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Guide to Illinois

Carnitas spots

Carnitas that are slow-cooked until they fall apart, rather than the dry, shredded meat that usually passes for the real thing.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Migos Fine Foods image 1
Migos Fine Foods image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Small space with eclectic decor and real plants creates a warm vibe. Lamb carnitas are tender and delicious, pairing well with other dishes. Classic hip hop music sets a chill atmosphere while outdoor patio and kiosk ordering add casual comfort.

Lamb carnitas come tender and fall apart at a touch, with a just right portion size. They taste very delicious and pair well with other dishes like beans and chicken tacos.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"You have to try the biscuits with chipotle honey butter."

"The lamb carnitas here are so tender and delicious."

Good to know

1

Everything at this place is halal, as indicated by the logo.

2

There are many vegetarian options available on the menu.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak hours.

02
Chicago’s Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with Michoacán style carnitas that are tender and well-seasoned. Family-friendly vibe includes toys and books, making it welcoming for kids. Casual setting filled with the smell of grilled perfection draws taco lovers seeking quick, flavorful meals.

Michoacán style carnitas stand out with well-seasoned, tender meat. Carnitas tacos come highly praised for their delicious flavor and satisfy alongside steak and pastor options.

People are saying

"The tacos here are delicious and full of amazing flavor."

"I personally recommend the shrimp burrito; it was bomb."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers catering services for any type of event.

2

During the anniversary, the chef gives away tacos or a rose to customers.

3

They have a special Lent menu available throughout the season.

03
Paty's Restaurant Carnitas y otras Delicias image 1

Mexican restaurant offers handmade tortillas and a homey atmosphere perfect for families or solo diners. Carnitas come in generous portions and taste delicious, making them a standout choice alongside other authentic dishes. Clean, warm setting enhances the experience.

Good carnitas come in generous portions, with 2 pounds available to take home. The meat is delicious and filling, making it a solid choice alongside other dishes like guaraches and quesadillas.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and tasty."

"The handmade tortillas here are something else."

"I found the carnitas here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The menu is available in both English and Spanish.

2

Everything is homemade, including the tortillas.

3

Expect a wait time of less than 15 minutes during busy hours.

04
Taqueria Carnitas El Ojon image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy juicy carnitas with rich Michoacán flavor, paired with rice and beans. Unique quezabirrias and spicy salsas add bold taste. Atmosphere shifts from family-friendly warmth to lively crowds with music and gambling.

Carnitas here are juicy and tender, never dry or overly oily. They have amazing flavor and come from Michoacán style, served with rice and beans that complement well.

People are saying

"I found the carnitas to be tender and flavorful."

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

"The salsas here are amazing and have just the right spice."

Good to know

1

Every Tuesday, there is a $2 taco special.

2

The $2 taco special does not include the Ojon taco.

3

Portions of tacos are larger than what you pay for.

05
Carnitas Los Raules image 1
Mexican restaurant

Family-run spot serves authentic Michoacán carnitas that sell out fast, creating a lively early rush. Generous portions come with fresh tortillas and zesty salsa, plus excellent beans and guacamole. Clean, simple space keeps focus on delicious tacos loved by regulars.

Carnitas here are consistently delicious and run out fast due to high demand. The tacos come with excellent beans and guacamole, making for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"These carnitas are the best I've had in a very long time."

"The salsas here are authentic and always fresh."

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

Good to know

1

Arrive early as they often sell out within two hours of opening.

2

The restaurant is only open two days a week.

3

Expect long waits during peak hours due to high demand.

06
Taqueria Diamante image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot with a laid-back, Mexican vibe and friendly energy. Carnitas shine with fresh flavor in tacos and burritos. Casual, cafeteria-style setting feels homey and inviting with a BYOB policy adding to the relaxed, local feel.

Carnitas come with fresh flavor and a lot of taste. They stand out alongside barbacoa and pastor in tacos and burritos.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and tasted homemade."

"The tacos here are amazing with well-seasoned fillings."

"I loved the carnitas; they had so much flavor and tasted fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB and there is a liquor store just a few doors down.

2

The prices are very reasonable, making it easy to try a variety of items.

