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Carnitas tacos and carnitas in New York

Carnitas that prioritize the traditional crispy-tender texture instead of settling for dry or flavorless meat.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Carnitas Los Huesos image 1
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Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers authentic, cozy atmosphere reminiscent of a home kitchen. Generous large carnitas tacos and rich birria draw a local crowd, creating a lively, popular spot. Cash or Zelle only, with low prices and excellent salsas enhancing the experience.

Delicious carnitas tacos stand out with a mix version offering varied flavors. They deliver an incomparable taste that draws people from far away.

Carnitas tacos stand out with rich, authentic flavor and tender texture. The Michoacan-style carnitas come fresh and are often finished quickly, highlighting their popularity and quality.

People are saying

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

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

"These carnitas tacos are the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends as they often sell out.

2

Only cash or Zelle payments are accepted; no credit or debit cards.

3

Prices are very low compared to the quality of food offered.

02
Carnitas Ramirez image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small taqueria serves authentic carnitas with fresh handmade tortillas that boost flavor. Self-serve salsa bar adds zest while retro Mexican novelas create an uplifting vibe. Cozy back seating and sidewalk tables offer a relaxed, open-air feel perfect for conversation.

Fresh tortillas enhance the flavor of the carnitas tacos. The tacos feature chícharos and maciza, delivering a very good and authentic taste that stands out even to those not usually into carnitas.

Offers authentic carnitas that taste like they come straight from Mexico. The carnitas tacos stand out as some of the best in the city, focusing purely on flavor without distractions.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were amazing, truly some of the best."

"I thought these carnitas were the best I had in NYC."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were the best in town."

Good to know

1

The restaurant operates on a first come, first served basis and does not accept reservations.

2

Be prepared for lines during prime time days like Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at meal times.

3

There is limited seating available.

03
Reyes Deli & Grocery image 1
Mexican grocery store

Mexican grocery store with a family-run and friendly atmosphere offers a simple layout including a tiny seating area. The place serves authentic Mexican breakfast and is known for fresh, flavorful dishes like carnitas and fish tacos. Pricing tends to be high, and ordering requires advance notice due to preparation time.

Carnitas tacos come out fresh and perfectly cooked. They offer a delicious flavor that stands out.

Carnitas here are very juicy and flavorful pork. Tacos come packed with flavor and topped with white onions and cilantro, while the Aztecka carnitas stand out for their crispiness.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food, especially the tamales, to be soft, warm, and flavorful."

"The carnitas here are so moist and full of pork flavor."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be perfect and fresh."

Good to know

1

The tamales are served only on weekends.

2

Expect to pay more if you use a card.

3

There was quite a wait around noon.

04
Oyamel image 1
Mexican restaurant

Large space with industrial style and indoor/outdoor seating creates an open, lively vibe. Loud music and live entertainment add energy, giving more of a bar atmosphere than a traditional restaurant. Guests enjoy watching sports on big screens and appreciate the beautiful décor and views.

Carnitas tacos come highly recommended and stand out alongside suadero tacos. Both offer a rich, savory flavor that makes them a solid choice.

Carnitas come in tacos with a mix of textures. Some servings are shredded and juicy, while others have large, dry chunks of pork.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and elevated."

"You have to try the carnitas tacos; they were really good."

"You have to try the carnitas tacos; they were really good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a $45 special menu that changes regularly.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dining.

3

The restaurant can get toasty during summer as it lacks air conditioning.

05
Taqueria Milear image 1
Mexican restaurant

Backyard offers spacious outdoor seating with authentic Mexican vibes and well-decorated garden space. Indoor area feels cozy and clean but can be rushed. Drinks like micheladas and margaritas complement the relaxed patio atmosphere.

Carnitas tacos come with tender, flavorful pork that stands out. They pair well with red sauce chilaquiles and tamales, making a solid combo.

Carnitas tacos stand out for being flavorful and moist without sogginess. The carnitas quesadilla and burrito offer rich pork taste, making the pork dishes a highlight.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so authentic, it reminds me of home."

"I always came for the carnitas and it never disappointed."

"I found the carnitas tacos to be amazing and authentic."

Good to know

1

Taqueria Milear has a happy hour that ends at 11 PM.

2

The minimum order for delivery is $35, but the website states it is $13.

3

There is an extra 4% charge on all credit card purchases.

06
El Rey Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Wooden beams and tables create a gorgeous, authentic Mexican atmosphere with great music enhancing the vibe. The menu is small but well-curated, focusing on traditional tacos like cochinita pibil and carne asada. The place feels clean and relaxing, offering a solid option for Mexican street food in the city.

Carnitas tacos come as part of the Winner Combo, paired with Cochinita and cheese. The barbacoa and carnitas options are both highly recommended.

