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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Washington

Carnitas and al pastor

A taqueria that treats carnitas with the same respect as their al pastor instead of letting them dry out.

Based on 813 Opinions
+810
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Updated April 2026
01
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Mexican restaurant

Small dining space with cozy, homey atmosphere and authentic Mexican decor creates a feeling of eating in someone's kitchen. Quiet back patio offers covered outdoor seating with a relaxed vibe. The place feels like a little piece of Mexico, calm and casual without loud music or TVs.

Juicy and freshly made carnitas stand out here. Tacos and plates feature rich flavor and tender meat that invite a second round.

Perfectly seared pork with a slice of pineapple gives the al pastor tacos a taste like Mexico City. The al pastor burrito comes with chipotle sauce and stands out as very good, even surpassing other well-known versions.

People are saying

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

"The Al Pastor burrito with pineapple and seared pork is amazing."

"I haven't had such juicy carnitas in a while."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

2

The restaurant has limited seating for around 12 guests.

3

They accept all payment methods, including Apple Pay.

02
Cesar's Lil Grill image 1

Food truck offers made-to-order tacos with bold flavors that rival top street food. Clean, welcoming setup includes a covered heated seating area for comfort. Generous portions and a varied menu attract a steady, diverse crowd.

Slow-cooked carnitas come shredded with fatty bits and cueritos, offering a mix of soft meat and crunchy grilled bits. They taste rich, tender, and savory in tacos and burritos but are not always available on the menu.

Spicy and sweet flavors blend with pineapple bits in the al pastor, creating a juicy and flavorful taco. It matches the quality of authentic street food from Mexico.

People are saying

"I was blown away by how flavorful the food was at this food truck."

"The Al Pastor is juicy and flavorful, with a hint of pineapple."

"The carnitas are rich, tender, and savory."

Good to know

1

Parking is available next to the gas station for easy access.

2

Cash is preferred, but credit cards are also accepted.

3

Tacos are made to order, ensuring freshness and quality.

03
Paco's Tacos image 1
Family restaurant

Small restaurant with Mexican-themed decor and family photos creates an inviting, authentic atmosphere. Live mariachi and other bands add lively energy during visits. Comfortable booths and clean, bright space support a relaxed, family-friendly vibe.

Carnitas here melt in your mouth and avoid the dryness and heavy cumin common in American-style pork. Staff often offer free samples and the owner personally shares fresh carnitas tacos to try before ordering.

Meat slow roasts on the trompo, giving al pastor a crispy, slightly charred taste. Tacos feature authentic al pastor with a satisfying, phenomenal flavor.

People are saying

"The al pastor tacos here are especially good with flavorful meat."

"I thought the al pastor tacos were some of the best I'd ever had."

"These carnitas tasted like home, not dry or cumin-laden."

Good to know

1

The menu is only available on weekends.

2

Al Pastor meat is only served Thursday through Saturday.

3

Expect a family taco fiesta atmosphere on weekends.

04
CARINOS CORNER TAQUERIA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with authentic flavors and a cozy, inviting interior. Atmosphere fills with sizzling meat smoke and loud music, creating a lively, homey vibe. Known for massive, flavorful burritos and fresh tortillas made daily.

Phenomenal carnitas tacos stand out here with rich flavor and tender meat. They rank among the best in the county and come highly recommended for anyone craving authentic carnitas.

Al pastor appears as a frequent choice alongside carne asada and carnitas. It features in tacos and California burritos, showing versatility in how it's served.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"I canโ€™t wait to get more Al Pastor tacos from here."

"I had the most phenomenal carnitas tacos here."

Good to know

1

They offer a special on chile relleno burritos on Thursdays.

2

Tacos cost $3 each, making them an affordable option.

3

The California burrito is a large portion priced around $16.

05
Taqueria El Gallo Diaz image 1
Taco restaurant

Food truck with a covered porch area offers authentic tacos known for moist, flavorful meat and toasted tortillas. Atmosphere is casual with a cash-only policy and no dogs allowed in seating. Prices are reasonable, and spice levels vary, appealing to those who enjoy bold flavors.

Carnitas here are moist and perfectly seasoned, melting in your mouth with fresh, delicious flavor. They stand out alongside al pastor tacos for their rich taste and texture.

Tacos come with moist, perfectly seasoned pork and a spicy aftertaste that stands out. The al pastor is consistently fresh and flavorful.

People are saying

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

"I found the Al Pastor tacos to be delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The carnitas here are so moist and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

They prefer that customers pay with cash.

2

Dogs are not allowed in the walk-up window or seating area.

3

There is no bathroom at the location.

06
Ambakity Food Truck image 1
Taco restaurant

Food truck offers covered outdoor seating with metal tables and chairs under shade. Atmosphere feels casual and inviting, with other food trucks and picnic tables nearby. Known for authentic street tacos and well-balanced ingredients at affordable prices.

