Carlitos Barbecue Taqueria

Whenever my husband and I come to Garden State mall, our brains are so conditioned to expect a food court meal that it took us some time before we realized this lively taqueria existed. It's on the top floor (or the ground level if you're coming from an outdoor parking lot) and one of several mall eateries that aren't in the food court. The ordering decision tree proceeds as follows: 1) Decide whether you want tacos, cheesy tacos (called, or a platter, 2) Pick your proteins (vegetarian options available), and 3) Determine which toppings and accoutrements you want on top of your tacos. The best part of ordering was seeing the fresh masa and tortilla press right behind the counter, a reassurance that these tortillas would be as fresh as one can get. And they were. Not only that, the meats inside them were incredible. We tried the birria, carne asada, crispy fish, and smoked chicken, all of which were conversation-silencing delicious. I'm also not a bit embarrassed to admit I sipped straight from the small cup of that rich consommé that's meant as a dipping broth for the birria tacos. If I had to pick a least favorite from the bunch, it would be the smoked chicken, but that's not to say they were bad; the other ones just blew me away far more. The chicken tacos were packed with tender meat and redolent of smoked wood, a flavor I wouldn't have expected to encounter in the middle of a shopping mall. Most of the restaurant space seems to be reserved for the ordering and food prep area, but there's a decently sized seating area right outside the restaurant and even more places to sit a little further away from Carlito's if the tables are full.

Tried Carlitos for the first time and my expectations were blown away. The food was amazing and extremely affordable! My bf and I got a little bit of everything to try. We ordered the 3 quesotacos special with chicken, fish, and brisket. All 3 were filled with so much flavor. Additionally we tried their chocolate churros and passionfruit aqua fresca which were also delicious. The service was cooked to order and very fast. We ordered and received our food in less than 5 minutes. Will definitely be coming back every time I’m at Garden State Plaza!

The food is very fresh and it does have some good flavor to it as well as the customer service I received from yaroc and Olga in garden states plaza don’t miss out you won’t be disappointed 😊

This is our favorite fast food Mexican. We have been coming here for the past 5 years. Our favorite is the Brisket Plato with smoked black beans. Beef is tender, juicy, tasty, smoky. I mixed the rice with salsa roja, cilantro, lime, jalapeño pepper. Highly recommended! 😋

UPDATE March 2025- great stays great! These are still the best tacos in NJ. The birria and fish are a must. Despite what you might think about buying tacos at the mall these are absolutely the best tacos you'll buy no matter where they are. There is nothing better than the quesa-taco from Carlitos be it the recently added fish, the pulled pork, the brisket, the veggie with the fried plantain, you name it it's all perfect. So if you're a local head over, if you're driving through make a stop for Carlitos..

The tacos are good enough to make GSP a pleasant experience, and I don't like malls. Great fresh corn tortilla ls, generous fillings, delicious vegetarian and vegan options. And the staff is very friendly and warm.

Food was great! Tacos were filling. The Mexican corn was a miss. The chips for the guacamole were pretty teeth shatteringly hard. Only a few tables to sit at. Overall it was expensive but hit the spot nicely.

Not to say every time I visit Carlitos everyone is so welcoming and sweet their fish tacos are the star of the menu. I’m a very picky eater and yesterday I happen to request something special and that’s never been requested. I ordered fish with everything that goes on top of the taco except the tortilla with their spicy mayo sauce on the side it’s something different that’s not in the menu (not my first time doing special request that aren’t in the menu). So anytime you need to make any adjustments or special request let them know. Thank you to everyone at Carlitos for always making my experience with them so great and special!!

Tacos are 10/10! The smoked brisket and fish tacos are the best I've ever had for restaurant quality. Also, try the elote, it's outstanding too. The "ladies" are always friendly and they make sure to personalize their service.

So I have to give it to them for the house made tortillas. They're right off the press and taste really good. The salsas too, are so good. Maybe it was because my food wasn't hot, or the chicken was just under seasoned. But I found the meat bland. Which was slightly disappointing, because everything else is really delicious.

