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Best of Houston

Carnitas

Made for those who judge a kitchen entirely by the crispness and seasoning of their slow-cooked carnitas.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sierra’s Taqueria image 1
Sierra’s Taqueria image 2
Sierra’s Taqueria image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot offers tasty carnitas with handmade tortillas. Breakfast tacos are a hit. Atmosphere is simple with a hole-in-the-wall feel and a noticeable bad smell inside.

Carnitas here are very tasty with a rich flavor. They come alongside handmade tortillas that complement the dish well.

People are saying

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

"I thought the carnitas were very tasty."

"I found the tortillas to be homemade and very delicious."

Good to know

1

Sierra’s Taqueria is a small, unassuming place.

2

Sierra’s Taqueria is a small business.

02
Carniceria Mexico Lindo image 1

Spacious grocery store offers authentic Mexican products and extremely fresh meat. Carnitas have a Michoacán style that stands out, especially on weekends. Family-friendly atmosphere with handmade tortillas and quick service makes it perfect for any meal.

Carnitas here have an authentic Michoacán style that is hard to find outside Mexico. They serve delicious carnitas tacos especially on weekends alongside barbacoa and menudo.

People are saying

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

"I found the marinated meats and tortillas to be truly authentic."

"The Carnitas here are served with such friendly and attentive service."

Good to know

1

The butcher shop offers a variety of fresh meats and produce.

2

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

3

Delivery service is available for convenience.

03
ITACATE TAQUERIA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with homemade corn tortillas and a mini convenience store inside. Carnitas tacos offer tender, rich flavor that melts in your mouth. Clean, authentic vibe feels like home with fresh, traditional dishes.

Tender carnitas melt in your mouth with every bite. The carnitas tacos stand out for their rich flavor and soft texture.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the carnitas, is so tender and delicious."

"You have to try the fresh, handmade corn tortillas here."

"The carnitas here are so tender, they just melt in your mouth."

Good to know

1

The restaurant makes their own tortillas, enhancing the authenticity of the food.

2

ITACATE TAQUERIA also functions as a mini convenience store with groceries.

3

There are tables to sit at inside the restaurant for dining.

04
El Tiempo Cantina image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

Bright, colorful space serves authentic Mexican cuisine with savory pork carnitas and flavorful fajitas. Strong margaritas add to the lively, warm atmosphere. Fresh homemade tortillas and spicy salsas complete the classic Tex-Mex experience.

Savory and tender pork carnitas arrive piping hot and stay warm through the meal. They offer a flavorful alternative to beef fajitas, recommended by the waiter for first-timers.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here was amazing and delicious."

"The fajitas here are flavorful, sizzling, and stayed piping hot."

"The carnitas were savory and tender, staying piping hot."

Good to know

1

Weekend $5 Margarita specials are available, making it a great time to visit.

2

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos, perfect for budget-friendly dining.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

05
Carnitas Cazo & Pala image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican takeout shines with authentic carnitas inspired by Michoacán. Family-run care ensures high-quality barbacoa and a variety of fresh salsas. Quick service and customizable meat cuts make it a local favorite that sells out fast.

Authentic Michoacán flavor defines the pork carnitas here, delivering a real Mexican taste. The quality is unbeatable and the carnitas consistently rank as the best in town.

People are saying

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

"These carnitas tacos have an incomparable, authentic flavor."

"The carnitas and salsas here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Carnitas Cazo & Pala is takeout only with no dine-in options.

2

They only open a few days a week, so check ahead.

3

Arrive early as they sell out fast, especially on weekends.

06
Goode Co. Kitchen & Cantina image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

Lively Tex-Mex spot shines with fresh carnitas and fantastic corn tortillas. Quirky Mexican decor and breezy patio create a vibrant vibe. Tables sit close, making the space feel packed and intimate.

Fresh, delicious carnitas stand out with great flavor and quality. They come as a plate with fantastic corn tortillas and pair well with fajitas.

People are saying

"I loved the chicken enchiladas verdes; they were amazing."

"The salsa here is fresh and one of the best we've had locally."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends due to limited seating.