Carnitas offer a slight braise with an almost caramel-like undertone. Tacos carry wonderful flavor and deliver a consistently excellent taste.

Tacos come with actual pineapple and feature al pastor meat that tastes fresh and flavorful. Options include both al pastor and chicken tacos, served in pairs.

People are saying

"The tacos here are absolutely delicious with great flavors."

"I thought the carnitas had wonderful flavor."

"The Al Pastor tacos came with actual pineapple."

Good to know

1

The food truck has a clean, covered seating area for customers.

2

Prices are generally lower than other taco trucks in the area.

3

The menu features seven taco varieties with unique garnishes.

07
AzteCalli Mexican Food & Taqueria image 1

Food truck setup with covered heated seating and an outdoor patio creates a casual, friendly atmosphere. Staff bring a fantastic vibe that complements the relaxed space. Popular for grab-and-go Mexican food, it draws a diverse crowd looking for quality tacos and quesadillas.

Carnitas appear in tacos and nachos with solid flavor. They also feature in a California burrito and pair well with carne asada in tacos.

Al Pastor tacos stand out with a delicious flavor and a price of $3.25. They rank as a favorite among various taco options like pollo, carnitas, carne asada, and shrimp.

People are saying

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

"I've never had Al Pastor tacos this good."

"I said that was the best carnitas taco ever."

Good to know

1

The food truck operates at Alderbrooke from 11:00am to 2:00pm on Fridays.

2

They also serve food at Peace of Mind Brewing on 99 in Lynnwood.

3

Karaoke and trivia nights happen every week at the brewery.

08
Taqueria Chatita image 1
Fast food restaurant

Food truck offers authentic Mexican food with generous portions and reasonable prices. Outdoor seating includes picnic tables under a tent, creating a casual spot for quick bites. Regulars include locals who line up, reflecting the food's strong reputation.

Tender, moist meat with a nice sear defines the carnitas here. Plates come with rice, beans, and fresh salad, while tacos and sopes highlight the rich flavor.

Al pastor tacos deliver a flavor explosion with each bite and come cooked perfectly. The adobada blends sweetness, resembling a mix between al pastor and adobada but lacks a clear identity.

People are saying

"I thought these were the best tacos I'd had in years."

"The carnitas here are tender, moist, and have a nice sear."

"The Al Pastor here is a flavor explosion."

Good to know

1

The food truck is located in a Shell station parking lot.

2

Expect a wait time during peak hours due to local popularity.

3

Prices are reasonable, with generous portion sizes.

09
Taquerรญa La Rienda image 1

Small, cozy restaurant with a self-serve salsa bar and friendly atmosphere. Lunch hours bring a long line due to unbeatable prices and authentic Mexican flavors. Tacos and burritos stand out for their quality and taste, attracting taco enthusiasts regularly.

Crispy pork with layers of flavor stands out in the carnitas tacos. They deliver a rich depth that makes them very good.

Al pastor tacos stand out with rich flavor and tender meat. The al pastor burrito offers a hearty, satisfying option packed with the same seasoned pork.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food tacos to be an excellent deal."

"The carnitas here are crispy and delicious."

"The Al Pastor meat here is always perfect and never dry."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $1.25 each, making it a great deal.

2

Expect long lines during lunch hours, especially on Taco Tuesdays.

3

Bring cash to take advantage of the best Taco Tuesday deals.

10
La Chingona Mexican Cuisine Bellevue image 1

Food truck with urban Mexico City vibe offers spacious artsy outdoor seating and a covered patio. Spanish music plays, creating a welcoming and lively atmosphere where people enjoy authentic Mexican food. The setting feels friendly and chill, with colorful decor and spots for photos.

Pork carnitas here are crispy and authentic, capturing the taste of Mexico well. Carnitas tacos and burritos stand out as top tier options alongside other meats like al pastor and barbacoa.

Al Pastor stands out with rich flavor and a juicy texture. The taco al pastor with pineapple offers a mouthwatering combination that pairs well with rice and beans.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so authentic, especially the tacos."

"The Al Pastor tacos were on point and packed with flavor."

"I've had the best carnitas burrito I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The taco truck closes by 7 pm.

2

Expect to pay almost $7 for a tamal.

3

Prices are higher than other taco places in Bellevue.

11
Tacos Mexico image 1
Taco restaurant

Eclectic A-frame structure hosts a cozy taco restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating and an outstanding salsa bar featuring spicy red and creamy avocado-based sauces. The vibe stays warm and welcoming with fun music enhancing a chill atmosphere. Hispanic customers frequent the spot, reflecting its authentic Tex-Mex character.

Carnitas come out tender and juicy with some pieces of fat adding flavor. Options include tacos, tortas, and plates served with beans and flavorful rice.