Whenever my husband and I come to Garden State mall, our brains are so conditioned to expect a food court meal that it took us some time before we realized this lively taqueria existed. It's on the top floor (or the ground level if you're coming from an outdoor parking lot) and one of several mall eateries that aren't in the food court. The ordering decision tree proceeds as follows: 1) Decide whether you want tacos, cheesy tacos (called, quesatacos) or a platter, 2) Pick your proteins (vegetarian options available), and 3) Determine which toppings and accoutrements you want on top of your tacos. The best part of ordering was seeing the fresh masa and tortilla press right behind the counter, a reassurance that these tortillas would be as fresh as one can get. And they were. Not only that, the meats inside them were incredible. We tried the birria, carne asada, crispy fish, and smoked chicken, all of which were conversation-silencing delicious. I'm also not a bit embarrassed to admit I sipped straight from the small cup of that rich consommé that's meant as a dipping broth for the birria tacos. If I had to pick a least favorite from the bunch, it would be the smoked chicken, but that's not to say they were bad; the other ones just blew me away far more. The chicken tacos were packed with tender meat and redolent of smoked wood, a flavor I wouldn't have expected to encounter in the middle of a shopping mall. Most of the restaurant space seems to be reserved for the ordering and food prep area, but there's a decently sized seating area right outside the restaurant and even more places to sit a little further away from Carlito's if the tables are full.

best birria tacos. food was delicious. its a small place but they have seating and its a great alternative than the food court. if you are at garden state plaza i recommend to try this place, it does not disappoint

This fast-casual spot on a corner inside the GSP makes fresh tortillas and grill them up in front of you and customize your toppings to order. Eating here is a no brainer! The service is fast- after ordering at the counter they will start making your order in the open counter style kitchen. Then, when your tacos are ready, they'll call your order and ask you what toppings you want. As for the food, delicious!! Fresh ingredients, homemade tortillas, and 3 flavors of agua Fresca. Definitely coming back to try more

Tried their chicken tacos. It's not bad but not my favorite. I feel it's dry. Service is quick. Some tables on the side for customers or through the mall, lots places to sit.

I tried the one in the paramus mall, I got the brisket one and the carne asada. It is in the mall section between fogo de chao and Seasons 52. Brisket: Like heaven, super tender and super juicy, really good smokey flavor, fresh corn tortilla. Sooooo good. Carne Asada: Eh, it was good, but not even in the same league as the brisket. If it was baseball, Brisket would be like the yankees, carne asada would be like watching a college game. Overall: SUPER good especially for the brisket. Will definitely go to if in the area again.

At Westfield Garden State Mall, food choices are plenty. My friends & I decided to have some BBQ tacos since it was unique and different than your typical mall fast food. It is an order and pick up/take out place with small tables just outside of the store. Decorated like a food truck, you enter a small storefront and place your order with the cashier. The decor was colorful with a simple menu. Though it was a busy rainy Saturday, the line was fast and we quickly placed our orders. I decided to order the 3 tacos combo (2 crispy fish & 1 brisket) with all the toppings. Though it was like an assembly line, everything looked fresh. We picked up our order and found a corner table to sit at. The crispy fish was crunchy, with a nice slaw and spicy mayo. The brisket was flavorful and nicely smoked. Overall enjoyed the meal and would return.

Solid, solid tacos at the mall. Located right next to Fogo de Chao and across from Seasons 52, Carlitos is pretty easy to find at the Garden State Plaza Mall --- if you enter the mall entrance closest to it. For the longestttttt time, this place was calling our name since we had already dined at Fogo de Chao and Seasons 52. Easily overshadowed by its pricier restaurant neighbors and the ever so popular food court, Carlitos is pretty much a stop and go type of restaurant. You're really not going to spend an eternity eating here. I would say 99% of customers come here just for the tacos (just like we did), but the menu is much more than that - entrees served with a protein, cilantro rice and sweet plantains, quesatacos and DON'T forget to order the mm mmm mmmm Mexican Street Corn. We ended up going for the 3 for $12.75 taco "deal" where you can choose from a variety of their tacos - brisket, birria, carne asada, pulled pork, smoked chicken, crispy fish and crispy portobello. I emphasized "deal" because the prices of everything in 2023 have gone so far up that $12.75 for 3 tacos is actually considered a deal now. I know, I know - what has the world come to????? The deal does have one caveat and that is you can only order 1 beef taco. So, if you already felt like you weren't getting a great deal to begin with, well, here's another punch in the wallet for good measure. We ordered 2 "3 for deals" and got a mix of the brisket, carne asada, crispy fish and smoked chicken amongst the 6 tacos. All --- DELICIOUS. Each had a bit of sauce on them, but the meats were fresh and tasty. Our favorite was definitely the crispy fish. Can't go wrong with those fish tacos. Also, we ordered the Street Corn, which was really, really good too. A little bit of it was burnt, but not much. Like I said, solid tacos. With so many places to eat at the mall, it's easy to just skip on by, but don't let the overwhelming number of options here make you miss out on Carlitos.

