San Diego's Best Carnitas [Updated 2024]

And let me tell you, I've had my fair share of mouthwatering carnitas in this sunny paradise. After all, I've tasted my way through a whopping 13 different spots just to bring you the crème de la crème.

Whether it's the succulent chunks of pork, the perfectly crispy edges, or the secret seasonings that make your taste buds dance, I'm here to guide you to the best carnitas in San Diego. Grab your appetite and join me on this delicious journey!

La Cocina De Rosita

Highlights
Best Mexican food
Attentive service
Homey comfort
Authentic tortillas
Fast food delivery

Walking into La Cocina De Rosita, I instantly felt like I had been transported to the heart of Mexico. The aroma of sizzling meat and freshly made tortillas filled the air, teasing my taste buds with the promise of a culinary adventure.

The highlight of my visit was undoubtedly the carnitas, which were simply divine. Each succulent piece of pork was perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience that left me craving for more. The flavors danced on my tongue, a delightful symphony of spices and tender meat.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me. The attentive service provided by the staff at La Cocina De Rosita added an extra touch of warmth to my dining experience. They were knowledgeable about their menu and took the time to ensure that every detail was perfect.

The restaurant itself exuded a homey comfort that made me feel like I was dining at a friend's house rather than a restaurant. From the vibrant decor to the smiling faces around me, everything contributed to creating an atmosphere that was both inviting and relaxed.

And let's not forget about those authentic tortillas! Made in-house with love and care, they were soft yet sturdy enough to hold all the delicious fillings inside. It's safe to say that these tortillas elevated every bite of carnitas to new heights.

Lastly, if you're looking for convenience, La Cocina De Rosita also offers fast food delivery. So even if you can't make it to their cozy establishment, you can still enjoy their mouthwatering carnitas from the comfort of your own home.

In conclusion, La Cocina De Rosita is a hidden gem when it comes to finding the best carnitas in San Diego. With its delectable food, attentive service, and inviting ambiance, this place truly deserves its spot on any list celebrating Mexican cuisine.

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Cocina 35

Highlights
Delicious chilaquiles
Plenty of choices/toppings
Nice atmosphere
Kid-friendly plates
Fresh and flavorful food

As I walked into Cocina 35, the tantalizing aroma of sizzling meat instantly caught my attention. I could hardly contain my excitement as I perused their menu, which boasted an array of mouthwatering options. My eyes were immediately drawn to their delicious chilaquiles.

The friendly staff guided me through the menu, ensuring that I had plenty of choices and toppings to customize my meal just the way I liked it. It's refreshing to find a restaurant that truly caters to individual preferences.

The atmosphere at Cocina 35 was delightful. The cozy yet modern interior created a warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for enjoying a casual meal with friends or family. Speaking of family, they even had kid-friendly plates available, making it a great spot for families looking to indulge in some delectable carnitas.

Now let's talk about the star of the show – the carnitas! Each bite was a symphony of flavors bursting in my mouth. The meat was tender and juicy, with just the right amount of seasoning to enhance its natural goodness. They clearly take pride in using fresh ingredients that add an extra layer of flavor.

In conclusion, Cocina 35 has undoubtedly earned its place on the list of San Diego's best carnitas spots. With their delicious chilaquiles, extensive toppings selection, inviting atmosphere, and commitment to serving fresh and flavorful food, this place is definitely worth checking out. Don't miss out on this hidden gem – your taste buds will thank you!

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King and Queen Cantina

King and Queen Cantina in San Diego definitely knows how to treat their carnitas like royalty. The succulent pork is expertly seasoned, resulting in a flavor explosion with each bite. The crispy bits add a delightful crunch that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Just remember to wear your crown while enjoying these regal carnitas!

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Carnitas Las Michoacanas

Highlights
Great service
Delicious carnitas
Best carnitas tacos in San Diego
Interesting Chicharrón Prensado Taco

Let me start by saying that the service at Carnitas Las Michoacanas was absolutely outstanding. The staff was friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about their menu. They made me feel right at home, which is always a plus when trying to enjoy a delicious meal.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the carnitas! Oh boy, were they delicious! Every bite was packed with flavor and tender juiciness. The meat was perfectly seasoned and had just the right amount of crispness on the outside. It's safe to say that Carnitas Las Michoacanas knows how to cook up some seriously mouthwatering carnitas.

