4. Restaurants

Carnitas Los Reyes

273 S Tustin St, Orange, CA, 92866
  • (714) 744-9337
  • Store is closed

Carnitas Los Reyes Menu

Sorry, We are updating this restaurant menu details.

Visit below restaurant in Orange for healthy meals suggestion.

Del Taco ( 1440 E Lincoln Ave )
Checkers Grill ( 902 W Town and Country Rd )

Visit below restaurant in Orange for healthy meals suggestion.

Del Taco ( 1440 E Lincoln Ave )

  • Sonya J.

    I went here for lunch had the Carnitas Tacos & they were VERY good! FYI: This place is pretty crowded and HOT! No a/c & no fans - so if you're dining in prepare to SWEAT!

    (4)

  • Robert K.

    Hands down the best Mexican food in Orange County! I've been an avid customer for over six years now and it never disappoints I highly recommend this place for great food @ really good prices!

    (5)

  • Miranda B.

    I love the chorizo tacos. Usually crumble some of the chorizo onto a side of retried beans - yummy. That said, it's a real bummer that they don't ever seem to be able to have implemented good food handling and cleanliness practices, as noted by other Yelpers and proven by doing a search with their name on the OC food inspection site: foodinspections.ocgov.co… I've found some other places that are just as good and authentic and seem to know how to operate cleanly, so until I see some evidence of them getting their cleanliness act together, I'm taking a "carnitas sabbatical" for now.

    (3)

  • Trissia W.

    xmas eve and I thought I didnt even feel like eating. Tried their bean and cheese burrito. SO DAMN GOOD! I did have to ask them to nuke it because I wanted a HOT burrito. But for only $2.50 a great bargain. I have to go back for the beans. You know I'm just NOT A FAN of bean and cheese burritos so thats why this one stood out to me. I had 1 lengua (beef tongue) taco even though I'm not supposed to be eating meat but what can I say its a hard habit to quit. It was SO good. larger than most tacos for $1.15 two would be pretty filling. Talking with a lady in line she recommended getting meat by the pound here and then going to the panaderia a couple doors down to buy the bolillo rolls to make your own tortas at home.

    (4)

  • Jeff H.

    Damn you Los Reyes. Your food is too good. I have to limit my visits or I will get too fat. Best in the area. Since I work across the street, I get take out. But excellent food will equally excellent prices. This place is also crazy busy Saturday nights...because it's so good.

    (5)

  • Luis R.

    I Love this place! I come here all the time for lunch because I work down the street. Now all my coworkers come here as well! My favorite item would have to be the Carnitas burrito, Hands down one of the best burritos I have ever had.

    (5)

  • Aldo R.

    I can't imagine the popularity of this place coming solely from their carnitas. The seating was full during lunch time so I had to take my food to go. I ordered three carnitas tacos, which came with a side of chips and salsa. First off, the chips were overly salty, and the salsa was flavorless. The carnitas themselves...also flavorless. I can see people who care about them being moist loving them though. They definitely were juicy, but I prefer mine fried up a bit more. The tacos were a good size and they weren't actually bad, they just didn't have much going on to make me savor them.

    (3)

  • Bernadette C.

    Love their carne asada wet burritos and tostadas.

    (5)

  • David L.

    This is a Small hidden gem in Orange. I have found my new favorite MexiRun stop. I like that I can order large catering dishes for meals and parties. The food is delicious, of course. I have tried a little of everything here. It is what I expected for my appreciation for Mexican cuisine.

    (4)

  • G. A.

    Cheap, filling, crowded, lots of locals, but... Carne Asada- good flavor, but not texture, and there were pieces of cartilage not removed. Burrito is lined with refried beans, and has cheese- which didn't melt, and that didn't seem authentic to me. The salsa was basic, blended tomato water, and the chips were stale.

    (2)

  • Jason W.

    I can't believe I hadn't discovered this place until recently. This review is based on my first experience. Their food is so good and authentic! I've been back here a few times since and absolutely love it! The tacos are $1.15 and I thought they were going to be the small street tacos so I ordered four of them, asada, carnitas, al pastor, and lengua, plus a quesadilla, thinking it would be just enough since I wasn't very hungry to begin with. To my surprise the tacos are BIG and MEATY, probably twice the size of a regular street taco! This place lives up to its name. The carnitas was so tender and tasty. The lengua was probably some of the best I've ever had, and, being that it's my favorite taco meat, really gives this place an edge over other taquerias. Their carne asada is average, if a little bit tough and dry, but that's ok because all of their other meats are so good! Just thinking about this place is making me drool. Mmm... I think I'm going to go get some more tacos right now.

    (5)

  • Aidreana Q.

    I was told about this place by a friend of mine, so I decided to check it out last night. First of all the waiter was rude, I asked for 2 sodas and without even asking me what kind of drinks I wanted the cashier totally assumed I wanted cokes, when I asked the waitress to change one of them, she went off on how she was going to have to throw the soda away. Seriously it was a fountain soda not a bottle or anything. The food not that great, I ordered 2 tacos and one was barbacoa and it wasn't good. The other taco was carne asada and the meet was dry. Beans had no flavor and rice was dry. First and last time I eat at this place. If you really want good Mexican tacos go to El toro bravo in Costa Mesa, this place hands down will never be beat. The only good thing about Los Reyes was the tacos were only a $1.15, wow but they sucked. By the way cash only

    (2)

  • Tony G.

    Im not going to judge them based on their filthy eating area, or the serving area that was covered in the grime of the day. I will not judge them for the appearance of the cooks who were covered in grease and had filthy hands. Of course, I wont judge the filthy parking lot or the gang bangers that I saw hanging out in the shadows outside of the business. What I will judge is the food that they gave me. I ordered carnitas tacos, carne asada tacos, and al pastor tacos. All of which were as dry as a nuns...you know. The al pastor had an odd flavor to it, and the other two were quite flavorless. I love me some mexican food...especially taquerias. Los Reyes does not make the grade.

