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Guide to San Antonio

Carnitas and tortillas

The combination of warm, handmade tortillas and rich carnitas is the only thing that hits the spot.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Reese Bros Barbecue image 1
Reese Bros Barbecue image 2
Reese Bros Barbecue image 3
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Barbecue restaurant

Outdoor barbecue spot offers covered seating with a backyard patio vibe and friendly service. The atmosphere is clean and inviting, featuring TVs and a small bar with affordable Lone Star beers and flavorful margaritas. Conversations and music create a relaxed, social energy throughout the space.

Pulled pork-style carnitas come with added sauce that enhances flavor. The carnitas tostada and Costras taco stand out as highlights.

Homemade tortillas come hot and fresh with a queso infused sausage and a mix of brisket, pork, ribs, and salsa for a unique flavor.

People are saying

"This American food is some of the best barbecue I've ever had."

"The brisket here is so tender and flavorful."

"The carnitas here are so tender and delicious."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to avoid long lines; they often sell out by early afternoon.

2

Parking is available in a large dirt lot behind the restaurant.

3

All drinks are ordered at the bar, which can lead to long wait times.

02
Victoria Tortilla & Tamales Factory image 1

Spacious takeout spot with a few tables and a small parking lot, often crowded with a fast-moving line. Atmosphere is busy and efficient, with a dedicated pickup line that eases wait times. Known for affordable prices, exceptional tamales and barbacoa, and a clean, well-organized environment.

Carnitas here stand out for their very good quality and yummy flavor. They rank among the best in the city, often enjoyed alongside tortillas and barbacoa.

Flour and corn tortillas stand out for their quality and taste. Corn tortillas work well for enchiladas and barbacoa tacos, while flour tortillas come in large quantities and hold up well.

People are saying

"These tamales taste homemade and are delicious."

"The salsa here is delicious and well-seasoned."

"You have to try their barbacoa and tamales; the tortillas are excellent."

Good to know

1

The place is a stop-and-go spot without a seating area to dine in.

2

The price of $11.50 a dozen is very affordable.

3

Pickup is easy with a dedicated line and no wait.

03
Tacopolis SA image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco restaurant offers simple, clean decor with a cozy, welcoming vibe that blends traditional taquería style and fresh, colorful touches. The atmosphere stays low key and authentic, attracting those seeking generous portions of flavorful, well-crafted tacos. Pricing remains reasonable, making it a solid choice for filling, quality Mexican food.

Super tender and flavorful carnitas stand out alongside birria and chorizo, all showing the kitchen's skill. The carnitas taco rates a solid 10 out of 10 for taste.

Soft, double corn tortillas hold fillings without falling apart. They wrap around beefy champiñones and the asada alambre with grilled beef, cheese, onions, and peppers.

People are saying

"These tortillas are the softest, perfect for wrapping up flavorful fillings."

"These tacos are simple, high-quality, and delicious."

"The carnitas here are so tender and full of rich flavor."

Good to know

1

Breakfast tacos are served until noon.

2

Tacos cost $4 each, offering good value for quality.

3

Parking is available behind the restaurant.

04
Papi's Barbacoa And Bakery image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a lively, friendly atmosphere and a focus on family-owned community spirit. Known for excellent barbacoa and menudo, it operates mainly as a takeout spot with reasonable combo deals and a welcoming vibe.

Carnitas come alongside barbacoa and menudo, served in tacos with fresh tortillas. Small samples of beans and pico de gallo often accompany the order.

Flour tortillas come out thin and homemade tasting, with a fluffy, light texture. Corn tortillas are suavecitas and thin, making both types great for any meal.

People are saying

"The barbacoa here is outstanding Mexican food."

"The food here is delicious, especially the barbacoa."

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

Good to know

1

You can get a pound of barbacoa, 1 liter of soda, and tortillas for 20 dollars.

2

They offer a family deal that includes a pound of barbacoa, a liter of soda, and tortillas for 20 dollars.

3

They sold spices and salsas in mild, medium, and hot varieties.

05
El Maizal Tortillería image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space fills with loud music and a family-friendly vibe. Fresh tortillas made in-house create a homely aroma. The atmosphere feels genuine and vibrant, drawing people who appreciate authentic Mexican flavors.

Carnitas stand out as a favorite with a delicious flavor that pairs well with both flour and yellow corn tortillas. Tacos featuring carnitas consistently deliver a tasty and satisfying experience.

