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Best of New Jersey

Carnitas date spots

You want a date spot where the carnitas are good enough to be the highlight of the evening.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Olé Craft Kitchen + Bar (Global Mexican) image 1
Olé Craft Kitchen + Bar (Global Mexican) image 2
Olé Craft Kitchen + Bar (Global Mexican) image 3
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Vibrant space inspired by Tulum features Mexican and Indian fusion cuisine and intricate floral decor. Live DJs and saxophonists create an immersive atmosphere with a mix of 00s throwbacks and lively music. Skilled bartenders craft unique cocktails, enhancing the energetic and inviting vibe.

Carnitas tacos come with rich pork belly and pair well with beef short rib and mexi fries. They stand out among small plates and entrees, offering a flavorful, satisfying option.

Beautiful ambiance sets a relaxed mood for dates. The Mexican Fusion menu offers options that please both vegetarian and non-vegetarian tastes. Drinks encourage lingering beyond the meal.

People are saying

"You have to try their perfectly crafted and balanced cocktails."

"The fusion tacos and cocktails make this a great spot for date night."

"I loved the carnitas tacos; they were phenomenal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like Valentine's Day.

2

Weekend brunch features bottomless beverages and live music.

3

Expect high prices comparable to New York City for small portions.

02
Milltown Tex Mex & Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Large rooms accommodate parties with ease, creating a spacious setting. Atmosphere feels authentic and welcoming, with fair prices and generous portions that attract those seeking genuine Mexican flavors. Unique offerings like birria tacos and specialty meats set it apart from typical Mexican eateries.

Carnitas show up in tacos and gorditas with rich flavor and tender texture. They stand out alongside other meats like asada and al pastor, making for a solid choice in varied taco options.

Regular visits highlight the chicharrones that impress guests familiar with Sonora. The gorditas also stand out as a favored choice for couples seeking a satisfying meal together.

People are saying

"These Date Spots have authentic, homemade Mexican food that's amazing."

"The Local Spot's tacos and mole are to die for."

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

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer $1 tacos, making it a popular event.

2

Parking is available behind the restaurant, with at least four spots for customers.

3

Dietary restrictions are welcomed and can be accommodated.

03
Just Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, spacious Mexican restaurant with an open kitchen and inviting decor creates a cozy, authentic atmosphere. Lively yet relaxed vibe features traditional Mexican music and a friendly, welcoming energy. Known for authentic tacos, it draws groups and casual diners alike.

Soft meat and rich flavor define the carnitas here. Tacos deliver an authentic Mexican taste with tender, well-seasoned pork.

Lively yet relaxed atmosphere suits casual date nights. Service shows strong attention and food includes tacos, elotes, and burrito options.

People are saying

"I thought the carne asada tacos were fire and delicious."

"These Date Spots serve the most authentic tacos I've ever tasted."

"The carnitas are so flavorful and soft, I devoured them."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is suitable for dine-in, take-out, and delivery.

2

Expect prices around $15 to $20 for a meal.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

04
El Alazan Bar Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican-style decorations create a quirky and fun setting with a calm oasis vibe amid township noise. Live music, karaoke, and a cheerful singer add spectacular entertainment that energizes the space. A bar in the back complements the atmosphere with 2-for-1 margaritas and well-regarded drinks.

Pork carnitas come with a green sauce that adds a sharp kick. The carnitas taco burrito and cheese quesadillas pack strong, tasty flavors that stand out.

Cozy atmosphere suits sharing with a partner or family. Authentic Mexican food pairs with a variety of sauces from mild to hot, enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The food and drinks here are amazing for Date Spots."

"The carnitas here are extremely delicious, especially with the green sauce."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers buy one, get one free margaritas every Thursday.

2

Taco Tuesday features half-off tacos, making it a popular choice.

3

Karaoke is available every day, perfect for a fun night out.

05
Las Chilangas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with an open kitchen where chefs prepare fresh, authentic dishes. Warm, family-run atmosphere creates a lively and inviting vibe. Unique features include clay mugs, artisanal jugs, and complimentary chips that enhance the dining experience.

Tacos feature tender carnitas with rich flavor. The carnitas tacos stand out as delicious and well-prepared.