3

The restaurant can get busy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

07
Carnitas La Michoacana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with Michoacan-style carnitas known for rich flavor. Family-friendly vibe pairs well with handmade tortillas and spicy dishes. Limited parking and weekend waits add to its low-key charm.

Michoacan-style carnitas stand out for their excellent flavor and great taste. Sold by tray or half tray, they suit big families and have become a weekend tradition for many.

People are saying

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

"I found the carnitas here to be the best in Chicago."

"You have to try their handmade tortillas; they make the whole meal."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available, but can be difficult to find.

2

They prefer cash payments, with an extra surcharge for credit card use.

3

Dine-in and takeout options are available, with large portions for families.

08
Rica's Carnitas Estilo Michoacan image 1

Known for authentic Michoacán-style carnitas, this no-frills Mexican spot offers juicy, tender tacos with rich sauce. Family-friendly vibe and affordable prices make it a great choice. Limited dine-in space keeps it cozy and casual.

Carnitas here are Michoacan-style, very tender and packed with flavor. The tacos come with plenty of sauce and deliver a rich, authentic taste.

People are saying

"I found the carnitas to be authentic, hot, and juicy."

"You've gotta try the dollar tacos on Fridays!"

"The homemade tortillas here are a nice touch."

Good to know

1

Rica's offers dollar tacos on Fridays.

2

Tacos at Rica's are only $1 on Fridays.

3

They provide a small bag of onions, cilantro, jalapenos, and carrots with each order.

09
Naperville Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Counter setup inside a supermarket offers a casual vibe with authentic Mexican energy. Juicy, perfectly spiced carnitas tacos shine alongside burritos with grilled veggies. Fresh aromas and flavorful dishes create a cozy atmosphere ideal for quick bites or relaxed meals.

Juicy, perfectly spiced meat fills the tender carnitas tacos served with soft, warm tortillas. Burritos also feature the same grilled veggies alongside the carnitas.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be the best I ever had."

"I thought the burrito was packed with bold, fresh flavor."

"The carnitas here are so tender and juicy."

Good to know

1

The taqueria is located inside a grocery store.

2

Expect reasonable prices for authentic Mexican food.

3

Everything is made fresh in-house daily.

10
La Altena image 1
Grocery store

Small, cozy store offers best carnitas with rich flavor and crispy chicharrones on weekends. High-quality meats and authentic Mexican products shine alongside fresh fruits and pan dulce. Great prices and a strong community presence make it a local favorite.

Weekend carnitas stand out with rich flavor and crispy chicharrones. Staff cooking adds to the experience, making the Sunday carnitas especially notable.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the carnitas, is the best I've ever tasted."

"I thought the carnitas here were the best I ever tasted."

"The Grocery Store's carnitas and arrachera are so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

La Altena offers a wide variety of authentic Mexican cooking ingredients.

2

Prices at La Altena are competitive for the quality of products offered.

3

The market is known for its high-quality meats and fresh produce.

11
Carniceria Ruiz image 1
Grocery store

Small grocery store and butcher offers hand-trimmed skirt steak and fresh barbacoa with authentic Mexican food. Carnitas shine on weekends, made from a family barbacoa recipe and paired with homemade spicy salsa. Prices stay reasonable with a variety of snacks and essentials.

Fresh homemade salsas complement the delicious carnitas made from a family barbacoa recipe. Weekend visits highlight the best carnitas in the city with a rich, authentic flavor.

People are saying

"Their homemade salsa is so fresh and delicious."

"I found the skirt steak here to be incredible and tenderized."

"I found their carnitas and salsa to be very delicious."

Good to know

1

On weekends, they offer barbacoa and menudo.

2

The selection of meat is excellent and fresh.

3

Prices for groceries are very reasonable.

12
Taqueria y Carnitas Don Valdez image 1

Enjoy juicy carnitas served in tacos or toasted telera bread with fresh, handmade tortillas. Cozy, family-friendly spot offers BYOB and a fun candy section. Taco Tuesdays feature $1.50 tacos, making it a great value with generous portions.

Carnitas come juicy and flavorful with a soft texture and perfectly cooked meat. Portions are generous, often served in tacos or a toasted telera bread with tasty sides.

People are saying

"The carnitas here are amazing and remind me of home."