    (1)

  • Jennifer S.

    I've been craving these tacos since Danielle J brought them over. So, I decided that dinner for me and the hubs last night would be tacos! YUM! The parking lot was a little awkward. I ordered the carnitas, al pastor, and barbacoa tacos - they were pretty tasty and the husband was happy. Their carrots were a little bland though - boo cuz that's normally my favorite part. There was tons of meat in each one - hubs got full on 6 - which shocked me! The guy at the counter was very nice and helpful. We were satisfied - would definitely come here again.

    (4)

  • K B.

    Phenomenal carnitas tacos here. Simple, juicy, tasty. As they should be. Needs no salsa. Would have given 5 stars if not for the slow table cleaning. If you go during lunch dont be put off by the line thats almost out the door. It goes pretty fast...problem is not many tables.

    (4)

  • Tina M.

    Hands down they have the best carnitas in town! I usually call my order in ahead of time to avoid the long lines (why the long lines? Because everyone goes here!) Good prices, great food & fast service. When my daughter visits from Washington she always asks: when are we having Carnitas Los Reyes!? btw, bring cash only

    (5)

  • John O.

    best taqueria in Orange and the line out the door at times proves it. Here it is all about the meat and whether you put it on a taco, burrito or torta, they all shine. The chorizo here has an exotic mace spiciness to it that is uncompromising. The lengua is tender as can be, the carne asada grilled right, the carnitas are piggy like they should be, the al pastor rocks with a spicy coating. 3-4 tacos and the complimentary bag of chips and salsa will fill any man up with goodness for under $5. Few tables and often busy, it is a good idea to get it to go. But man is this place good!

    (5)

  • Perry R.

    CHICHARRON is not on the menu but go ahead and order it, you wont be disappointed. They must have a changed their chips, I was in there last week and they were nice and crispy.

    (5)

  • Jensen O.

    Best chicharon & rice /beans ever!! Cheap and way better than taqueria de anda

    (5)

  • Tamara J.

    Dear Anonymous dude, You, the guy who stopped me in the parking lot while I was waiting for my order (WAY too hot inside). I apologize profusely for recommending Los Reyes when you asked if you should eat here. Dear Los Reyes, I want a divorce. I used to love you. I really did. I used to sneak out of Santa Ana to get tacos for the girls in the office. That's love. We had some good times together, but I'm leaving you for De Anda. Yeah, he is more materialistic than you, but I'm tired of your 'dry' wit and 'bland' personality. You've changed. Ordered three pounds of carnitas and al pastor, along with large rice and beans and half a dozen lengua and pollo tacos. Since I had never ordered 'catering' style before, I asked to get tortillas and onion and cilan.... You cut me off and tell me it comes with everything. Really? Cool. I take my bags of food and stop at home before going to my sister's house. We bring dinner, they share the AC. Win-win. I have to repack the bags because, even though the meats were quite dry, there was a ton of grease that leaked everywhere. Gross. While repacking, I notice there are no tortillas, onion or cilantro. Damn. Dilemma. Do I drive 3 miles out of my way to go back to Los Reyes, or suck it up and stop at the store on the way? Decision: I'm going back. It's the principle of the thing. Talk to the same minion at the counter, tell her I was just there an hour and a half ago, blah blah blah. She basically calls me a liar over a dozen tortillas and a handful of produce. She actually digs out the indecipherable sales slip and argues with the other minions that filled the order. They back me up and she gives up the onion and cilantro. But to save face (I guess) she says she never told me tortillas were included and charges me $.75 for a dozen. They come from the part of the kitchen I can't see, so I pay. All of that would have you sleeping on the couch for a while, instead of in divorce court, if the food had been good. Everything tasted exactly the same. Like nothing. Dry, flavorless nothingness. Sis and hubby ate the lengua and both got sick. Not even the salsa or marinated carrots had any zip. So sad. Since it's too expensive to throw out, anyone have a good recipe that I can bury leftover shredded pork in? Manwhich sauce will be a huge improvement.

    (2)

  • Morgan D.

    Love their re-fried beans, they are the best i've had outside of Mexico!

    (5)

  • Jerome D.

    I stumbled upon CLR while residing down the street a few years ago. It's one of the best stumbles I've ever made. Even though I don't live a few hundred yards away anymore, pedaling the eight miles over in the afternoon before work is in order at least once a week. The carnitas is as good as it gets as far as bang for your buck goes. When it's fresh out of the oven, it doesn't get any better anywhere. I'm also a big fan of their chorizo. My daughter loves their asada and my brother is a huge fan of their lengua. Everyone I've ever brought there has been inpressed by the quality and value. I can't think of anywhere else I can load up on fresh quality food for $5. Sometimes it's difficult to get in and out of there. The longest wait I've ever had there was about twenty minutes, but to me the wait is worth it.

    (5)

  • Gus G.

    Tacos are awesome! I have been coming here for years. Carne asada (my favorite), barbacoa, lengua, buche and their refried beans are all yummy. It gets busy during lunch time and on the weekends. If you want menudo get there EARLY cause they run out. If it is to go, then i suggest you call it in. Cash only.

    (5)

  • Luis Y.

    If you crave an authentic Mexican taste, then this is the place to come. Now, I know this place is a carnitas place. Personally I prefer their tacos de costilla adobada and their asada burritos.Pair these up with their crispy crunchy tortilla chips with the best salsa ever and you are one happy individual.

    (4)

  • Jacklyn R.

    Saw it online listed as one of the top ten places to grab tacos in OC. I was very disappointed. Their meat wasn't marinated that much and the chorizo was over cooked.