We had a huge order from here as soon they opened for work and they got every single persons order correct! The people that took the order was great on the phone and wrote on the box what was what, which made it so much easier when you're distributing everything. I can't speak for the service at the actual time of visit, but my experience with the phone service AND pick up service was great. The women at the counter was friendly and struck up conversation and they were super appreciative of such a big order. The food was delicious! Everyone ordered different things and I've heard no complaint from anyone! I ordered this chicken bowl thing which consisted of chicken, rice, and beans, plus sides of tacos to try (chicken, pulled pork, and birria). The hot sauce on the side was amazing and garnishes that were offered was offered in side containers. They gave us ample amount of food in which I had leftovers for dinner and the following day for lunch. The place is a fast food taco joint so don't expect sit down service- order, pay, and sit at a table and people watch. From what I can tell, the place was kept clean, however do keep in mind that I was there as soon as they opened and was in and out quick. Overall, this will definitely be a repeat at the office for lunch!

Probably the best place to eat at Garden State Plaza. 1) Their steak platter was amazing. It comes with rice, steak and various condiments. Ask for the beef sauce/gravy on top of the rice and/or as a side. 2) Their birria tacos are amazing. Must get. 3) Must visit/must eat when visiting Garden State Plaza.

Service was good but the food was meh. Birria - this was the best! Very good. This I would go back for! Pulled Pork - too smokey, it was like tasting burnt wood... It does not have much flavor, I had to pour all of the pickled onion and salsa on the taco. And added the Birria sauce to make it taste better. Mushroom - the mushroom was smaller than the taco shell, not worth it! And has no flavor... unless you are vegetarian, I say skip it.

A little pricy, but decent tacos. Services was incredibly friendly and ambiance is very casual.

I adore this place The food is scrumptious and delicious and I feel incomplete without it The service is amazing I adore it so much round of applause Eat the churros in the amazing ambiance you won't regret it trust me Now stop reading this and go eat at Carlito's barbecue Taqueria!

I ordered a chicken plate yesterday and the chicken was mostly tough and dry. There were a few pieces that were soft which indicates the stale and fresh chicken were mixed together. They must think customers don't notice but we do. Everything else was good but I don't think I'll be returning because I'll be wondering about the freshness of the chicken. I don't want to be bothered with those thoughts so I'll eat somewhere else.

Let me just say I absolutely LOVE Carlitos! Ever since I tried them a few years ago at Smorgasburg, I've been hooked. Used to go to the lyndhurst one until it closed. But found out they were still a regular tenant at the bar area or Smorgasburg in JC and here, Paramus! I always get the three taco combo. A must try is the crispy fish taco. Nice flaky fish filet + pickled onions + SPICY mayo ahhh heaven in a bite. Can't go wrong really with any taco and toppings really bring it alive and give that authentic touch. The nachos are amazing too! Huge portions! Enough to split for another meal if you get the nachos maybe even 3 meals total. When I'm extra hungry I'll get the elote corn. Just wowww to this corn! Melts in your mouth like the tacos. Packed with flavor and so hard to share lol. The tacos and corn also warm up well the next day too if needed. My favorite location hands down is Smorgasburg bar in JC because you get the best of both words tacos from Carlitos and tequila from the neighboring bar. My vibe is tacos and tequila alllll dayyyyy! I hope Carlitos is a tenant there this year!!

The food and service are great but when you order through uber eats, the chicken platos doesn't exist. It says fish plato, but describes the chicken plato, so I can't order the chicken plato.

