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Guide to San Diego

Authentic carnitas

You want carnitas that are prepared with the patience and technique required for the real thing.

Based on 788 Opinions
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01
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Small, charming Mexican restaurant with handmade tortillas and a varied salsa bar. Inside seating features traditional decorations like piñatas and mellow yellow lighting, creating a friendly, authentic vibe. The atmosphere feels lively and welcoming, reflecting a family-run, homely energy.

Tacos showcase authentic Baja Cali Mexican flavors with homemade tortillas and fresh ingredients. Carne asada stands out as very authentic, complemented by a variety of great salsa choices.

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

People are saying

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

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

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.

02
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Small Mexican restaurant offers clean interior and spacious patio seating with a pleasant outdoor vibe. Atmosphere stays cool and relaxed with good music and a comfortable setting. It attracts those looking for a casual spot to enjoy fresh, well-regarded tacos and burritos.

Sweet people serve fresh authentic Mexican food with delicious carnitas tacos and perfect horchata that is not too sweet.

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 birria plate was epic and authentic Mexican food."

"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.

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Small space with heated outdoor seating and picnic tables creates a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere. Upbeat music adds to the chill vibe while friendly staff contribute to a comfortable experience. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant spot despite the surrounding urban grunge.

Food features authentic home-cooked flavors with ingredients sourced from Tijuana. The dishes deliver a genuine taste of SoCal tacos that stands out.

Carnitas stand out for their rich flavor and generous portions. Tacos and burritos packed with carnitas taste great on their own without needing extra salsa.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be truly authentic and home-cooked."

"The carnitas tacos here are flavorful and have a perfect char."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited in the downtown area, so arrive early.

2

Expect long wait times during peak lunch hours.

3

The restaurant does not have a restroom available for customers.

04
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Mexican restaurant offers colorful storefront and outdoor seating with views of the pier. Atmosphere shifts from quiet early afternoons to a lively vibe later, enhanced by Mexican music and a self-serve salsa bar. Affordable drinks include $5 margaritas and draft beers, complementing well-regarded tacos and burritos.

Fish tacos come breaded and large, staying true to Baja style. Rice and beans taste authentic and complement the tacos well.

Shredded carnitas meat comes well seasoned, juicy, and tender. Large portions appear in tacos and plates, with options to customize burritos loaded with fatty carnitas.

People are saying

"The carnitas here are so moist, tender, and well-seasoned."

"The fish tacos are authentic Baja style and fantastic."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, enjoy $2.50 street tacos and two for $5 specials.

2

Happy hour features $3 pints and $6 margaritas from 2 to 6 PM and all day on weekends.

3

Outdoor seating is available for dogs.

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Food truck setup with charcoal grill aroma creates an authentic Tijuana-style taco experience. Atmosphere feels lively and festive with faint mariachi music, though outdoor seating is limited and tight. Bright, blue-shifted patio lights add a distinct visual element.

Tacos feature warm corn tortillas with a touch of oil and are loaded with toppings for a flavorful, authentic experience. The food reflects true Tijuana-style street tacos with a tortilla full of meat and genuine Mexican flavors.

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

"I found the street tacos here to be authentic and delicious."

"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.

06
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Bright, open space with Mexican artistic decor and a colorful, festive atmosphere creates a family-friendly vibe. The setting is quiet and chill, making it comfortable for conversation and relaxed dining. A nice patio adds outdoor seating options.

Authentic Mexican juices and ices stand out alongside Mexican home cooking that tastes like grandma's. The Cafe de olla is sweet and rich without creamer, and the decor reflects genuine Mexican style.

Carnitas come in big portions and feature in tacos alongside fish and beef options. The meat is a key part of several dishes including suiza enchiladas and Carne en su Jugo.

People are saying

"The Mexican home cooking here is authentic, just like grandma made it."

"The carnitas tacos came with a big portion of meat."

Good to know

1

There is a big parking lot in the back.

2

Street parking is limited.

3

The prices were extremely reasonable.

