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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Costa Mesa

Carnitas spots

Carnitas that honor the traditional process instead of just mimicking the texture.

Based on 542 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tacos & Carnitas Pepe’s image 1
Tacos & Carnitas Pepe’s image 2
Tacos & Carnitas Pepe’s image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with authentic carnitas that beat local rivals. Breakfast tacos are traditional and generous. Casual vibe in a small shopping center with easy parking makes dining simple and affordable.

Authentic Mexican carnitas stand out with super delicious flavor and quality. They surpass offerings from other local spots like El Toro and Taco Mesa.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas were amazing and authentic Mexican."

"I thought the carnitas were authentic Mexican and super delicious."

"I'd return just for the folded tacos dorados."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located in a small shopping center where parking is usually available.

2

The location is near the beach, making it a convenient spot to grab food.

3

The prices at Tacos & Carnitas Pepe’s are reasonable.

02
Wahoo's Fish Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Casual spot with skate and surf decor offers generous portions of tasty, healthy fish tacos and burritos. Carnitas tacos shine with citrus slaw adding fresh flavor. Seating is comfy with easy order-at-counter service.

Carnitas come in tacos with a citrus slaw that adds a fresh twist. The meat is flavorful and pairs well with other options like fish.

People are saying

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

"The fish tacos are delicious and healthy."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Wahoo's Fish Taco offers a good variety of menu options.

2

The portions at Wahoo's Fish Taco are generous.

3

Wahoo's Fish Taco is a casual, order-at-the-counter setup.

03
Los primos Cantina #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot serves authentic Mexican dishes with large portions like carne asada tacos and loaded nachos. Carnitas shine in a rich burrito and nachos. Vibrant vibe makes dining inviting despite challenging parking and higher prices.

Carnitas show up in a loaded nachos dish and a super delicious burrito. The burrito stands out for its rich flavor and satisfying portion.

People are saying

"I ordered a breakfast burrito that cost $15.00."

"I loved the big, tasty tacos here."

"I ordered a carnitas burrito and it was super delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging near the restaurant.

2

The breakfast burrito costs $15.

3

Portions are generous at this restaurant.

04
El Campeon Carniceria #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall spot serves authentic Mexican street tacos with generous carnitas piled high. Small space buzzes with a local vibe and offers homemade tortillas at very reasonable prices. Bilingual staff help make ordering easy and friendly.

Large tacos come stacked with generous carnitas, onions, and cilantro. The carnitas serve as a hearty filling that can make several tacos. Options include tacos and sopes featuring carnitas.

People are saying

"I thought their al pastor tacos were stellar."

"The tacos at this market are unreal good, especially the carnitas."

"The carnitas taco was huge and stacked with toppings."

Good to know

1

Prices average around $50 per week for protein purchases.

2

Bilingual staff are available to assist with ordering.

3

The market offers a variety of fresh meats, vegetables, and hot food by the pound.

05
El Toro Bravo Tortilleria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Large boilers make homemade tortillas and chips in a busy, no-frills spot with limited seating. Carnitas are tender and juicy, served with fresh tortillas and salsa in generous portions. The place feels authentically Mexican despite its chaotic, unsanitary vibe.

Carnitas come tender and juicy with a rich flavor that stays moist and never dry. The Carnitas Family Combo offers a generous portion, fresh tortillas, chips, and salsa, making it a solid choice for sharing or solo meals.

People are saying

"The food portions here are generous and a great value."

"You have to try the tortillas; they're made fresh on the spot."

"I found the carnitas here delicious and not chewy."

Good to know

1

El Toro Bravo Tortilleria is a take-out only place with no seating available.

2

Masa sells out quickly, so arrive in the morning for the best chance.

3

Expect long wait times during lunch hours due to high demand.

06
Hola Adios Coffeeshop image 1

Quirky decor and lively music create a youthful vibe perfect for remote work with free Wi-Fi and ample seating. Carnitas dishes like the street burrito offer hearty, savory flavors. Locals gather here for a chill spot with great coffee and breakfast.

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

People are saying

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

"I thought the breakfast biscuits were amazing and balanced."

"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 it’s busy.

07
Tacos Madre Mexican Cocina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with authentic decor and handmade tortillas. Carnitas are tender and perfectly seasoned, great for keto. Vibrant, family-friendly vibe with lively Spanish music makes it a chill local favorite.

Carnitas come out incredibly tender and seasoned to perfection with authentic flavors. Plates and street tacos featuring carnitas deliver great taste and work well in keto options.

People are saying

"I found the fish tacos to be amazing."

"You have to try their amazing handmade tortillas."

"The carnitas here are super flavorful and taste homemade."

Good to know

1

Parking at the restaurant is very limited, so arrive early.

2

Expect wait times of up to 30 minutes during peak hours.

3

Taco Tuesdays offer great deals on tacos.

08
Que Vida Tacos Costa Mesa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with fresh margaritas and a lively vibe. Carnitas tacos and burritos offer rich flavor, especially the carnitas burrito. Seating includes bar and outdoor tables, all in a clean, open space.

Carnitas come in tacos and burritos with a delicious, rich flavor. The carnitas burrito stands out as especially satisfying.

People are saying

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

"I found the breakfast burrito to be muy bueno."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were great."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers three tacos for the price of two.

2

The Taco Tuesday deal costs $11.50 for three tacos.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers.

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Costa Mesa, California

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