Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Tennessee

Carnitas

Tender, slow-cooked carnitas are the only thing that will satisfy this craving for savory pork.

Based on 592 Opinions
+589
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Gordo's Taqueria image 1
Gordo's Taqueria image 2
Gordo's Taqueria image 3
View all
Taco restaurant

Bright space with original handmade tiles and colorful wall art offers a fun vibe. Outdoor seating adds to the casual feel. Known for large portions of classic Bay Area Mexican food, especially tasty carnitas in super carnitas burritos.

Carnitas here are tasty, warm, and soft. The super carnitas burritos stand out as a solid choice.

People are saying

"I thought their burrito was the best I had in Nashville."

"I considered this my new favorite lunch spot."

"I found the carnitas to be simply amazing and incredible."

Good to know

1

The prices at Gordo's Taqueria are affordable.

2

The portions at Gordo's Taqueria are large.

3

Parking is easy at Gordo's Taqueria.

02
Rikos Tacos image 1
Taco restaurant

Food truck serves authentic street tacos with quick, affordable service. Pork carnitas stay crispy and delicious, topped with onions and cilantro. Latino visitors enjoy a homey atmosphere with friendly Spanish-speaking staff despite limited parking and no seating.

Pork carnitas tacos come with onions and cilantro and stay crispy, not soggy. They taste very delicious and satisfy every time.

People are saying

"These tacos are the best I've ever tasted."

"You have to try the tacos from this food truck; they're bursting with flavor."

"The carnitas tacos here are literally perfect."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited near the food truck.

2

Prices for tacos are reasonable, with three tacos costing around $7.50.

3

Expect a wait time of 7 to 10 minutes for your order.

03
Taqueria Los Dos Rancheros image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck serves authentic Mexican tacos with fast, affordable service near a busy interstate. Rich carnitas offer tender, flavorful pork alongside standout birria and al pastor. Simple, warm atmosphere adds to its hidden gem vibe.

Pork carnitas here stand out for their rich flavor and tender texture. They come alongside other tacos like al pastor, asada, and barbacoa, making for a varied taco experience.

People are saying

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

"I found the food to be authentic and great."

"I found the carnitas to be the best I have ever had."

Good to know

1

The food truck is located right off the interstate, accessible by making a left, then a right.

2

The parking lot situation is poor, so plan accordingly.

3

The food truck includes sauces and vegetables with the tacos at no extra charge.

04
The Taco Shop image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant inside a gas station offers a clean, upbeat environment with authentic Mexican vibes and chill atmosphere. Carnitas tacos and the flavorful Carnitas Torta shine alongside carne asada and chorizo. Families and travelers enjoy exceptional birria tacos and lively music.

Carnitas tacos appear regularly alongside carne asada and chorizo options. The Carnitas Torta stands out as especially flavorful. Multiple visits include carnitas as a key choice in taco orders.

People are saying

"The birria pizza here is crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor."

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

"The Carnitas tacos here are amazing in taste and texture."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $1.50 each from 2-5pm.

2

The restaurant is located inside a gas station, which may be easy to miss.

3

Each serving is large enough to feed multiple people.

05
Tako Loko Truck image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck offers top-tier tacos with standout carnitas and chorizo flavors. Outdoor seating under a tent creates a casual vibe despite some nearby loitering. Quick service and affordable prices keep locals coming back.

Carnitas tacos come up often, showing consistent quality. Both carnitas and chorizo tacos offer solid flavor profiles.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always super fresh."

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

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

Good to know

1

The prices at Tako Loko Truck are very reasonable.

2

The wait time is no more than 5 minutes.

3

They give grilled onions with the order, which not many places do anymore.

06
Little Rey image 1
Restaurant

Enjoy tender carnitas tacos on soft flour tortillas in a lively spot with self-serve salsa bar. Outdoor seating on front and back porches adds charm. Strong, refreshing margaritas make it great for groups and solo diners alike.

Carnitas tacos come on soft flour tortillas with pork cooked just right. The meat is tender and flavorful, making these tacos a consistent highlight.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The tacos here are loaded with meat and flavor."

"The carnitas here are cooked perfectly and were the highlight."

Good to know

1

Little Rey does brunch on weekends from 10am to 2pm.

2

Parking is available but can be limited; arrive early.

3

Reservations are recommended for large parties.

