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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Santa Barbara's best

Carnitas

Carnitas that are prepared with traditional patience rather than being rushed to meet a lunch-hour demand.

Based on 505 Opinions
+502
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Updated May 2026
01
Tacos Pipeye image 1
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Taco restaurant

Small taco spot offers handmade tortillas and a great salsa bar for a relaxed vibe. Carnitas tacos feature tender pork with a rich, spicy roja queso. Casual setting with cold beer and well-priced options draws a mostly Latino crowd.

Tacos with carnitas come with tender, flavorful pork that stands out alongside other options like al pastor and barbacoa. The carnitas pair well with roja queso, adding a rich, spicy touch.

People are saying

"The handmade tortillas make this Mexican food a standout."

"The salsa bar here has a great variety, from mild to spicy."

"I've never had tacos this incredible; you have to try them."

Good to know

1

They offer a 3 taco special for $11, which is great for lunch.

2

The 4x12 deal provides excellent value for tacos.

3

There are limited tables, so most people order to-go.

02
Maiz Picante Taqueria image 1
Taco restaurant

Small, clean spot with crispy carnitas tacos and burritos. Offers authentic tacos and vegan options in a tight, warm space. Loud, hype music fuels an energetic vibe while notable margaritas complete the 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.

People are saying

"These tacos are seriously delicious and flavorful."

"I loved the variety of salsas, especially the green avocado one."

"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.

03
Happy Cat Eats image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor seating offers stunning beach views and a casual vibe with games like corn hole. Carnitas dishes shine, especially the Carnitas Fries and tacos, paired with sides like macaroni and cheese. Loud music adds energy near the pier.

Carnitas Fries stand out with rich flavor. The carnitas tacos and burrito deliver strong, satisfying taste paired well with sides like macaroni and cheese and Caesar salad.

People are saying

"I loved the outdoor seating right across from the beach."

"You have to try the breakfast burrito with mac and cheese."

"I found the carnitas tacos here to be extremely delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and there is usually no wait.

2

The restaurant has outdoor seating and a kidโ€™s menu.

3

Parking is limited, but a parking deck is two blocks away.

04
Farmer Boy image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Classic 50s diner style offers a cozy, lively vibe with booths and outdoor seating. Carnitas Chilaquiles shine with rich flavor and pair well with home fries. Family-friendly space welcomes dogs and provides charging outlets at each table.

Carnitas Chilaquiles come highly recommended and deliver rich flavor and great texture. They pair well with home fries for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious with large portions."

"The breakfast service here is so friendly and fast."

"You must try the Carnitas Chilaquiles; they were really good."

Good to know

1

Farmer Boy serves breakfast all day until closing at 2pm.

2

Parking is free and readily available near the diner.

3

Lunch prices are very affordable, making it a great value.

05
Casa Comal Cocina Tradicional Mexicana image 1

Small spot with authentic Mexican decor and an open kitchen sets a chill vibe. Tender carnitas shine in soft tacos, paired well with flavorful margaritas. Outdoor seating is cozy but limited.

Soft tacos feature excellent carnitas with a tender texture. Carnitas stand out as extremely good in flavor and quality.

People are saying

"The octopus taco is the best I've ever had."

"This Mexican food is so authentic, it reminds me of home."

"I found the carnitas to be excellent and extremely good."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on tacos, making it a popular event.

2

Street parking is available near the restaurant, but can be limited.

3

Menu items may be unavailable during lunch hours, so check ahead.

06
Lito's Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, quaint spot with a cozy atmosphere and familiar faces behind the counter. Carnitas shine in the carnitas burrito, fresh and popular. Limited seating adds to the charm, while authentic Mexican flavors keep it real.

Freshly prepared carnitas stand out with a carnitas burrito that many find fire. Buying an extra pound a la carte is common, though seasoning can sometimes be light.

People are saying

"The breakfast burritos here are huge and delicious."

"I thought the food here was delicious and excellent."

"I thought their carnitas were the best on the planet."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is small with limited seating.

2

During the lunch rush, there might be a wait for a table or the need to order to go.

3

The daily specials at Lito's come with rice, beans, and a drink.

07
Azul Cocina Artesanal & Cantina image 1

Outdoor courtyard shines with romantic lighting and propane heaters, perfect for calm evenings. Carnitas are mouthwateringly tender, paired with pesto rice and black beans. Enjoy margaritas or cocktail flights at the large, modern bar for a complete experience.

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.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor seating is so romantic with its fireplace and lights."

"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.

08
Super Cucas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Vintage carniceria style meets heated outdoor seating with hill views. Carnitas shine in the Carnitas Torta and Taquitos, while burritos impress with balanced flavors. Vegan options are solid, drawing a local crowd seeking authentic taste.

Carnitas Torta and Taquitos set a high standard here, showing strong flavors and good texture. The Carnitas California burrito hits a solid note of balance and taste, while the Super Burrito with added guacamole and Verde sauce offers a decent but less remarkable option.

People are saying

"I thought the burritos here were the best I've ever had."

"They have a dedicated vegan menu with great options like vegan chorizo."

"I found the Carnitas burrito to be pure perfection."

Good to know

1

Super Cucas has a dedicated vegan menu, including vegan cheese and vegan chorizo.

2

Parking is limited, so expect a packed lot during peak hours.

3

Super Cucas is popular among locals and often crowded.

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