    (2)

  • Aj K.

    We ordered 3 carne asada tacos and 2 chicken tacos. They were disgusting. One of them wasn't even carne asada! Chicken was extremely wet (weird). For five tacos, I expected a few bags of chips but they gave me one lame ass bag and tried to charge me for more salsa. My mexican coworker went the week before and this didnt happen to her. When I told the counter guy this, he said he considered it one big order. I told him, OK so i guess i should have ordered five tacos separately ? How does that make sense? He ignored me and took a phone call. ps: Carne asada was nasty dry.

    (1)

  • Casey F.

    I had to review the beans. Enough is said here about the meat, but the beans here are the best I've ever had. No vegetarian B.S. here, strictly lard for fat in their recipe and the perfect amount of mashing.

    (5)

  • Jane D.

    I think I've tried all the taco shops along Tustin Avenue, and I keep coming back to Los Reyes. 1. You get chips and salsa free. 2. The meats are amazing. Carnitas is a little crispy and full of flavor. 3. The tacos are huge. For a $1.15, you cannot beat them. These aren't tiny street tacos either. 4. They'll make just about anything for you. My kids are picky, and the staff is always helpful. 5. Table service (including chips and drinks) is always solid. 6. The kid selling bootleg DVDs and the Mexican soccer on TV are great. Parking can be a little difficult, as can getting a table. I often call ahead and get my stash to go. Don't bother with any of the other places.

    (5)

  • Britt W.

    This place RULES!!! When my dear Yelp buddy and self proclaimed Mexican Food snob Maria T gave Carnitas Los Reyes a 5-star review I knew I had to experience it for myself. I took my unadventurous parents to Carnitas Los Reyes last Friday night. It was crazy crowded so we ordered three of the carnitas specials to go. The grand total after tax was $16.31. I couldn't go to most Mexican food restaurants and order on carnitas plate for less than that. Cha Ching!!! Keep in mind that I am gringo, have never lived in Mexico and prefer flour tortillas over corn. I do love Mexican food but my knowledge of this sinfully good cuisine is limited to restaurants between Los Angeles and San Diego as well as what I have learned from Rick Bayless on public access television. With that being said I thought the carnitas were some of the best I have ever had. Crispy yet tender and season to enhance the flavor of the pork but not over power it. The beans and rice were perfect compliments. It's not a question of if I will go back but a matter of when. In fact I think I might go there again today.

    (5)

  • Silvia L.

    Good tacos overall!!! They will cater!!

    (4)

  • Daniel G.

    100% Authentic Mexican food restaurant Another place I visit when I am in the area (Tacos Jaliso is just down the street) and this place is great. Service here is good, the food is made directly in front of you and it taste great. I've had the carnitas here and maaaaan....no where else do they make them like that...no where so if you're in the area and are lookin for some great food....drop by...you'll thank yourself FOR SURE

    (4)

  • Arnold E.

    It's not often that I'm disappointed by fellow Yelpers, but it's gotta happen every once in a while, right? Well, such was the case with my recent visit to Carnitas Los Reyes (CLR). After reading many of the favorable reviews, I was almost excited to stop by for some tasty carnitas. Walking into this place reminded me of visiting a taqueria in downtown Santa Ana or Chula Vista. You've got your mural paintings depicting rural life down south (complete with cockfighting, pig disembowelment, and stirring up a fresh batch of refried beans the old fashioned way - over a fire), your velvet painting of some bad-ass vaquero smoking a handmade cigarette, and your televisions locked on to the current fubol game. Basically, this place looks and feels very authentic. However, I was a bit disappointed by the food itself. I sampled all sorts of tacos: carnitas, al pastor, lengua, carne asada, barbacoa, and pollo, but was left unsatisfied. Sure, the tacos here are bigger, cheaper, and have more meat in 'em compared to Taqueria de Anda (right up the street), but what I found to be lacking was the flavor. As Melissa O. pointed out, I was missing salt in every single taco. A bit more saltiness to the meat would be perfect with the mildness of the corn tortillas. The carnitas (which I was hoping were good) were just there. Sure, the porkiness was there, but it didn't wow me like carnitas I've had elsewhere. Otherwise, the rest of the food was just okay. I suppose I should come back and sample a combo plate (with beans and rice) or perhaps a torta but, for now, I'm going to be leaving my review at an even 3 stars. If my next meal supports my initial findings, I'll be moving it down (in which case I'll gladly spend the extra 10 cents per taco for Taqueria de Anda). If the food's better the second time around, I'll be sure to bump up my rating and stick to what's good on the menu (and probably avoid the tacos).

    (3)

  • Paul G.

    I couldn't decide whether to give this place 2 or 3 stars. The tacos here are not the best, I have had better. I have had much better. The people who own the place know that the tacos aren't that great. When i talk to some of the day laborers I work with about this place they talk about how the food here kind of sucks. The taco here aren't meant to be super Tasty, they are meant to big,filling and cheap. I still regular this place.

    (3)

  • Craig H.

    This place was pretty bomb.com . Don't judge a book by its cover when you enter this place. I def ordered way too much food. A burrito and two tacos is easily two meals here and possibly three. The carne asada, chicken, and salsa are awesome. The salsa has tons of flavor along with a good kick. I'll go back again. This would be amazing hangover food.

    (4)

  • Darren I.

