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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Santa Barbara

Carnitas and Mexican food

You judge a kitchen by how they handle carnitas. If the meat isn't prepared with the right technique, the rest of the menu doesn't matter.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
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Updated May 2026
01
Maiz Picante Taqueria image 1
Maiz Picante Taqueria image 2
Maiz Picante Taqueria image 3
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Taco restaurant

Small, clean space with a modern, simple design echoes trendy Mexican taquerias. Loud, hype music sets an energetic vibe while the dining area feels tight and warm. Known for authentic tacos, vegan options, and notable margaritas, it offers a focused, 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.

Tacos stand out with authentic Tijuana style and varied fillings like asada, pastor, lengua, birria, and shrimp. Vegan and vegetarian options exist alongside fresh, high-quality tortillas.

People are saying

"These tacos are seriously delicious and flavorful."

"I loved their delicious and flavorful tacos."

"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.

02
Tacos Pipeye image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco spot with handmade tortillas and a great salsa bar creates a relaxed, funky vibe. Seating includes limited tables and counter stools inside and outside, with many ordering to-go. The crowd is mostly Latino, enjoying well-priced tacos and cold beer in a casual setting.

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.

Tacos come with homemade corn tortillas and fresh salsa, offering super flavorful bites like Pastor, barbacoa, and chorizo with papas. Dishes like mole poblano and chilaquiles show authentic Mexican cuisine with great value specials like the 3 taco lunch deal.

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.

03
Happy Cat Eats image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor seating with stunning beach views and sun umbrellas creates a casual, friendly atmosphere. The space is small but not crowded, featuring games like corn hole and a sand pit for entertainment. Music plays loudly, adding energy to the otherwise relaxed vibe 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.

Carnitas tacos and breakfast burritos stand out with rich flavors and satisfying portions. Fresh pico de gallo and well-priced tacos add to the solid Mexican food offerings.

People are saying

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

"You won't believe the mac and cheese in this Mexican Food breakfast burrito."

"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 with booths and outdoor seating creates a cozy, lively atmosphere. Family-friendly vibe includes dog-friendly indoor space and charging outlets at each table. Mornings fill with energy, blending American and Mexican touches in a welcoming setting.

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

Carnitas chilaquiles stand out as a popular dish with a delicious flavor. Breakfast burritos come with an amazing homemade green sauce and are considered among the best, while the pozole includes vegetarian options.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious with large portions."

"You have to try the carnitas chilaquiles; they're delicious."

"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
Lito's Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, quaint Mexican restaurant with a cozy and charming atmosphere. Familiar faces work behind the counter, creating a warm, family-run vibe. Big screen TV, authentic cuisine, and limited seating define the space.

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.

Breakfast burritos stand out with chorizo and sausage options. Carnitas come freshly prepared and are a favorite for take-home. Menudo offers a spicy, flavorful hangover cure. Taquitos served with guacamole make a popular special.

People are saying

"The breakfast burritos here are huge and delicious."

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

"You have to try the breakfast burritos; they're surprisingly large."

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.

06
Azul Cocina Artesanal & Cantina image 1

Outdoor courtyard offers beautiful patio with propane heaters and romantic lighting, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere. A large bar complements the modern, elegant design. Margaritas and cocktail flights stand out as popular drink choices.

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.

Mole stands out as a perfectly made, on-site specialty. Tacos with salmon and cauliflower offer impressive, delicious flavors. Drinks include refreshing Margaritas that pair well with grilled octopus and other dishes.

People are saying

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

"The Mexican food here is served in a beautiful, charming outdoor courtyard."

"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.

07
Casa Comal Cocina Tradicional Mexicana image 1

Small restaurant with an open kitchen and authentic Mexican decor creates a chill atmosphere. Outdoor seating is pleasant but limited to a few groups. Tacos and margaritas stand out as flavorful highlights.

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

Authentic Mexican food shines with fresh handmade corn tortillas and tasty street tacos. Birria tacos, Taco Norteรฑo, and Chicken Mole stand out alongside excellent margaritas.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the tacos; they're the best I've ever had."

"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.

08
Super Cucas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Vintage carniceria style blends with covered outdoor seating that includes heated areas and views of hills. The atmosphere feels authentic and comfortable, drawing a crowded, local crowd with a strong reputation for phenomenal burritos and a dedicated vegan menu.

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.

Burritos stand out with Al pastor, California burrito, and breakfast burritos all highly praised. Carnitas tacos, tortas, and aguas frescas add variety, while the green salsa complements the superburritos well.

People are saying

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

"This Mexican food is perfection, especially the burritos."

"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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