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Carnitas spots in San Diego

Slow-cooked, tender pork is the only thing that hits the spot.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Contodo Fresh Mexican Eats image 1
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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.

02
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, piñatas 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.

03
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.

04
Smoky Habanero Mexican Cuisine image 1

Spacious seating and a clean, bright atmosphere make dining comfortable. Carnitas feature a unique mix of shredded and cubed pieces, served in burritos and tacos with spicy carrots. Friendly staff and NFL and NBA games on screen create a welcoming, casual vibe.

Shredded pieces stand out in the carnitas, offering a mix of cubes and shreds. The carnitas appear in burritos, tacos, and meat plates, paired with items like guacamole and spicy carrots.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was the best in town."

"The chips and salsa here are served warm and taste freshly made."

"I found the carnitas burrito to be one of the best."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers both dine-in and takeout options.

2

Most menu items are made in-house, ensuring freshness.

3

Parking might be difficult to find in the area.

05
Karina's Ceviche Bar 'N Tacos image 1

Small, laid-back spot with a large front patio perfect for relaxing. Fresh seafood shines, sold right at the market on site. Carnitas tacos offer rich flavor and tender meat, while the burrito is a hearty choice alongside birria.

Carnitas tacos stand out with rich flavor and tender meat. The Carnitas Burrito offers a satisfying, hearty option alongside the birria.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is fresh and delicious."

"I found the carnitas to be incredible."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks.

2

Parking is available on-site for visitors.

3

The restaurant is now called MARISCOS GERMAN.

06
Ocho Mexican Food & Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Walk-up window and outdoor tables create a casual vibe with bright Mexican-style decor. Carnitas tacos are excellent and affordable at $2.29. Vibrant colors and planes overhead add charm to this quick, flavorful spot.

Carnitas come in tacos and burritos that are filling and well-priced. The carnitas taco stands out as excellent, and the $2.29 taco options include asada, pollo, carnitas, and adobada.

People are saying

"I thought the breakfast burrito was the best I'd ever had."

"The Carne Asada burrito was meaty, not over salted, and so good."

"You should try the Carnitas; they're an awesome experience."

Good to know

1

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

2

There is no seating available, so plan to eat standing or take out.

3

Parking can be tough to find on weekends; expect to walk a few blocks.

07
Roxy’s Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with heated outdoor seating offers a vibrant, chill vibe with upbeat music. Carnitas shine with rich flavor and generous portions in tacos and burritos. Friendly staff make the experience comfortable despite urban surroundings.

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 had the best burrito I’ve ever had."

"The fried fish tacos here are so good, I ordered them again."

"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.

08
Rocko's Family Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, open space with Mexican artistic decor offers a festive, family-friendly vibe. Carnitas come in big portions and star in tacos and enchiladas. Quiet, chill setting with a nice patio makes it great for relaxed dining and conversation.

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

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

"There's plenty of parking available in the back."

"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.

09
Ortiz's Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, family-owned spot serves authentic tacos and the best California burritos with perfectly cooked carnitas. Casual, no-frills setup offers quick service and affordable, high-quality Mexican food. Steady crowd enjoys flavorful alternatives like buche and al pastor.

Perfectly cooked carnitas appear in tacos and California burritos, offering a flavorful alternative to carne asada. The carnitas tacos stand out alongside other options like buche and al pastor.

People are saying

"This Cali burrito is excellent, truly the best I've tasted."

"I thought Ortiz's tacos were the best I had in San Diego."

"I thought the carnitas were perfect."

Good to know

1

Parking is tough due to the limited lot size, which has barely 12 spaces.

2

If the parking lot is full, consider parking at the Plaza next door.

3

To save time, call in your order at least 15 minutes prior for fast pickup.

10
Caliente Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant in an old house offers a cozy atmosphere and a great patio for outdoor seating. Soft tacos with fresh carnitas are flavorful and generously sized. Perfect for quick meals or relaxed dining with well-seasoned meats.

Soft tacos filled with fresh carnitas offer a delicious flavor and come in a good size. The carnitas consistently taste excellent.

People are saying

"Edgar made the dining experience enjoyable and went above and beyond."

"I thought the Cali burrito was incredible, loaded with meat and fries."

"The carnitas here are fresh, delicious, and a very good size."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tight during peak hours, so arrive early.

2

Catering services are available for both small and large groups.

3

They offer options for dietary restrictions, making it inclusive.

11
Nico's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, historic spot with a beachside atmosphere and casual vibe. Known for best breakfast burritos and excellent carnitas in tacos and burritos. Cash only with ATM inside keeps prices competitive and setting chill.

Excellent carnitas stand out in both burritos and tacos. Plates showcase rich flavor and tender meat consistently.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and super tasty."

"I thought the carnitas burrito was the best I ever had."

"I thought their carnitas plate was the best."

Good to know

1

Nico's Mexican Food is cash only, but there is an ATM inside.

2

The pricing is great, with a four-course meal for $12.00.

3

Enjoy 5 rolled tacos for just $6.75.