The tacos here deserve a special mention because they are hands down the best carnitas tacos I have ever had in San Diego. Each taco was generously filled with succulent pieces of carnitas, topped with fresh cilantro and onions, and served on warm corn tortillas. The combination of flavors was simply divine.

But wait, there's more! Carnitas Las Michoacanas also offers an interesting twist on traditional tacos - the Chicharrón Prensado Taco. This unique creation features crispy chicharrón pressed into a tortilla with all the fixings. It's like biting into a crunchy explosion of flavor!

To sum it up, if you're in search of the best carnitas in San Diego, look no further than Carnitas Las Michoacanas. With their great service and incredibly delicious offerings, this place is a true gem for any carnitas lover. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

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Carnitas y Mariscos Las Morelianas

Highlights
Best carnitas
Chicharrón prensado
Micheladas
Fresh and flavorful pork
Handmade corn tortillas

Let me start off by saying, their carnitas are truly the best in San Diego. I mean, seriously folks, these succulent morsels of pork are a game-changer. Every bite is a party in your mouth, with flavors that dance on your taste buds like nobody's business.

But it doesn't stop there. Carnitas y Mariscos Las Morelianas also offers an exquisite dish called chicharrón prensado. Now, this is not your ordinary chicharrón. Oh no! It's pressed to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth interior. A true masterpiece.

To wash down all that deliciousness, they serve some killer micheladas. These refreshing concoctions will make you forget about all your worries and transport you to a tropical paradise (or at least to the patio seating area).

What sets this place apart from the rest is their commitment to using fresh and flavorful pork. You can taste the quality in every bite. And let's not forget about those handmade corn tortillas that accompany every plate of carnitas. They're like little pillows of happiness.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best carnitas in San Diego, look no further than Carnitas y Mariscos Las Morelianas. Their dedication to perfection shines through in every dish they serve. So grab your amigos and head over there for an unforgettable culinary experience that will have you coming back for more and more...lianas!

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Las Cuatro Milpas

Highlights
Delicious, cheap
Authentic
Handmade tortillas

Walking into Las Cuatro Milpas, I was immediately greeted by the enticing aroma of sizzling pork and freshly made tortillas. The atmosphere was bustling with locals, a sure sign that this place knows what it's doing when it comes to carnitas.

Let's talk about the carnitas themselves. Oh boy, were they delicious! Each bite was a perfect combination of tender meat and crispy edges, bursting with flavor. The pork was cooked to perfection, showcasing the expertise of the chefs at Las Cuatro Milpas. It's no wonder they have earned their reputation as one of the best spots for carnitas in San Diego.

And let's not forget about the price. These carnitas are not only mouthwateringly good but also affordable. You can enjoy a plateful of juicy goodness without breaking the bank. It's like having a tasty secret that won't cost you an arm and a leg!

The authenticity factor at Las Cuatro Milpas is off the charts. From their traditional cooking techniques to their handmade tortillas, every aspect of this place screams genuine Mexican cuisine. You can truly taste the love and passion put into each dish.

Speaking of tortillas, those alone are worth a visit to Las Cuatro Milpas. They are incredibly fresh and made right before your eyes. Soft yet sturdy enough to hold all that savory goodness inside, these tortillas take your carnitas experience to a whole new level.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an authentic and affordable carnitas experience in San Diego, look no further than Las Cuatro Milpas. Their flavorful meat, handmade tortillas, and welcoming atmosphere will leave you craving more. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

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Super Cocina

Highlights
Authentic
Legit
Best flavor
Kind server
Valentine's Day dinner

Let me start by saying that Super Cocina is the epitome of authenticity when it comes to carnitas. As soon as I stepped into the restaurant, the aroma of slow-cooked pork filled the air, instantly transporting me to a little taqueria in Mexico.

The first bite of their carnitas was like a flavor explosion in my mouth. The meat was perfectly seasoned, tender, and had just the right amount of crispy edges. It was clear that Super Cocina takes great pride in their craft, ensuring that every piece of pork is cooked to perfection.

What truly sets Super Cocina apart is not only their incredible carnitas but also their genuinely kind servers. They were attentive and knowledgeable, providing excellent recommendations for sides and sauces to complement the dish.