    Move over Taqueria Y Tortilleria El Campeon, and hello Carnitas Los Reyes!!! I used to say that the very best carnitas were at Taqueria Y Tortilleria El Campeon down in SJC, but this place has taken their place as my new #1 for tacos. While waiting in the long line on a Friday night and watching the patrons eating my stomach grew hungrier and hungrier. I peered over to my right and saw a huge 250 pound dude man handle 5 tacos without blinking an eye. He ravaged through them spreading them with salsa and washing them down with sweet pickled carrots. Seeing him eat them with ease made me think that I too, all 5'7" 170 pounds will be able to tackle at least 5 tacos with ease. I got to the counter and ordered, 2 carnitas tacos (I had to try 2 of them because for god's sake the work carnitas is in the name of the restaurant and they must be good), 1 carne asada taco, one lingua (beef tongue), and one al pastor taco (marinated pork). We grabbed a table and waited in anticipation for our meal to arrive. The kind waitress brought us some pickled carrots and some chips with salsa. I proceeded to dip my chip in the salsa. Now I don't just dip and pull out, I scoop so I have a healthy amount of salsa on my chip. I bit down and an intense fire sensation hit my tongue. The spice was spot on and delicious. It's funny though, the heat from the salsa really creeps up on you. By my fourth or fifth chip i was sweating and getting all teary eyed. Everyone was probably looking at me and laughing being the only Asian guy in the room crying from the salsa. The tacos came quickly and I grabbed a carne asada taco, piled on the salsa and bit down. The flavor was perfect, mild and succulent making you savor your next bite of pure carnitas heaven. The carne asada was the best carne asada I have ever eaten. The flavors here are really mild but the meat is so succulent with bits and pieces of meat that are crunchy adding to the perfect texture for a soft taco. I proceeded to eat and finish 3 tacos and was stuffed. I waived the white flag. At only $1.15 a piece it was a steal. I guess I should have known when the big 250 pound dude only ordered 5 tacos I should have know. They pack those suckers with so much meat they fill you up fast! Can't wait to come back here and try the menudo... maybe I'll go tomorrow!!!

    (5)

  • Sean Y.

    So I hear the other day that the country is in a recession and stocks have plummeted. Well lah-dee-fu**ing dah...I don't care. Just don't check your 401K and mutual funds and you'll be fine...ignorance is beautiful bliss. Another way to deal with this so-called recession is by eating at Los Reyes. The other day, i strolled outta here with a taco de lengua and a torta de milanesa for a Lincoln...5 bones, people. The torta was really good sized, with big slab of milanesa, refried beans, mayo, lettuce, tomato all on a fresh toasted bolillo...a meal in itself and well worth the 3 and change. The taco was stuffed with juicy lengua. Though not for the faint of heart, I watched the taco dude pull out a whole fresh cooked cow's tongue and basically cut up half of that bad boy for my taco. If you have never had lengua, imagine the most tender, flavorful roast beef ever and that would be lengua. They also send you on your merry way with free chips and salsa, jalapenos and those pickled carrots. Los Reyes will definitely be added to my lunch rotation. Oh yeah, cash only here. Recession? I thumb my nose at you. Go F yourself.

    (4)

  • Phyu N.

    They have really good tacos. The best we have had for years. We've been missing out a lot. Glad to find this place. The salsa and chips were good too. The place is kind of small. Cheap taco, but kind of small.

    (3)

  • Mike S.

    Ridiculous food that is freaking awesome and super cheap. Menudo is the key to a crazy weekend

    (5)

  • Justin C.

    Great food have been coming here for more than ten years. You won't find bigger tacos for about a buck.

    (5)

  • Patrick B.

    I was in the area one day and decided to try Carnitas Los Reyes for lunch. From the front of the building, the place looks tiny. Once you walk in, you see there are about 10 small tables if you chose to dine there. I ordered at the counter area towards the back left and went to sit down. It was pretty full when my friend and I got there, but we were able to grab a table. For my first visit, I of course had to try their carnitas as a plate. It was good, but more of a local place and not some spectacular dining destination I'd be willing to travel a long distance for. For a taqueria-type place, I was surprised that they used the super bright orangish-yellow shredded cheddar cheese to top their beans.

    (3)

  • Penson L.

    Solid, cheap mexican fudz. Did I mention cheap? $1.15 for a pretty good sized taco, and $3.50 for a burrito. Tried a carne asada taco and a carnitas burrito. The burrito is meat, beans, onions+cilantro, and some salsa verde. My only gripe is that they're a tad bit dry, but I do prefer my food a bit wetter, and that issue is easily solved by slathering on some of the fresh bowl of salsa they provide you. Also, what's with the shredded cheddar cheese in the burrito? Curious for a place that seems pretty damn authentic. Still, solid hole in the wall right here.

    (4)

  • Ava H.

    Stick with anything carnitas and your good to go. This is the place I go to when I want good carnitas, not good carne asada or chicken. Please remember that and you'll be happy with your choice whether it be a burrito, taco, dinner plate, or a torta. Their carnitas is just so moist and delicious. I love their addition of fresh cilantro and onions on their delicious. It gives it a freshness that I love. I also recommend their rice. It has bits of pickled carrots, jalapeno, and onions that makes it even yummier. If you're feeling especially naughty I also recommend their chichurron ( the deep fried pork skin/fat)...it's actually the best chichurron I've tried. It's not too greasy and it's moist while still being crunchy if that makes sense. The workers are also really nice...I went with my boyfriend the other week and we were short a nickel and the man let us go. I know it's only a nickel, but you know some guy at another restaurant would be, "Hey, where's my nickel?" Little things like that make me happy so I have to support this establishment for their delicious food and nice attitude.

    (4)

  • Cel J.

    good mexican food!!!

    (4)

  • Maria T.

