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Mexican food carnitas tacos

Made for those who define their dining standards by the quality of the carnitas taco within the broader landscape of Mexican cuisine.

Based on 788 Opinions
+785
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Updated May 2026
01
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Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere with toys and books for kids. The vibe is casual and peaceful, filled with the smell of grilled perfection. Known for some of the best tacos in the city, it attracts those seeking quick, flavorful meals.

Carnitas tacos come with tender, flavorful meat that stands out among other options like carne asada and pastor. Multiple tacos can be enjoyed in one sitting, each delivering a satisfying taste.

Tacos al pastor and steak tacos stand out with rich flavors and tender meat. Tostadas and tortas offer solid variety, all at very reasonable prices.

People are saying

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

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

"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.

02
Rica's Carnitas Estilo Michoacan image 1

No frills Mexican restaurant with a family-friendly atmosphere and limited dine-in space. Known for authentic Michoacán-style carnitas that are hot, juicy, and tender, often considered the best in the area. Prices are affordable, with specials like $1 tacos on Fridays and free sides included with meals.

Carnitas tacos come with amazing taste and generous servings. Fridays feature $1 carnitas tacos, making them a standout option.

Michoacan-style carnitas stand out for their tenderness and rich flavor. Menudo and carnitas tacos are highlights, with dollar tacos on Fridays adding a unique touch.

People are saying

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

"I found the carnitas to be the best Mexican food around."

"I loved the dollar carnitas tacos on Fridays."

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.

03
Taqueria y Carnitas Don Valdez image 1

Small Mexican restaurant offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with BYOB and a fun candy section that adds charm. Known for generous portions and exceptional carnitas, meals come with fresh, handmade tortillas and classic sides. Prices stay fair, especially on Taco Tuesdays with $1.50 tacos.

Savory and sticky with fat and collagen nicely rendered, the carnitas tacos deliver rich flavor and texture. They stand out as highly rated and consistently satisfying.

Soft, flavorful carnitas stand out with savory, sticky fat and collagen. Tacos come on handmade tortillas with a great red salsa, and carne asada tacos are juicy with perfectly grilled tortillas.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought the carnitas tacos here were among the best."

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.

04
Me-Ga Carnitas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers warm, welcoming vibe with aromas of sizzling meats and spices filling the air. The environment stays clean and chill even when busy, attracting those seeking authentic, traditional flavors.

Delicious carnitas tacos stand out here. They serve as a reliable choice for satisfying carnitas cravings.

Freshly cooked carnitas fill tacos generously, paired with fresh cilantro, onions, and a signature salsa with balanced heat. Menudo and pozole come prepared authentically, with menudo in the Mishuaka style and pozole made like homemade without extra cumin.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, fresh, and authentic."

"The carnitas and pozole here are like homemade Mexican food."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Street parking near Me-Ga Carnitas is extremely limited.

2

They charged an 18% gratuity for a family of four or more.

3

When paying with a credit card and selecting 'no tip', the tip is still added automatically.

05
Carnitas Don Alfredo Original image 1

Small Mexican restaurant with crowded seating and authentic decorations creates a relaxed, casual vibe. Frequent live music and heated outdoor seating add to the atmosphere. The space feels comforting yet cramped, with a chill interior temperature.

Juicy flavor stands out in the carnitas tacos, paired with handmade tortillas that add a fresh touch. The tacos deliver a consistently delicious taste that impresses with every bite.

Carnitas tacos stand out with rich, tender meat that many find unmatched. Other options like El pastor and Carne asada tacos also deliver strong, authentic flavors.

People are saying

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

"The carnitas here are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

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

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult at this location, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant has a limited number of dining room tables, making seating hit or miss.

3

Expect long lines on weekends due to high customer volume.

06
Carnitas Don Alfredo Bensenville image 1

Small dining area features handmade tortillas and authentic Mexican meats. Atmosphere feels comfortable and elegant despite closely arranged seating. The storefront has an old school appearance with a focus on cleanliness and organization.

Handmade tortillas accompany the carnitas tacos, which have a delicious and very good flavor.

Carnitas stand out as the most notable dish, often described as the best in the area. Handmade tortillas accompany tacos and tortas, adding to the authentic Mexican food experience.

People are saying

"I thought these carnitas were the best in the area."

"I thought the carnitas were the best Mexican food in Chicago."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early or consider takeout.

2

The restaurant offers a deal of $11.99 for a large portion of meat, five tortillas, rice, and beans.

3

Takeout is available, making it convenient for those on the go.

07
TACO TAVERN image 1
Taco restaurant

Industrial design shapes a spacious venue with a huge bar and large party room. Colorful, energetic atmosphere buzzes with great music and multiple TVs showing games. Margaritas stand out for unique flavors, complementing juicy tacos and fresh chips and salsa.