Frequent visits highlight a strong draw for couples with varied taco options like al pastor, birria, and carnitas. Dishes such as costillas tacos and steak quesadillas stand out for their flavor, making it a solid spot for shared meals.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, home-style, and absolutely delicious."

"The tacos here are authentically seasoned and incredibly flavorful."

"I loved the carnitas tacos; they were delicious."

Good to know

1

Prices are very reasonable for the quality and portion size.

2

The portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

The owners are from Mexico City, offering authentic flavors.

06
Sabor Latino 2 (Pompton Lakes) image 1
Guatemalan restaurant

Guatemalan restaurant offers cozy atmosphere with simple tables suited for takeout and casual dining. The space feels like eating at a friend's house, creating a pleasant and inviting vibe. It stands out for authentic flavors and family-friendly environment.

Carnitas come out crispy and juicy with a lot of flavor. They stay moist inside and pair well with crispy corn tortillas and sides like rice and beans.

Shared meals create a warm, family-friendly atmosphere that suits couples and groups alike. Celebrations like birthdays fit well here, making it a spot for meaningful gatherings.

People are saying

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

"I had the best carnitas I’ve had in years."

"The food here is amazing, especially the Tacos de Birria."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers both dine-in and takeout options.

2

They serve breakfast dishes all day.

3

Delivery is available through their website.

07
Los Rancheros Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican eatery offers authentic tacos with exceptional flavors like birria and Al Pastor. Atmosphere feels cozy and comfortable, with a clean and familiar environment. Orders come quickly without long waits, making it a reliable spot for flavorful Mexican food.

Pulled pork tacos stand out with their rich flavor and tender texture. Tacos carnitas pair well with other fillings like shrimp and chicken for a varied meal.

Tacos Al Pastor and birria tacos offer bold flavors that satisfy strong cravings. Picaditas add a unique touch, making it a solid spot for a casual date with authentic Mexican dishes.

People are saying

"These tacos are so flavorful and tender."

"The authentic, traditional salsa here is amazing for Date Spots."

"The carnitas tacos were so flavorful and tender."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of about 15-20 minutes during peak hours.

2

Prices for tacos range from $14 to $17 depending on the type.

3

Each order includes four tacos, providing good value.

08
Salt and Pepper | image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant offers a cozy, family atmosphere with authentic Mexican music that creates an intimate vibe. The dining area is quaint and cool, seating just a few tables in a clean space. Cash-only policy and simple setup distinguish it from typical eateries.

Carnitas appear well-cooked and visually appealing during preparation. They feature in tacos, quesadillas, and a pork enchilada torta.

Couples find the food here reminds them of home cooking with flavors that invite compliments. The staff speaks both Spanish and English, adding a comfortable, welcoming touch to the experience.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious and reminds me of home cooking."

"The carnitas here are delicious and truly authentic Mexican."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash only, which is important for tourists to know.

2

They only accept cash or Zelle, and do not accept credit or debit cards.

3

The neighborhood may look a little sketchy.

09
El Macho Taquería & Restaurant image 1

Small space with Mexican-themed decor creates a cozy atmosphere filled with rancheras and Latin pop music at moderate volume. The vibe is warm and welcoming, attracting those who appreciate authentic Mexican cuisine in an intimate setting.

Carnitas appear in several dishes like tacos, tostadas, and a fried eggs bowl.** The carnitas tacos pair well with a mango drink.

Tacos and Pollo Bowl offer filling options for two. Staff help with special occasions, like surprising with a birthday cake. Casual spot suits post-activity meals, such as after rock climbing.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is fresh and full of flavor."

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

"I loved the carnitas tacos and the carnitas bowl."

Good to know

1

There is street parking only near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers a special deal of 30 tacos for $45.

3

Prices are generally lower than other Mexican restaurants in the area.

10
Johnny Rippas image 1
Restaurant

Outdoor seating with picnic tables spreads across front and back, creating a cozy atmosphere despite nearby busy roads. Music sets a chill vibe but can be loud near windows. Known for authentic birria tacos and flavorful Tex Mex dishes, it offers a unique dining experience tucked in a car dealership lot.

Smoked pork shines in the carnitas street tacos, delivering juicy and flavorful bites. The chalupa with carnitas also stands out for its rich taste and texture.

