I ate a late lunch here this afternoon with a couple of friends. It was a bit of a drive, but we were all curious to try this place. I ordered a chavindeca mixta because it was something I've never eaten or even heard of before. Apparently, chavindecas are a specialty of Michoacan. It's two corn tortillas with melted cheese and meat in between. "Mixta" meant a variety of different meats. Because corn tortillas are generally smaller than flour, it was smaller than a typical quesadilla or caramelo. But it was tasty. They have a good salsa and veggie bar. It's a very casual place, one large room, no table service. My friends were happy with their birria. Prices are reasonable. My lunch came to just $10.15 including tax and tip. Note: There are bilingual signs inside saying chicharrones on Wednesdays only. I was there on a Thursday. read more

100% worth every bite!! The home made flour tortilla was the best I've had in a while. Love that they give you a standard set of salsas. I'll have this every time I come back to Tucson. So glad we found this recommendation. By far one of my favorites in Tucson. Parking is limited, over flow in the rocky empty lot. read more

Carnitas La Yoca - Carnitas tacos - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

Had a strong hankering for carnitas and heard good things about this place. I ordered inside and I took my food to go. The carnitas was okay. It had too much fat that wasn't cooked down enough. I did have the option for lean but fatty was recommended. The cabeza needed more salt which is surprising bc usually cabeza is perfectly seasoned. It was cooked well tho. They provided an abundance of condiments in my order which I appreciated. They do give you whole limes that aren't sliced which is frustrating if you're not going home. No silverware given. Big containers of red and green salsas, pico, and, cilantro and onion. However the salsas were just okay. Service was friendly! I would not come back. read more

Literally the only good place in Tucson ! Customer service is always IT ! Can't complain and my babies love it. read more

Came in on a Saturday around 2:30 p.m. and there hours are 8 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. Also found out they do take phone orders. They are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. This place is packed with different flavors. They offer a 1/2 lbs or full pound of carnitas, either mixed or just the meat (mixed offers crispy skin). The tortilla's are handmade. We ordered 3 lbs and it came with 24 fresh tortillas. The menu also has barria and cabeza tacos. There is a salsa bar, green is mild and red is hot. It has cilantro, onions, and pickled carrots. read more

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If you're craving flavorful, mouthwatering carnitas, I highly recommend this spot! They serve it *Estilo Michoacán*, and you can order half a pound or a full pound either mixed or just the meat. The mixed option includes some crispy skin, which is amazing! Hands down, these are the best carnitas in town. The tortillas are handmade, and if you peek while ordering, you can watch them being made fresh right in front of you. I ordered half a pound which came with four fresh Tortillas, and I had to get a coke with my meal! 10/10 They also offer birria and cabeza tacos, plus their chili oil is one of the best I've ever had. Even when the line is out the door, the service is fast, and you won't be waiting long. Sometimes, you'll even hear musicians playing guitars and singing, which adds a nice vibe. The place is spacious with plenty of seating, so it's always comfortable. Overall, this spot definitely lives up to expectations! read more

Carnitas La Yoca - 1/2 a pound with only carnitas - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

This is a Carnitas restaurant Where you can dine in or take away. But no deli. So you could get 2 lbs carnitas for a dinner. Closed on Tuesdays. Right across from the VA Hospital. Maybe next time. read more

Carnitas La Yoca - Front door - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

One of the best places for carnitas in Tucson. The value is great and the flavors are insane, highly recommend the carnitas for two! Service is ordering at the counter and picking up your food. Love the salsa bar. Finding a table can be challenging when it's peak hours but people are friendly. read more

The carnitas tacos are the bomb. All the yelp and instagram rave is a fact . I had 4 tacos and a coke under 20 bucks

