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Carnitas and salsa

A generous serving of carnitas requires the bright, acidic kick of a fresh salsa.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
JP Tacos: El Patron Del Sabor image 1
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Mexican restaurant offers an authentic, cozy atmosphere with friendly, welcoming vibes and clean, simple decor. Guests enjoy interactive dice games that add fun to the dining experience. The environment stays comfortable with moderate music and a relaxed pace.

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

Salsas here stand out for their freshness and bold flavors. The roja and salsa verde with avocado bring a hot and tasty kick that pairs well with tacos and chips.

People are saying

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

"The salsa here has just the right kick."

"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.

02
El Tiempo Cantina image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

Bright, colorful space with authentic Mexican cuisine and strong margaritas sets a lively, warm atmosphere. The place fills with energy, often noisy but clean, with fresh homemade tortillas enhancing the experience. Regulars enjoy flavorful fajitas and spicy salsas, making it a classic Tex-Mex spot.

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.

Fresh, flavorful habanero salsa offers an enjoyable, addicting heat. Extra servings include a spicy salsa that pairs well with lively music.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here was amazing and delicious."

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

"The salsa here is fresh, flavorful, and has an enjoyable heat."

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.

03
Tortillerria Matehuala image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small take-out spot with no seating and fresh corn tortillas sold by the pound. Atmosphere is simple and practical, focused on quick pickup rather than dining in. Known for best barbacoa in town and generous portions, attracting those seeking authentic Mexican flavors to go.

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.

An array of fresh salsas includes a chunky green one tasting like peppers and smooth green and red salsas that are spicy. The aguacate salsa stands out as awesome, and the eggs in salsa verde add a tasty touch.

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.

04
Think Tacos (Food Truck) image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food truck offers authentic Mexican street tacos with standout birria and carnitas options. Atmosphere feels friendly and welcoming, creating a comfortable spot to hang out. Location near a social beer garden adds to its convenient and casual vibe.

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

Salsas here stand out for their authenticity and bold flavors. Asking for the secret salsa reveals a special option that packs a strong punch.

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.

05
Carnitas Cazo & Pala image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican takeout spot with family-run care and authentic carnitas inspired by Michoacán flavors. Atmosphere centers on quick service and customizable meat cuts, with no dine-in option. Popular for high-quality barbacoa and a variety of salsas, it sells out fast on limited open days.

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.

Salsa comes fresh and flavorful, served alongside carnitas and tortillas. It pairs well with chile en vinagre and pickled onions for added zest.

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
Puebla's Mexican Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space filled with authentic Mexican decor and colorful plates creates a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Music plays consistently, enhancing the inviting vibe that feels like a slice of Mexico. Both indoor and outdoor seating accommodate guests who often linger to enjoy the ambiance.

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.

Fresh salsa arrives quickly with warm chips. The chips and salsa are addicting and of high quality.

People are saying

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

"The salsa here is fresh and flavorful, truly delicious."

"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.

07
Goode Co. Kitchen & Cantina image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

Tex-Mex restaurant offers a lively atmosphere with loud music and quirky Mexican-themed decor including wooden plates, long horns, and cowboy hats. The space feels packed and intimate, with tables close together and a busy bar area. Outdoor seating provides a breezy, vibrant patio experience.

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

Fresh chips come with incredible salsa that stands out for being flavorful without too much heat. The salsa ranks among the best locally and suits those who prefer milder spice.

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.

08
Mr. Ranchero Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with handmade tortillas and freshly cooked food served in a family-friendly atmosphere. The space offers a view of graffiti-covered railroads and fills up quickly, especially on weekends. The vibe is casual and lively, with popular dishes like carnitas and chicharrones drawing steady crowds.

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

Green and red salsas pack a good kick. Salsa roja stands out as one of the best with a bold, flavorful punch.

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.