Tacos and quesadillas feature tender carnitas with a good texture and balanced saltiness. The carnitas taste authentic, matching the flavor of home-style cooking.

People are saying

"The tacos here are so flavorful and juicy."

"The carnitas here are super delicious."

"I found the Carnitas Tacos to be delicious."

Good to know

1

El Rey Tacos offers a variety of salsas to customize your meal.

2

The menu includes taco bowls, suitable for corporate dining.

3

Expect higher prices compared to other local taquerías.

07
LOS TACOS No.1 image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco spot with standing-only counters creates a noisy, crowded atmosphere reminiscent of Mexico. A self-serve salsa bar offers various spicy and fresh toppings for quick customization. The place suits those seeking fast, flavorful bites amid lively, bustling energy.

Tender meat fills the carnitas tacos, served on soft corn tortillas. Guacamole adds a creamy touch that appeals to all ages.

Tender meat and flavorful seasoning define the carnitas tacos here. They come with guacamole and corn tortillas, making them a standout choice.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were genuinely delicious."

"I recommend the carnitas tacos; they were especially flavorful."

"I found the carnitas tacos really good and tasty."

Good to know

1

There is no indoor or outdoor seating available; expect to eat standing.

2

Be prepared to wait in line for a while, especially at night.

3

You need to pay at the cash register and receive a ticket before ordering.

08
Vida Verde - Tequila Bar image 1

Three floors plus a rooftop deck create a vibrant, festive atmosphere filled with loud music and a young, lively crowd. A DJ and bar dancer add to the energetic vibe, while colorful, edgy decor enhances the space. The setting encourages socializing despite the high noise level.

Juicy and meaty, the carnitas tacos pack a savory punch and come loaded with fresh vegetables. They deliver a flavorful delight that stands out in Midtown.

Juicy and meaty, the carnitas tacos come packed with savory flavors and plenty of vegetables. They offer a flavorful delight that stands out among Midtown options.

People are saying

"The cocktails were creative, balanced, and made with care."

"The carnitas tacos are juicy, meaty, and savory."

"The carnitas tacos here are a flavorful delight."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to be seated at a table.

2

The bottomless brunch is offered until 5PM on Saturdays and until 8PM on Sundays.

3

Customers only have 1 hour to eat during busy times.

09
Oxomoco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a beautiful interior with natural light and light wood furnishings, creating a cozy atmosphere that feels like a cafe in Mexico City. The vibe suits special occasions more than casual nights out, with a fun and lively energy. Outstanding tacos and fabulous cocktails complement the inviting setting.

Pork carnitas tacos offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors with a succulent, satisfying bite. They carry a homestyle, festive taste reminiscent of Christmas pork.

Pork carnitas tacos offer a wonderful blend of flavors with succulent meat and a perfect balance of textures. They showcase both authenticity and creativity in their preparation.

People are saying

"The shrimp tacos here are crunchy and well-seasoned."

"The carnitas here are slow-cooked, succulent, and practically melt in your mouth."

"The carnitas tacos were succulent and had a wonderful blend of flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended at Oxomoco, especially for popular times like Thursday nights.

2

Expect to spend about $100 per person for a taco dinner.

3

Oxomoco offers a brunch experience that is one of the best in NYC.

10
Mezcali image 1
Mexican restaurant

Two-level Mexican spot offers a cozy vibe downstairs and a party atmosphere upstairs with amazing music throughout. Carnitas tacos are a solid choice, often paired with classic drinks like the old fashioned or mezcal. Open windows add a lively touch.

Carnitas tacos stand out as a solid choice with consistent praise. Servers often recommend them alongside drinks like the old fashioned and mezcal.

Carnitas tacos stand out as a favorite dish with a reputation for being exceptionally good. Recommendations often pair them with classic drinks like the old fashioned or the Santeria.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible and served quickly."

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

"I loved the carnitas tacos; they were the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 4pm to 6pm with great drink deals.

3

The happy hour offers delicious drinks and appetizers at reasonable prices for NYC.

11
Tacos El Lobo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers lively casual atmosphere with authentic tacos that stand out for their flavor and quality. The place draws people seeking excellent carnitas and barbacoa in a setting that feels inviting and homey. It maintains a friendly vibe despite some mixed opinions on other aspects.

Carnitas tacos feature tender, well-cooked meat that stands out from the usual fried versions. They offer a balanced flavor that many other spots do not replicate.

Tacos feature well cooked carnitas that stand out from typical fried meat versions. The carnitas tacos pair well with barbacoa and offer a good, authentic flavor.

People are saying

"You have to try the tacos; they're huge and delicious."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were very good."

"I enjoyed the good carnitas tacos; the pork cuts were perfectly done."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash or Zelle for payments.

2

The price for a pound of assortment is $35.

