Food & Drink

Carnitas Adventures: 17 Must-Try Places in Virginia Beach!

If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine, then you've likely heard of carnitas. This savory dish is made by slow-cooking pork until it's tender and juicy, then serving it up with a variety of toppings and sides.

It's a classic Mexican dish that's beloved by many, and lucky for us, there are plenty of places in Virginia Beach where you can get your carnitas fix.

Whether you're looking for a sit-down restaurant or a quick taco stand, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Some places specialize in traditional carnitas, while others put their own spin on the dish with unique toppings and preparations. Some places even offer vegetarian or vegan versions of the dish.

No matter what your preferences are, there's sure to be a spot in Virginia Beach that serves up delicious carnitas. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some of the best places to get this classic Mexican dish in the area.

From hole-in-the-wall taco stands to upscale restaurants, we'll explore all the options so you can find your new favorite spot. So, let's dig in and discover the best places for carnitas in Virginia Beach!

1. Jose Tequila's

Jose Tequila's
2101 McComas Way, Virginia Beach, VA 23456 (Google Maps)

Jose Tequila's is a must-visit restaurant for anyone in search of delicious carnitas. The food is truly authentic and bursting with flavor.

The service is prompt and friendly, making for a great dining experience. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the restaurant is clean and well-maintained.

They offer vegan options and large portions. The blood orange margarita is a must-try, and the Texas Nachos are a fan favorite.

Parking can be a bit tricky due to the popularity of the restaurant, but it is definitely worth the visit.

2. Las Palmas 3 Mexican Restaurant

Las Palmas 3 Mexican Restaurant
620 First Colonial Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451 (Google Maps)

Las Palmas 3 Mexican Restaurant is a must-visit place for carnitas. The menu boasts an array of options that are sure to satisfy any craving for Mexican cuisine.

The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience.

The atmosphere is lively and upbeat, perfect for a night out with friends or family. The highlight of the menu is the carnitas, which are cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.

Other dishes, such as the birria tacos and taco salad, are also worth trying. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Las Palmas 3 Mexican Restaurant is a great spot for a delicious meal.

3. Senor Fox Mexican Restaurant

Senor Fox Mexican Restaurant
1080 Nimmo Pkwy, Virginia Beach, VA 23454 (Google Maps)

Senor Fox Mexican Restaurant is a must-try for anyone looking for delicious carnitas.

This low-key, family-friendly joint serves up Mexican staples such as fajitas, tacos, and tequila drinks. Their food is consistently delicious and their menu offers a lot of variety.

Their guacamole is made fresh and the white dipping sauce is a must-try. The staff is friendly and attentive, making your meal seamless.

Don't miss out on their outdoor seating with a gorgeous view of a neighborhood inlet. Highly recommended for anyone who loves Mexican food!

4. Taqueria La Patrona

Taqueria La Patrona
1153 Lynnhaven Pkwy, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Google Maps)

If you're on the hunt for the best carnitas in town, look no further than Taqueria La Patrona.

This Mexican restaurant serves up authentic and flavorful dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving.

From the perfectly cooked carnitas to the delicious salsas and margaritas, this place is a must-visit for any foodie.

The menu is extensive, the service is friendly, and the atmosphere is relaxing. Don't miss out on this gem of a taco restaurant.

5. El Parian Mexican Restaurant

El Parian Mexican Restaurant
4848 Virginia Beach Blvd #16, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (Google Maps)

El Parian Mexican Restaurant is a must-visit place for carnitas.

The food is consistently delicious and the service is exceptional. The restaurant has a great atmosphere and is always clean.

Don't forget to ask for their in-house green salsa if you like spicy food. The prices are reasonable and the portions are generous.

Highly recommended for anyone who loves authentic Mexican cuisine.

6. Grande Burrito Grill

Grande Burrito Grill
138 Thalia Village Shoppes, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Google Maps)

Grande Burrito Grill is a Mexican restaurant that serves delicious carnitas. Their food is authentic and full of flavor.

Customers rave about the birria tacos and enchiladas Cancun. The staff is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience enjoyable.

The prices are reasonable and the portions are generous. The restaurant is family-owned and operated, adding to the warm and welcoming atmosphere.

If you're looking for great carnitas, Grande Burrito Grill is definitely worth a visit.

7. No. 1 Taco

No. 1 Taco
3545 Buckner Blvd suite 101, Virginia Beach, VA 23453 (Google Maps)

No. 1 Taco is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious carnitas. Their meat is always tender and flavorful, making their street tacos a fan favorite.

They also offer a $2 off burrito special on Wednesdays, which is perfect for those looking for a filling meal.

The restaurant is clean and the employees are friendly, making for a great dining experience.

Don't forget to try their Xtra hot hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor.

8. Camino Real

Camino Real
5313 Indian River Rd #101, Virginia Beach, VA 23464 (Google Maps)

Camino Real is a Mexican restaurant that serves delicious carnitas. The food is authentic and made with care.

The restaurant has a big dining room and a small bar area. The staff is friendly and helpful. They offer combos if you can't decide what to order.