Expected better. Service 5/10 Elote ( corn ) 9/10 Carne asada - steak taco 7/10 Smoked chicken taco - 4/10 If the food was warmer, the front desk guy was a bit nicer and the cost wasn't 20 bucks for two small tacos and corn it would be 5/5. Would come back just for the corn. Maybe the plates are better. But this isn't the tacoria experience I was expecting .

Stopped by for lunch. My take out order was ready in 5 minutes. Brisket and beef tacos were so good. Tacos are filled with lots of protein and wonderful toppings. Always love to get some tacos from them.

I didn't even know this place existed until my friend showed me. It's not in the main food court area, and it's kind of tucked away. But I'm glad I was introduced to it because if I'm ever craving tacos, I know where to go now! I ordered one pulled pork taco, one chicken taco, and one birria taco (which comes with consome to dip!) as well as the Mexican street corn. Everything was delicious. For the tacos, "con todo" includes cilantro, onion, avocado sauce, and salsa roja. You can also get additional toppings on the side: pickled onions, lime wedges, and pico de gallo. The corn is a little messy and hard to eat because it's on the cob, but worth it! Next time I want to try the brisket, carne asada, and crispy fish tacos :)

Surprisingly really good; had low expectations considering it was in GSP, but definitely great flavors and great portion sizing

Tried the brisket, asada, and chicken taco, hands down the best quality ingredients you can have. Other fast food options can't compete. Best tacos in New Jersey without a doubt.

This was the freshest Tex-Mex Collabs I have ever tried! I had an array of tacos with various meats including the pulled pork, brisket, and chicken tasted like the best southern barbecue I've ever had topped with salsa Verde and other sauces. I also love the birria, fresh consommé is literally the best thing on this planet. They have all flavored jarritos and agua fresca to wash it all down. The chips and guac was also delicious super fresh. And if you're going to get dessert you have to get the churros! I love the chocolate!

A buddy of mine visited me and he mentioned that we needed to hit up Carlitos. He was raving about how great it was and that he use to go to the Lyndhurst spot but was closed for the summer. By the time we decided to go, we realized in Yelp that the place closes at 7pm.... We both called and got no answer... we decided to take a chance anyways, that's how much he liked the place to risk of being disappointed if it was closed... Luckily, when I entered the mall, the place was still open! Ended up getting the tacos (3 x $10). Ended up getting two fish and one brisket tacos. I do want to mention that I took it to go so I didn't have it fresh... that being said, the tacos were still really good! The brisket was juicy and the fish was thick and tasty. I think u can add the cheese sprinkles, but u gotta request it when they add toppings for you. The tacos were very filling. I am definitely coming here again to have the meal to stay. Reviews mention the fish taco was crispy, mine was not since I took it to go. For the price and the amount you get, def a spot for anyone that is craving tacos. * OPEN PAST 7pm on Saturdays! Store hours state it closes at 7pm.

I had a large catering order for work for about 50 people, and have never had rave reviews like I did today. Martin was wonderful to work with and delivery was prompt and great. People keep coming by my office to tell me how delicious everything is. The street corn, brisket tacos, guac, and fish tacos were all favorites of mine. Seriously a local gem, thanks again!

Excellent tacos, the birria taco is exceptional and nothing beats the price. Definitely authentic Mexican, nothing like chipotle. The service is exceptional, highly recommended.

Carlitos Barbecue is located right outside of a Macys entrance where the old carousel used to be in Garden State Plaza. It's a small Taqueria with really minimal but fun busts of color in their decor. I've tried their food a few times and I have to say its quite good! I've had the smoke chicken plato, the smoked chicken quesataco, and the chocolate filled churros #needtotryit - All were really delicious. The team working here are so sweet and consistent in what they deliver. I've been coming to Garden State since I was a we tot and I'm definitely stuck in my certain eating habits, but Carlitos is breaking through and I hope they do the same for you!