"I found the al pastor tacos to be amazing."

"I found the carnitas to be excellent and very tasty."

Good to know

1

$0.99 tacos are available on Tuesdays, but arrive early or call ahead.

2

They offer $1.50 tacos on certain Tuesdays.

3

Homemade tortillas are available on weekends for a slight upcharge.

13
La Casa De Alegria Grocery image 1
Mexican grocery store

Mexican grocery store shines with excellent carnitas and customizable orders. Weekend crowds savor menudo and tamales known for quality. Unique items like crispy brain tacos add authentic flair.

Excellent carnitas stand out here, often paired with menudo on weekends. The carnitas come alongside birria and chicharrón, all prepared with rich flavors.

People are saying

"I found the carnitas here to be excellent."

"I found the carnitas to be excellent Mexican food."

Good to know

1

You can customize your order based on your preferences, unlike many other places.

14
Tacos Los Gallillos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy authentic tacos with perfectly seasoned carne asada and house-made salsa that balances heat well. The carnitas torta offers rich flavor and tender meat, making it a hearty choice. Cozy, vibrant space suits quick, affordable takeout with clean, fresh food.

Carnitas torta stands out with rich flavor and tender meat. Tacos and quesadillas with carnitas also deliver excellent taste and satisfy with hearty portions.

People are saying

"The food here is ridiculously good and delicious."

"The Mexican food here is authentic and flavorful."

"I was blown away by how amazing the carnitas were."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required as the restaurant is primarily for takeout.

2

The restaurant has limited seating with only a couple of tables available.

3

Prices are reasonable, making it a budget-friendly option for meals.

15
La Mexicana Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

New Mexican spot serves tender carnitas in tacos and burritos with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Enjoy a friendly atmosphere with 90s music and exceptional salsa and guacamole. Unique tofu options add variety to the menu.

Carnitas here stand out for their tender texture and rich flavor. They appear in tacos and burritos with high-quality ingredients.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so fresh and well seasoned."

"The peach habanero salsa is extra hot in the best way."

"The carnitas here are so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Pickup is not available; orders must be placed for delivery.

2

Parking at the Wrigley location can be challenging compared to the original site.

3

Expect to pay extra for added ingredients in your burrito.

16
Taco Place image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with authentic flavors and homemade salsas. Carnitas tacos are juicy and crunchy, making them a must-try. Clean, simple decor keeps focus on food, perfect for quick takeout without distractions.

Juicy and flavorful with a little crunch, the carnitas tacos stand out. They come well-prepared and deliver a satisfying taste experience.

People are saying

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

"I loved the variety of homemade salsas with great flavor."

"The carnitas here are juicy, flavorful, and have a great crunch."

Good to know

1

Taco Place is mostly a takeout restaurant with limited seating.

2

They offer a variety of homemade salsas to choose from.

3

Prices are reasonable, with a family of four eating for $47.

17
Carnitas La Central LLC image 1

Small local grocery store offers authentic Mexican food with fresh, flavorful carnitas served hot. Shelves are well-stocked, and deep fried gorditas made from carnitas stand out. Busy atmosphere and high prices reflect quality and variety.

Carnitas come fresh and hot with deep fried gorditas made from carnitas. The flavor is very flavorful and satisfying, consistently delicious even after ownership changes.

People are saying

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

"I found the carnitas to be the best I have ever had."

"I found the carnitas to be the best in all the suburbs."

Good to know

1

Mojarras are only available on Fridays.

2

Expect a line during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Prices are generally higher than average for similar food options.

18
Tiffany's On Broadway image 1

Cozy spot with a laid-back atmosphere and loud club music sets a lively mood. Carnitas dishes shine, especially the carnitas egg Benedict and sliders with crispy fries. BYOB policy and nearby liquor store keep drinks easy and local.

Carnitas egg Benedict offers a filling start. The carnitas sandwich special comes with crispy shoestring fries. Carnitas sliders pair well with a refreshing watermelon aguita.

People are saying

"The Steak And Eggs here are delicious and perfectly cooked."

"I was considering getting another burger because it was so good."

"The Carnitas egg Benedict was extremely good and filling."

Good to know

1

Tiffany's On Broadway is BYOB, and there is a liquor store next door.