Tacos feature Al pastor with a strong flavor profile. They stand out among other options like adobada and asada.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The Al Pastor tacos were very good."

"The carnitas tacos are unbelievably tender and juicy."

Good to know

1

There are indoor and outdoor seating options available.

2

Expect to pay around $35 to $45 for two people.

3

Chips and salsa are extra, so account for that in your budget.

12
Taqueria El Ranchito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers a family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor seating and a fixings bar featuring various salsas and toppings. The space feels hot and crowded due to limited seating and no air conditioning. The vibe is lively and welcoming, with a well-stocked bar inside.

Tender carnitas come in fair pricing and healthy portions. Options include carnitas tacos and burritos alongside other Mexican dishes.

Tacos Al Pastor deliver a mic drop moment with their rotisserie flavor and satisfying taste. Mulitas Al Pastor and street tacos stand out as excellent choices that consistently exceed expectations.

People are saying

"You have to try the tacos al pastor off the trompo."

"The Al Pastor tacos were the best I've ever tasted."

"The carnitas here are so tender and amazing."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for just $1.25 each, making it a great deal.

2

Expect limited seating during peak hours, especially on Taco Tuesday.

3

Be prepared for a wait during busy evenings, especially on weekends.

13
El Diablo Mexican Cuisine image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space filled with traditional Mexican decor like old-style cars, Catrinas, and Monarch butterflies creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Music complements the vibe, while outdoor seating with heaters offers a comfortable option. Displays of multiple flags, including Pride, add a sense of community and inclusivity.

Rich flavor and tender meat define the carnitas here. The taste stands out as well-seasoned and satisfying.

Tacos come straight from the trompo, delivering rich flavor and tender meat. The chilaca al pastor offers a unique twist alongside classic options like carnitas.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, flavorful, and seasoned."

"I thought the carnitas had rich flavor and meat."

"I believed that Al Pastor tacos were the best."

Good to know

1

Customers must pay before sitting down and receiving service.

2

Expect long wait times, especially on weekends; about an hour on Saturday mornings.

3

Parking is available behind the taco truck.

14
Loxicha Authentic Oaxacan Food image 1

Permanent food truck with a few tables offers authentic Oaxacan cuisine featuring best tacos and quesadillas in the area. Atmosphere is casual and small-scale, with cash-only payments and vegan options available. Food quality stands out despite simple setup and higher prices.

Carnitas come flavorful and moist without being watery. Bowls and burritos have a good meat-to-rice ratio. Plates and tacos highlight the rich, authentic taste.

Al pastor here comes in a torta and tacos with freshly sliced meat. It tastes great but does not match the al pastor roasted on a spit in Mexico.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Oaxacan flavors from this food truck."

"These tacos are simple but packed with flavor."

"The Al Pastor here is mind-blowingly amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accepts only cash payments.

2

They accommodate different dietary preferences, including vegan options.

3

Pork and beef tacos cost $4 each.

15
Ralibertos Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with quiet atmosphere and affordable prices offers large burritos and quick drive-through service. Seating is simple and sometimes uncomfortable, but food quality stands out. Popular for late night dining and known for authentic flavors.

Juicy carnitas tacos stand out for their freshness and flavor. Burritos with carnitas also deliver a tasty, satisfying experience.

Al pastor tacos come with a noticeable saltiness and strong flavor. The al pastor burrito stands out as a popular choice, often paired with chorizo or carne asada fries for a filling meal.

People are saying

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

"The Al Pastor tacos here are amazing and loaded with flavorful meat."

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

Good to know

1

The shop is open until midnight and has a drive-thru.

2

Expect busy drive-thru traffic during peak hours.

3

Cash is needed to leave a tip as card payments are not accepted.

16
Omar's Taqueria #3 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with ample seating and an outdated interior offers a self-service condiment station featuring house salsas and fresh vegetables. The atmosphere is clean and friendly with great music playing overhead. Known for authentic tacos and burritos, it serves some of the best carnitas and rare options like buche and tripa.

Crunchy texture with tender, juicy insides defines the carnitas here. Perfect, subtle spicing and caramelized edges make the tacos and burritos stand out.

Al pastor appears in tacos, burritos, and tortas with a versatile flavor. Combos often mix al pastor with beef asada, though drinks may not always be included.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here, especially the tacos, was the best I ever had."

"The carnitas tacos are delicious and a bit crunchy."

"I loved the Al Pastor here; I recommended it for years."

Good to know

1

The pricing is $10 for 5 tacos and a drink.

2

Happy hour specials are available, offering great value.

3

Parking can be tight, so arrive early.

17
TacOrtiz image 1
Restaurant

Food truck with a small covered seating area offers authentic Mexican tacos and burritos known for best al pastor and tamales. Atmosphere is clean and inviting despite a modest neighborhood setting. Popular spot with steady orders early in the day and reasonable prices.