The margaritas are great, with many flavors and sizes. The atmosphere is casual and perfect for social gatherings.

The outdoor patio is also nice. If you're looking for good Mexican food, Camino Real is a great choice.

9. Las Palmas 4

Las Palmas 4
2249 Upton Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23454 (Google Maps)

Las Palmas 4 is a must-visit Mexican restaurant for anyone looking for delicious carnitas.

With a large variety of menu items to choose from, this restaurant offers fresh and tasty food that will leave you wanting more. The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a great dining experience.

The atmosphere is clean and welcoming, perfect for family groups or larger parties. Prices are affordable, making it a great value for the quality of food and service.

Don't miss out on trying the chicken soup or the sizzling steak with shrimp – they are both awesome! Highly recommended.

10. 3 Amigos Mexican Restaurant

3 Amigos Mexican Restaurant
1920 Centerville Turnpike #109, Virginia Beach, VA 23464 (Google Maps)

Looking for a place to satisfy your craving for carnitas in town, look no further than 3 Amigos Mexican Restaurant. The restaurant offers a variety of authentic Mexican dishes that are sure to delight your taste buds.

The food is always fresh and served hot, and the portions are generous. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that your dining experience is enjoyable.

The restaurant has a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere that is perfect for a casual meal with friends or family.

Whether you're in the mood for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas, 3 Amigos Mexican Restaurant has got you covered. Don't hesitate to stop by and enjoy a delicious meal today!

11. Krazy Trompos

Krazy Trompos
217 S Rosemont Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Google Maps)

Krazy Trompos is a Mexican restaurant that serves up some of the best carnitas in town.

The meat is juicy and flavorful, and the tacos are packed with it.

The green salsa is a must-try, and the cilantro and onion add a nice crunch. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the restaurant is clean and inviting.

If you're looking for authentic Mexican food, Krazy Trompos is the place to be.

12. EL POTRILLO MEXICAN GRILL

El Potrillo Mexican Grill
1148 Lynnhaven Pkwy, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Google Maps)

EL POTRILLO MEXICAN GRILL is a hidden gem that serves up delicious carnitas. The food is flavorful and fresh, and the staff is friendly and attentive.

The white chip sauce is creamy and tasty, and the spicy jalapeno margarita on the rocks is a must-try.

The restaurant has a big selection of food and drinks, and the prices are reasonable.

It's a great spot for Mexican cuisine and a wonderful dining experience.

13. Ensenada Mexican Restaurant

Ensenada Mexican Restaurant
2824 Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23452 (Google Maps)

Ensenada Mexican Restaurant is a must-visit place for carnitas. The authentic flavor of their carnitas is unbeatable.

The staff is friendly and attentive, and the service is quick. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere that adds up to the dining experience.

The prices are reasonable, making it a great option for a casual meal with friends or family. The menu has a wide variety of Mexican dishes that will satisfy any craving.

The complimentary chips and salsa are a great touch. Ensenada Mexican Restaurant is a great spot for anyone looking for delicious, authentic carnitas.

14. El Azteca

El Azteca
314 Constitution Dr A, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (Google Maps)

El Azteca is a popular Mexican restaurant that serves up delicious carnitas. The food is consistently fresh and tasty, and the service is fast and friendly.

The restaurant has a homey feel and is decorated in colorful Mexican style.

Prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. The margaritas are also a hit with customers.

If you're in the mood for some authentic Mexican cuisine, El Azteca is definitely worth checking out.

15. La Herradura

La Herradura
2158 Great Neck Square, Virginia Beach, VA 23454 (Google Maps)

If you're in the mood for some authentic Mexican cuisine, La Herradura is the place to be.

The restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes, but their carnitas are a must-try.

The food is always fresh and delicious, and the service is top-notch. The restaurant is family-friendly and offers fair prices.

Whether you're in the mood for a quick meal or a leisurely dinner, La Herradura is definitely worth a visit.

16. Guads Restaurante

Guads Restaurante
509 Hilltop Plaza, Virginia Beach, VA 23454 (Google Maps)

Guads Restaurante is a Mexican restaurant that serves up some delicious carnitas.

The food here is fresh and well-seasoned, and the prices are reasonable. The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience.

The atmosphere is casual and comfortable, making it a great place to relax and enjoy some tasty food.

If you're in the mood for some great Mexican cuisine, be sure to check out Guads Restaurante.

17. Las Tapatias Mexican Grill & Bar

Las Tapatias Mexican Grill & Bar
5033 Virginia Beach Blvd STE 104, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (Google Maps)

Las Tapatias Mexican Grill & Bar is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for authentic Mexican cuisine.

The restaurant offers a great atmosphere with a dance floor and sound system for Latin nights. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the service is top-notch.

The food is delicious, and the carnitas are a must-try. The margaritas are amazing, and the tres leches is on point. The decoration is beautiful, adding to the overall experience.

Las Tapatias Mexican Grill & Bar is a great lunch and dinner option, and the extensive menu has something for everyone.