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Carnitas al pastor in Chicago

Made for those who demand authentic carnitas and al pastor without settling for anything less than the real deal.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Migos Fine Foods image 1
Migos Fine Foods image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Small space filled with eclectic decor and real plants creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Classic hip hop music plays, setting a chill vibe throughout. Outdoor patio and kiosk ordering add to the casual, comfortable experience.

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.

Chicken and mushroom versions stand out with unique flavors. Tacos and tortas showcase a creative take on al pastor.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

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

"The Al Pastor tacos here are absolutely incredible."

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 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.

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.

Tacos al pastor feature rich, perfectly seasoned meat served on fresh, warm tortillas. The flavor stands out as amazing and well-balanced compared to other options.

People are saying

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

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos were amazing."

"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
La Providencia Grocery image 1

Grocery store with community atmosphere and friendly service offers reasonably priced groceries and weekend barbecue dishes. Known for delicious carnitas and al pastor tacos, it maintains a long-standing presence of over 30 years.

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

Tacos feature richly seasoned al pastor with a perfectly balanced flavor that stands out. The al pastor tacos consistently deliver a memorable taste experience.

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."

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

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.

04
Rinconcito de Arandas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Simple, cozy Mexican restaurant with friendly staff and a clean, inviting space. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, with energy reflecting the guests' mood. Known for authentic tacos al pastor and a BYOB policy that encourages casual, affordable dining.

New on the menu, the carnitas stand out as very good and delicious. They pair well with tortas for a satisfying meal.

Tacos al pastor come from a fresh pineapple rotisserie, giving them a smoky aroma. They taste very good and often rate as the best in the city.

People are saying

"The Al Pastor tacos here are excellent and perfectly seasoned."

"I found the Mexican food here to be quick, hot, and authentic."

"I found the carnitas to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special deals on tacos every Tuesday.

2

The restaurant is cash only, so bring cash for your meal.

3

There is a small sign indicating different prices for cash and card payments.

05
El Charro Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious interior features beautiful murals and bright, lively atmosphere with authentic Mexican music. Small, family-owned spot offers a cozy, welcoming vibe that feels homey and family-friendly. Tables include adorable cactus salt shakers, adding to the casual, inviting setting.

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

Al pastor stands out for its super flavorful and moist texture across tacos, sopes, and tortas. It pairs well with carne asada and quesabirria, delivering consistent taste and satisfaction.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"I thought the al pastor was the best I had ever tasted."

"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.

06
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.

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.

Al Pastor tacos come with a mix of opinions but often stand out alongside carnitas and chorizo options. They pair well with other taco varieties like asada and chicken.

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.

07
Taqueria Express - Mr. Gyros image 1
Fast food restaurant

Small fast food spot with spotless cleanliness and rigid metal stools creates a simple, efficient atmosphere. Energy feels watchful during meals, with a focus on perfected takeout experience. Known for authentic, flavorful tacos and freshly made tzatziki sauce that stand out in the area.

Carnitas tacos come out flavorful and well-cooked. They stand out alongside other options like chorizo and pastor in the taco lineup.

Marinated pork shines in the al pastor tacos here. Frequent visits highlight the tortillas and chorizo tacos as solid choices alongside al pastor.

People are saying

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

"The carnitas here are fire."

"The al pastor tacos here are the only good aspect."

Good to know

1

They offer a 2-for-1 special on gyros.

2

The taco dinners are priced at $15.79 each.

3

A large horchata costs nearly $5.

08
Los Primos Fresh Market & Taqueria image 1

Supermarket with an attached casual taqueria offers a clean, simple setup and fresh market products. Atmosphere feels neighborhood-friendly with a timely food service and meat-packed tacos that stand out. Prices remain reasonable, making it a convenient 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.

Al pastor features perfect spicing with a touch of sweetness and crispy edges. Pineapple adds balance, and the meat tastes like it comes straight off a trompo.

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.

09
Carniceria Maribel image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco spot sits at the back of a liquor store with a small counter and limited seating. Mexican atmosphere feels down-to-earth and friendly, highlighted by a large Selena mural outside. The place has a happy vibe that makes waiting for orders enjoyable despite the simple setup.