2

Expect longer wait times if the kitchen is busy due to limited staff.

3

The food comes out as it is ready, not all at once.

19
Tapicozza image 1
Mexican restaurant

Booths create a welcoming vibe in a clean space. Carnitas tacos offer lots of meat with creamy green salsa. Menu features authentic Mexican food with large portions and excellent vegetarian options at reasonable prices.

Carnitas tacos come with lots of meat and great quality. They pair well with creamy green salsa and stand out alongside other tacos like lengua and tripa.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food here, especially the tacos and quesadillas, had lots of meat."

"The food here is amazing, especially the salsas."

"The carnitas tacos had lots of meat and great quality."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Fridays and Saturdays from 5 to 9 p.m. with drink specials.

2

Prices for pizzas start at $10, offering good value for the size.

3

It takes about 20-30 minutes to prepare an order.

20
La Cocina De Don Ramón image 1

Cozy spot offers crispy carnitas that are juicy and flavorful. Homey decor creates a family-friendly vibe where locals feel at ease. Authentic Mexican classics shine in a peaceful, neighborly setting perfect for relaxed meals.

Carnitas come out crispy, moist, and flavorful. Tacos filled with juicy carnitas deliver a satisfying bite every time.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The salsa here is amazing, with staff offering different kinds based on your preferences."

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

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special deals on tacos and drinks.

2

Prices are reasonable for the generous portion sizes.

3

They offer unique menu items like deshebrada beef tacos and Burritos Duranguense.

21
La Providencia Grocery image 1

Grocery store offers friendly service and a strong community vibe. Known for rich carnitas and delicious tacos, it also serves weekend barbecue dishes. Over 30 years of presence ensures consistent quality and reasonable prices.

Carnitas here stand out for their rich flavor and tender texture. The menu also features menudo and barbacoa, all consistently delicious.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the carnitas."

"I tried the al pastor taco; it was the best I've ever had."

"I thought the Carnitas here were the best in Pilsen."

Good to know

1

La Providencia Grocery sells barbecue, cochinita pibil, and menudo on weekends.

2

They have been in business for over 30 years.

3

Prices at La Providencia Grocery are reasonable.

22
El Charro Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious interior with beautiful murals creates a lively vibe. Carnitas tacos offer rich flavor and tender meat. Family-owned spot feels cozy and welcoming with authentic Mexican music enhancing the experience.

Carnitas tacos stand out with rich flavor and tender meat. Other dishes like Tripa, alambre, and el pastor also deliver strong, delicioso taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"This Mexican food burrito is the best I've ever eaten."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be some of the best I had."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $1.99 select tacos, making it a great deal.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

3

They charge extra for card payments, so cash is recommended.

23
El Gordito Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Gas station spot serves authentic Mexican flavors with quick service and lively noise from kids. Carnitas tacos shine with rich flavor and tender meat, paired well with Al Pastor and chicken. Fresh toppings and homemade tamales add to the diverse taco options.

Carnitas tacos stand out with rich flavor and tender texture. They pair well with other meats like Al Pastor and chicken, all prepared with care.

People are saying

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

"The tacos here are the best in the suburbs."

"The carnitas tacos here are authentic and tasty."

Good to know

1

The taqueria is located inside a gas station, which may limit seating.

2

Expect limited hours; the place closes at 3 PM.

3

They do not serve drinks, so bring your own or visit a nearby store.

24
Los Primos Fresh Market & Taqueria image 1

Supermarket with a casual taqueria offers fresh market products and a neighborhood-friendly atmosphere. Carnitas are flavorful and fresh, standing out among meat-packed tacos. Prices stay reasonable, making it a great spot for local Mexican food.

Carnitas have a fresh taste and come with delicious flavor. They stand out alongside other Mexican dishes like chicharrones and grilled meats.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is packed with meat, especially the tacos and gorditas."

"The Al Pastor tasted like it was cut straight off a trompo."

"I enjoyed the fresh taste of the carnitas."

Good to know

1

The price of $4.50 each for the Gorditas is reasonable.

2

Expect timely food preparation during busy hours.

3

The place maintains a clean environment for diners.