So I've seen this place for 5+ years and didn't stop in. I always noticed it was busy and crowded, but didn't make an effort to go. I tried on Easter, but they were closed. I went today and understand why the place is packed. There's a north dirt parking lot so that's an option if you can't or don't want to get into the parking lots closest to the business. There's some parking in the front and some behind, beyond the chain link gate. So like Tucson Foodie mentions, leave your vegetarian friends at home in a March 5th, 2020 article. The menu is very simple offering only meats beef or pork in various forms. I opted for the carnitas taco and plato de cabeza. I've had cabeza tacos plenty of times, but this was the 1st time I've had served in a broth. It was awesome. The meat was tender and flavorful. The meat was an amazing consistency. I couldn't come to a place with carnitas in the name and not try it. The carnitas were great, but if I could only order 1 thing next time it would be the cabeza or the birria. Didn't try the birria, but it looked awesome. The service is fast and friendly counter service. The line is long, but it moves fast. The place simple and functional. This place is great, go if you want amazing Mexican pork and beef. read more

Carnitas La Yoca - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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La Yoca has become a favorite spot of mine. Their handmade tortillas are always a hit, and their chili oil and salsas are delicious. This time, I tried their birria, and it was amazing. I even dipped the Carnita tacos in the consome, which added to the fantastic flavors. The service here is always quick, even during busy mornings. I enjoy the lively atmosphere and seeing so many people early in the day for tacos. I'll definitely be back many times--I love this place! If you're looking for great tacos, give La Yoca a try. read more

Carnitas La Yoca - Salsa bar - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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The best carnitas shop in Tucson Az. The people on the register are always polite and helpful. There's plenty of seating inside . I personally always get the pound of buche and carnitas . Cilantro , onions , limes , there xtra spicy oil sauce is all you need for the perfect read more

The cook came out with my food with an uncut lime. I got the carnitas meal and the younger one with long dark hair talked down to me. She said no! You can't get anything from the bar. In a rude way. Then they gave me a whole uncut lime from the kitchen. I found out after I had left the restaurant. Mind you this happened in front of everyone dining in and in line behind me. It's not okay behavior. I couldn't enjoy the meal. The vibe is a no go. The service is a big no go. I won't ever be coming back here. I do not recommend this place read more

The tacos are delicious and very cheap! They were also made very quickly and came out fresh. Only downside is that the dining area is very chaotic and loud. Menu is also in Spanish. read more

This is a staple in south Tucson since it opened and with good reason! The carnitas(pulled pork) are absolutely delicious. Just the perfect tenderness, the meat falls apart instantly when serving. Plus they have a veggie and salsa bar to where you can load up your yummy picks. Not only are the carnitas delicious but the Birria and Cabeza are just as amazing. The mix of spices in their meat choices is outstanding. Oh how could I forget the handmade corn tortillas ?! Those are a must try! Service is fast and efficient. The ambiance of the place just making you feel like you're at a family gathering. Restaurant is always clean and staff are very friendly read more

This is my 3rd or 4th visit to Yoca. Don't get me wrong, the taste of meat is on point; however, I cannot afford to come here too often because of their thru the roof pricing. One pound is twenty bucks with tax. During my latest visit we ordered one pound of the carnitas and one pound of the mixto. It included 2 packs of tortillas but only 1 red, 1 green salsa, 1 onion, 1 cilantro, which are only about half way filled, and 4 whole mini limes. For over forty bucks, I would expect double the amount of salsa and toppings. I didn't check at the restaurant because since my order was "to go", they tightly closed the bag. Upon arriving home I had to use scissors to open the bag. The food and tortillas are delicious but I cannot afford to return for a long while. By the way ambiance was poppin. You can tell this place is popular. read more

Carnitas La Yoca - Taken 8/26/23! - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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Always delicious carnitas tacos. Wonderfully priced. Always have great customer service. Dad tends to go here once a month either for himse or all of us for lunch/dinner. Amazing place and services. read more

The first thing to know about this place are the limited hours: they are closed Mon and Tues, and the other days they close by 3:30pm. I came around 1pm on a Fri and the place was not packed, but there was a steady stream of customers and with a live mariachi accordionist it was a bit loud indoors (if you choose to dine in). I ordered 5 tacos to go, one of each flavor except carnitas (since I knew I'd probably come back another day and buy the 1/2 lb or 1 lb option anyway). At $2.20 per taco, it was definitely a steal for a total of $13. The service was quick, and I got my order within about 5 minutes. If you are ok with the more "unusual" cuts of meat (head meat, offal aka organ meat, etc) then this is a must visit place. I am not too familiar with them separately, so could not differentiate which taco was which. However, I enjoyed them all; each was quite flavorful. I told myself I'd eat only half my tacos since I wasn't too hungry to begin with, but before I knew it, they were all gone! Half an hour later, my stomach was crying in pain from being overstuffed, but my taste buds were still longing for more...the tortillas themselves are also soft and tasted fresh, soaking up the delicious meat juices. Even if you don't know if you like a particular "unusual" type of meat, I highly recommend you try it. If not, there are still more traditional options like the carnitas, which I plan to try next! read more