Carnitas here have a fatty texture and a tasty flavor. Some tacos come out tough and not tender.

Tacos al pastor come straight from a trompo, delivering authentic flavor and juicy meat. Plates mix al pastor with other meats like beef and carnitas, all at a reasonable price.

People are saying

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

"I thought the Al Pastor tacos were the best choice."

"I thought the carnitas plate was delicious."

Good to know

1

They advertise a deal for 15 Al Pastor tacos for $30 at specific times.

2

Catering services are available for events like small weddings.

3

The taco plate costs $9 and is filling.

18
Taco Street image 1
Taco restaurant

Casual taco restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with beautiful water views and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. A well-stocked salsa bar and local market surroundings add to the experience. Music plays loudly during busy hours, creating an energetic vibe.

Carnitas tacos come with a citrus kick and avoid greasiness. Preparation is solid, offering a street taco style with some SoCal flavors, though sometimes the carnitas can be dry and under-seasoned.

Tacos come with lots of grilled pineapple adding a sweet, smoky touch. The al pastor meat is flavorful and stands out alongside other tacos like barbacoa and rajas con queso.

People are saying

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

"The al pastor tacos here are as good as anything I've had."

"The carnitas here are prepared well and have a nice citrus kick."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday is $7.50 for five street tacos.

2

Parking is now charged, whereas it was previously free.

3

Taco Tuesday is a popular event, so arrive early to avoid long lines.

19
Carnitas Michoacan image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican restaurant with vibrant murals and a fresh tortilla station creates an authentic atmosphere. The vibe is calm and family-friendly, with occasional cumbia music and a salsa bar offering diverse toppings. It attracts a mix of diners, including those who enjoy slow sipping and watching soccer.

Carnitas tacos with pineapple stand out as a specialty here. Plates, burritos, and street tacos all feature perfectly cooked carnitas with authentic Mexican flavors.

Al Pastor varies here, with some finding it delicious and authentic, while others note it as dry and tough. It often appears alongside Lengua and Carnitas in taco plates.

People are saying

"The carnitas here are so juicy and flavorful."

"The salsa bar here has an amazing selection."

"The carnitas here are so juicy, tender, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunch hours, especially around noon.

2

Burritos start at $16, which some find high for the portion size.

3

The restaurant is known for making tortillas in-house, a rare find.

20
Vecindad Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Decor channels El Chavo del Ocho theme with colorful, nostalgic Mexican street style. Atmosphere feels like stepping into a lively Mexican neighborhood, filled with vibrant personality and nostalgic charm. Music plays loudly, creating an energetic but cozy environment.

Large portions of Carnitas En Salsa Verdes come cooked to perfection with rich flavor. Street tacos featuring carnitas and birria stand out for their fantastic taste.

Pina Al Pastor comes in large portions and arrives quickly. The tacos feature tasty beans and pair well with other meats like Wagyu Asada and Carnitas.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent, especially the chicharrรณn and tacos."

"I had the best Carnitas and Al Pastor in my life."

"I had the best Al Pastor tacos of my life here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking can be limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Salsa dancing takes place every Friday night, starting at 8pm.

21
LITTLE DONKEY MEXICAN KITCHEN AND BAR image 1

Mexican restaurant with stylish decor and unique interior lighting creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. Bar seating includes power outlets and USB-C ports, supporting a lively, social vibe often paired with freshly made margaritas and well-regarded tacos.

Carnitas here come with a flavorful and a little spicy kick. Options include tacos, enchiladas with verde sauce, nachos, and a plate, all showing consistent quality.

Tacos feature Al Pastor with a flavor resembling BBQ sauce. The Al Pastor and cheese dip stand out as favorites on the menu.

People are saying

"I loved the happy hour margaritas and nachos."

"The carnitas here are flavorful and a little spicy."

"The al pastor tacos here are amazing."

Good to know

1

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

2

Brunch is served on weekends featuring unique dishes like Dutch baby pancakes.

3

Parking is available behind the restaurant, but can be limited during peak hours.

22
Abuelita's Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Narrow space filled with colorful murals and vintage photographs creates an authentic Mexican ambiance. Easygoing, family-friendly atmosphere with loud Mexican music and a strong fish scent. Self-serve salsa bar offers a variety of homemade salsas for all heat levels.

Nachos come with massive portions of carnitas that is pulled pork with much seasoning and very few crispy edges. The carnitas adds a delicious flavor to the dish.

Tacos feature tender, marinated pork with pineapple, cilantro, and onions. They deliver a harmonious explosion of flavors.

People are saying

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

"The Al Pastor here feels like a celebration of Mexican heritage."

"The carnitas portions were massive and perfect."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features half-off appetizers, but verify prices as they may vary.

2

Taco specials are available on Tuesdays, offering great value.

3

The restaurant has a variety of vegan and vegetarian options.

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