12
Don Lucio's Taco Shop II image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican joint offers affordable, large portions with a modest ambiance. Carnitas burritos feature rich, flavorful meat that is tender and filling. Regulars enjoy warm interactions with the friendly team behind the counter.

Carnitas burritos stand out here with rich, flavorful meat that keeps people coming back. The meat is tender and packed into generous burritos that many find hard to stop eating.

People are saying

"The salsa here is amazing, with a perfect spiciness."

"You won't believe how huge these burritos are for the price."

"I thought the carnitas here were the best around."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located behind Trader Joe's, accessible only from that entry.

2

There is a good amount of parking available in front of the restaurant.

3

The food is affordable with reasonable prices compared to other local options.

13
La Vecindad Neighborhood TACOS image 1

Colorful outdoor seating and kitsch Mexican decor create a lively vibe. Tacos shine with crispy carnitas and unique combos. Enjoy flavorful micheladas at the unique salsa bar for a fun, casual trip south of the border.

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

People are saying

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

"The Bisteces Rancheros seafood is so good, my tastebuds went wild."

"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.

14
Johnny Mañanas Ocean Beach image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with juicy carnitas served in large portions. Outdoor seating offers pier views and a lively vibe with Mexican music. Enjoy $5 margaritas and a self-serve salsa bar that complements well-regarded tacos and burritos.

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 staff here are super friendly and attentive."

"These fish tacos are super tasty and crispy."

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

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.

15
Chacho's Tacos image 1
Restaurant

Fresh Mexican tacos shine with juicy carnitas and homemade salsas. Casual, homey vibe pairs perfectly with the adjacent brewery's cold beer. Self-service kiosk adds convenience but can slow ordering.

Juicy and full of flavor, the carnitas tacos stand out with their succulent texture. They pair well with a cold beer and come alongside other solid taco options like carne asada and pollo adobado.

People are saying

"The Carne Asada tacos here are really good and flavorful."

"The shrimp tacos here are flavorful and not fishy at all."

"The carnitas here are super juicy and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Most tacos cost about $3.99, making it an affordable option.

2

The food truck has shaded outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying your meal.

3

Catering services are available for events, providing a convenient option for large groups.

16
Yesenia's Mexican and Seafood image 1

Covered patio and earth tones create a calm, tropical vibe. Carnitas come in huge portions with mild seasoning, making them a standout. Homemade sauces and fresh tortillas add authentic flavor to generous Mexican dishes.

Carnitas come in a huge portion that can last for dinner later. They are mildly seasoned to perfection and rank among the best Mexican food around.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas were some of the best Mexican food I've had."

"The fresh tortillas and salsa are amazing with Outdoor Seating."

"The carnitas here are some of the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Brunch is available on Saturdays.

2

The restaurant opens at 6 am.

3

There is a nice-sized parking lot.

17
Tacaliente Mexican Grill image 1

Open dining space with bright murals and TVs sets a casual tone. Carnitas shine in tasty tacos priced at 99 cents each. Self-serve salsa bar with hot carrots adds fun flavor options for relaxed meals with friends.

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 found the tacos here to be fantastic and packed with flavor."

"The fish tacos here feel like family thanks to Matthew's warm welcome."

"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.

18
Señor Taquero image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space feels cozy but cramped, with a fresh salsa bar adding zest. Carnitas shine in pork tacos and burritos, cooked right before you. Affordable prices and bold flavors make it a top spot for quick Mexican eats.

Pork tacos stand out with well-done carnitas that sometimes come with verde and pico. Burritos with carnitas also appear frequently and get positive mentions for their flavorful fillings.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be fantastic and a good deal."

"The fresh salsas here are juicy, delicious, and have a great kick."

"I found the carnitas taco to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Señor Taquero is a tiny spot with limited seating, accommodating about 8 people.

2

Three tacos for $8 is a popular daily special.

3

The place is primarily takeout, with limited indoor seating available.

19
Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park image 1

Mexican spot shines with authentic tile floors and retro neon signs for a cool 80s vibe. Carnitas are tender and juicy, making tacos and plates a must-try. Open 24/7, it offers a dark, casual atmosphere perfect for late-night cravings.

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

"This is the best hole-in-the-wall Mexican food taco shop."

"This is a great late night spot, open 24 hours."

"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.

20
Los Panchos Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Cozy dining space buzzes with festive music and a lively vibe perfect for groups. Carnitas tacos offer a unique flavor that stands out. Self-serve salsa bar adds a fun, interactive touch to the homey atmosphere.

Carnitas show up in several forms here, including tacos and a huge fries plate. The carnitas tacos stand out as a favorite, offering a good and different taste from the usual.

People are saying

"The birria tacos and soup here are amazing."

"I loved their awesome selection of tasty salsas."

"I liked the carnitas tacos the most."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special deals that attract many guests.

2

Parking frequently gets tight in this strip mall.

3

There is a 50-cent fee to use debit cards.

