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Carnitas and empanadas in New Jersey

A kitchen that masters both the slow-cooked texture of carnitas and the delicate pastry of an empanada, instead of doing one well at the expense of the other.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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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.

Baked paneer empanadas stand out with a rich, satisfying flavor. Vegetarian options include these empanadas alongside other dishes like jackfruit tacos, all well-liked for their taste.

People are saying

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

"The paneer empanadas were quite good and hit the spot."

"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
LAS DELICIAS DE LA NEGRA MEXICAN RESTAURANT image 1

Small Mexican restaurant offers a bright and festive atmosphere with authentic flavors and fresh handmade tortillas. The space feels cozy and welcoming, creating a relaxed vibe that suits families and casual dining.

Carnitas come as tender, high-quality meat served in generous portions. Plates include tortillas, salsas, rice, and beans, with tacos packed full of flavorful meat.

Chicken empanadas stand out with their great flavor and delicious filling. They are available for dine-in or to go alongside other entrees.

People are saying

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

"I found the chicken empanadas to be delicious."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be delicious and tender."

Good to know

1

Prices are affordable, with a family of four spending about $75 including drinks.

2

Portion sizes are generous, exceeding expectations for the area.

3

The restaurant is family-owned, with a mom as the cook and the son delivering food.

03
Los 4 Hermanos Mexican & Deli image 1

Small Mexican restaurant with colorful decor and a cozy, homey atmosphere. Lighting is bright, creating a welcoming and friendly vibe. Known for authentic, flavorful dishes like burritos, empanadas, and tacos, it attracts those seeking genuine Mexican flavors in a clean, inviting space.

Carnitas tacos come packed with full flavor and are quite filling. They pair well with sides like chicken enchiladas in green sauce, rice, and beans.

Empanadas feature a crisp yet tender dough with fresh beef and chicken fillings. Mondays offer $1 empanadas, though some orders may vary in filling and price.

People are saying

"The empanadas here are fresh and delicious."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be full of flavor."

"The carnitas tacos are full of flavor and a must-have."

Good to know

1

They offer $1 empanadas on Mondays, a great deal for a snack.

2

Bring your own alcohol, as they do not serve drinks.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can fill up quickly during lunch.

04
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.

Special chicken empanadas come in a large size that can be filling. Options include chicken and cheese empanadas alongside other dishes like pulled pork and beef birria tacos.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

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

"The carnitas street tacos are excellent, OMG!"

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.

05
Tacos Es Vida / Tacos is life image 1

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with authentic vibe and Mexican music filling the air. Warm, welcoming atmosphere feels like a local spot with clean, colorful decor. Known for excellent tacos served in ceramic cazuelas and a pleasant, upbeat environment.

Carnitas appear in tacos and a rice platter. Tacos sometimes have mostly fat with little meat. Carnitas also come as empanada filling.

Al pastor empanadas stand out with strong staff recommendations and rich flavor. Beef and carne enchilada empanadas offer authentic Mexican taste and are consistently scrumptious.

People are saying

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

"I loved the beef empanadas; they were the best I've ever had."

"I found the carnitas here to be really great and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Street parking can be somewhat tricky; consider arriving early.

2

Expect a quick turnaround time for food orders.

3

Prices are fair for the serving size, making it budget-friendly.

06
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.

Crispy and stuffed chicken empanadas stand out here. Birria empanadas offer a fantastic flavor, and all empanadas come out well-prepared and satisfying.

People are saying

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

"I loved the crispy, stuffed chicken empanadas."

"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.

07
Delfi's Grandmas Cooking Restaurant image 1

Quaint Mexican restaurant offers freshly made sauces and drinks with a busy, lively atmosphere. Guests enjoy authentic birria tacos and plentiful portions that highlight fresh ingredients and bold seasoning. Small size and unbeatable prices create a cozy, popular spot for genuine Mexican flavors.

Carnitas come in bowls and gorditas with a very good flavor. They pair well with tamales and sweet plantains.

Dominican Empanadas come with a dry texture. They pair well with other dishes like the Chorizo Chimichanga and nachos, which are also flavorful.

People are saying

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

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

"The carnitas here are very good."

Good to know

1

Everything is freshly made, from sauces to drinks.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food.

3

Portions are generous, ensuring a filling meal.

08
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.

Takeout empanadas come with great flavor and get high marks for taste. They stand out alongside other dishes like tacos and burritos.

People are saying

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

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

"I ordered empanadas that were a perfect 10 out of 10."

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.

09
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.

Chicken empanadas stand out as very tasty and among the best encountered. Some empanadas tend to dry out under heat lamps, affecting their quality.

People are saying

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

"I found the carnitas tacos to be delicious."

"The chicken empanada was very tasty."

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.

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