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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Carnitas in San Francisco

Made for those who track down authentic carnitas and refuse to settle for anything less than the traditional preparation.

Based on 505 Opinions
+502
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Updated June 2026
01
Ruby’s image 1
Restaurant

Woodwork with Redwood finish sets a casual vibe perfect for outdoor seating. Carnitas tacos shine with rich flavor and tender texture, while kids love the carnitas quesadilla. Locals enjoy fresh tacos and well-crafted margaritas in a lively spot.

Tacos feature carnitas that stand out for their flavor and texture. Kids plates include a carnitas quesadilla that is a family favorite.

People are saying

"The tacos here have such fun flavors and generous sizes."

"You've got to try the guacamole with the homemade salsa."

"I loved the carnitas tacos; they were off the charts good."

Good to know

1

Ruby's has both indoor and outdoor seating options.

2

Parking in this neighborhood can be very difficult.

3

The menu offers a good variety of tacos and flavor options.

02
Suavecito Birria & Tacos SF image 1

Big sliding window and one small table create a chill vibe perfect for quick bites. Carnitas tacos shine with green sauce that lifts flavor. Late weekend hours and reasonable prices make it a great spot for casual takeout.

Carnitas tacos come with a green sauce that really lifts the flavor. The mix of carnitas and beef birria in tacos stands out as a solid choice.

People are saying

"This food is packed with flavor and perfectly seasoned."

"The birria tacos were so good, I'd return just for them."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be amazing, especially with the green sauce."

Good to know

1

Currently, they operate with an order-at-the-window takeout setup.

2

They are open late on weekends.

3

The restaurant has limited seating available.

03
Al chile image 1
Restaurant

Simple dining room with direct sunlight sets a casual vibe. Carnitas shine with rich flavor in dishes like the California Burrito. Friendly crowd of families and teens adds to the lively local spot feel, perfect for enjoying authentic Salvadoran food.

Carnitas come with rich flavor and a satisfying texture. They appear in dishes like the California Burrito and stand out alongside other Mexican favorites.

People are saying

"I found the food to be amazing and delicious."

"You have to try the shrimp and fish tacos; they're amazing."

"I found the carnitas in my burrito to be incredible."

Good to know

1

Al chile is open for lunch and dinner, and for breakfast at weekends.

2

Expect generous portion sizes, especially for pupusas and quesabirrias.

3

The restaurant offers a combination of Mexican, Salvadoran, and Nicaraguan flavors.

04
Tahona Mercado image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with juicy carnitas in tacos and tortas, offering bold, rich flavors. Custom hardwood tables add charm to the inviting atmosphere perfect for casual meals or dates. A premier tequila selection and authentic market round out the experience.

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

People are saying

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

"Their local beer selection is incredible."

"These carnitas are super juicy and fatty."

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
Cholita Linda image 1
Latin American restaurant

Wide open seating offers stunning bay views and a breezy outdoor patio. Tacos with tender carnitas shine alongside fresh fish options. Lively Latin music sets a chill, Cuban-inspired vibe for locals and tourists alike.

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.

People are saying

"These fish tacos are out of this world."

"The Cuban sandwich had the perfect amount of mustard and pickles."

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

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.

06
Zona Rosa Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic Mexican flavors and a welcoming vibe for LGBTQ+ individuals. Carnitas tacos shine at $2.50 during happy hour, offering great value. Colorful space filled with Mexican music creates a lively, inclusive atmosphere.

Carnitas tacos cost $2.50 during happy hour and offer good value. The carnitas have a strong following and appear in burrito bowls and tacos, often paired with guacamole.

People are saying

"This burrito is huge, delicious, and super filling."

"The salsa here is so fresh and packed a punch."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were pretty great."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for only $3 each.

2

Happy Hour is available on Taco Tuesday.

3

The restaurant has no restrooms available for customers.

07
Tacolicious image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot buzzes with a loud atmosphere and chill outdoor seating. Mushroom carnitas deliver rich flavor while cola-infused ones add a fresh twist. Margaritas shine as a notable drink choice for casual hangs and games.

Mushroom carnitas stand out with rich, satisfying flavor. Cola-infused carnitas offer a fresh, tasty twist in the tacos.

People are saying

"The tacos here are delicious, especially the carnitas."

"I loved their creative vegetarian tacos, especially the mushroom carnitas."

"The mushroom carnitas were exceptionally flavorful and tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect high prices; tacos can cost $7 each.

2

Happy hour offers great specials on tacos and drinks.

3

Loteria game night features fun specials and a lively atmosphere.

08
Cenote image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant has a warm vibe with clean, well-decorated space. Carnitas are BBQ style but lack crispiness, served in tacos and burritos. Offers quality Mexican food with notable margaritas and vegetarian options for varied tastes.

Carnitas here have a BBQ pulled pork style and a texture similar to microwaved meat. They appear in tacos and burritos but lack traditional crispiness.

People are saying

"I thought the street tacos, like asada and carnitas, were super tasty."

"I enjoyed the happy hour here; it was nice."

"I tried the carnitas in a Cali burrito and street tacos."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with great portions and prices.

2

Breakfast special available with a large menu from 8 to 11 am.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian options.

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San Francisco, California

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