    Strip mall dining at its finest. You know a place has got to be damn good when it's got a friendly sign in marker saying "cash only" at the register, there are iron bars on the windows, and velvety paintings of dudes in sombreros adorn the walls. I consider myself a bit of a Mexican food snob since I lived in Guadalajara one summer to learn Spanish. While my Spanish skills were minimal, I learned a LOT about food because I lived with a host mom who was also an amazing cook. These Carnitas are the BEST I have found to date, especially for the value. Even the Carnitas at Javier's in Newport Coast don't have the same level of "crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside" that Los Reyes does. You can't go wrong with whatever you order. The Carnitas burrito is a good standby if you don't know what to get on your first visit. This is NOT, I repeat, NOT a place to take a date. This is a "I want to scarf down some hard core Mexican food and wipe away the grease with paper napkins" kind of place. They live up to their authenticity by serving you complimentary fresh chips and salsa and pickled carrots and jalapenos when you sit down. (I can't believe some places have the audacity to charge you for chips and salsa and call themselves authentic Mexican!) I'll reiterate that this place is an amazing value. If you happen to be a semi-decent looking girl, you'll get the added bonus of being smiled/gawked at adoringly by the cooks in the back. Yay, ego boost!

    (5)

  • Mary H.

    there food is awsome! and the best part about this place is that my mom farted really loud it sounded like sand people screaming and was able to get away with it without any notice even though it smelled like a dirty old dead dog. all the mexican people left because theyre scared easily but came back in greater numbers

    (5)

  • Brandon C.

    There are so many hole in the wall joints in several of these neighborhoods, but this place stands out from the rest, IMO. Got lengua, al pastor and chorizo. Each one was great!

    (5)

  • Daniel H.

    Good food. Not the best Mexican I've had but good. The carne asada had a lot of grissle in it and needed to be cooked a bit more to get that true taco "crunch" when eating. The salsa was good & the pickled jalapeños & carrots were great additions. No free refills either, and in this day & age, I mean, c'mon! But, the place is not a grade A dine in experience. The food is the main attraction. Like I said, good food, great price, & I'd prolly go back.

    (4)

  • Christine R.

    On my first visit. our group was on the way to a leafs/ducks game. It's very easy to get to from the 55 and close to the honda center as well. They have a very large menu. our group had tacos and burritos and it was all delicious. The prices are pretty cheap too! We had free chips and salsa - I would go back for sure :-)

    (4)

  • Michelle R.

    I was so happy with my take out experience, I came back here with Stephen to dine in on a weekend. We arrived a little after 12, and as I thought, it was busy. Lucky for us, one table was leaving, so I had Stephen grab it while I ordered our food. I wanted to try their menudo but at noon, it was already sold out. So I decided on getting tacos for us, and without the beans or rice, as last time 2 tacos with chips filled me up quite nicely. I stayed with the namesake of 2 carnitas tacos, and for Stephen got him a carnitas, barbacoa, and chorizo taco, plus 2 large diet cokes. Total came to just over $11 and change. Talk about cheap eats! The cashier told me to sit down and they'll bring out our drinks, which also came with chips, house salsa and pickled carrots/ jalapenos. The chips were nice and crunchy, but I had to hold back on eating all of them. Stephen really liked his tacos, and saved the chorizo for last. It was his favorite, even though it was so spicy, he literally was sweating! Seriously, homeboy had sweat rolling down his face. He couldn't stop eating the taco. LOVE the food, love the prices.. just wish they had a bigger place and better parking. Overall a 5 star experience. Just a reminder: Cash only. There's an ATM machine at the door if you forget

    (5)

  • Chris G.

    What's the best thing about a hole in the wall?? The food of course!!! Seriously the best Mexican food around and trust me, I have tried quite a few in the area. Can't go wrong getting your carnitas fix on at this place. Ummm,.. just get it to go.

    (4)

  • Guy S.

    I've been coming here since they opened 23 years ago. Hands down, the BEST carnitas in the whole world! Salsa is the best you'll ever find. They will sell you fresh salsa in any quantity you desire. An OC must for authentic Mexican food!

    (5)

  • Kristina M.

    5 star for take out!! Delicious food! Taquitos were great, carnitas tacos, chicken tacos, beans and rice, all good! Would be even better if they gave free refills on soda and sold beer!

    (5)

  • Wendy W.

    Hands down best Mexican food outside of Mexico. I am truly impressed with the speed, accuracy, and TASTE! So delicious! Everyone was happy even our pocket book! Family of four ate for $18! They were busy and had a small dining area but they were fast enough to get a table ready for us and the place was clean.

    (5)

  • Stephen S.

    We stopped at Carnitas Los Reyes shortly after noon on a Saturday for brunch. My girlfriend had been there before, but it was my first time. The parking lot of the little strip mall seemed to be full, but luckily my girlfriend found a spot while I went in to stand in line. The taqueria is very small inside, with maybe 15 or so tables with plastic bench seating. The line cuts right through the dining room, so if you're on the left side of the restaurant you'll probably have people standing right next to you as you're eating. It's the same situation as at Belinda's in Buena Park, and I'm really not fond of that. The place was a bit warm inside and densely packed with people. I saw many customers taking food to go, either to eat at home or in their cars. I was afraid we'd have to do the same, but someone left just in time. They've hung a small television in the corner at the front of the restaurant, and thankfully the volume wasn't very high, but often you'll hear the sound of meat being chopped in the kitchen. We both had diet sodas, which were brought out to us. Note that there are no refills on the sodas. To my surprise, we were also brought complimentary chips & salsa, along with a small bowl of pickled carrot slices and jalapeños. The salsa had a bit of a kick but it wasn't too spicy. I really liked the carrot slices, but those that had touched the peppers were pretty hot! My girlfriend had two tacos and I had three. I wasn't expecting much considering they only cost $1.50 a piece. But these weren't the four-inch tacos we've had at Taqueria Mexico in La Habra and Taqueria De Anda in Fullerton. They turned out to be much bigger, much meatier, and much tastier than I expected. The carnitas was excellent, very flavorful and moist. The barbacoa was my least favorite, but still good. The chorizo was also excellent, with lots of flavor but also lots of heat! Soon after I started eating this taco, sweat began running down my face, but I kept eating because it was so good! If I based my rating solely on how much I enjoyed the food and how little it cost, it would easily be five stars. But I'm sorry to say that my experience eating in the warm, densely-packed dining room deserves only two stars.