Carnitas tacos stand out with rich, savory flavor. They pair well with other options like Buffalo chicken and Baja tacos for variety.

Tacos stand out with steak and buffalo chicken options that pack flavor and heat. The prickly pear margarita offers a refreshing, unique twist without too much sweetness.

People are saying

"My Mexican food burrito was warm, but they had to remake it."

"The bar service here is attentive and makes great drinks."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were fire."

Good to know

1

The menu offers a variety of taco options, including Baja, pot roast, and steak.

2

Expect large portion sizes; many dishes are generous.

3

There is plenty of parking available nearby.

08
Carnitas Uruapan image 1

Small, unassuming storefront leads to a cozy, modern space filled with authentic decor and the aroma of slow-cooked pork. The atmosphere feels casual and lively, with a welcoming vibe enhanced by staff interaction. The place often draws a bustling crowd, creating an energetic dining experience.

Gigantic pork carnitas tacos come with salsa, cilantro, onions, and limes. Each taco costs about 3 dollars and pairs well with a good sauce.

Carnitas here stand out with authentic flavor and amazing tenderness. The menu also includes nopal salad, beans, and tortillas that complement the main dish well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, tender, and perfectly seasoned perfectly seasoned, and crispy."

"The carnitas here are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"These carnitas tacos are juicy with crispy edges."

Good to know

1

The restaurant allows you to bring your own cake for celebrations.

2

Tortillas and salsas are complimentary with carnitas orders.

3

Lunch specials offer large portions at a good price.

09
Carnitas Don Alfredo Northlake image 1

Small dining area with an open kitchen creates a lively, chaotic atmosphere filled with the loud pounding of meat chopping and loud music. Colorful decor and friendly staff add a warm, inviting vibe despite the noise. Long lines and limited parking reflect its popularity during busy times.

Flavorful and succulent pork defines the carnitas tacos, delivering a deep pork taste. The taco plate comes with Spanish rice and refried pinto beans.

Carnitas stand out as moist, fresh, and hot with a rich flavor. Tacos and menudo also offer great taste, while barbacoa comes packed with delicious molé.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was delicious and authentic."

"I found the carnitas here to be amazing Mexican food."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be flavorful and succulent."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accepts only cash, but there is an ATM inside.

2

Parking is limited, especially on weekends.

3

Expect a wait on weekends due to only 10 tables available.

10
Maiz & Barro Mexican Grill - Cantina image 1

Mexican grill with colorful décor and a warm, inviting atmosphere offers a full-service bar and a beautiful outdoor patio. Music plays loudly, creating a lively vibe, while seating includes comfortable booths and tables. Authentic flavors and standout margaritas complement the engaging setting.

Carnitas tacos come with rich, tender pork that stands out among other options like Al pastor and Tinga. They pair well with a variety of fillings, offering a savory, satisfying flavor in every bite.

Salsa and chips stand out as exceptionally fresh and flavorful. The menu features mole enchiladas and rare-cooked steak fajitas, showcasing authentic Mexican dishes with consistent quality.

People are saying

"The food here is seasoned to perfection and delicious."

"The Mexican food here is seasoned to perfection and delicious."

"I tried steak, shrimp, and carnitas tacos, and each was amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to ensure seating.

2

Expect to pay extra for additional items or modifications to your order.

3

The menu features a limited selection focused on tacos and fajitas.

11
Carnitas Aguascalientes image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with cozy seating and homemade sauces creates a family atmosphere filled with lively activity. The menu offers authentic Mexican carnitas and chicharrón made in-house, drawing those seeking genuine flavors. Tables are limited, often requiring a wait during busy times.

Carnitas tacos come well served and reliable in quality. They taste delicious and pair well with rice and beans.

Juicy, flavorful carnitas stand out with a taste similar to 18th Street Carniceria but offer more menu options. Fresh chicharrones with guacamole and generous portions of birria and barbacoa add to the authentic Mexican food experience.

People are saying

"These carnitas are delicious and melt in your mouth."

"The carnitas here are so tasty and soft, they just melt in your mouth."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be delicious and well served."

Good to know

1

Next Saturday, 2/15, is their second-year anniversary.

2

The store mostly offers carryout, but there are a few tables to dine in.

3

Expect a crowded atmosphere, especially on weekends.

12
Carnitas Don Alfredo Melrose Park image 1

Small, crowded space with tables crammed together creates a busy, noisy atmosphere. Bright lighting and corner location add to its distinctive setup. Known for best carnitas and fresh hand-pressed tortillas, it draws a lively crowd despite the cramped conditions.

Carnitas tacos come with lots of meat and strong traditional flavors. The carnitas taco dinner includes three tacos, rice, and beans, making it a filling choice.

