What should I order at Carnitas El Rey?
Carnitas El Rey
Carnitas (including surtidas, cueritos, buche, and cheek meat)
Carnitas is the standout dish, repeatedly praised for its authentic Michoacán style, excellent flavor, variety of meat cuts (including skin, stomach lining, and cheeks), and generous portions. Many reviewers highlight the quality, tenderness, and the option to buy by the pound for takeout. The carnitas are described as full of flavor, perfectly cooked, and the central theme of the menu.
Homemade Corn Tortillas
The homemade corn tortillas receive numerous compliments for being soft, thin, large, and fresh. Reviewers note that they complement the carnitas perfectly, enhancing the overall taco experience.
Rice and Beans
Rice and beans are mentioned several times as part of the meal combos and are considered good accompaniments to the carnitas, contributing to an authentic and satisfying meal.
Salsa Roja and Pico de Gallo
The salsa roja and pico de gallo are appreciated for their taste, described as sweet and slightly spicy, and yummy respectively. The salsa bar inside offers a variety of salsas that enhance the flavor of the carnitas tacos.
Tacos (especially the cheek meat taco)
Tacos are highly recommended due to their large size, generous fillings, and fresh tortillas. The taco specifically with only cheek meat is noted as a favorite, preferred by some over mixed meat tacos.
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9:30 AM to 6 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:30 AM to 6 PM |
| Thursday | 9:30 AM to 6 PM |
| Friday | 9:30 AM to 6 PM |
| Saturday | 7:30 AM to 6 PM |
| Sunday | 7:30 AM to 6 PM |
About Carnitas El Rey
Basic set-up for traditional Mexican street eats with handmade tortillas served at a counter.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Comfort food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Frequently asked questions
What is Carnitas El Rey known for?
It is best known for carnitas tacos and carnitas sold by the pound, especially the whole-boiled-hog surtidas and mixta styles. Reviewers repeatedly mention the moist pork, the handmade corn tortillas, and the salsa bar as the reason the food stands out.
What dishes are most recommended at Carnitas El Rey?
The most recommended items are the carnitas tacos, the 1-pound family deal, burritos, and tacos made with extra cueritos or buche. Reviewers also call out the homemade corn tortillas, fresh beans and rice, and the salsa roja with a sweet, slightly spicy flavor.
What is the atmosphere like at Carnitas El Rey?
The atmosphere is casual, cozy, and a little trendy, with a counter-service setup and enough tables for dine-in. Reviewers describe it as chill, clean, and friendly, which fits solo diners, groups, and locals stopping in for a quick meal.
Is Carnitas El Rey a good value, and what is the price range?
Yes, many reviewers say the food is worth the cost, and the listed price range is $10 to $20. Specific mentions include tacos at $2.50 plus tax and carnitas by the pound at $8.99 to $11.99 per pound, with comments that the portions are generous and not stingy with meat.
What should I know about wait times and ordering at Carnitas El Rey?
Expect a wait, especially in the morning, because reviewers say it can be busy by around 9:30 a.m. The restaurant uses upfront ordering and fast service, so even when the line is long, people report that the food moves quickly.
Is parking available at Carnitas El Rey?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Is Carnitas El Rey kid-friendly?
Yes, Carnitas El Rey is good for kids.
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