    (4)

  • Pamela R.

    Heavy and greasy but so delicious. The carnitas are the best ! Large portions, reasonably priced.

    (4)

  • Edwin L.

    Continuing our quest for the best tacos in OC. We have to give these guys an A, they are the best we have had so far. The only negative is they are real busy, so come with time. We will definitely be back..

    (5)

  • Zach W.

    Some of the best, most authentic Mexican food in Orange County. Every order para aquí (for here) comes with a plate of delicious chips and (in my opinion) mediocre salsa and vegatables. All items on the menu are affordable, so the small portions aren't a problem. The service is quick and friendly, and the restaurant has a pleasant, authentic vibe. 10/10 would recommend to a friend, as I've brought many there to eat with me for lunch.

    (5)

  • Mike D.

    Hmmmmm pork. Bring cash and lots of it as it is a cash only joint and you will want to buy and try all that is on the menu. Carnitas is indeed uncle as well as the burritos. Go and expect a wait but worth it.

    (4)

  • Sidney S.

    "Never underestimate how much assistance, how much satisfaction, how much comfort, how much soul and transcendence there might be in a well-made taco and a cold bottle of beer." ― Tom Robbins, Jitterbug Perfume I love a good hearty taco. This place has been renowned for years for their carnitas tacos but I always found them a bit dry. This place landed on Brad Johnson's Top Ten Taco list, again for carnitas, so even though I rarely see eye to eye with Brad (he severely overrates certain types of restaurants) I was in the area with my boy and decided to give this place a try again. Place is a small, hole in the wall joint with limited seating. It is also cash only with no refills on sodas. Service was good and workers were nice in spite of how busy they were. I ordered a carnitas taco along with carne asada and al pastor tacos. My son ordered carne asada. These tacos are huge and priced for only a $1.10. Great value on that part! Bottled drinks are a bit overpriced though so adding in rice, beans, tip...charge was $19. They do have fountain drinks but again, no refills. Carnitas was dry as before, I don't get the love for this one. However, the al pastor and carne asada tacos were excellent. My son would probably give this four stars. I will give it three because I feel no love towards it. A nice hole in the wall but taco joints like this are not exactly a rare species in OC combined with the no refills on soda (when you want that instead of a beer). Plus, the carnitas tacos are not that great (however the al pastor had a lovely flavor and moistness completely missing from the other pork taco). Recommended but only if you are close by, not a place to drive to.

    (3)

  • Correen B.

    It took a little searching to find this funky little hole in the wall, and the parking sucks, but I'm glad we did find it. Brad Johnson the food critic from the Orange County Register recently published a list of the top ten tacos in the county, and Carnitas Los Reyes took the prize for best carnitas tacos, so I had to try it. The article does state how little this place is, and how limited the seating is, and that was quite accurate. We had to wait about 10 minutes for a table to clear. The ordering process was a bit confusing, and I had to ask another diner in line where to order. You place your order at the counter, and they bring you your food to the table. The food: amazing! Chips were delicious, and the salsa was bomb! I wanted to drink a pint of the stuff. We both went with the Carnitas plate. It is served with rice, beans, chopped cilantro and onion, and tortillas. The carnitas were every bit as good as promised. Moist and juicy, with little crispy bits on the exterior. I also found it to be a great value, as they give you a generous portion of meat. I would definitely come back to this place!

    (4)

  • Sergio L.

    Love the chicharones tacos and the chicken tortas Bombay small little restaurant but it has some good food. It doesn't sell beer and you gotta wait for a table and it's cash only but it's worth the wait

    (5)

  • Kurdy S.

    I know this is super cliché to say, but I think I found my favorite Mexican Tacos in Orange County?! The find was from a spare-of-the-moment, I'm-feeling-like-tacos night. Badaboom-Badabing! Trusted my guts and Yelp Images and fell in love with my first bite. This joint is about as authentic as you will see it. Next to a Laundry Mat, in a run down shopping plaza. Yep, this sketchy setting will build up the climax for that real street, hole-in-the-wall authentic-ness. Inside, you'll find it looking similar to many taco joints. You will come across a see-thru glass counter with workers chopping up beautifully seasoned meat. Place your order behind the glass and smell the yummy aroma of grilled, sizzling meat. I recommend their taco combo plate that will barely cost you anything. $12 for deuce (two)! That's what us Yelpers are all talkin' about! I had their Carne Asada and Carnitas! Perfectly cooked, crisped meat with the right balance of sodium, not too salty. Add a Mexican Coke and you are on your way to satisfaction. If I'm near this area, I would totally make a return. Your tummy and wallet will feel so happy.

    (5)

  • Phil Y.