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Small space with stainless steel tables and a flame grill creates a lively, inviting atmosphere. Patrons enjoy authentic Mexican tacos with fresh handmade tortillas and a self-serve salsa bar. The vibe feels like home despite limited parking and simple surroundings.

Tacos, tortas, and quesadillas deliver authentic Mexican flavors with rich, traditional seasoning. Bottled Mexican Coke complements the meal, enhancing the genuine dining experience.

Juicy and tender meat comes with a perfectly crispy finish. Carnitas tacos arrive with beans and rice, making a solid meal.

People are saying

"I thought their carnitas tacos were the best I've had anywhere."

Good to know

1

Street parking is extremely tough during peak hours.

2

Parking can get tricky when the restaurant gets busier.

3

There is a surcharge for card use, so I recommend bringing cash.

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Small Mexican restaurant with beachy vibes and limited indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere is relaxed but affected by flies inside and outside and minimal air circulation from a weak ceiling fan. Locals often order at a walk-up counter, enjoying authentic tacos and burritos near the beach.

Tacos and tamales stand out for their authentic flavors and traditional preparation. The food captures a genuine local Mexican taste.

Fresh bread complements the carnitas in the torta. The carnitas itself is solid and flavorful.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic tamales and tacos here."

"The carnitas here were good."

Good to know

1

There is limited seating available both inside and outside.

2

Street parking can be challenging near the restaurant.

3

The burrito costs $13 and is similar in size to a Taco Bell burrito.

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Converted 1930s cable car offers a cozy, vintage vibe with a whimsical, cute atmosphere inside and a tropical-style garden patio outside. The space feels fresh and family-owned, attracting those who enjoy casual, authentic Mexican dining in a unique setting.

Tacos and the "Chila Killers" dish deliver authentic Mexican flavor. Food comes freshly made with a homemade feel, especially at breakfast.

Carnitas appear in several dishes like tacos, tostadas, and a torta named Pancho Villa. They come alongside eggs in the Divorciados and Logan dishes, showing versatility across meals.

People are saying

"I found the tacos to be very authentic and freshly made."

"I enjoyed the carnitas torta at El Carrito."

Good to know

1

You order at the counter and then choose a table.

2

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

3

Parking can be hard to find near the restaurant.

10
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Mexican restaurant with authentic imported tile floors and retro neon signs creates a space that feels like an 80s cantina. The atmosphere is dark and casual, offering ample seating for sit-down meals. It operates 24/7, attracting a steady flow of people looking for late-night Mexican food.

Decor features imported tile floors, vintage signage, and retro neon signs that reflect the local vibe. Mexican food includes homemade tortillas and dishes with an authentic taste and generous portions.

Tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, the carnitas deliver a strong flavor punch. The carnitas tacos and Carnitas Plate stand out for their rich taste and satisfying texture.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious and authentic, with homemade tortillas."

"The carnitas here are tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park is open 24 hours and on holidays.

2

The prices at Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park are very good, especially for Southern California.

3

The prices range from 3 to 12 dollars, making it affordable.

11
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Small Mexican restaurant offers authentic carnitas with a unique flavor and generous portions. Atmosphere feels warm and family friendly despite outdated decor and dim lighting. Only cash payments accepted, with an ATM available on site.

Carnitas here have a Michoacán-style flavor that stays true to tradition. The food feels authentic Mexican, served in a simple, no-frills setting where locals mostly eat.

Juicy and flavorful carnitas stand out with a unique taste not found elsewhere. Serving consistently authentic and excellent carnitas makes it a great choice for any time of day or special occasions.

People are saying

"These carnitas are fantastic and definitely worth visiting."

"I found the carnitas here to have an authentic Michoacan flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash payments; an ATM is available on-site.

2

Expect to pay around $5 per taco, with no posted individual prices.

3

The restaurant can get very crowded, especially during peak hours.

12
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Simple, authentic Mexican restaurant with homemade tortillas and a clean salsa bar. Atmosphere feels welcoming and lively with mom and pop energy and music adding to the vibe. Known for generous portions and tender carne asada tacos, it stays open late when few others do.