3

A water from Tamarindo costs $12.

12
Javelina image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

Tex-Mex restaurant offers authentic cuisine with phenomenal queso and killer margaritas. Indoor and outdoor seating create a warm, intimate atmosphere suitable for quiet meals and socializing. The vibe stays relaxed and welcoming, with music enhancing the experience.

Very well-filled tacos come with carnitas, often needing a second tortilla to hold all the meat. They pair well with mango margaritas for a flavorful combo.

Carnitas tacos come very well-filled, often needing a second tortilla. The carnitas are delicious and pair well with mango margaritas.

People are saying

"You have to try their queso and phenomenal margaritas."

"The carnitas here are delicious."

"The Carnitas Tacos here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy nights.

2

Happy hour runs daily from 4 PM to 6 PM with $8 margaritas.

3

Taco Tuesday offers a free frozen margarita with three tacos.

13
Takumi Taco image 1
Japanese restaurant

Wrap-around bar seating creates an indoor food truck vibe with a Latin atmosphere enhanced by top 40 bachata music. The space feels crowded and lively, with quick turnover and limited seating. A terrace with stoves adds to the dining experience.

Carnitas tacos come in a decent size and offer satisfying flavor. Portions can vary, with some dishes like the bento box serving smaller amounts.

Carnitas tacos stand out with rich flavor and tender meat. The carnita burrito offers a large, satisfying portion that complements the menu well.

People are saying

"These tacos are so delicious and fresh."

"The carnitas here are so delicious and satisfying."

"I loved the Carnitas Tacos; they were delicious."

Good to know

1

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

2

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

3

Count around $40 for four tacos and two drinks for two people.

14
Dirty Taco GCT image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco spot offers exceptional tacos with unique specials like crispy duck skin and Korean steak. Atmosphere is very casual with no seating, encouraging eating at nearby communal areas. Prices are typical for Manhattan but tacos are small and flavorful, often praised as some of the best in the city.

Pork carnitas tacos stand out here, often recommended for their flavor. The duck carnitas tacos also offer a unique twist. A pork carnitas taco with mild sauce costs around $4.50.

Tacos feature duck carnitas with excellent taste and fresh, flavorful meat. Pork carnitas come with a mild sauce and cost $4.50.

People are saying

"I sampled the duck, chicken, and steak tacos; all were fantastic."

"You have to try the pork carnitas taco; it's especially recommended."

"You have to try the pork carnitas taco; it's especially recommended."

Good to know

1

The taco omakase happens a couple of times a month.

2

The pork carnitas taco with mild sauce costs $4.50.

3

Dirty Tacos offers vegetarian options as well as meat.

15
Grexicana image 1
Restaurant

Colorful murals and hand-painted artwork create an eye-catching decor that energizes the space. The atmosphere shifts from cozy and inviting on quiet days to loud and lively during busy nights. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed option, while the crowd often waits for tables, indicating strong popularity.

Carnitas tacos feature a lot of tasty meat but can sometimes be extremely dry.

Carnitas taco features a lot of tasty meat and stands out as a favorite. Carnitas also appear in a stuffed poblano pepper and alongside halloumi fries, adding rich, savory flavors to those dishes.

People are saying

"I thought the food and drinks here were outstanding."

"The carnitas tacos here have so much tasty meat."

"The Carnitas Tacos here have so much tasty meat."

Good to know

1

On Saturday nights, Grexicana offers live music at 9 pm.

2

Tuesday’s all-you-can-eat tacos with a margarita for $35 is a great deal.

3

Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays includes bottomless mimosas or margaritas for 90 minutes.

16
Amor Loco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with chic decor and loud music sets a lively vibe. Carnitas tacos offer flavorful meat in three small portions, though some find them dry. Bar seating without backs keeps the feel casual and perfect for groups.

Three small tacos come in an order with flavorful meat. Some find the carnitas tacos dry as dust.

Carnitas tacos come in orders of three small tacos with very flavorful meat. They pair well with dishes like birria nachos and guacamole with chips.

People are saying

"Our server Rose was so attentive to our food and drinks."

"The carnitas tacos here are stunning and flavorful."

"The Carnitas Tacos here are stunningly flavorful."

Good to know

1

The Sunday drag brunch starts at 1:30 PM and requires food purchase for bottomless drinks.

2

Happy hour ends at 6 PM, with drinks priced at $14 and up afterward.

3

The kitchen closes at 10:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

17
Westlight image 1
Cocktail bar

Rooftop bar offers breathtaking Manhattan skyline views with a buzzing party vibe and contemporary music on the terrace. Outdoor space includes a discotheque atmosphere that energizes evenings. Crowd enjoys lively socializing rather than quiet moments.

Duck carnitas tacos stand out with their massive size and filling portions, priced around $22. Lamb carnitas tacos also appear as a tasty option.

