Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant
Mexican restaurant · Heart of Chicago
1725 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608
![Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant by Carnitas Uruapan [Official Photo]](https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65809902/carnitas_uruapan.0.jpg "Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant by Carnitas Uruapan [Official Photo]")
![Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant by Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant [Official Photo]](https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62578644/2.57.jpg "Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant by Carnitas Uruapan Restaurant [Official Photo]")
Highlights
Authentic carnitas, tacos, and Michoacano tamales served
Authentic carnitas, tacos, and Michoacano tamales served
"A venerable Pilsen landmark that’s risen to national fame thanks to Netflix’s Taco Chronicles, Carnitas Uruapan isn’t exactly a hidden gem — for decades, locals have cued up for mouthwatering pork by the pound (or several), as well as tacos, brain quesadillas, corundas, and more. Place orders online via Toast. Second-generation Marcos Carbajal also operates an outpost in Gage Park." - Eater Staff
"When it comes to tortilla pairings, pork is an absolute game-changer. And there’s no better example of this delicious duo than the mouth-watering dish known as carnitas. Hailing from the state of Michoacán, the epicenter of carnitas know-how, Inocencio Carbajal opened Carnitas Uruapan in 1975. With a third-generation Michoacano recipe, Carnitas Uruapan must be doing something right, as patrons keep coming back to order either one taco, a whole pound (or many), along with the traditional cactus salad, pickled chiles, chicharrón, or brain quesadillas. Also on the menu are difficult-to-find Michoacano tamales known as corundas. Now under the leadership of son Marcos Carbajal, Carnitas Uruapan now has a location in Little Village, featuring culturally resonant decor throughout and a much-appreciated liquor license that gives way for cocktails that emphasize regional Mexican spirits like mezcal and charanda from Michoacán, along with micheladas and a lineup of Mexican beers, including a collaboration with Mexican American-owned Casa Humilde Cerveceria. Online ordering is available." - Brenda Storch
"Chicago’s Mexican community and food enthusiasts worldwide flock to this longtime family-owned counter-service institution in Pilsen that celebrates all parts of the pig. Order carnitas by the pound at the front counter and settle into a table — if one is available — to craft your own individual tacos with a mix of salsas, tortillas, and beans, or order tacos, soup, and cactus salad ready-made. Prepare for lines and waits during peak weekend hours. There are two more locations, including a recently opened outpost in Little Village. Best for: A quick lunch." - Ashok Selvam
"The original location of Carnitas Uruapan, founded by Inocencio Carbajal, serves iconic Mexican dishes such as crispy carnitas, crunchy chicharrones, and tacos dorados. This location has been a staple in the community since 1975." - Serena Maria Daniels
"Pork reigns supreme at this essential taqueria. Due to its small dining room, there are often lines out the door so weekdays are the best bet for a quick lunch. The short menu stars crispy, tender carnitas that have been slow-cooked in fat for hours. Order it by the pound or get the lunch special and enjoy a half-pound of meat, tortillas, chicharrones, refried beans, a taco dorado, and a drink for $10.50. A second location is in Gage Park. Online ordering is available here." - Ashok Selvam, Eater Staff