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While driving down 6th ave south of the i-10 on a whim, I noticed this place with a full parking lot. Once inside, I see people scanning for free tables and a line almost out the door. English is not a primary language at the counter but that didn't slow anyone down. I ordered 1/2lb of carnitas and wow, just wow. It comes with a red sauce that was smoky and full of flavor. read more

Carnitas La Yoca - Carnitas - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

Best carnitas around. Affordable and delicious. To bad they close early. Would be nice to be able to go there for dinner.

This is probably one of the most delicious carnitas tacos I've had! Home made tortillas, fresh produce, orders are ready quick and the customer service was great. I had the carnitas mixtas and a cabeza taco... the carnitas was my favorite! The only thing I wish they had were some chiles asados! But definitely recommend! read more

Carnitas La Yoca - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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Stopped while traveling through. My husband had the carnitas plate & a birra taco, while I had tried the quesadillas: one carnita and one birra. Everything came out quickly. The meal was right at $30 for both of us - including tip and drink! - and the food was incredible!!! It's a must-do on your next trip! read more

This place is beyond amazing. I love the Birria! We swing by for lunch once a week. The staff are amazing and so cheerful! One of my go to favorites! read more

Food is awesome!! The service is really nice too. They have a cart where you can get cilantro and lemons and everything. You get your food quickly too. I just recommend you get here early because it gets packed quickly read more

Carnitas La Yoca - 3 tacos de cabeza - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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Been wanted to come to this place for quite sometime. Came one day just after 3:30 and missed them. Finally paid a visit! Asked to have stomach, skin, head and carnitas on four separate tacos, however was served four mixed tacos... The taco was soooo good though! There are so much meat on the taco, wished they gave a bit more side veggies. The oil is a must! read more

Carnitas La Yoca - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

The best taco spot in Tucson Az This place should win awards The works are always nice and helpful Food is out pretty fast read more

Carnitas La Yoca - Tacos - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

Los MEJORES Tacos De Carnitas. A pesar de que estan tan ocupados el servicio es rapido y las chicas tomando los pedidos SUPER amables. RECOMENDADISIMO!!! read more

Carnitas La Yoca - Taco Mixto - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

The carnitas here are amazing! The hook you up with salsa and all the toppings you need plus the home made tortillas! Eat here! read more

We spotted this place on our bike ride this morning and came back for lunch We had the birria plate (which really came in a bowl with broth) and four corn tortillas Also had the carnita taco which is just the meat and the tortilla and yiu add what you want from the salsa bar The salsa bar has chopped cabbage, carrots, radishes, salsas, limes, peppers. There's a great home made spicy oil on each table We loved everything. The place is clean. And popular We then went to the mission Xavier and they had fry bread for sale outside which was really good. Took the tour and the free candles Tonight is opera Riders of the Purple Sage read more

Carnitas La Yoca - Menu - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

Fast service and delicious food Parking can be a little difficult, but a great place to eat with family and/or friends. read more

Coworkers recommended I come to this place but I was not impressed with the taste of the food. It was very busy and staff were very nice (I had had hard time understanding as they spoke Spanish mostly). Everything was clean and my to go order had allll the sauces I could ever put on my taco but I did think the meats were too greasy and overcooked and the cabeza (which is what I was told I should get) wasn't as melty as I was told it would be. Long drive for me so probably won't return. read more

Excellent Birria and carnitas tacos. They only have Birria (seasoned shredded beef); carnitas (shredded pork); cabeza (meat from the head/ face cheeks of the cow); cueritos (pig skin); and buche (pork stomachs and intestines?). They sell Jugo which is the juice from the birria with or with out the meat in it - squeeze some lime in this broth and it is so good. They had small quesadillas that you could add meat to - the kids enjoyed them. They only have corn tortillas which are made as you order and they are the best corn tortillas I have had! The atmosphere is very busy and the food comes out quick. Plenty of seating and the place is big, clean and simple. The salsa bar has a few salsas, cabbage, pico de Gallo, cilantro w/onions, and some other condiments. They have mexican sodas and juices as well as coke products. read more