Duck carnitas tacos stand out with rich flavor and tender meat. Lamb carnitas tacos offer a unique twist with a savory taste.

People are saying

"The rooftop terrace offers an incredible view of NYC."

"I found the duck carnitas tacos to be good and massive."

"The duck carnitas tacos were massive, filling, and my favorite bites."

Good to know

1

You should make a reservation to avoid being kicked off tables.

2

The event on July 4th charged $100 to get in with a $100 food and beverage minimum.

3

The kitchen closes at 10 PM.

18
Las Carnitas image 1
Taco restaurant

Simple, warm space with authentic vibes and great music creates a fun, relaxed atmosphere. The crowd enjoys delicious tacos and mezcal margaritas that stand out for their flavor and quality. Air conditioning keeps the environment comfortable between bites.

Authentic carnitas melt in your mouth with a tender texture. Some tacos look more like ham, but the flavor stays true to traditional carnitas.

Carnitas here taste authentic and fresh, not overly salty. The tacos melt in your mouth and stand out as some of the best in the country.

People are saying

"Enrique makes the best Mexican Food drinks and recommendations."

"I thought the carnitas were delicious and melted in my mouth."

"These carnitas tacos are so delicious, they melt in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

The restaurant is conveniently located near the subway exit.

3

It is a great spot for quick snacks or casual meals.

19
Rosa Mexicano image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers spacious interior with high ceilings and outdoor seating that welcomes pets. Atmosphere balances lively yet comfortable vibes with music enhancing the festive mood. Guacamole served in large stone mortars on every table stands out as a signature feature.

Carnitas tacos come in duck and pork options with strong seasoning. Pork carnitas tend to be very salty, while both types are juicy and flavorful.

Tacos feature juicy pork and duck carnitas with rich seasoning. Both versions deliver very delicious and well-balanced flavors.

People are saying

"The table side guacamole is prepared right in front of you."

"The carnitas tacos are super delicious and very juicy."

"The carnitas tacos are super delicious and very juicy."

Good to know

1

They offer a bottomless brunch every day.

2

The restaurant has a $5 margarita Monday special.

3

On Mondays, they have $5 Margaritas all day.

20
Mama Coco Taqueria & Cevicheria image 1

Mexican restaurant with folkloric décor and colorful paintings creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Loud Reggaeton music plays, making conversation difficult and giving a lively, bar-like energy. Seating is tight, and the space feels small when busy, with both indoor and outdoor areas plus a bar.

Carnitas tacos come with a rich, greasy texture balanced by fresh lime. They stand out as a favorite item alongside other tacos like campechano.

Well seasoned carnita tacos stand out with rich flavor. They pair nicely with a tamarind margarita for a balanced taste.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was very delicious and excellent."

"The carnitas tacos here are great and served quickly."

"The carnitas tacos were delicious and well seasoned."

Good to know

1

Expect over 30-minute wait times on Tuesdays.

2

The all-you-can-eat deal is available for $20 on Sundays.

3

A 20% service charge is automatically added to your bill.

21
¡YA VALIÓ! image 1
Restaurant

Space combines vibrant mural art and colorful ambient lighting to create an energetic setting. Latin music and live DJs fill the air, making it lively and perfect for celebrations. Cocktails stand out with Instagram-worthy presentation and bold flavors.

High-quality pork defines the carnitas tacos here, blending lean meat and fatty pork for a satisfying bite.

High-quality pork shines in the carnitas tacos with a great balance of lean meat and fatty pork. The tacos deliver a satisfying and flavorful bite.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and very authentic."

"The carnitas tacos are excellent, with high-quality pork."

"The carnitas tacos are excellent, with high-quality pork."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is from 4 to 7 PM on weekdays.

2

Margarita Thursday offers special deals on margaritas.

3

A 20% service charge is automatically added to the bill.

22
Casa Carmen Tribeca image 1
Mexican restaurant

Space combines modern sleek design with Mexican architectural art, creating a stunning hacienda vibe. Atmosphere feels cool and ambient, though noise levels can rise. Margaritas stand out as a signature drink, complementing the overall stylish setting.

Carnitas tacos stand out with a solid flavor that some find better than other dishes like chilaquiles. They pair well with guacamole and chips, offering a good but not exceptional taco experience.

Carnitas tacos stand out with a solid flavor that often outshines other dishes like chilaquiles. They pair well with guacamole and chips, offering a satisfying, straightforward option.

People are saying

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

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

"You have to try the carnitas tacos; they were even better than the chilaquiles."

Good to know

1

The restaurant's kitchen closes earlier than the stated time of 10:30 PM.

2

If you are in the Tribeca area, you should make a reservation to dine.

3

There is an accessible restroom on the main floor.

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