Had brisket platter and Birria tacos. It was s much better than expected. Brisket was so flavorful and tender. I wish they didn't cut up so small. There was a kid that was working adding the sides to the dish. He was so accommodating and helpful. Definitely coming back here.

i love the tacos from carlitos, pretty much every one that i've tried. it can be easy to miss walking through the mall, since it isn't by the food court, and people get distracted easily by the nearby pet store that has the cutest little puppies, and now with fogo de chao next door, it might be even easier to miss. but they do have a steady stream of diners, so i have faith the people know how good this place is. the crispy portabella taco is my favorite even though it's vegan and i am not. it's the only one i've seen on a blue corn tortilla, with plant-based cheese, a crispy deep-fried portabella with panko crust, and it's downright delicious. my second favorite is the smoked brisket one -- i believe they smoke all their meats, brisket, pork, and chicken, and while all good, the brisket one just hits the spot for me. the fish taco and the plantain one are also good! highly recommend!

Came here for disappointing Elite event but this place really raised my spirit. It's located on the second floor, by Shake Shack and where the the large carousel use to be. You order first and they have a few tables outside the store front if you want to dine in. The price are reasonable and food is surprisingly delicious. I never heard of this place and being in a mall, I didn't expect much but I was blown away. The meats is flavorful and it was nicely put together. It's best to have it as soon as you can. I don't think these travel well. The staff is helpful in recommending items If you have any questions. Their main items are tacos and tacos with cheese. You can buy them a la carte or as a combo (3 of your choosing but only 1 beef per combo). Highly recommend trying.

I have been consistently coming around 1/wk and I must say they have really worked on my previous dislike of their time and the food is just as fantastic. Highly highly recommend, I wish they had more locations. The staff is so friendly and hardworking that I suggest you tip them even if it is "fast food"!

Coming to GSP is a bit of a nightmare for me but I can see myself venturing out here to get some of Carlitos. It's a nice little spot on the upper level with some seating that makes it perfect to people watch. The staff is super friendly, it just happened to be Tuesday and they had a special. 3 tacos for $10. I got the chicken tacos and they were delicious. Flavorful chicken, fresh onions and cilantro and their salsa is great too. They've got a little salsa bar where you can get extra pico de gallo or some lime wedges. I highly recommend getting the taco how they make it with all the fixings, it's really flavorful. They've also got some killer sides like elote and even churros for dessert. I definitely see myself coming back here to try more of the menu.

This place is a bit hard to find in the mall. It's in the corner of the mall on the 2nd level by the Macy's entrance. I got the 3 for $10 taco special. I choose 2 chicken and 1 fish. They were all good my favorite of the bunch was the fish as it had a bit more flavor.

Great, friendly service and great food. The tacos were awesome. I especially loved how the corn tortillas were the perfect thickness to not be too stiff and dry and not too thin to fall apart. Great flavor to the tortillas and the smoked chicken was stunningly amazing. The only thing I wasn't crazy about was the street corn. It had char marks on it like it was grilled but there was no grilled flavor. It was very wet and soggy. I wish they threw it on the grill for a few seconds before seasoning and serving it. I probably wouldn't get the street corn but for sure I would get the tacos. A few hours after eating there I was thinking about eating there again. Definitely try this place!

The distinction best mall food may be a dubious honor but it's an honor nevertheless & Carlito's is absolutely worthy. Located in the new restaurant section of The Garden State Plaza next to Bar Louie it straddles the line between food court layout and stand alone. You enter through a large door, order from a rather friendly staff and take your food either to go or to the private seating area off to the side of the restaurant. Worth noting is that they also have a private single bathroom, really useful to wash your hand since tacos are not the neatest food to consume. Now onto the food. OH MY GOD. I ordered a brisket and a pulled pork taco and they were spectacular. The meat was cooked to literal perfection, the tortillas were fresh, warm and amazing, offered with a variety or toppings. I chose to go the basic route with fresh cilantro & avocado choosing to pass on onions, peppers, cabbage and a bunch of other things. Could not have been happier. Literally the only downside is that you have to brave parking and getting through the mall to enjoy their food. Is it worth it? You decide but for me, I'll gladly fight a crowded parking lot & throngs of shoppers to devour a hell of a good meal and yeah, Carlito's is that good.

Came here for a quick bite with some friends. Decided to order three tacos. The cashier was friendly, with good recommendations. The atmosphere was colorful and fun. I ordered the tacos combo(crispy fish, pulled pork, brisket), with all the toppings. Genuinely surprised with the quality of ingredients. The fish was fresh, batter was crispy, and the sauces add a nice touch. Food was great, highly recommend.