2

Parking can be tricky; expect limited spots during busy hours.

3

Happy Hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

07
Chi'Lantro image 1
Korean restaurant

Modern, clean spot with an open, airy vibe and comfortable booths for long chats. Carnitas bowl shines with tender pork, perfect alongside chicken or steak combos. Vegan options like kimchi fries add variety to the friendly, welcoming menu.

The carnitas bowl features pork as the main protein and stands out as a favorite choice. It pairs well with other bowls like chicken and steak in combo orders.

People are saying

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

"The Korean food, especially the kimchi fries, is legit."

"I found the carnitas bowl to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Chi'Lantro offers vegan-friendly and vegetarian options.

2

The price was reasonable for the portion sizes and freshness.

3

The kids meals cost over $32 for three, with no beverages included.

08
Tortillerria Matehuala image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small take-out spot shines with best barbacoa and fresh corn tortillas sold by the pound. Carnitas en salsa verde offer rich flavor, especially on Saturdays. Simple, practical atmosphere focuses on quick pickup and generous portions of authentic Mexican dishes.

Carnitas en salsa verde stand out with rich flavor. Saturday servings of carnitas offer a special touch alongside other dishes like barbacoa and cochinita pibil.

People are saying

"I found the tortillas here to be the best in all Houston."

"I thought the barbacoa taco was the best I had."

"The Carnitas on Saturday were something special."

Good to know

1

They sell to-go by the pound and have no seating available.

2

One lunch could be easily split to go, making the price very reasonable.

3

The portions are generous, with one taco practically making two normal tacos.

09
JP Tacos: El Patron Del Sabor image 1

Mexican spot shines with authentic atmosphere and friendly vibes. Carnitas tacos offer rich flavor and tender bites, paired perfectly with green salsa. Interactive dice games add fun, making dining lively and relaxed.

Carnitas tacos stand out with rich flavor and tender texture. They pair well with green salsa that adds a fresh, spicy kick.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good and authentic."

"The handmade tortillas here are fantastic."

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

Good to know

1

Contests offer chances to win free meals during visits.

2

Rolling a six in games can result in a free meal.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere with various contests happening.

10
Puebla's Mexican Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space bursts with authentic Mexican decor and colorful plates. Carnitas shine in tacos and tostadas with bold seasoning and tender texture. Music and lively vibe create a welcoming atmosphere that invites guests to linger indoors or outdoors.

Carnitas show up in several dishes like tacos, tostadas, and gorditas, each packed with rich flavor. The carnitas here stand out for their bold seasoning and tender texture.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and authentic."

"I loved the authentic Mexican breakfast, especially the chilaquiles."

"I thought the carnitas here were the best I had in Houston."

Good to know

1

It can get crowded between 10 AM and 1 PM, so expect wait times during those hours.

2

Parking is very limited, and finding a spot can be difficult.

3

They might have parking available in the back, but it's not guaranteed.

11
El Rey Meat Market image 1
Butcher shop

Butcher shop offers massive meat selection and an authentic taqueria with handmade tortillas. Carnitas are flavorful and generous, perfect in tacos. Atmosphere stays calm yet bustling, creating a friendly, efficient vibe.

Flavorful carnitas come in generous portions and pair well with freshly made tortillas. The meat holds up well in tacos and offers a satisfying, authentic taste.

People are saying

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

"The owner personally helped with my order and gifted tortilla chips."

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

Good to know

1

El Rey Market opens early at 5:30 AM, ready for customers.

2

Birria is available on weekends, a popular menu item.

3

The parking lot can get full, especially on weekends.

12
Carniceria Villagran image 1

Small butcher shop shines with fresh meats and handmade tortillas. Carnitas sell out early due to rich flavor and high demand. Casual tables invite quick meals featuring barbacoa and marinated specialties.

Carnitas sell out early, often by 9am. They have rich flavor and are considered among the best in the area. Production levels sometimes limit availability.

People are saying

"The barbacoa and carnitas here are the best Mexican food I've had."

"I found the food here to be freshly prepared and delicious."

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

Good to know

1

They run out of carnitas too soon, usually by 9am.