09
Tortilleria La Real #5 (La Reyna) image 1

Tiny counter service spot offers takeout only with no seating available. Atmosphere feels authentic and impressive, centered on fresh hot tortillas and fantastic barbacoa. Food stays warm on a steam table, attracting those seeking traditional Mexican flavors.

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.

Green salsa stands out with its spicy heat and rich flavor. Overall, the salsa is consistently amazing.

People are saying

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

"I thought their carnitas were delicious."

"The green salsa here is amazing and always hot."

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.

10
Taqueria Aguascalientes image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with counter seating and a carnicería market inside. Atmosphere is crowded and lively, filled with loud Spanish gospel music and close seating that brings people together. Lines form often due to limited space and popularity.

Carnitas sold by the pound on weekends suit family gatherings. Some find the meat dry, but others call it the best carnitas around.

Salsas here taste homemade and comforting with a noticeable kick. The salsa roja stands out as excellent and pairs well with dishes like tacos and chile rellenos.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food, especially the gorditas, to be delicious."

"I enjoyed the gorditas topped with the tasty salsa."

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

Good to know

1

Parking can be hectic on weekends and rush hour.

2

The restaurant gets packed during peak times.

3

Seating is limited to the counter and against the wall.

11
CHILANGOS BROTHERS TACO SHOP #2 image 1

Mexican restaurant with lucha libre-themed decor and remarkable artwork creates a vibe like neighborhoods in Mexico City. Spacious and family-friendly atmosphere combines with loud, lively music for an energetic experience. High tops and smaller tables accommodate various group 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.

Four salsas come with flavorful variety including a top notch salsa verde and a chile de árbol salsa that offers a mild but tasty kick. The menu and salsas get clear explanations at the register.

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.

12
Teotihuacan image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with spacious back patio and cramped indoor seating creates a mix of open and tight spaces. Atmosphere is loud and energetic, with TVs showing sports and occasional festive touches like charro hats for birthdays. Known for strong margaritas and authentic Mexican dishes including standout carnitas and 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.

Green salsa stands out with tons of onions and fresh guacamole. Chips come with salsa and queso that satisfy equally well.

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.

13
Tortilleria La Calentana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers fresh homemade tortillas and flavorful barbacoa with takeaway-only service and no seating. Atmosphere is simple and clean, focusing on quick pickup with decent pricing. Menu includes specialty meats like goat and carnitas available on specific days.

Carnitas have a great flavor and are usually tender, not dry or tough. They often come with fresh tortillas and pair well with barbacoa and rice.

Freshness stands out with their fresh salsa and great flavor. Service can be inconsistent, offering only a small portion with attitude when asked for more.

People are saying

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

"The tortillas here are always hot and fresh."

"I thought the carnitas had a great flavor."

Good to know

1

They only sell takeaway food; no dine-in options available.

2

On weekends, they offer birria and posole.

3

The place is open late but closes early.

14
Tortilleria La Real #2 (by La Reyna) image 1

Small takeout spot with fresh corn tortillas made from just ground corn and water. Long lines form quickly, reflecting steady demand despite limited space and no dine-in option. Food varies, but barbacoa and roasted chicken often receive praise for quality and flavor.

Carnitas often come with tortillas and sometimes share the spotlight with barbacoa and rotisserie chicken. Occasionally, the carnitas can be undercooked and a bit tough to chew.

Salsas come in homemade and molcajete-style varieties with a red tomato salsa with árbol chiles standing out. Portions tend to be small, often limited to two tiny packets.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has the best, freshest tortillas I've ever had."

"I found the salsas to be amazing and the tortillas delicious."

"The carnitas here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of about 20 minutes during busy hours.

2

The place only offers takeout service; no dining in available.

3

Tortillas should be used on the same day for best quality.

15
Guanatos Grub image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic Guadalajara flavors with live country and rock music creating a festive, lively atmosphere. Spacious seating and bright, clean decor support a warm, inviting environment. Traditional margaritas and homemade dishes like mole and birria tacos stand out.