An hour trip leads to top notch quality and insane flavors that make the visit worth it. The hot dog with kraut stands out as a solid choice for a casual date.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"The carnitas street tacos are excellent, OMG!"

"I tried the birria tacos; they were life changing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as food is made fresh to order.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait for specials during peak lunch hours.

3

Outdoor seating is available but may be uncomfortable in bad weather.

11
TacoNazo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with bright, vibrant decor and authentic flavors. Atmosphere feels inviting and lively, with both indoor counter seating and outdoor tables. Known for fresh, flavorful tacos and a clean, well-lit space.

Carnitas appear in several dishes like tacos, huraches, and quesadillas. The tacos come with tostaditas and the quesadilla is notably thick but tasty.

Quick service suits couples needing a fast meal after work. The quesobrilla and chicken burrito offer satisfying, flavorful options for a casual date.

People are saying

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

"These tortillas are simply amazing and totally worth the visit."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be delicious."

Good to know

1

TacoNazo accepts only cash payments; an ATM is available on-site.

2

Two dishes and two sodas cost $39, which some find pricey.

3

There is limited seating space, but counter seating is available.

12
Taqueria D&K image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a cozy, relaxed atmosphere with authentic Mexican vibes enhanced by music and vibrant decor. The space features a sauce bar and self-serve drinks, creating an easygoing setting suitable for any meal. Tacos and burritos stand out as highly recommended specialties.

Carnitas tacos stand out as a favorite with tender, flavorful pork. Other options like suadero and chorizo also deliver solid, tasty choices.

Suitable for a date or family outing, the spot offers spicy shrimp tacos that come off-menu. Service can be slow, sometimes requiring guests to get up to pay the bill.

People are saying

"These tacos are so fresh and flavorful."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were fantastic and not greasy."

"I had some of the tastiest, most authentic tacos here."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $22 for a meal, but check your bill for accuracy.

2

Paying with cash is recommended to avoid surprise charges on your card.

3

The portions are generous, often enough for sharing.

13
La Milpa Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Colorful indoor and outdoor spaces create a welcoming atmosphere with a dog-friendly backyard that feels cozy and authentic. The vibe is pleasant and family-friendly, with a focus on traditional Mexican decor and a spacious patio. Energy stays relaxed, making it a comfortable spot to enjoy casual dining.

Large, flavorful carnitas tacos stand out with enough size for sharing. Carnitas nachos offer a tasty twist, though expect a 15-minute wait for orders.

Large, flavorful carnitas tacos offer a satisfying meal for two. The food tastes authentic, making it a solid choice for a casual date.

People are saying

"You have to try the tacos; they're a 10 out of 10."

"The carnitas nachos and chicharrones con guacamole are delicious."

"The carnitas here are large and flavorful."

Good to know

1

La Milpa Taqueria is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own alcohol.

2

The restaurant is open daily until midnight.

3

Expect to pay around $5 for each taco after service charge and tax.

14
Sombrero Tacoria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with vibrant murals and bright, fun colors creates a cozy, well-lit atmosphere. Music plays throughout, adding to the clean, beautiful decor. The space includes an ordering kiosk and varied seating options for groups and individuals.

Carnitas come in a bowl, quesadilla, and tacos, all with rich flavor. The carnitas bowl stands out as amazing, and the carnitas quesadilla pairs well with Birria tacos.

Carnitas stand out as a favorite dish. Service includes attentive staff like Yvonne who provide good care during meals.

People are saying

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

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

"The service here is so friendly, it makes for great Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Ordering ahead is fast and convenient.

2

Everything is made to order, including the kitchen and toppings bar.

3

The quesadilla costs around $12 for a whole round.

15
Taqueria Nacho Libre image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy space with luchador-themed decor and authentic Mexican tables creates a festive, inviting atmosphere. Spanish music plays at a pleasant volume, enhancing the family-owned vibe. Folding metal tables and chairs offer simple seating, with a few outdoor tables available.

Carnitas come with rich seasoning and appear in tacos, nachos, and huaraches. Tacos cost about $15.50 for three and pair well with other proteins like chicken.

Fajitas stand out as a flavorful choice. The food offers a taste close to authentic South Carolina style, appealing for a casual date meal.