Fresh tortillas made in-house fill the air with a homemade aroma that feels like grandma's kitchen. Large portions come with flavorful flour tortillas that hold up well for tacos and pair nicely with barbacoa and carnitas.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has the most delicious yellow corn tortillas."

"I thought the corn tortillas were so delicious."

"I found the carnitas here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait for a table during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant offers a drive-thru service for quick orders.

3

Tortillas are made fresh in-house daily.

06
Mezquite image 1
Restaurant

High ceilings and natural light create an open, inviting space filled with live plants and elegant furnishings. Mariachi music adds authentic energy, while seating ranges from formal dining to casual bar areas with QR code ordering. The atmosphere feels upscale yet relaxed, encouraging unhurried meals and socializing.

Caramelos de Carnitas come on a flaky wheat tortilla seasoned like their Abuela taught them. These carnitas stand out as the star dish here.

Fresh, house-made tortillas stand out with a light texture and balanced thickness. Wheat tortillas impress with their rich flavor, pairing well with creamy Calabacitas and frijoles rancheros.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful and creative."

"The homemade flour tortillas are exceptional."

"The carnitas tacos were all I needed."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available, but specific times were not mentioned.

2

Mariachi night occurs regularly, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, especially during events.

07
Señor Burro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with colorful decorations and San Diego-themed decor creates a warm and inviting ambiance. The vibe stays chill with up-to-date reggaeton music and a clean, relatively new interior. Frequent guests enjoy authentic flavors like fish tacos and carne asada street tacos that reflect West Coast influences.

Juicy and tender carnitas tacos deliver authentic San Diego flavor. The carnitas burrito and shredded beef tacos match traditional tastes closely.

Homemade tortillas stand out with corn tortillas made from scratch and a delicious, fresh taste. They come with generous fillings in tacos and burritos.

People are saying

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

"The tortillas here are delicious and filled with tasty ingredients."

"The carnitas tacos here are juicy and tender."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, street tacos cost $2 at Señor Burro.

2

Taco Tuesday specials feature mini tacos for $2 each.

3

Taco Tuesdays can get busy, so plan to arrive early.

08
Carnitas Don Raúl image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with industrial design and packed tables creates a lively, inviting atmosphere. Guests enjoy a self-serve salsa bar and cold aluminum cups for well-crafted Palomas and mezcaladas. The vibe stays laid-back with friendly staff and a focus on best carnitas in town.

Tender, flavorful meat stands out in the carnitas here. The preparation delivers a consistently rich, authentic taste that many find unmatched in the area.

Corn tortillas come small and extra crispy for quesadillas. The 1 lb portion includes 8 tortillas, offering excellent value. They pair well with two salsas and amazing refried beans.

People are saying

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

"These carnitas tacos are juicy, flavorful, and tender."

"The carnitas here are so juicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Carnitas Don Raúl closes at 5 PM.

2

Expect long lines on weekends; arrive early to avoid waiting.

3

The restaurant now has a dining area with air conditioning.

09
Adelita Tamales & Tortilla image 1

Stone-ground corn masa and scratch-made tortillas define the space, reflecting authentic Tex-Mex tradition. The atmosphere is calm with short lines, offering fresh tamales, barbacoa, and healthy food options. Regulars come for consistent quality and generations-old recipes.

Pork carnitas come with onions and jalapenos and cook to perfection. They serve them alongside tortillas and other masa-based items.

Freshly made tortillas stand out for their excellent quality and delicious flavor. Mini tortillas add a fun twist, and corn tortillas consistently impress with their taste and texture.

People are saying

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

"I found the corn tortillas here to be fresh and delicious."

"The carnitas were cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Barbacoa is served daily, making it a popular choice.

2

Tamales are available for $12.25 per dozen, a reasonable price.

3

Masa for tortillas and tamales can be purchased here.

10
El Frijolito Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small Mexican restaurant offers a cozy, home-like atmosphere with bright, happy energy and background Tejano music that invites dancing. The space feels welcoming and clean, resembling a Mexican grandma's home. Guests enjoy authentic, handmade tortillas and well-seasoned dishes in generous portions.

Carnitas have authentic flavors that stand out alongside dishes like menudo and mole. The carnitas plate is a solid choice with rich, traditional taste.

Homemade tortillas stand out here, with both handmade flour tortillas and yellow corn tortillas served hot and fresh. The tortillas pair well with dishes like the Machacado plate and come with top quality beans.

People are saying

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

"I loved the pancakes, bacon, and eggs for breakfast."

"I really liked the cheeseburger and the carnitas."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers daily specials for under $10, including tea.