Carnitas come with deep flavor and a good price. They serve them chopped on request and work well in tacos alongside other meats like chorizo and carne asada.

Al pastor tacos stand out with rich flavor and a simple topping of cilantro. They rank above many others in taste and quality.

People are saying

"I thought the steak tacos were well seasoned and flavorful."

"The carnitas tacos are huge, flavorful, and generously filled."

"I thought the Al Pastor here was superior to most I had tried."

Good to know

1

Each taco costs around $5 but is larger and loaded compared to average tacos.

2

The restaurant closes at 8 PM, two hours before the liquor store.

3

Calling your order in advance is recommended to avoid long wait times.

10
Taquería Uptown image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers affordable prices and huge portions in a clean, simple space with a quiet, authentic atmosphere where Spanish is commonly spoken. Tacos, especially al pastor and carnitas, stand out for quality and flavor, making it a solid choice for a quick, satisfying meal.

Carnitas tacos stand out with rich flavor and tender meat. The Mexican Combination platter featuring carnitas offers a solid, satisfying option.

Marinated pork shines with rich flavor and tender texture. Tacos de al pastor deliver a delicious, well-seasoned bite every time.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really tasty and amazing."

"The Al Pastor here is fire."

"I found the carnitas taco to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Breakfast includes eggs, rice, beans, lettuce, tomato, and many tortillas.

2

Prices are fair compared to other Mexican restaurants nearby.

3

Portions are huge, making it a good value for the price.

11
La Cocina De Don Ramón image 1

Cozy restaurant with homey decor and a family-friendly atmosphere feels like eating at a local's house. The vibe is peaceful and neighborly, with regulars known by name and a relaxed pace. It stands out for its authentic Mexican classics and a welcoming, intimate setting.

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

Al pastor dishes come with super flavorful meat and a noticeable amount of pineapple. Some items like the Burrito De Al Pastor Suizo can be a bit wet and have too many pineapple chunks.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The Al Pastor tacos were simply divine."

"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.

12
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.

Freshly cooked carnitas fill the air with a rich aroma. Tacos with good quality meat like cabeza and chicharrone come out consistently excellent, paired with fantastic service.

Tacos feature tender al pastor with pineapple that adds a sweet touch. Options include al pastor and tripa tacos alongside other flavorful choices.

People are saying

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

"The tacos here are packed with perfectly seasoned, quality meat."

"The Al Pastor here is some of the best I've ever had."

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.

13
Taqueria Moran image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, bustling Mexican restaurant with a warm, lively atmosphere that feels like a welcoming home. Outdoor seating and a bar without a bartender add to the casual, energetic vibe. $5 margaritas and authentic, highly praised tacos draw a steady crowd despite limited space.

Carnitas come out with a crispy outside and tender inside, offering a great balance of flavor and texture. They appear in tacos and burritos, often paired with beans and rice, and stand out as a succulent pure white pork option.

Tacos feature al pastor with pieces of pineapple that add a sweet touch. The meat is excellent and flavorful, paired well with salsas and fresh tortillas.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and bursting with flavor."

"I found the carnitas to be fire, crispy outside yet tender."

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos were excellent."

Good to know

1

On Taco Tuesday, select tacos are $2.50 each until 10 pm.

2

Enjoy $5 margaritas on Taco Tuesdays and other select nights.

3

The restaurant has limited seating, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

14
Edgewater Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Walk-up window with limited sidewalk seating defines the setup, creating a laid-back, welcoming vibe despite nearby busy traffic noise. The place draws people seeking authentic Mexican tacos and phenomenal al pastor flavors. Outdoor dining feels casual but constrained by proximity to the road.

Tacos feature juicy, tender carnitas with solid seasoning. Some carnitas have a slightly burnt taste, but grilled jalapeños add a nice kick.

Tacos feature just the right amount of sweetness and spice with pineapple adding a fresh touch. The al pastor also shines in a torta with toasted bread for extra texture.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and delicious."

"The carnitas here are so juicy and tender."

"The Al Pastor tacos are fantastic, especially with pineapple."

Good to know

1

Edgewater Tacos is a walk-up only option with no dine-in seating.

2

Prices for tacos can be high, with two tacos costing around $43.

3

Parking is difficult; consider using nearby Walgreens but be cautious of towing.