Juicy, crispy carnitas appear in tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. The pork has a Jalisco-style flavor and a satisfying crunch in tacos dorados.

Chips come with unique salsa that shines with great flavors. Options range from mild to hot, making the salsa a standout part of the meal.

People are saying

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

"I found the birria tacos to be some of the best I've ever had."

"The carnitas are tender, flavorful, and not too fatty."

Good to know

1

Guanatos Grub offers live music on Fridays from 6 to 9 pm.

2

Karaoke entertainment is available on Thursday nights from 7 pm to 10 pm.

3

Happy hour runs on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

16
Los Cucos Mexican Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Huge Mexican restaurant with large bar, two outdoor patios, and a sturdy playground for children. Atmosphere feels relaxing and family-friendly with live Mariachi music and soccer on TV. Interior is somewhat dark and dated but offers plenty of seating and a nice-sized 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.

Chips come with warm red salsa and a green salsa that stands out for its flavor. Guacamole salsa ranks as a top choice and refills for drinks and salsas happen promptly.

People are saying

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

"I found the guacamole salsa to be the best I had ever tasted."

"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.

17
7taco image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco restaurant offers cozy indoor space with limited outdoor seating and a fast drive-thru. Atmosphere feels casual and welcoming, with music that adds a homey touch. Tacos come stuffed and authentic, making it a standout spot for breakfast tacos.

Carnitas come as thick grilled cut-up pork in tacos and breakfast burritos. Tacos often include guacamole and offer a hearty, savory flavor.

Fresh salsas like salsa Verde, habanero salsa, and a standout orange salsa add bold flavor to dishes. Combining these salsas with breakfast tacos or quesadillas creates a strong taste impact.

People are saying

"I thought their breakfast tacos were the best in town."

"I thought their breakfast tacos were tasty."

"I loved the carnitas tacos here."

Good to know

1

7taco offers breakfast all day, making it a great option for any meal.

2

The restaurant closes by 3 pm daily, limiting afternoon visits.

3

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially for the drive-thru.

18
Little Rey image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious patio with dog-friendly features and a nearby green lawn creates a relaxed, family-oriented vibe. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring natural light inside, blending indoor and outdoor spaces. Self-serve salsa bar offers a variety of options, adding a casual, interactive element to the dining experience.

Carnitas tacos come greasy and flavorful, offering a tasty and satisfying option for fans. Some find them heavy enough to cause stomach aches.

A salsa bar offers about 5-6 different salsas to choose from. Staff bring refills and salsas to the table, and the salsas taste fantastic and flavorful.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the chicken."

"I loved the self-serve salsa bar with so many delicious options."

"I found the carnitas very tasty and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost about $7 each, which may be considered pricey by some.

2

The restaurant has a dog-friendly patio, perfect for pet owners.

3

Little Rey is located conveniently off Westheimer at Mid Lane.

19
La Reyna Tortilleria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Very small space offers fresh, warm tortillas and authentic Mexican flavors with a focus on chicken and barbacoa. Atmosphere feels clean and affordable despite some organizational challenges. Regulars seek out delicious salsas and a variety of traditional items for breakfast and lunch.

Carnitas vary in texture here, with some servings well cooked and others tough or very dry. Tortillas and salsa complement the meat well.

Salsas here stand out with a green salsa that many find excellent. They pair well with fresh tortillas and meats like chicken and carnitas.

People are saying

"The tortillas here are delicious and freshly made."

"I thought their salsas were delicious."

"I found the carnitas to be well cooked."

Good to know

1

It is hard to find parking outside on weekends.

2

The minimum for card payments is $10, unlike the usual $5 elsewhere.

3

Check your food carefully for authenticity.

20
Cielito Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Renovated home creates a cozy atmosphere with tight seating that brings diners close together. Both indoor and outdoor patio seating are available, but the small space can feel warm and noisy when busy.

Carnitas tacos stand out with a rich, delicious taste that enhances dishes like chilaquiles. Adding carnitas brings a flavor boost that many find worth it.