25
Dosbros Fresh Mexican Grill and Catering - Bolingbrook image 1

Mexican grill offers bold seasoning and generous portions in a clean, comfortable setting with moderate music. Carnitas bowls provide solid flavor, while fast service suits quick lunches without sacrificing quality.

Bowls with carnitas stand out as a solid choice here. The carnitas and barbacoa both deliver good flavor, though some find other spots offer stronger carnitas.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and flavorful."

"The salsa here is a wonderful balance of spice and flavor."

"You've got to try the carnitas, they're so good."

Good to know

1

Expect generous portions that are larger than typical fast-casual restaurants.

2

Prices are similar to Chipotle, with two bowls costing around $27.

3

The restaurant is known for its fast service, ideal for quick lunches.

26
Steak Burrito Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean space offers a casual vibe perfect for lunch or dinner. Carnitas shine in tacos and quesadillas with solid flavor. Known for high-quality steak burritos, dishes pack flavorful punch that stands out in the neighborhood.

Carnitas show up in several dishes like quesadillas, tacos, and gorditas. They have a solid flavor and pair well with chorizo and chicken in combo plates.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The steak at this Mexican food place is so good, it's the best I've ever had."

"I thought the carnitas were good, rated an 8 out of 10."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 10-15 minutes during busy lunch hours.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of menu options, including vegetarian choices.

3

Prices are reasonable, with meals averaging around $15 per person.

27
La Flor Grocery Store image 1

Carnitas are moist and tender with bold seasoning, perfect in Bolios or Teleras. Lines move fast near tamales, which come in spicy green and piña flavors. Also try the excellent nopales and notable menudo for a full experience.

Carnitas come well seasoned, moist, and tender. They offer Bolios and Teleras for tortas with carnitas.

People are saying

"The carnitas here are so flavorful and moist."

"The carnitas here are flavorful, moist, and tender."

Good to know

1

Carnitas are available on weekends, making it a popular choice.

2

Expect a long line during peak hours, but it moves quickly.

3

Bolios and Teleras are available for those wanting carnitas in a torta.

28
Frida's Cocina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a lively, welcoming vibe with a beautiful mural and community energy. Carnitas Michoacán stands out with flavorful pork and spicy verde sauce. Sports bar feel blends with American rock music for a unique dining experience.

Pork shines in the Carnitas Michoacán, served with a side of verde sauce and jalapeño. The carnitas tacos offer a flavorful, classic take on this dish.

People are saying

"I loved the Mexican food here; everything was delicious!"

"These al pastor tacos are the best I have ever had."

"I ordered the Carnitas Michoacán with a side of verde sauce."

Good to know

1

Parking at Frida's Cocina is easy and accessible.

2

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities.

3

Prices at Frida's Cocina are affordable and reasonable.

29
Dulce De Leche Cafecito image 1

Cozy space with calm vibe invites relaxed visits and quiet talks. Juicy, tender carnitas shine in dishes like chilaquiles with spicy salsa verde and torta ahogada. Careful preparation makes flavors stand out for regulars.

Juicy and tender carnitas appear in dishes like chilaquiles and a torta ahogada sandwich. The chilaquiles come with salsa verde that has a good heat level.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is great, and the food is delicious."

"Their iced Dulce De Leche latte was perfect and not too sweet."

"The Carnitas here are so good, you can tell they're passionate about them."

Good to know

1

The outdoor seating is dog friendly and offers a pup cup for pets.

2

There is free parking available around the neighborhood.

3

They accommodate various dietary needs for customers.

30
La Mera Mera image 1
Mexican restaurant

Modern space with a cozy vibe and festive decorations welcomes guests. Authentic Mexican cuisine shines with tender carnitas in tacos and burritos. Freshly made margaritas complement the well-put-together interior blending charm and flair.

Carnitas come out tender and flavorful in tacos and the el mero burrito. Dishes with carnitas pair well with beans and rice, offering a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so flavorful and fresh."

"The tortillas here are homemade and very good."

"I tried the carnitas and they were great."

Good to know

1

The menu features a variety of authentic Mexican dishes made from homemade ingredients.

2

Expect to pay around $4.50 for soft drinks like Coca Cola and Jarritos.

3

Flour tortillas incur an additional charge compared to corn tortillas.

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