21
Tacos El Panson image 1
Taco restaurant

Small space with flame grill creates a lively vibe. Carnitas are juicy and crispy, served with beans and rice. Fresh handmade tortillas and a self-serve salsa bar add authentic flavor. Parking is limited but atmosphere feels like home.

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 these were the best tacos in San Diego."

"The salsa bar here is the best in town."

"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.

22
Mr. Ruribertos Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space near the beach offers a rustic, bright atmosphere with outdoor seating and soft country music. Carnitas tacos are generous portions and pair well with burritos al pastor and carne asada. Locals and late-night diners enjoy authentic Mexican flavors in a casual vibe.

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 thought this was the best Mexican food in Mission/PB."

"The breakfast burritos here are delicious and filling."

"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.

23
Santana's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Fast casual spot offers quiet atmosphere and drive-through convenience. Carnitas shine with a crunchy maillard crust and tender inside, evoking Rosarita beach flavors. Vegetarian options stand out, making it a solid choice for diverse tastes.

Carnitas have a perfect sear with a crunchy maillard crust. The meat stays tender, moist, and crispy on the outside, recalling traditional flavors from Rosarita beach.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really quite tasty."

"You've gotta try the carnitas; they're tender, moist, and crispy."

"The Carnitas taco was so tender, moist, and crispy."

Good to know

1

The drive-thru may close up to 1.5 hours earlier than posted hours.

2

Expect higher prices for extra ingredients in your order.

3

Vegetarian options are more abundant than at competing restaurants.

24
Porkyland Mexican Grill - Carmel Country Plaza image 1

Mexican spot offers small flavorful burritos with standout carnitas and fresh veggie tacos. Clean interior and a salsa bar with three salsas and cut limes add to the experience. Portions are modest and served in single-use plastic containers.

Carnitas come in a good portion size with a perfect taste. The carnita burrito stands out alongside veggie tacos.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, just like real Mexican cuisine."

"I found the carnitas burrito to be awesome and delicious."

"The carnitas burrito had an awesome portion size and taste."

Good to know

1

Food specials are available every Tuesday.

2

Expect to pay around $14 for a smaller burrito.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment.

25
Robert's Jalapenos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mini sports bar offers help-yourself salsa bar and free chips with large portions of fresh Mexican food. Carnitas shine in tacos and burritos but could use more salt. Cozy vibe with lively music and indoor/outdoor seating makes it a great casual spot.

Carnitas appear in tacos, burritos, and plates with good flavor but sometimes need a bit more salt. Options include carnitas tacos and carnitas burritos alongside other meats.

People are saying

"The salsa verde here is great, and the staff is super friendly."

"This breakfast burrito is packed with great chorizo flavor."

"I thought the carnitas tacos needed a bit more salt."

Good to know

1

Robert's Jalapenos serves breakfast burritos all day.

2

Taco Tuesday offers great deals on food.

3

The establishment is clean and well-maintained.

26
Verdes El Ranchero image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot with a cozy bar and lively vibe plays classic rock, perfect for a casual night. Carnitas Burrito shines with its cheese crisp special, though the carnitas plate is milder. Pets are welcome, adding to the friendly atmosphere.

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 food here to be delicious and authentic."

"The Mexican Food here is great, especially the margaritas."

"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.

27
Birrieria Y Menuderia Guadalajara image 1

Spacious Mexican spot shines with handmade tortillas and classic Mexican music. Carnitas are highly recommended and pair well with standout birria and menudo. Bright natural light adds to the authentic atmosphere for a casual weekend meal.

Carnitas come highly recommended here and deliver a solid, satisfying flavor. This spot works well for a casual weekend meal featuring birria and carnitas.

People are saying

"You have to try the goat birria and menudo here."

"The Mexican food here is so authentic, it feels like Mexico."

"I thought the carnitas here was good."

Good to know

1

Parking can be limited and a little difficult, so patience is needed.

2

The menu has limited options for menudo tripe, only the blanket one is available.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food served.

28
Las Morelias image 1
Mexican restaurant

Big Mexican spot serves juicy carnitas in a 1lb mix with tortillas and beans. Cozy vibe shifts from colorful to casual decor. Try the refreshing Michelada for a perfect drink pairing.

Michocán-style juicy carnitas come in a 1lb surtido mix with tortillas, beans, onions, cilantro, and lemons. The mix of carnitas and chicharrón tacos stands out, often ordered by the pound with half carnitas and half buche.

People are saying

"I loved the flavorful, fresh carnitas tacos."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"I found the Michoacán-style carnitas here to be amazing and juicy."

Good to know

1

Parking is located at the back of the restaurant.

2

The prices were not on the menu.

3

The plate could easily feed four people.

29
El Charro Taco Shop image 1

Enjoy tender carnitas in generous portions, especially in tacos that highlight the meat's flavor. Homemade tortillas and a clean salsa bar add authentic taste. The lively, welcoming vibe with mom and pop energy keeps the place open late for a great late-night meal.

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

"These tacos are so good and completely full of meat."

"I thought the surf and turf burrito was the best I ever had."

"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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