One particular visit will forever be etched in my memory: Valentine's Day dinner at Super Cocina. Who needs roses and chocolates when you can have succulent carnitas? It was a romantic affair with each mouthful melting my heart (and taste buds).

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for legit carnitas with an explosion of flavors, look no further than Super Cocina. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

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Carnitas Uruapan Family Restaurant

Highlights
Awesome employees
Delicious food
Variety of mixed drinks
Free refills
Plentiful and fresh portions

First and foremost, let's talk about the employees at Carnitas Uruapan. These folks are simply awesome. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and genuine enthusiasm. Their knowledge of carnitas is impressive, and they were more than happy to answer all my nerdy questions about this glorious dish.

Let me tell you, the food at Carnitas Uruapan is nothing short of delicious. The carnitas are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Each bite is like a flavor explosion in your mouth. And if you're feeling adventurous, they offer a variety of mixed drinks that perfectly complement the rich flavors of the carnitas.

One thing that really stood out for me was their commitment to customer satisfaction. Not only do they serve generous portions of fresh carnitas, but they also offer free refills. Yes, you heard that right. You can indulge in as many succulent bites as your heart desires without worrying about breaking the bank.

Speaking of portions, Carnitas Uruapan knows how to feed a hungry carnivore like myself. The servings are plentiful and fresh, guaranteeing that you'll leave with a satisfied belly and a big smile on your face.

In conclusion, Carnitas Uruapan Family Restaurant is truly a gem when it comes to finding the best carnitas in San Diego. With their awesome employees, delicious food, variety of mixed drinks, free refills, and plentiful portions, it's hard not to fall head over heels for this place. So don't wait any longer—grab your appetite and make your way to Carnitas Uruapan for a taste bud extravaganza!

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Las Morelias

Highlights
Delicious food
Great service
Hidden gem
Favorite place

Walking into Las Morelias, I was immediately struck by the inviting aroma of sizzling pork and the lively atmosphere. This hidden gem quickly became one of my favorite spots in San Diego for carnitas.

The menu at Las Morelias features an array of mouthwatering options, but it was their carnitas that stole the show. The succulent and tender pieces of pork were flawlessly seasoned with a perfect balance of spices that danced on my taste buds with each bite. It was like a flavor explosion in my mouth! The texture of the meat was simply divine - crispy on the outside, yet melt-in-your-mouth tender on the inside. It's safe to say that Las Morelias knows how to deliver carnitas perfection!

Not only did the food impress me, but the service also exceeded my expectations. The staff at Las Morelias were friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about their menu. They were more than happy to answer any questions I had and even recommended some other dishes worth trying.

Las Morelias truly lives up to its reputation as one of San Diego's best-kept secrets for carnitas lovers. The combination of delicious food and great service creates an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you're a local or just passing through, make sure to add Las Morelias to your must-visit list!

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La Puerta

Highlights
Wonderful atmosphere
Amazing service
Best Mexican food
Reverse happy hour
Plentiful drink selection

La Puerta is a place where the sizzle of succulent carnitas fills the air and the lively atmosphere sets the stage for a truly memorable dining experience. As I entered, I was immediately captivated by the vibrant colors and festive decor that transported me to the heart of Mexico.

The moment I sat down, I knew this was going to be a fantastic adventure for my taste buds. The amazing service provided by the friendly staff made me feel like royalty, and they were more than happy to guide me through their extensive menu.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: carnitas. La Puerta takes pride in serving some of the best Mexican food in town, and their carnitas are no exception. Each tender bite revealed a symphony of flavors - a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and savory goodness that left me craving for more.

But it doesn't stop there! La Puerta also offers a reverse happy hour, which is like finding buried treasure at sunset. Imagine indulging in mouthwatering carnitas tacos or quesadillas while sipping on your favorite drink from their plentiful selection. It's an experience that satisfies both your taste buds and your wallet.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for the best carnitas in San Diego, look no further than La Puerta. With its wonderful atmosphere, amazing service, and delectable Mexican cuisine, this hidden gem will leave you with memories as delightful as each bite of their flavorful carnitas.

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¡SALUD TACOS!