We had the Carlitos food truck a few times outside of our apartment building in weehawken. We tried it for the first time a few months back and were blown away, so when they were back this month, we had to make sure we ordered from them again. The meat is so tender and juicy and the flavors are great. We also tried the birria tacos this time, which were also delicious! Don't forget to try the elote. It's one of my favorites in the area. If you are near their truck or one of their locations you should definitely check them out!

I discovered these guys at a food truck festival! Best brisket taco ever!! Don't take my word for it, they are award winners. Best creative taco . Every time I've eaten their food it's been fantastic. Always fresh and yummy. Guacamole is yummy. Top it all off with a Fresca or even some churros. Makes me feel like I'm home in Mexico . Thanks guys for always serving up the best freshest food in Jersey

We had the birria tacos and the brisket tacos. They were so good. They tasted very authentic and what we liked is that we can see them being made from scratch right in front of us. The service was very friendly too. I found my new spot when shopping at the mall.

I tried 3 different Quesatacos (tortillas seared w/ queso ) Birria Quesataco w/ consommé dip Fried Fish Quesataco Sweet Plantain Quesataco Dulce de Leche filled Churros - The Quesatacos were delicious! Their meats are smoked in-house giving it another layer of flavor. The Birria Quesataco was filled with beef - super tender and juicy. The Fish Quesataco was crispy and flaky, paired perfectly with the pickled slaw on top. Everything was super flavorful

Tried the 3 taco deal since u had to go to garden state plaza mall. Entrance closet is near the AMC theater area Ingredients are fresh Fish was my favorite

I was able to finally try Carlitos at Smorgasburg this year, and they DID NOT disappoint!! I went to Smorgasburg in Jersey City NJ this year and had the pleasure of trying two of their tacos. The first taco I tried was their Smoked Brisket Taco. Corn tortillas, smoked brisket, onions, salsa roja and avocado sauce. Absolutely stunning. The taco basically melted in my mouth! $5. The second taco I tried was their Crispy Fish Taco. Battered crispy fish with jicama slaw, spicy morita mayo on a corn tortilla. Y'all - I genuinely assumed the fish would be soggy. But listen - IT WAS NOT! The fish was SO crispy on the outside and perfectly flaky on the inside. The slaw and mayo complimented the fish perfectly. $4. I can't wait to go back and try their other tacos! If you go to Smorgasburg JC this year, check them out! Or catch them in Paramus!

It was ok. The meat was pretty bland and had little flavor to it for being a BBQ joint. But the plantain quesotaco was SO delicious, I'd go back just for that!

Sooooo... While being on a state deployment because of the COVID-19 pandemic. We were treated to Carlito's food truck. The food was horribly delicious. I say horribly because I hate everything on my container. The ribs were absolutely outstanding. They were very tender, savory, and had a amazing hot kick to them. The chicken tacos came with a side of guacamole, salsa, and chopped cilantro/white onions. I ate the tacos plain and they were just awesome. The chicken was tender and had a nice bbq char taste, the corn tortillas were nice and soft. Needles to say those were great too. I took the sides that were meant for the tacos and dumped it on the rice that came in the container. Although the guacamole was a bit too liquidy it paired nicely with the rice. I will definitely be going to the restaurant with family and friends. My tummy is happy even though I overdid it *facepalm

Spot on pulled pork and fish tacos are to come for. Brisket lacking meat even at boosted price. Chocolate churro so tiny and is Nutella - Peru got em way larger for 1 sol. Beef up their size and it'd be fine

I asked to try a tortilla and a very rude lady cashier yelled at me they're not free they are 50 cents No more business from me

I can't believe one of the best tacos I had is in a mall in NJ. This is coming from a guy who goes to Mexico every year. Star of the show is the meat.

Stumbled upon this taco joint while shopping at garden state plaza one day. Super authentic tasting, all the ingredients were fresh, and service moved quickly! Good for a little snack!

This may be the smallest food vendor at the mall , but it doesn't need to be bigger, it's awesome! It seems like taquerias are popping up in every town, and maybe they have one sure thing on their menu. At Carlitos , I tried the fish, brisket and pulled pork. They were hands down the best I've had in years. The flavors were correct, the meats were fresh and each of them were a standout winner. They also come with cheese, and that will be for next time!