2

The food is offered at an excellent price.

3

Their meats cost over $12 a pound.

13
Carnitas Pueblo Nuevo (Food Truck) image 1

Food truck offers authentic carnitas with homemade tortillas and large tacos. Outdoor seating buzzes with live music and a lively crowd. Salsa, pico de gallo, and jalapeño add fresh, bold flavors to every bite.

Guanajuato-style carnitas stand out with their authentic flavor and tender texture. The meat pairs well with fresh tortillas, creating delicious carnitas tacos that many find excellent and highly recommended.

People are saying

"These carnitas are heavenly and the homemade tortillas make the food even better."

"I thought these were the best carnitas I've ever tasted."

"I loved their handmade tortillas; they made the carnitas even better."

Good to know

1

Arrive early as the food truck sells out quickly and expect a line.

2

The food truck is located behind the flea market.

3

Eating there requires outdoor seating.

14
Guerrero Meat Market image 1

Butcher shop shines with grilled carnitas and marinated fajitas, all packed with flavor. Authentic Mexican dishes like barbacoa and tacos create a fresh, tasty atmosphere. Flour tortillas are a must-have to complete the meal.

Grilled carnitas come marinated and full of flavor. The carnitas sit alongside barbacoa and fajitas, all cooked to a tasty finish.

People are saying

"I thought the marinated fajitas were the best I've ever had."

"I recommended going there for their marinated carnitas."

"You'll find the tacos here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Expect high-quality meats and a variety of options available.

2

Tacos are a popular item and highly recommended by customers.

3

The market offers a selection of packaged meats for convenience.

15
Tortillería El Comal image 1
Mexican restaurant

Known for freshly made tortillas, this takeout spot serves tender carnitas with rich flavor and crispy chicharrones. Lines often stretch out the door, showing its lively atmosphere and steady demand. Small gorditas and pork rinds highlight quality over variety.

Tender carnitas stand out with rich flavor and a satisfying texture. The chicharrones complement the dish with a crispy, savory bite.

People are saying

"The barbacoa and carnitas here are the best Mexican food I've ever tasted."

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

"I thought the flavor of the barbecue was excellent."

Good to know

1

This place is not a restaurant; it only offers takeout.

2

The gorditas cost almost four dollars each.

3

Expect longer wait times during busy hours, especially on weekends.

16
El Taquito Meat Market( Venta Boletos Autobus Omnibus Express ) image 1

Butcher shop offers handmade tortillas and a wide meat selection at low prices. Perfect carnitas shine alongside barbacoa, great for breakfast with cueritos. Family-run vibe adds charm and quality focus.

Carnitas come out perfect and delicious, matching the quality of the barbacoa. They pair well with other breakfast meats like cueritos, making for a solid morning meal.

People are saying

"The barbacoa and carnitas here are delicious."

"I found the carnitas to be delicious."

"I enjoyed very good quality Mexican food here."

Good to know

1

The store offers a wide variety of products at competitive prices.

2

It is family-owned, supporting local entrepreneurship.

3

Expect a friendly atmosphere with helpful staff.

17
La Casa Del Pueblo image 1
Butcher shop

Barbacoa and tender carnitas shine with rich, savory flavors. Fajitas add variety to the menu. Calm atmosphere makes shopping easy. Prices are higher but still reasonable.

Tender carnitas stand out here, served alongside flavorful barbacoa and fajitas. The carnitas have a rich, savory taste that pairs well with traditional sides.

People are saying

"I thought the barbacoa and carnitas were the best Mexican food."

"The food here is good and the prices are reasonable."

"I thought the carnitas here were the best."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable compared to similar restaurants in the area.

2

The restaurant is usually not crowded, making it a good option for a quiet meal.

3

Expect prices to have increased recently, so check the menu before visiting.

18
Pancho's Meat Market image 1

Small Hispanic market shines with huge meat counter and fresh produce. Carnitas come in pound-sized orders with cilantro and onions, praised for their flavor. Busy, clean space offers well-made tacos and tasty barbacoa, though customers watch prices closely.