15
La Internacional Supermercado image 1

Supermarket with a small taqueria in the back offers authentic tacos with bold grilled aromas of cilantro and onion. Atmosphere feels like stepping into an old country setting where time slows down. Limited parking and seating create a cozy, intimate experience.

Carnitas stand out as the most delicious meat option here, served fresh from the deli and in tacos. The taqueria offers a variety including barbacoa and al pastor, all prepared with rich, authentic flavors.

Al pastor tacos stand out for their rich flavor and tender texture. They come alongside carnitas and carne asada options, all consistently delicious.

People are saying

"I thought their tacos were the best in Chicago."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be the most delicious meat."

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos were the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is available next to the store for customers.

2

Each taco costs $5, and no limes are provided.

3

You must pay at the counter before ordering more tacos.

16
Taquería Primo Chuki's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mom-and-pop style Mexican cafe with authentic family-oriented vibe and cozy neighborhood atmosphere. Bachata music plays softly, creating a chill and peaceful setting despite occasional lively noises. Known for exceptional margaritas and some of the best tacos and tostadas in the area.

Juicy and well seasoned, the carnitas stand out with a rich flavor. The $2 carnitas tacos on Tuesdays offer a tasty deal, often paired with fresh guacamole.

Al pastor tacos stand out with their meaty, loaded fillings and strong flavor. The al pastor appears in various forms like tacos, burritos, and tortas, all noted for being delicious and addictive.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is packed with flavorful, tender meat."

"The Al Pastor tacos were loaded and delicious."

"I found the carnitas to be juicy and well seasoned."

Good to know

1

Taco specials are available for $2 on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

3

Tacos are priced at $1.99 each during the taco special days.

17
Cantina on Madison, Casual Mexican Restaurant & Bar, Voted #1 Tacos image 1

Mexican restaurant with quaint decor and beautiful murals creates a cozy, laid-back vibe. Indoor and outdoor seating offer a chill atmosphere suitable for relaxing after a busy day. The place stays quiet and welcoming, making it easy to enjoy the surroundings.

Carnitas come out moist and flavorful, not dry like at some places. They hold their own alongside other meats like barbacoa and cochinita pibil.

Al Pastor appears as a taco and burrito filling served with rice and beans. It stands alongside other meats like carnitas and barbacoa, offering a varied Mexican flavor profile.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and delicious."

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos were really good."

"The carnitas here is so flavorful and not dry at all."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Taco Tuesday features select tacos for $2 each.

3

Live DJ on Saturday evenings creates a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.

18
Paco's Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy space with high-top chairs lining the walls offers seating that lets diners watch cooks at work. Calm and safe atmosphere reflects a Mexico market vibe with artistic touches creating a homey feel. Busy during lunch, it draws those seeking authentic tacos with generous portions.

Carnitas tacos come super-packed with pork that stays fresh and juicy, never dry. The carnitas torta also stands out as delicious, making these options a clear favorite for pork lovers.

Tacos feature al pastor with a flavor that stands out as a favorite. They come with green salsa available from the fridge, adding a fresh kick to the delicious tacos.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was some of the best in the city."

"I came just for the carnitas; they were the best."

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos were delicious."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $4.25 each, with a torta and Jarritos priced at $12.

2

Expect minimal wait times during busy lunch hours.

3

Seating may be limited, especially on weekends.

19
Paco's Tacos 2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Counter seating with high chairs lines the walls and windows, creating a rustic, no-frills setting. Bright lighting and a fast-paced, fun atmosphere fill the space. The kitchen buzzes with cooks who are engaging to watch as they prepare authentic Mexican dishes.

Tender, juicy pork stands out in the carnitas here, cooked to perfection with plenty usually available. Soft and flavorful, these carnitas pair well with guacamole, beans, and pico de Gallo for a satisfying meal.

Al pastor tacos come with onion and cilantro and rank higher than carne asada here. They score around a 6 in taste but watch out for a rare safety issue with a small piece of glass found once.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought the al pastor tacos were good."

Good to know

1

Paco's Tacos 2 has its own parking lot, which is very convenient.

2

Each taco costs $4.75, which is reasonable for the area.

3

Expect to pay around $23 for four tacos and a few limes.

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