    It had been years since I had been to Carnitas Los Reyes. I had forgotten about them, when my secretary told me that they have very good tacos. Not being a dummy, I listened to her suggestion. I arrived at at about 12:30 PM. The restaurant was full. There was a line of customers waiting to order their food. I was the only Chinito in the restaurant. All the customers in the restaurant were hispanic. It was a good sign that I was about to get some good authentic food. The customers in front of me ordering all spoke Spanish. I wasn't sure if the man behind the counter spoke English or not. When it was my turn, I used my best Spanglish and I ordered 2 carne asada tacos and 2 carnitas tacos. After ordering, he asked me in perfect English if was "for here to go". I paid and waited for my food. About 5 minutes later, my food was ready. Even though the place was busy, the man behind the counter looked for me and gave me a bag of food. It wasn't until I got back to the office that I discovered included with the tacos were a bag of chips, salsa, a packet of pickled carrots and jalapenos. The taco man added everything that you needed for the tacos, including onions, cilantro and salsa. The tacos were full of meat. The carne asada tacos were very good. It was cooked perfectly. The flavor was good. The Carnitas taco was a no brainer for me since Carnitas is in their name. The carnitas was moist. It made for a great taco. The tacos were all very large. If I had known that they give chips, I would've gotten 3 tacos. I was stuffed by the time I got to the last taco. Carnitas Los Reyes is a very good place for a quick cheap meal. Unless you eat a lot, it will be difficult for you to have 4 tacos. You can have a great meal here for under $5. I'm glad that I listened to my secretary and came here because I liked it I am not going to forget about this place again.

    (4)

  • Keopu R.

    This is my absolute favorite Mexican restaurant on the planet - even after spending 4 years in Tucson, AZ. Their namesake is carnitas so you can't go wrong with a burrito or tacos with carnitas. But, if you want to go big, get the chicharron taco for the best treat. Just know the chicharron sells out, so it's not always available all day. Carne asada is also a tasty standard. You'll do okay with it in the burrito or torta form. The chile verde is also a good choice. So, okay, you really can't go wrong with anything here. If you have time, eat in so you can enjoy endless supply of their delicious salsa. I know it's no big deal for SoCal folks, but it is for this Hawai'i girl! Just know it can get crazy at the usual lunch and dinner dining hours. One last piece of advice is that it's cash only. Don't worry; it's totally with it!

    (5)

  • Monica A.

    There aren't enough stars to give this lil gem of a place!!! Seriously, tried it for the first time 2 weeks ago, and have been back for lunch 3 times since. Everything I have tried I have been happy with. Seriously so delicious. Prices are so reasonable. Bring cash!!!

    (5)

  • Schel H.

    So you are stuck on Tustin Ave and want some grub in the no freeway zone. You know that area south of Chapman and north of 17th street... Well here you go, this joint will be your savior! And they are ready to rescue your taste buds with some tasty grub. From the outside it may not seem like it is anything more than some random weird nasty taco place... I mean really truly that is how I took it. It is hidden at the end of a strip mall next to a gas station almost behind the gas station at that. So I stroll in here and immediately realize that I am the only gringo there... If a record player had been playing you would hear the scratch of the needle scraping by as it was yanked off almost. Granted it wasn't that bad but it was an interesting feeling. However the staff was friendly and quickly and efficiently prepped my tacos for to go. The meats were all pretty tasty; Pastor, Pollo, and Asada... Then as a bonus I got free tortilla chippies =D I LOVE FREE TORTILLA CHIPPIES! Total SCORE right there! Then there were the salsas. Yes we must get a lil bit of salsa for our tacos or they could just be blech... well in this case I highly suggest that you avoid the non spicy "spicy" green salsa and just go for the super delicious and tasty regular salsa. ;) Not sure if its cash only, but I paid in cash so that may be an issue. They also have a number of tables but they were all filled while I was there. Parking is pretty busy at this strip mall, but there is usually a space open somewhere... Bon Appetite!

    (4)

  • Marcos L.

    They use lard recycling from chicharrones are good buy I'm bad in cholesterol they have a good menudo Saturday and Sunday The lady in cashier no personality

    (3)

  • Denise C.

    A humble atmosphere in a nondescript strip mall boasts some of the most delicious authentic Mexican in town. Though the surroundings are....rustic, the food is fantastic. I've been eating there for over 10 years, and though the prices have gone from "really cheap!" to "good value," the quality of the food has remained consistently excellent. If you order to go, however, make sure you check your order for all contents. They are quite busy most of the time and sometimes forget side orders. Also, be advised that some employees only speak Spanish.

    (5)

  • Nancy P.

    I'll always give 3 stars if I would eat here again even through the first experience might not be that great. First, it's crazy crowded for a teeny, tiny place. If you're really big you may not want to come here. The line cuts right through the tables and seriously, there are people's butts almost in your face because its a tight squeeze. Hubby was claustrophobic, for sure. But, I must say they are fast and we actually got a table. It's definitely not a place to stay awhile. Eat then please get the F out......so more people can eat of course. Hubby got chicken taquitos plate that came with 3 taquitos with too much lettuce, sour cream, tomatoes on top and rice and terrible, terrible beans. Hubby is a refried beans freak and he was bummed to say the least. I thought the tacos would be small street taco size because they are $1.50. But, the tacos are pretty big. I really liked the carnitas tacos but not the al pastor. I also had taco de costilla which I'm sure people love because the flavor is really good. But, I had bones inside my taco and the meat was a little tough and dry. We both really liked the chips and salsa. I did see a group eating chili verde wet burritos and I would come back to try it. Hubby said he's not brave enough to come back on his own and will not eat inside again. He will, however, eat food from here if I brought it home.

    (3)

  • L R.

    To thy fellow gringo people out there, past yelpers were kind enough to share their positive reviews because I would've kept this place a secret. After living in the area umpteen years, I am so disappointed that I did not try the food many years ago. A couple of days ago I ordered two carnitas soft tacos, rice and beans for the first time here. Major delicious. I could've made four tacos out of the two tacos I ordered. And $1.50 for each taco?! Seriously. Why go to a fast food joint when you can get homemade tasting tacos at Los Reyes? And free chips with great tasting salsa and pickled veggies? The restaurant may not be much to look at and admire from the outside but the food, nice people who work there and prices just got me back in the door today.

    (5)

  • Georgia B.

    This place truly is a hole in the wall. Its inside a strip mall and the interior is a bit on the small side.. but man oh man the tacos here are to die for. They're dirt cheap and not only that, but they don't skimp on the meat. Two tacos filled me up. Will be coming back!

