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Best of Chicago

Carnitas and tortillas

Warm tortillas wrapped around fresh carnitas are the only thing that feels right for dinner.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Taqueria y Carnitas Don Valdez image 1
Taqueria y Carnitas Don Valdez image 2
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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.

Handmade tortillas stand out here, adding a fresh, authentic touch to tacos. They come with a slight upcharge on weekends but make the tacos notably better than usual.

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.

02
Paty's Restaurant Carnitas y otras Delicias image 1

Mexican restaurant with handmade tortillas and dishes that evoke homemade flavors fills the air with a delicious aroma. Atmosphere feels homey and welcoming, suitable for families or solo diners. The menu offers authentic cuisine with extensive options served in a clean, warm setting.

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.

Handmade tortillas are hot and fresh, adding authentic flavor to dishes like quesobirrias and menudo. Every tortilla is made in-house, enhancing the overall taste experience.

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.

03
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.

Corn tortillas get a quick crisp on the griddle, adding texture. They arrive fresh with a nice feel, complementing tacos like al pastor and chorizo well.

People are saying

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

"These tortillas are so fresh and tender."

"The carnitas here are fire."

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.

04
Chicagoโ€™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.

Michoacรกn 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.

Tortillas come fresh and warm, serving as a solid base for tacos like carne asada and al pastor. The birria taco piles on a lot of meat but could use cheese and sauce for a smoother taste.

People are saying

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

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

"The tortillas here are fresh and warm, packed with flavor."

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.

05
Carnitas La Michoacana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers family-friendly and low-key atmosphere with handmade tortillas and Michoacan-style carnitas praised for quality and flavor. Parking is limited, and wait times grow on weekends. Prices remain decent and food suits those who enjoy spicy, savory dishes.

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.

Handmade tortillas come piping hot and in generous amounts. They play a key role in elevating the taco experience and make the meal enjoyable.

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.

06
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.

Double freshly fried corn tortillas come with the tacos, offering a toasty crunch that balances the ingredients well. The flavor recalls authentic Mexico, with a bit of grease blotted off before eating.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

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

"The tortillas here are delicious and remind me of Mexico."

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.

07
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.

Tortillas come handmade and usually fresh here. Tacos include two tortillas each, but sometimes they use day-old tortillas for them.

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.

08
Los Chepes image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with cozy atmosphere and handmade tortillas sets a genuine tone. Authentic Michoacรกn-style carnitas and delicious lamb barbacoa draw steady crowds despite limited seating and ventilation. Food portions are generous for the price, creating a bustling, intimate vibe.

Carnitas come out tender, well seasoned, and not greasy. They follow the Michoacรกn style closely, matching those found in Mexico. Tacos and consommรฉ highlight the rich flavors.

Handmade tortillas here are large and very fresh, holding a full taco without falling apart. They come at a higher price per dozen but offer excellent quality that enhances the food.

People are saying

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

"The carnitas here are so tender and well seasoned."

"The carnitas here are tender and well seasoned."

Good to know

1

To-go Carnitas are available for $38.99 and $49.99 for 2 pounds.

2

Expect large portions for the price, making it a good value.

3

Parking is limited due to the residential area; paid parking is available on Archer street.

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.

Two thick, handmade corn tortillas hold generous amounts of meat in each taco. Tortillas come freshly grilled and piping hot, larger than typical tacos in NYC.

People are saying

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

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

"These handmade corn tortillas are packed with flavorful meat."

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
Taquizas Don Rafa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic handmade tortillas and a spacious, cozy atmosphere that feels like home. Music volume varies, sometimes making conversation difficult. Seating is simple with old tables, and the vibe is comfortable and welcoming.

Carnitas come with freshly made tortillas and stand out as delicious and well-prepared. They appear alongside other dishes like tamales and guisados, often featured in a buffet setting.

Freshly made handmade tortillas are a key feature here. They come with dishes like carnitas and add a distinct, authentic touch to the meal.

People are saying

"This buffet is amazing, with delicious, authentic food and handmade tortillas."

"The handmade tortillas here made everything better."