07
The Salty Burrito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, clean space with outdoor seating and wooden beams offers a family-friendly vibe. Carnitas shine in both burritos with queso and tacos, paired well with a complimentary salsa bar. Loud dining room makes quiet chats tough.

Carnitas appear in both burritos and tacos here. The carnitas burrito comes with queso, adding a creamy touch. Carnitas and al pastor tacos stand out as popular choices.

People are saying

"The food here is great and served quickly."

"This Mexican food is delicious with great portions."

"I had the Carnitas Burrito and it was very good."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday is a popular event at the restaurant.

2

The pricing is around $10 for a meal and drink.

3

Parking in the area is paid parking.

08
Tio Fun! image 1
Restaurant

Vibrant space with colorful decor and a lively bar sets a fun tone. Soft, tender carnitas tacos shine with savory flavor. Patio seating offers a relaxed, neighborhood vibe perfect for enjoying frozen margaritas and authentic Mexican dishes.

Soft and tender meat defines the carnitas here, with fat adding a warm, savory accent. Options include carnitas tacos on corn or house-made flour tortillas and a 12/10 carnita melt, all cooked to perfection.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be great."

"The house-made flour tortillas were amazing and delicious."

"The carnitas are so soft and tender, with savory accents."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6 PM Wednesday through Saturday with great drink deals.

2

Parking is limited near the restaurant; consider street parking a block away.

3

The menu includes vegan and vegetarian options for diverse dietary needs.

09
Tacos y Mariscos Los Carnales inc. image 1

Casual spot with authentic tacos and a cozy vibe. Carnitas tacos deliver rich, savory flavors that shine among other options. Affordable prices and late hours make it perfect for genuine Mexican cravings.

Carnitas tacos offer rich, savory flavors that stand out alongside birria and shrimp options. Tacos include cabeza, pastor, and pescado, all prepared with distinct, satisfying tastes.

People are saying

"I thought the street tacos here were the best I'd ever had."

"The carnitas were so juicy and tender, cooked to perfection."

"I adored their ceviche."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open late for dinner service.

2

Prices at the restaurant are extremely affordable.

3

Order indoors for table service instead of at the food truck.

10
Taqueria El Dolar #2 image 1
Taco restaurant

Food truck by a gas station serves best carne asada and cheesy birria quesa tacos at great prices. Carnitas are well-cooked and flavorful, standing out among other options. Limited outdoor seating keeps the vibe casual and quick.

Carnitas come out well-cooked and flavorful. They hold up well alongside other taco options like pastor and asada.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and delicious, especially the carne asada tacos."

"I thought the tacos were delicious and cheap."

"The carnitas here were pretty good."

Good to know

1

Taqueria El Dolar #2 is cash only, with an ATM nearby.

2

The food truck is located next to a gas station.

3

There are a few tables outside for seating.

11
El Pollito Express #2 image 1

Small spot serves authentic Mexican food with crispy carnitas in tacos and enchiladas. Fresh, homemade salsas shine at the chip and salsa bar. Drive-thru adds quick convenience while prices stay very affordable for casual meals.

Crispy edges highlight the carnitas in tacos and taco salads. Carnitas appear in tacos and enchiladas, often paired with al pastor. Multiple dishes feature carnita meat as a key ingredient.

People are saying

"I found the food to be authentic and full of flavor."

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and full of flavor."

"You have to try the carnitas on tacos."

Good to know

1

Expect slower service due to the homemade food style and drive-thru.

2

The restaurant can get busy at lunchtime, with wait times up to 10 minutes.

3

Prices for food items are generally under $10, making it affordable.

12
Social Cantina Nashville image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot offers vibrant decor and a great view of a baseball field. Carnitas tacos are delicious and flavorful. Enjoy standout margaritas and a lively vibe with awesome music.

Carnitas tacos come out delicious and amazing with a strong flavor that stands out.

People are saying

"The food options were explained in detail by the welcoming staff."

"The staff here makes Social feel like home."

"The carnitas tacos were delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer $3 tacos, a great deal.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Parking costs $6 per hour at nearby garages.

13
Taqueria Don Carbon Express image 1

Drive-thru spot offers authentic Mexican flavors with generous carnita tacos served alongside rice. Outdoor benches add a simple, no-frills vibe. Prices stay insanely affordable, making it a solid choice for quick, satisfying meals.

Carnita tacos come with a generous amount of meat and are a common choice alongside chorizo. The tacos are served with a side of rice and are available through a convenient drive-thru.

People are saying

"I found the authentic tacos here to be among the best I've had."