Green and red salsas add just the right amount of spice and complement dishes well. Chips come with options for salsa, and the green salsa stands out as awesome.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic and exceptionally good."

"The Salsa here feels so cute and cozy."

"The carnitas tacos here are bomb."

Good to know

1

Parking is located behind the establishment but can be hard to find.

2

Carpooling or biking is recommended due to limited parking nearby.

3

Expect long wait times during weekend brunch hours.

21
La Reyna Tortilleria Aldine image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican tortillería with freshly made tortillas and authentic barbacoa draws a steady crowd, especially in the mornings. Busy atmosphere with unique pricing and a takeout-only setup defines the experience. Food includes well-seasoned roasted chicken and a variety of prepared dishes to go.

Freshly made carnitas come by the pound alongside deli tortillas. The carnitas have a rich, roasted flavor that pairs well with other meats like barbacoa and birria.

Green salsa stands out as salsa Verde with a strong reputation. Tortillas and salsa pair well, but green salsa must be specifically requested since they often push their preferred option.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and authentic."

"I loved the carnitas and the tortillas."

"I found the green salsa to be bussin."

Good to know

1

There is a $10 minimum for credit card purchases.

2

Parking can be challenging due to the busy area.

3

It gets quite busy during the morning hours.

22
Tortilleria La Real #1 (La Reyna) image 1

Freshly made corn and flour tortillas come hot off the conveyor belt in a busy, mostly Spanish-speaking setting. Lines form steadily as people pick up rotisserie chicken, barbacoa, and homemade salsas for takeout. The place stands out for its consistent quality and minimal wait times.

Carnitas come cooked well but lack that extra flavor punch especially on Saturdays. Barbacoa often stands out more, making carnitas less memorable in comparison.

Homemade salsas come in green and hot varieties and pair well with chips and tortillas. The salsas stand out as a favorite, often included in specials with rotisserie chicken and sides.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"I loved their tortillas and green salsa."

"I thought the carnitas had the best corn tortillas I had ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers freshly made, home-style Mexican food for takeout.

2

The wait time is minimal, and orders come out quickly.

3

They have a special that includes rotisserie chicken, tortillas, sides, and salsa.

23
Cadillac Bar image 1
Tex-Mex restaurant

Spacious Tex-Mex restaurant with a lively dance floor and upbeat music sets an energetic tone. Crowded seating creates a bustling atmosphere where guests enjoy engaging dancers and fantastic bars. The venue balances casual dining with a festive vibe, making it a popular spot for social gatherings.

Carnitas stand out as a delicious and amazing choice here. They pair well with chips and salsas, making them a solid option among other dishes like fajitas and El Guapo.

Chips arrive quickly with fresh salsa that tastes good. Sitting at the bar lets you enjoy the variety of salsas while deciding on dishes like fajitas or carnitas.

People are saying

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

"The salsa here is tasty and fresh."

"I found the carnitas to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with discounted menu options and house margaritas.

2

Brunch is served on Sundays from 11am to 3pm at a reasonable price.

3

The event space is private and suitable for meetings or birthday parties.

24
Carnitas El Güero image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with a children's area and warm, welcoming atmosphere suited for groups. Music plays softly, creating a relaxed vibe. Known for excellent prices and authentic carnitas, it offers a casual setting with plenty of space and no wait times.

Carnitas come fresh, juicy, and delicious with generous portions. Homemade tortillas and a variety of salsas complement the meat well, though traditional pickled jalapeños are not available.

Salsas here come fresh and full of flavor, especially the green salsa which stands out. The morita salsa is good but lacks traditional pickled jalapeños for carnitas.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and has real good flavor."

"The carnitas here are so fresh, juicy, and delicious."

"The salsas here are fresh, homemade, and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

There was zero wait time during my visit.

2

The prices at Carnitas El Güero are excellent.

3

I paid 15 dollars for four tacos.

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