"I found the carnitas to be delicious with freshly made tortillas."

Good to know

1

The buffet runs from Tuesday through Sunday, offering a full Mexican menu.

2

Children aged 1 and up are charged for the buffet, even if they don't eat.

3

There is no parking available at the restaurant, so plan accordingly.

11
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.

Tortillas come in double homemade fresh corn versions that are tasty and both crispy and soft. Some tacos use red hard shell tortillas, while others have white tortillas heated on the comal that can upset the stomach.

People are saying

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

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

"The homemade corn tortillas here are fresh and tasty."

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.

12
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.

Perfect Carnitas stand out here with authentic Mexican flavors. The exceptional service complements the experience, making it a go-to spot for carnitas lovers.

Hot, handmade tortillas come fresh from the kitchen and pair well with dishes like carnitas and refried beans. These in-house made tortillas add a solid base to loaded tacos and other meals.

People are saying

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

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

"The carnitas in these tortillas are tender and flavorful."

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.

13
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.

Carnitas here stand out for their rich flavor and generous portions. Tacos come loaded with tender pork and fresh tortillas, making the carnitas a clear highlight.

House-made tortillas stand out with their fantastic corn texture and flavor. They pair well with carnitas and tacos, making the dishes delicious and affordable.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas here were really good."

"The carnitas here are loaded with rich, fatty meat."

"The carnitas and tortillas here are 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.

14
Las Carnitas Uruapan image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with traditional decor and a beautifully designed interior creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The vibe is cheerful and colorful, welcoming guests with a friendly greeting at the door.

Carnitas stand out for their authentic Mexican flavor and varied cuts, including chicharrรณn. The meat is often described as delicious and phenomenal, though sometimes served a bit cold.

Fresh tortillas come straight from on-site preparation and have a toasty texture. Carnitas are served with these house-made tortillas alongside green and red salsa and chicharrones.

People are saying

"I thought the carnitas here were the best in Chicago."

"The carnitas tacos here are excellent and crispy outside, tender inside."

"The carnitas here are crispy outside, tender inside, and taste like home."

Good to know

1

Parking is not an issue as the restaurant owns two lots very close by.

2

There are lots of free parking options available.

3

The restaurant closes at 4 PM, so plan to arrive early.

15
Carnitas Don Pedro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic carnitas with a laid-back, no-frills vibe and enjoyable music. Indoor seating can get hot and busy, attracting a mix of locals who create a smiling, lively atmosphere. Private parking and takeout add convenience to the straightforward dining experience.

Authentic and tasty carnitas come with options for white or dark meat and all the sides. The carnitas and chicharron are excellent, offering original flavors and a great value on the platter.

Fresh-made tortillas arrive warm and soft, served alongside dishes with cilantro, onion, and lime**. They come with flavorful carnitas and sides like nopales, rice, and beans, enhancing every bite.

People are saying

"I found the carnitas to be amazing and delicious."

"The food here is amazing, juicy, and tasty."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open from 5 AM to 5 PM and closes when they sell out.

2

They only accept cash, but now also accept credit and debit cards.

3

The wait time is usually around half an hour during busy hours.

16
Carniceria y Taqueria Aguascalientes image 1

Butcher shop combines lively reggaeton dancing with chaotic music and TV noise, creating a nightclub-like atmosphere. Seating feels uncomfortable, and noise levels often hinder conversation. Known for handmade tortillas and gorditas, it offers a mix of popular Mexican dishes alongside a busy, energetic environment.

Some carnitas dishes have super flavorful meat, especially the gorditas de carnitas en salsa verde. Others, like the carnitas torta, have very little meat and taste bland.

Freshly made handmade tortillas appear with many dishes like gorditas and soups. They carry authentic Mexican flavor and pair well with meals such as meatball stew and caldo de res.

People are saying

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

"I loved the freshly made, handmade tortillas."

"The carnitas gorditas are super filling and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, but the lot space is limited.

2

They only accept cash tips, so be prepared.

3

A fee is charged for using debit cards, which is only posted in English.

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