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Best carnitas in the town. Fresh corn tortillas, Birria, and salsas to complement it. The hot chili oil is addicting to top the tacos with. read more

Very simple and straight forward taco shop. We came in wanting to try the birria but seeing as we were late in the afternoon it had run out - always a good sign. We opted for the carnitas and cabeza tacos and they were good, nice and tender and flavorful meats with simple mexican style topping of cabbage, onion and cilantro. The restaurant is just a wide open room with plenty of tables and chairs, you order at the counter and serve yourself. Not much ambience but the food is good. It is a little out of my way so I would definitely stop in if I was in the neighborhood but not a destination I would seek out. read more

Carnitas La Yoca - Carnitas and cabeza tacos - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

I came here for breakfast today and I've been telling my family about it all day. They were the most flavorful, best cooked carnitas I've ever had. I ordered the 1lb of carnitas mixta which is the meat, some of the pork skin which is a bit gelatinous but I LOVE and another part of the pig called buche which is the stomach. Don't be scared to try it. It is delicious! The pound of mixed meat cane with freshly made tortillas and all of the toppings were at a salsa bar. The salsa was so tasty and SPICY! Just like I like it. Can't wait to come back! Service was fast and the place was clean. read more

Carnitas La Yoca - Buche and carnitas - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

Service and food are great !!! Wednesdays they have chicharrones that are amazing and very meaty. All the salsas are very flavorful. Fast service. read more

The absolute best carnitas in town!! This is the kind of place that should be more well known than BK or Guero Canelo (though those are delicious as well!). Their food is incredible, and it really shows that they put the time in to make it. Their carnitas are obviously the star of the show, but their cabeza and birria are also amazing. The condiment bar is wonderful, both their red and green salsas are amazing. They also make their own corn tortillas, fresh with every order. If you've never had a freshly made corn tortilla, you've never actually had one. They are incredibly soft, strong, and they have a wonderful mild corn flavor that compliments any filling you put in it. Make sure Carnitas la Yoca is on your list of places to try, and then once you've fallen in love with it, tell everyone you know, because this place deserves to be famous! read more

Carnitas La Yoca - 2 lbs of the best Carnitas in town, plus salsa and other condiments! - Mexican Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

WARNING: ***SPOILER ALERT*** Only come here if you would like to delight and bask in the glory of what I consider to be... the best carnitas tacos in town!!!! This is seriously great food. The menu is limited to the different fabulous variations of pork (ie: carnitas, cueritos, mixto) which is their specialty however, they also have some of the more unorthodox beef (cabeza and barbacoa). No carne asada but trust me, you will not miss it. This is definitely not your ordinary mexican tacos option but it's so worth it to step outside the box on this Michoacan style cuisine. EVERYTHING here is delicious but beginners may want to play it safe and stick with the pork carnitas. The newly remodeled brick and mortar place they obtained in the heart of south side Tucson is a huge upgrade to the food cart they previously had on Ajo Way. The place is clean, well lit, and surprisingly inviting despite it's less than perfect location. Please do youself a favor and go running to La Yoca asap. Just beware the tricky schedule and the liquid hot magma they call "salsa tatemada" sitting at every table which coincidently enough.... is probably the best part of this whole place. read more

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Updating to point out that maybe the cashier that was rude was told to be nicer or something since she has been critiqued a lot in the other reviews other than mine. She wasn't rude anymore like the first few times I went, so that makes the experience a whole lot better. I will still say she doesn't wear her mask correctly though, but otherwise, she's gotten much friendlier. The food is always 5 stars though. I swear, this place deserves a Michelin Star. Of course, it's not a snobby enough place for that lol read more

First time at Carnitas La Yoca. Clean spot, customer service could be better. Wasn't greeted, paid cash and cashier didn't even bother to give me my change. carnitas are tender and juicy not dry on a scale from 1-10 I would rate them a 5. read more