Carnitas stand out as the most distinctive dish, made fresh daily and served quickly. Other highlights include chicharrones and guacamole, both noted for their quality and flavor.

People are saying

"These carnitas are so tender and flavorful."

"You have to try the carnitas; they're so tender and flavorful."

"The carnitas tacos here are super flavorful and came with lots of meat."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends, especially during peak hours.

2

Takeout orders are prepared quickly, despite potential wait times for dine-in.

3

The restaurant is very busy on Sundays, but the line moves quickly, with a maximum wait of about 15 minutes.

13
El Paisa Alegre #2 El Original image 1

Mexican restaurant offers authentic carnitas and rich birria tacos with a family-owned vibe. Atmosphere feels cold and loud, with music that repeats often. Prices run high, and the place closes earlier than posted hours.

Carnitas tacos here have a rich flavor that recalls Mexico City. The green salsa pairs well and adds a fresh kick.

Tacos here offer great flavor and high quality at a good price, especially on Taco Tuesday when meat tacos cost just a buck fifty. Varieties like carnitas, chicken, steak, tripas, and barbacoa stand out, with the green salsa complementing the carnitas perfectly.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful and delicious."

"The carnitas tacos here are tender, flavorful, and totally worth it."

"I found the carnitas tacos here to be amazing and totally worth it."

Good to know

1

On Taco Tuesdays, all meat tacos are only $1.50 each.

2

You can easily enjoy a meal for under $10 on Taco Tuesday.

3

The restaurant is family-run and values its community.

14
Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small takeout-only spot with authentic Mexican atmosphere and best carnitas in Chicago. The space feels like a bar and offers fresh, delicious tacos with affordable prices. Owner greets guests with Cajeta lollipops, adding a personal touch.

Mixed carnitas tacos feature shoulder and rib meat with a variety of other cuts. They come with fresh salsa and pair well with horchata drinks.

Carnitas stand out as exceptionally tender and flavorful, often described as the best in the city. Tacos feature fresh tortillas and generous portions of pork, delivering an authentic Mexican taste.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas here were really good."

"I thought the Mexican food, especially the carnitas, was amazing."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant is strictly a takeout-only establishment.

2

They close at 5:00 PM on Saturdays, so plan accordingly.

3

Prices are affordable, with meals under $40.

15
Carnitas Don Alfredo Maywood image 1

Small Mexican restaurant with a casual, unpretentious atmosphere and constant busy energy. Known for best carnitas and handmade tortillas, it draws crowds who often come prepared with their orders in mind. Limited seating and parking add to the bustling, compact vibe.

Three carnitas tacos come well served with a fantastic flavor that stands out. These tacos consistently impress with their very good quality.

Carnitas stand out as the most distinctive dish, known for being fresh and flavorful with a reputation for excellence. Other Mexican dishes like steak tacos and birria also feature, with fast service supporting the experience.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good and high quality."

"I found the carnitas to be the best Mexican food I've ever tasted."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The portions of carnitas are generous, with one pound serving two people.

16
Carnitas El Paisa Alegre # 1 Taqueria image 1

Mexican restaurant offers authentic meats like carnitas, goat, and seafood with large burritos and varied tacos including cabeza and steak. The space feels clean and cozy, usually allowing seating even when busy. Prices tend to be high, and salsa comes in small portions with extra charges.

Carnitas tacos stand out with tender, flavorful meat. They come alongside other options like steak, offering a solid taco experience.

Carnitas stand out with plenty of meat and authentic quality. Tacos come in many varieties like carnitas, lengua, and corazón, all served with excellent service and large burritos.

People are saying

"I experienced the best carnitas and tacos here."

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

"I found the carnitas tacos to be the best in town."

Good to know

1

The restaurant sells out of carnitas, so plan to arrive early.

2

The head taco is served only on Fridays, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Extra sauces cost a dollar each, so budget accordingly.

17
Kiki D's image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food restaurant with wide menu variety and affordable prices draws consistent crowds. Atmosphere is hot and lively, with cleanliness maintained despite high traffic. Food highlights include authentic Mexican street food flavors and special taco deals on select days.

Carnitas tacos come with a generous filling and a twist of lime that adds flavor. They are available for $0.99 each on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, making them a notable deal despite being a bit greasy.

Tacos come meaty and abundant, with carnitas and birria standing out for their flavor. Specials like 99-cent tacos on Tuesdays and Wednesdays offer great value. The salsa is amazing, complementing dishes like Torta del Al Pastor and spicy pork tacos.

People are saying

"The carnitas tacos were generously filled and delicious."

"The food here was delicious."

"The carnitas tacos are generously filled and delicious."

Good to know

1

They offer a special deal on carnitas tacos on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for $0.99 each.

2

There is no table service at the restaurant.

3

The restaurant is clean and has ample parking space.

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