2

Expect minimal wait times during weekdays.

3

Portions are large, making it a good value for families.

11
Esmeralda's Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small Mexican restaurant offers authentic decor and a quiet, neighborly vibe with outdoor seating on a colorful, covered patio. The atmosphere feels laid back and cozy, like eating at a friend's house. A drive-thru window adds convenience to the experience.

Carnitas come out flavorful and satisfying, cooked the right way. The plate includes charro beans, gorditas, and quesadillas, making for a hearty meal.

Handmade tortillas stand out with both flour and corn varieties offering good flavor. They serve homemade chips and tortillas that complement dishes like Huevos Rancheros well.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is seriously delicious and flavorful."

"I found the breakfast food here to be delicious."

"The carnitas here are flavorful and satisfying."

Good to know

1

There is a 4% surcharge for using credit cards.

2

Expect to pay 50 cents for a to-go drink or food box.

3

Lunch specials include tea for under $10.

12
Sanchos Cantina & Cocina image 1

Outdoor seating dominates with a rooftop bar and patio offering a kick-back atmosphere. Live music plays most days, featuring free jazz and local bands that create a relaxed vibe. Food and drinks focus on Tex-Mex tacos and margaritas, praised for quality and flavor.

Carnitas tacos use shredded pork shoulder instead of traditional carnitas. The carnitas nachos and tacos stand out as popular choices that really hit the spot.

Soft, salty tortillas come handmade in house with a taste that recalls grandma's cooking. Corn tortillas stand out as amazing and all tortillas are vegan even alongside nonvegan dishes.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is savory perfection, especially the tacos."

"You have to try the carnitas tacos; they are to die for."

"The handmade corn tortillas were amazing and soft."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with $4 frozen margaritas and $10 frozen flights.

2

Karaoke night is on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

3

Live jazz performances occur every Monday night featuring local musicians.

13
La Siberia De Monterrey Mexican Bar & Grill image 1

Mexican restaurant with clean, modern decor and a family business vibe offers a friendly atmosphere that ranges from quiet to lively near the bar. The menu features delicious, authentic dishes and a variety of distinctive margaritas and micheladas at reasonable prices.

Tostadas Siberia with carnitas stand out for their rich flavor and are often recommended. Carnitas tacos and picadillo tacos offer solid taste, though the carnitas tostada can be a bit light on meat for the price.

Homemade tortillas stand out here, with both flour and corn varieties tasting fresh and authentic. The corn tortillas pair well with fajitas, rice, and beans, adding to the overall deliciousness.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the carnitas tacos, they're really good."

"I loved their homemade flour and corn tortillas."

Good to know

1

Mariachi music is played every Friday starting at 7:00 pm.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers on weekdays.

3

Parking is ample and easily accessible from Interstate 37.

14
Nicha's Comida Mexicana - Southside image 1

Mexican restaurant with beautiful decor and a small, cozy space that reflects Mexican culture. Atmosphere is inviting and chill with wonderful music at a comfortable volume. Known for excellent margaritas and authentic dishes like enchiladas and fajitas.

Tacos come loaded with a ridiculously absurd amount of pork that stays tender and moist. The carnitas bowl stands out as a go-to dish with consistently good flavor.

Made in house, the tortillas stay soft and warm even when reheated. They pair well with dishes like sizzling fajitas, adding freshness and flavor to every bite.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and came out fast."

"The homemade tortillas here are great and packed with flavor."

"The carnitas were so tender, moist, and tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a reverse happy hour from 9 pm to close.

2

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 pm on Fridays with discounted appetizers.

3

Parking at Nicha's is limited, especially during peak times.

15
Hacienda Vallarta Mexican Buffet 2 image 1

Mexican buffet restaurant with a modern, well-kept interior and live mariachi music creates a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. The space feels clean and cozy, offering a quiet environment suitable for conversation. A back party room and kids' games add to its appeal for family gatherings.

Carnitas stand out as a favorite dish here, served alongside other taco meats like chicharrón and al pastor. The menu offers a great selection including menudo, barbacoa, and tamales, especially during breakfast hours.

Freshly made homemade tortillas come in both corn and flour varieties. They arrive warm and tasty, often served alongside dishes like menudo and steaks.

People are saying

"The Mexican buffet had yummy enchiladas and flautas."

"The tortillas here are freshly made and delicious."

"I thought the carnitas were great."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait for seating, but it can extend to one hour.

2

Lunch and dinner buffets cost $18.99 on weekends.

3

The buffet often runs out of food and silverware.

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