Food comes with authentic flavor and is made with care. Nachos stand out for their great flavor. Drinks include authentic Mexican sodas and fresh in-house juices. The atmosphere feels very genuine.

Tender and flavorful meat defines the carnitas here, served in generous portions. Options include tacos and burritos, with some preferring the tacos plain to highlight the meat's taste.

People are saying

"The tacos here are so authentic and flavorful."

"These carnitas were so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

El Charro Taco Shop is open 24/7, making it a late-night food option.

2

Each taco costs $6.50, providing a budget-friendly meal choice.

3

The burrito is under $15, offering good value for a filling meal.

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Small hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant with canteen-style seating and outdoor tables offers a lively, authentic atmosphere reminiscent of old 70s establishments. Noise levels rise at night, creating an inviting, energetic vibe. Known for excellent tacos and burritos with freshly made tortillas and standout lengua tacos.

Street tacos deliver a very authentic taste with generous fillings. The atmosphere feels like a slice of traditional Mexico, making the food and vibe truly authentic.

Carnitas tacos come cooked to perfection with onions, cilantro, and hot sauce. The mulitas de carnitas feature crunchy tortillas filled with carnitas and melted cheese.

People are saying

"I found the tacos to be juicy, flavorful, and truly authentic."

"The carnitas tacos and mulitas are still delicious."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash payments; Zelle and Venmo are also options.

2

The establishment closes at 3:00 am, catering to late-night visitors.

3

Parking is available, but the lot is very small.

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Narrow space with rail seating and a self-serve salsa bar offers a casual, hole-in-the-wall vibe. Atmosphere feels humble and welcoming, though seating can be cramped. Outdoor tables provide a pleasant alternative when weather allows.

Tacos here deliver authentic Mexican flavors with fresh ingredients and great portions. Outdoor seating adds to the small, welcoming atmosphere.

Cubed carnitas come well seasoned with a mix of moist tender meat and crispy roasted pieces. Fatty bits add rich flavor, and salsa helps balance dryness when needed.

People are saying

"The tacos here taste so authentic and flavorful."

"The carnitas are moist, flavorful, and have crispy parts."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer a buy 2 get 1 free deal on tacos.

2

The restaurant is open until 3 AM for late-night eats.

3

Parking can be challenging since it's located in Gaslamp.

15
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Small space with outdoor seating and a rustic, bright atmosphere near the beach creates a casual vibe. Country music plays softly while a salsa bar adds a lively touch. The place draws a mix of locals and late-night diners seeking authentic Mexican flavors.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with spicy heat and large portions. Flour tortillas taste genuine, adding to the overall authenticity.

Carnitas tacos come in generous portions and pair well with other items like burritos al pastor and carne asada. Plates are large enough that finishing the carnitas plate can be a challenge.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Mexican food and the great flour tortillas."

"These carnitas are some of the best tacos I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant opens at 7 am, but check for any delays.

2

There is no restroom available for customers on the premises.

3

Sufficient seating is available both indoors and outdoors.

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Outdoor seating dominates with four and two-top tables under an open door that warms the space. A salsa bar adds a lively touch, complementing the homemade tortillas and generous portions that define the menu. The atmosphere balances casual dining with affordable prices and a steady lunch rush.

Tacos and burritos come with fresh corn tortillas and feature nopal tacos that stand out for their authentic flavor.

Carnitas come in dry and stringy cuts, but the burritos use great quality meat. Plates with al pastor and carnitas offer rich flavors.

People are saying

"I had the best authentic tacos and burritos I've ever had."

"I thought their carnitas burritos were great quality."

Good to know

1

Watch out for long wait times during the lunch rush.

2

The restaurant offers generous portions for the price.

3

Homemade tortillas are used in all dishes.

17
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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.

Carne asada torta delivers an immaculate, authentic Mexican taste. Flour tortillas and salsas stand out with great authenticity.

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.

People are saying

"I tasted authentic Mexican flavors in the immaculate carne asada torta."

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.

18
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Open, spacious dining area features bright murals and mounted TVs creating a casual, authentic vibe. A self-serve salsa bar with hot carrots adds interactive flavor options. The atmosphere suits relaxed meals with family and friends, blending modern comfort with traditional Mexican elements.