Cooked carnitas come in a pound-sized order ready to take home. Orders include cilantro and onions handed over with the meat. The carnitas stand out as delicious and highly regarded alongside menudo.

People are saying

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

"I bought charcoal at the Market, but the price was wrong at checkout."

"I thought the carnitas were the best."

Good to know

1

The market is clean and spacious after the recent upgrade.

2

Customers must purchase salsa, onions, and cilantro separately now.

3

Tortillas are no longer included with food orders.

19
El Maizito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with tender carnitas and fresh corn tortillas. Fajita marinada tacos offer bold flavors in a calm, cool setting. Portions are generous and prices stay reasonable, making it a solid choice for taco lovers.

Carnitas come out tender and delicious, served with fresh made corn tortillas. They stand alongside barbacoa, tripas, and menudo as solid meat choices for tacos.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is really tasty and the tongue was delicious."

"The tortillas here are always warm and tasty."

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

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $4.00 each, making them an affordable option.

2

Expect busy weekends, so plan for potential wait times.

3

The restaurant offers takeout options throughout the week.

20
Chicharrones "El Güero" image 1
Mexican restaurant

Takeout-only Mexican spot buzzes with energy and often has lines. Carnitas planchadas shine with rich, tender flavor. Crispy chicharrones and savory barbacoa add depth. Cash is king due to card fees, and parking is tight.

Carnitas planchadas stand out with authentic, rich flavor and tender texture. The menu also features chicharrones and barbacoa that deliver savory, satisfying tastes.

People are saying

"The flour tortillas are so good and authentic."

"I thought the carnitas here were the best I've ever eaten."

"The BBQ here is super delicious, especially the pork rinds."

Good to know

1

They charge an extra service fee for credit card payments, so bring cash.

2

Be prepared to wait a little if it's busy.

3

The parking available is limited, so plan accordingly.

21
Mr. Ranchero Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy handmade tortillas and freshly cooked food in a lively, family-friendly spot with views of graffiti-covered railroads. Carnitas stand out as consistently delicious and sometimes come as a free taco, adding to the casual, popular vibe.

Carnitas here are consistently delicious and flavorful. They come fresh and sometimes as a complimentary taco, making them a standout choice.

People are saying

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

"I loved the salsa; it had a good kick."

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

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers great deals on tacos and Micheladas.

2

Expect long wait times on weekends due to high popularity.

3

Everything is cooked fresh right in front of you.

22
Carnitas Quiroga (Food Truck) image 1

Carnitas here are tender and juicy with crispy edges, served with fresh tortillas and spicy salsa. Food truck operates inside a car wash, offering a casual atmosphere on weekends only. Authentic flavors from Quiroga, Michoacán make it a must-try spot.

Tender, juicy pork with crispy edges defines the carnitas here. Fresh tortillas and spicy salsa complement the flavor perfectly, creating an authentic and delicious experience.

People are saying

"I found the carnitas to be the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"I found the carnitas here to be the best I've ever had."

"I found the tacos here to be excellent and delicious."

Good to know

1

The food trailer is open only on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am until they run out.

2

Carnitas Quiroga sells carnitas by the pound or in tacos, along with soda.

3

Bring cash as credit cards are not accepted.

23
Los Cucos Mexican Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Huge Mexican spot offers tender carnitas in platters with fajitas and shrimp. Family-friendly vibe shines with a sturdy playground and live Mariachi music. Relax outdoors on two patios or inside with a large bar and dance floor.

Carnitas come out tender and moist with a delicious flavor. They feature prominently in platters like the Delicioso with chicken, beef fajitas, grilled tilapia, shrimp, rice, and beans.

People are saying

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

"The service here is attentive and friendly, making it feel Kid Friendly."

"I thought the carnitas were delicious and particularly impressive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Karaoke nights are hosted every Friday and Saturday starting at 10pm.

3

Mariachi performances occur on Fridays and Saturdays, creating a lively atmosphere.

24
La Reyna Tortilleria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small shop serves fresh corn tortillas and authentic Mexican flavors with no seating. Carnitas are fresh and tasty, pairing perfectly with tortillas. Cozy Latin American vibe highlights rotisserie chicken and barbacoa specialties for takeout meals.