People are saying

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

"I thought the carnitas were divine and amazing."

"The birria tacos here are packed with flavor and a must-try."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB friendly, so bring your favorite drinks.

2

Expect sizable portions for a good price, making it a filling meal.

3

They add a 4% credit card fee on top of their prices.

16
Taqueria Michoacán image 1

Small restaurant with colorful decor and a family-style atmosphere offers a cozy and comforting vibe. Mexican music plays alongside American sports on TV, creating a unique sound mix. Frequent comings and goings keep the energy casual and lively.

Braised pork butts make up the carnitas, served without citrus, garlic, or salt. Tacos come in good portions and pair well with other meats like chorizo and al pastor.

Mexican cuisine shines with chicken burrito and other flavorful dishes. Couples find the meals delicious and satisfying for a date.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really good and tasty."

"The food here is so authentic and amazingly delicious."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

The restaurant offers a vegan option on the menu.

3

Prices for tacos are $4 each, which is considered reasonable.

17
Sombrero Tacoria Livingston image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open kitchen reveals food preparation in a clean, vibrant space with illuminated Jarritos wall and bright decor. Atmosphere feels friendly and lively, enhanced by cool house music. Popular for authentic birria tacos and affordable prices, it attracts a busy crowd especially at lunch.

Juicy and well seasoned, the carnitas stand out with fresh, tasty flavors. They pair well in tacos, offering a better seasoning than typical fast-casual spots.

Tacos stand out as a solid choice here, with good flavor noted. The spot offers a casual vibe suitable for a relaxed date.

People are saying

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

"The birria tacos here are super flavorful and fresh."

"The carnitas here are juicy and well seasoned."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special deals on tacos every Tuesday evening.

2

Expect busy lunch hours; consider ordering pickup to save time.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean and inviting atmosphere.

18
POP Taco & Bar image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with dim lighting and neon art decor creates a cozy, casual vibe. Music plays at a comfortable volume, enhancing the welcoming atmosphere. Frequented for fresh, highly praised tacos and a variety of gourmet margaritas.

Carnitas tacos offer authentic, flavorful bites that stand out among local options. They satisfy hunger well, especially after outdoor activities like hiking.

Small spot with modern decor creates a cozy vibe for date nights. Attentive service notices drink refills quickly and food allergies get proper accommodation.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were authentic with a unique twist."

"The tacos and quesadillas here are delicious."

"I thought the Carnitas taco was the best taco in town."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers buy one house taco, get one free.

2

Happy hour runs all day on Sundays with great drink specials.

3

Public parking is available around the corner if street parking is full.

19
Cantina46 Mexican Bar & Grill image 1

Mexican-themed restaurant with colorful decor and lively outdoor patio featuring hookah and music. Atmosphere feels cozy and family-friendly with live bands and DJs on weekends. Seating is tight, creating a bustling, energetic vibe.

Carnitas tacos stand out with rich flavor and tender meat. They pair well with Micheladas and are popular with kids.

Upscale Mexican cuisine creates a romantic atmosphere for special occasions. Attentive service supports celebrations like anniversaries and birthdays.

People are saying

"I thought the food and drinks were delicious."

"The service here is so attentive, it really makes the Date Spots special."

"I tried the carnitas tacos and they were amazing."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is mandatory; no self-parking available.

2

Happy hour runs from 3-7pm with $10 food and drink specials.

3

Reservations are required for dinner service, especially on weekends.

20
Loteria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere and a cool, dark mood that feels both quiet and calming. The place draws a friendly crowd, often lively at the bar, with great margaritas and standout tacos. Food presentation is simple, served on bare metal trays, emphasizing a no-frills vibe.

Tacos feature solid carnitas with a unique, flavorful twist. The carnitas stand out alongside other options like Al Pastor and carne molida.

Fun spot on the boardwalk with a relaxed vibe for ending a date night. Drinks include margaritas and other cocktails enjoyed in a casual setting.

People are saying

"The Mexican food and drinks here are excellent."

"The drinks and tacos here are strong and flavorful."

"I tried the carnitas taco and it was flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

2

An automatic 18% gratuity is added to all bills without prior notice.

3

Loteria offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

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