Fresh, flavorful dishes capture authentic Mexican flavors. The atmosphere matches with a genuine, authentic vibe throughout.

Carnitas show up in tacos and nachos with a delicious, tasty flavor. They come alongside other meats like al pastor and carne asada, often priced at 99 cents each for tacos.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh, flavorful, and authentic Mexican food here."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers four tacos for $7 starting at 2 PM.

2

Happy hour runs from 4 to 8 PM with fish tacos at $1.29 each.

3

They accept credit cards only; no cash payments.

19
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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.

Food bursts with authentic Mexican flavors and stays fresh. Dishes like chilaquiles feel homey and have aesthetic appeal.

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.

People are saying

"The chilaquiles here are splendid and bursting with authentic Mexican flavors."

"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.

20
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Mexican restaurant with colorful interior featuring cactus-themed wallpaper and cowboy hat decorations offers a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Seating includes covered outdoor patio and ample indoor space, complemented by a self-serve salsa bar. Drive-thru service adds convenience to the experience.

Very good casual authentic Mexican food comes at reasonable prices. The menu offers an extensive selection of authentic dishes including authentic tacos.

Smoky flavor defines the carnitas here, making it rich and distinct. Served in burritos and tacos, the portions lean toward moderate size.

People are saying

"I found the authentic tacos here to be very good."

"I had a solid carnitas burrito here."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $7 for each taco, which is on the higher side.

2

The restaurant offers generous portions, especially for tacos.

3

Combo prices range from $10 to $20, which is reasonable for the area.

21
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Small space with counter dining and stacked chairs creates a simple setting. Atmosphere feels cold and outdated, lacking warmth or charm. Offers authentic Baja-style Mexican food with generous portions and fresh tortillas at reasonable prices.

Offers authentic Mexican food with flavors true to tradition. Prices stay reasonable while keeping the dishes genuine.

Carnitas tacos show mixed results. Some find the flavorful carnitas phenomenal, while others consider them disappointing.

People are saying

"You have to try the carnitas tacos; they were phenomenal."

"I found the Mexican food here to be the most authentic I've had."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer 5 mini tacos for $10.

2

Parking is available in the strip mall lot, but can fill up quickly.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller orders.

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.

Authentic Mexican food shines here with home style flavors and flavorful dishes. The spot feels like a true hole-in-the-wall serving genuine Mexican cuisine at reasonable prices.

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.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and flavorful."

"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 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.

Mexican food here tastes very authentic with dishes matching those found in many traditional spots. The menu avoids non-traditional toppings like red cabbage, keeping flavors true to classic recipes.

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.

People are saying

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

"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.

24
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Mexican restaurant with an open floor plan and large windows creates a bright, airy feel. Outdoor patio seating with heaters offers a comfortable spot even in cooler weather. The vibe suits a younger crowd, blending stylish decor with a lively atmosphere.

Mexican dishes here have authentic flavors and a vibrant atmosphere. The food tastes excellent and stays true to traditional recipes.

Carnitas tacos feature tender meat with a warm, satisfying flavor. Portions lean slightly small but pair well with sides like queso and flan.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here tastes authentic and is a must-visit."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2-4pm on weekdays and all day on Tuesdays.

2

The bar area offers a special happy hour menu with great options.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

25
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Mexican restaurant with cozy indoor seating and clean, well-decorated interior creates a vibey atmosphere. The place offers an excellent salsa bar and a large menu featuring flavorful tacos and birria. Portions tend to be affordable and satisfying, making it a solid spot for authentic Mexican food.

Menu offers a huge variety of Mexican dishes. Food does not reflect authentic Mexican cuisine.

Carnitas here are flavorful and tender with a good mix of ingredients in the chips. The carnitas burrito tends to be on the smaller side.

People are saying

"I found the most authentic Mexican food with a huge menu."

"I thought the carnitas here were very delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has no public restrooms available.

2

Parking can be tight, so arrive early.

3

Dine-in is not allowed; takeout only.

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