Carnitas come fresh and tasty, pairing well with fresh-made corn tortillas. The flavor stands out alongside barbacoa, making for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The tortillas here are always fresh and delicious."

"I got food poisoning from the chicken I bought here."

"The carnitas here are really tasty."

Good to know

1

There is no seating at the location, so plan to take your order to go.

2

A ten-dollar card minimum is required for credit card payments.

3

Prices are generally affordable, with a typical order costing around $30.

25
Think Tacos (Food Truck) image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck serves authentic Mexican street tacos with rich carnitas and birria. Friendly vibe makes it a great spot to relax. Located near a social beer garden, it offers a casual, convenient hangout.

Carnitas tacos stand out here with a rich, savory flavor. They come highly recommended alongside the birria tacos.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious and totally worth trying."

"You have to try the special salsa; it's the best."

"I considered the carnitas here to be the best."

Good to know

1

They accept both cash and card for payments.

2

Ordering and paying is quick and easy.

3

Tacos are very affordable, making it budget-friendly.

26
Tortilleria La Real #5 (La Reyna) image 1

Tiny counter spot serves fresh hot tortillas and fantastic barbacoa with no seating. Carnitas vary but often pair well with barbacoa, making both solid choices. Food stays warm on a steam table, offering authentic Mexican flavors for takeout.

Fresh tortillas accompany the carnitas, which range from delicious to so-so depending on the visit. The carnitas pair well with barbacoa, making both solid choices here.

People are saying

"The tortillas here are fresh, warm, and handmade."

"I had the best barbacoa I ever tasted."

"I thought their carnitas were delicious."

Good to know

1

This place is for pick up only with no dine-in options.

2

Expect a simple menu with only a few dishes available.

3

Prices are decent, averaging around $15 for two people.

27
Gaspachos Mexican Bites image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor space shines with colorful decor and lively Latin music, making it great for families and dogs. Carnitas breakfast tacos offer rich flavor and tender meat, perfect with sides like Mexi Fries. Seating is ample, creating a comfortable, scenic spot to relax.

Carnitas breakfast tacos stand out with rich flavor and tender meat. Street tacos and tortas with carnitas also offer delicious, satisfying bites that pair well with sides like Mexi Fries.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and tasted fresh."

"I loved their happy hour with great margaritas and tacos."

"The carnitas breakfast tacos are delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with great pricing on drinks.

2

Taco Tuesday offers $1.50 street tacos all day with a minimum of 5.

3

Some evenings feature live entertainment with singers or performers.

28
Teotihuacan image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot offers spacious back patio and loud energetic atmosphere with TVs showing sports. Carnitas come in generous portions with tender pork and tasty sauces. Known for strong margaritas and authentic dishes like mole.

Pork carnitas come in generous portions with a mix of tender and less tender pieces. Sauces complement the carnitas de puerco well, enhancing the overall flavor.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic and flavorful."

"The fajitas are perfectly seasoned and tender."

"I found the carnitas de puerco and all the sauces to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 11am to 10pm Monday through Wednesday.

2

Happy hour features $4 house margaritas from Monday to Wednesday.

3

All-day happy hour is available on Mondays.

29
CHILANGOS BROTHERS TACO SHOP #2 image 1

Mexican restaurant offers a lucha libre-themed decor and remarkable artwork for a vibrant vibe. Carnitas shine in tacos and a torta, though the torta has more bread than meat. Spacious, family-friendly space with loud, lively music suits groups of all sizes.

Shredded pork appears in tacos and a torta, with the torta featuring mostly bread and less meat. Carnitas come alongside other taco options like Al pastor and quesabirria.

People are saying

"The food here has an excellent flavor and tastes amazing."

"The food here is truly authentic Mexico City Mexican food."

"The carnitas were juicy and the tortillas were fresh."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 1 to 1.5 hours for food during peak hours.

2

The price of sandwiches is around $22 each.

3

The restaurant has a clean environment with well-maintained bathrooms.

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