere stays laid back and fun, featuring a DJ and fire pits that create a lively yet relaxed vibe. Salsa bar adds a fresh, generous touch to the experience.

Massive carnitas burrito costs under $10. Carnitas tacos come with chicharron on top and pair well with fish or surf and turf options.

Tacos feature unique pairings and inventive flavors with multiple sauces to try. The menu includes street style tacos and a scallop taco that stands out for its distinct taste.

People are saying

"The Mexicali taco here is amazing and super fresh."

"The tacos here are unique with inventive pairings and delicious sauces."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were good."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday at City Tacos includes $2.50 Mexican beer and 10% off food.

2

City Tacos offers vegan options alongside a variety of tacos.

3

Parking is convenient and generally available near City Tacos.

16
Taco Land image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with Disney-themed decor and a clean, well-stocked salsa bar creates a unique and fun atmosphere. The vibe is generally friendly and comforting, suitable for families with kids. Music plays in the background, adding to the casual dining experience.

Carnitas here taste fresh and flavorful with a rich, satisfying texture. Street tacos showcase authentic preparation alongside other excellent pork options like pork belly.

Tacos include unique creations like the Dark Vadar and Pork Belly varieties. Burritos feature unexpected twists such as Hot Cheetos and chilaquiles fillings. A Kobe mural adds a special vibe for fans.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

"The birria tacos and nachos are unique and incredibly flavorful."

"I thought the carnitas here was to die for."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $1.50 tacos, making it a popular event.

2

The restaurant does not accept $100 bills, so plan accordingly.

3

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

17
Kalaveras image 1
Restaurant

Rustic decor with colorful murals and lively lighting creates a vibrant setting. Loud music, often reggaeton, fills the space, making it feel more like a night club than a quiet restaurant. Large booths and a full bar support a social, energetic atmosphere where dancing and karaoke happen.

Tender texture stands out in the carnitas, though flavor is milder compared to other meats. Portions like the crispy carnitas taco are notably small and come at a higher price point.

Dishes show a unique style with distinct seasoning. The restaurant itself has a beautiful and unique atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is really good, especially the taco deals."

"The carnitas here are tender and great."

"The dishes and seasoning here have a unique style."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 PM with discounted drinks.

2

Unlimited mimosas are available until 3 PM during brunch.

3

Taco Tuesday features special discounts on tacos.

18
Mercado Gonzรกlez Northgate Market image 1

Mexican grocery store combines vibrant decor with live mariachi music and a full bar inside. Atmosphere feels lively and festive, often with a DJ and food stations creating a chaotic yet welcoming vibe. Outdoor seating adds a quaint touch, making it a unique blend of shopping and entertainment.

Freshly made carnitas stand out with a variety of pre-prepared options like salsas and guacamole. The carnitas here often surpass those from other well-known spots and come alongside dishes like mole and ceviche.

Unique space offers produce items rarely seen north of the border. The overall experience stands out from typical supermarkets.

People are saying

"This grocery store has amazing prepared Mexican food and fresh items."

"I found the shopping environment unique, like a culinary tour."

"I really enjoyed the carnitas, they were made fresh."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every weekend, enhancing the shopping experience.

2

Menudo is served only on Fridays and Saturdays from 6 AM to noon.

3

Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends.

19
The Breakfast Club at Midtown image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Breakfast spot offers cramped seating with many small tables and a loud, lively atmosphere dominated by hip hop music. Crowds fill the space, creating a busy, energetic vibe where conversation is difficult. Top-notch service complements the bustling environment.

Eggs Benedict with carnitas features rich avocados and crispy hash browns. The carnitas Benny offers a delicious, satisfying portion that pairs well with a drink.

Menu features unique and inventive dishes beyond typical breakfast fare. Herb potatoes and hash browns stand out with distinct flavors and textures.

People are saying

"The brunch here is classic and hearty, with huge portions."

"I thought the carnitas Benny was soooo good."

"The menu has unique, inventive dishes beyond typical breakfast."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited at the downtown location.

2

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

3

Expect a wait time of at least 30 minutes on weekends.

20
Sayulitas Mexican Food San Diego image 1

Mexican restaurant offers huge portions with a variety of unique fusion dishes blending Mexican and Filipino flavors. Atmosphere includes a free hot sauce bar featuring orange habanero sauce and flavorful salsas. Food quality varies, but burritos stand out for their size and satisfying taste.

Carnitas come with good flavor and are packed with meat in the burrito. Tacos de al Pastor and carnitas tacos are pretty good, but carne asada and carnitas quality is sub-par.

Menu features unique fusion food like the Pacman burrito with tocino. Burritos are large and have a distinctive flavor.

People are saying

"The food portions here are huge; you'll have leftovers."

"I ordered huge and unique burritos here."

"The carnitas burrito was packed with meat and had good flavor."

Good to know

1

The portions at this restaurant are huge and can easily serve two meals.

2

Daily specials offer great deals on select menu items.

3

Ordering ahead online is recommended due to limited parking.

21
Vallarta Supermarkets image 1
Mexican grocery store

Mexican grocery store features full-service bakery, family Sports Bar, and sit-down restaurant within a colorful, lively space. The atmosphere is packed and energetic, especially during busy times. Shoppers find a huge variety of items and enjoy fresh baked goods and a social dining experience.

Carnitas come freshly made and stand out for their excellent flavor. They appear in burritos and other Mexican dishes alongside tacos and chilaquiles.

Large selection of Latin American products stands out. The market offers a unique shopping experience with a variety of items not found in typical grocery stores.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so fresh, especially the made-to-order guacamole."

"I found tons of unique Latin American products here."

"The carnitas here were excellent."

Good to know

1

Vallarta Supermarkets offers a wide selection of Hispanic foods and products.

2

The store features a hot food cafe, beer tap, and sushi options.

3

Parking can be challenging, so plan accordingly.

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