"The tacos from the Drive Thru are always flavorful and a real deal."

"I love the chorizo and carnitas tacos here."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $2 each, and a small side of rice is $1.

2

The place is drive-thru or carry-out only.

3

There is a cash discount available, but check your total.

14
Calle Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy juicy carnitas tacos and quesadillas with rich flavors in a lively spot playing reggaetรณn music. Bright indoor and outdoor seating create a fun vibe. Don't miss the Birria tacos, some of the best around, paired with a salsa bar offering many choices.

Juicy and tender meat stands out in the carnitas tacos and quesadilla de carnitas. The carnitas deliver a rich flavor that pairs well with other tacos like gobernador and birria.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"It's a great late night spot, open until 3 am."

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

Good to know

1

Calle Taco has a 2 for 1 taco special every Tuesday.

2

They offer late night food until 3am on weekends.

3

Parking costs $11, which some consider expensive.

15
Casa Calixto Nashville image 1
Mexican restaurant

Upscale Mexican spot shines with fresh decor and a lively yet easygoing vibe. Carnitas are tender and rich, perfect in tacos or plates with rice. Enjoy a variety of margaritas while sitting at the bar or a group table.

Tender carnitas appear in both tacos and plates, served with rice. The meat holds a rich flavor that pairs well with other dishes like quesadillas.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing and thoughtfully seasoned."

"I thought the salsa was perfectly seasoned and the best I had."

"I loved the carnitas; my husband did too."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, but it can be difficult at peak times.

2

Food is typically ready within 15 minutes of placing an order.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other Mexican restaurants in the area.

16
El Toro Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with tender carnitas and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Large portions and a free salsa bar with jalapeรฑos add zest. Walls feature a mermaid mural, making the vibe unique and joyful.

Tender meat and great flavor define the carnitas here. The pork is seasoned well and consistently tasty.

People are saying

"This Mexican food's Pozole Verde is a huge, rich stew perfect for a cold evening."

"The salsa bar here is authentic with so many spicy options."

"I found the carnitas seasoned well and tender."

Good to know

1

Salsa bar available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with six varieties to try.

2

Karaoke on Sunday from 5 PM to 9 PM is a popular event.

3

Trivia night happens every Wednesday evening.

17
Mexico Tipico image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican taqueria shines with authentic birria tacos and tender carnitas that balance juicy and crispy textures. Lively mariachi music fills the warm, vibrant space with comfy booths. Drive-thru adds convenient casual dining for quick, flavorful meals.

Pork in the carnitas tacos stays tender and juicy inside with perfectly crispy edges. The carnitas appear in tacos, tortas, and chimichangas, all showcasing remarkable flavor and texture.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and full of flavor."

"I thought the wet burrito was excellent and authentic."

"The carnitas tacos here are tender, juicy, and perfectly crispy."

Good to know

1

They offer 99-cent tacos and $2.99 beers during special events.

2

Chips and salsa are charged separately.

3

You order at the counter and food is brought to your table.

18
Tequila Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, colorful space with festive decorations and a lively vibe from live music and a salsa bar. Crispy Carnitas have a crispy exterior and tender inside but lack strong seasoning. Plenty of seating options, including a patio, make it welcoming and clean.

Crispy exterior with a tender inside defines the Crispy Carnitas here. Large portions come with beans and rice, but the seasoning and slow cooking lack the usual carnitas flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

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

"The Carnitas here are tender chunks, not shredded."

Good to know

1

They have a $3 house margarita special available all day.

2

On Monday and Tuesday, lime margaritas are on special.

3

The restaurant has a lunch menu available on Saturdays.

19
Oscar's Taco Shops - Hendersonville image 1

Hand-painted murals create a family-style feel in a clean, calm space with minimal music. Carnitas come in large chunks but are cold and dry, served in tacos and quesadillas with cheese. Seating is plentiful, enhancing the relaxed dining experience.

Large chunks of carnitas come cold and dried up. Carnitas appear in tacos and quesadillas with cheese and meat.

People are saying

"I thought the street tacos were the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"The food here is always fresh and flavorful."

"I thought the carnitas tacos were very good."

Good to know

1

You get a free taco on Taco Tuesday with your order at Oscar's Taco Shops.

2

Expect a wait time of about 10 minutes for fresh food.

3

Oscar's Taco Shops charges for chips, which is unusual for Mexican restaurants.

Discover more

Tennessee

Area guide
Loading Map...