Highlights
Tijuana style tacos
Affordable
Trendy/hip/casual feel
Excellent service

Prepare your taste buds for a fiesta of flavors because ¡SALUD TACOS! is about to take you on a mouthwatering journey to Tijuana-style taco heaven. Nestled in the heart of San Diego, this trendy and hip taqueria is a must-visit for any carnitas enthusiast.

With its vibrant and casual atmosphere, ¡SALUD TACOS! offers an escape from the mundane dining experience. As soon as I walked through the door, I knew I was in for something special. The smell of sizzling pork filled the air, instantly whetting my appetite.

The menu at ¡SALUD TACOS! boasts an array of culinary delights, but it's their carnitas that truly stole the show. Each bite was a perfect symphony of tender meat, crispy edges, and savory seasoning. The combination of flavors danced on my tongue like a Mexican salsa band.

What sets ¡SALUD TACOS! apart from other taquerias is not just their delectable food but also their commitment to affordability. In a city where prices can sometimes be as high as the skyscrapers, ¡SALUD TACOS! offers a wallet-friendly option without compromising on quality or taste.

But it's not just the food that makes ¡SALUD TACOS! shine; it's also their exceptional service. The staff members are knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about what they do. They took the time to explain each dish and even shared some secret tips on how to make the perfect carnitas at home.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable carnitas experience in San Diego that won't break the bank, look no further than ¡SALUD TACOS!. With their tantalizing flavors, trendy ambiance, and top-notch service, they have truly earned their place among the best carnitas spots in town. ¡Buen provecho!

La Fachada

Highlights
Local Spot
Top Tier Food
Great Drinks
Authentic Menu
English Service

First things first, let me tell you that La Fachada is the epitome of a local spot. Tucked away in a charming corner of San Diego, it has an unassuming exterior that belies the culinary delights within. As soon as I stepped inside, I was hit by the tantalizing aroma of sizzling meat and spices wafting through the air.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, can I just say that their carnitas are on another level? Top tier, my friends. The succulent pork is expertly seasoned and cooked to perfection, resulting in tender meat with crispy edges that make your taste buds dance with joy. Each bite is an explosion of flavors that will leave you begging for more.

But wait, there's more! La Fachada doesn't just excel at carnitas; they also have a range of other dishes on their authentic menu that are equally impressive. From mouthwatering burritos to flavorful tacos, every item showcases their commitment to traditional Mexican cuisine.

To accompany your meal, La Fachada offers a selection of great drinks. Whether you're in the mood for a refreshing horchata or a zesty agua fresca, they have you covered. Trust me when I say that these beverages complement the rich flavors of their carnitas perfectly.

One thing worth mentioning is their excellent customer service. Despite being primarily Spanish-speaking, they provide friendly and efficient service in English as well (English service). This ensures that all customers feel welcome and comfortable while indulging in their delectable offerings.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best carnitas in San Diego, look no further than La Fachada. This hidden gem offers an unforgettable dining experience with its top tier food, authentic menu options, great drinks selection, and exceptional service. Don't miss out on this delightful culinary adventure!

Carnitas' Snack Shack - Embarcadero

Highlights
Damn good food
Stunning views
Enthusiastic staff
Fast and fresh food
Highly recommended

Let me start by saying, the food at Carnitas' Snack Shack - Embarcadero is nothing short of damn good. From the moment I took my first bite of their signature carnitas, I knew I had stumbled upon something special.

But it wasn't just the food that left me impressed. The stunning views of the Embarcadero added an extra layer of enjoyment to my dining experience. As I savored each mouthwatering morsel, I couldn't help but gaze out at the glistening waterfront. It was like a picturesque postcard come to life.

The staff at Carnitas' Snack Shack are not only knowledgeable about their craft but also genuinely enthusiastic about what they do. Their passion for delivering a top-notch culinary experience is contagious and made me feel right at home.

One thing that stood out for me was how fast and fresh the food was. The moment I placed my order, it felt like mere seconds before a plate full of succulent carnitas arrived in front of me. And let's not forget about the mouthwatering aroma that filled the air as they sizzled away on the grill.

If you're looking for an unforgettable carnitas experience in San Diego, look no further than Carnitas' Snack Shack - Embarcadero. Trust me when I say this place comes highly recommended. So go ahead, indulge your taste buds and treat yourself to some truly exceptional carnitas. You won't regret it!