    (5)

  • Jenny L.

    Carnitas = Red salsa = Green salsa = Pickled carrots and jalapeños = Money out of my pocket = Amazingly cheap 'n tasty tacos, awesome for take out...best little hole in the wall ever!!

    (4)

  • Irwin S.

    I would have to agree with my bro! This place is great and the food is very tasty. I had the carnitas tacos and the Quesadilla with carne asada. My experience was great and i think that it had to do with the fact that i arrived close to closing time so maybe they wanted to serve us and quicker than usual. Overall the food was tasty! I would recommend this place and would definetly come back.

    (5)

  • Jerry P.

    Good Mexican food, really BAD customer service. The two girls who are at register are always so moody never say THANKS or reply when you do. MULTIPLE times I've gone and the fake blond girl is always in a really BAD MOOD. TWO stars.

    (2)

  • anthony g.

    If I was able to leave zero stars I would. Stopped by for some tacos. Saw a long line figured the food must be pretty good. I ordered 2 chicken tacos and 2 chorizo. Salsa and jalapeño but no limes? How hot is my taco suppose to be? Well once I tasted the tacos I found out why there salsa and jalapeño was there. The chicken doesn't taste like anything. After 2 chicken tacos I felt sick. Figured I would try the chorizo. But the grease had soaked through the paper bag and onto the plastic to go bag. One bite wouldn't hurt right? Oh yea it did. It was worse than the chicken. Apparently greasy is a flavor. After 2 hours I still feel like the tacos are going to come back up. Go anywhere else for tacos. I would Buy condoms from the dollar store before wasting another dollar fifty here.

    (1)

  • Amber K.

    My family has been coming to Carnitas Los Reyes for nearly two decades. We now drive for take out from South Orange County. The quality has remained the same which is A+ all around.

    (5)

  • Joan L.

    Cheap and cheerful. Good carnitas, asada and al pastor. We'll be back!

    (5)

  • Myung-C P.

    Awesome tacos. $1.50 each and they're authentic! Great torta carne asada. If you eat in, just order your food and grab a table. The servers will come to you with complimentary chips, salsa and jalapenos. If you order to go, just stand off to the side (it's a small, yet really busy restaurant) until they call your order. You get the chips / salsa / jalapenos to go as well. Really want to try their other food, but I always get their tacos every time because they're so good. I wish that they had some spicier salsa roja, but can't complain; their food is awesome!

    (5)

  • laura R.

    Cheap, delicious and quick even when the line seems to go on forever. Go for carnitas , duh, in any form--taco, sope, torta etc. The salsas are fresh and homemade. Cash only.

    (4)

  • Mike M.

    I ordered to Carnitas tacos. They were juicy and delicious. It came with tortilla chips and salsa for $3. Nice sized tacos for the price. I'm definitely coming back.

    (5)

  • Joel M.

    This was a great place to eat on a taco tuesday night, not too expensive for family of four wet burrito was a favorite

    (4)

  • Chris B.

    Worst burrito ever. Half the carne asada was grizzle and fat. Then almost broke a tooth on A ROCK in the effin burrito. Worst food ever. Don't go there unless you speak fluent Spanish

    (1)

  • Bigwave D.

    I am a lucky man! Living in Brea, growing up in Whittier, and being Hispanic,, yes I know good Mexican food and this hole in the wall serves up some of the best I've ever had! There are some really good ones in Whittier, Burrito Track, Los Sanchez (Their Lengua is the bomb!", El Farolitos in Placentia, but if you are in the mood for a cheap, authentic Mexican meal, this place is where it's at! I am VERY picky about the top 3 items that need to be good to qualify for a good Mexican food joint,,, 1) Beans- Very moist, cheesy with good pork flavor,, 2) Rice- Not dry, nice cumin flavor and again, moist 3) Chips- Crisp, large, homemade flavor I have not eaten everything on the menu,, but what I have eaten where fantastic! *El Pastor burrito was seasons perfectly, large chunks of pork! *Carne Asada often overcooked, under seasoned or chopped too small in other joints were made perfectly for my soft tacos. Large chunks of steak, seasoned well and very moist and tender! Even my wife ate it up and she admits that she usually does not like burritos!! * Carnitas of course were delicious, not as crispy as I like, but more of a moist, tender type, and not too salty, my daughter loved her tacos!! Ok, for all of you that are not on the brown side, but more like my wife :), I get it,,, It is in an area that could be intimidating to some, best bet is go with friends, everyone is cool in the eating area and behind the counter so relax and enjoy! Expect big crowds for lunch and dinner,, I went at 11:30AM on a Sunday and waited 20 minutes for my order,,, and ALWAYS BRING CASH!!!!

    (5)

  • Mayeli C.

    I've been here before a few times and food was good today apart from terrible service from the cashier the food wasn't that good. I'll think about coming back

    (1)

  • Sandy P.

    Recommended by a friend and did not disappoint. Enjoyed the carnitas tacos, taquitos, beans and rice. Everything was fresh and full of flavor. Only thing that caught me off guard was the older man behind the counter. Very grumpy. Reminded of the soup Nazi on Seinfield. I kept waiting to hear "No Taco for you!"

    (4)

  • Armine G.

    Great authentic mexican food. They bring chips and salsa which is nice, especially since its a smaller mexican restaurant Its Cash only

    (5)

  • Daisy C.

    Best food ever! It does tend to get packed a lot, so I call ahead and order.

    (5)

  • Brianna M.

    Food was okay. I would not come again. My reason: they use cheddar cheese (what?!!!) instead of queso fresco! Family of four spent approx $25 which is amazing but the food was not the best. My chorizo taco was overcooked and GREASY!!!

    (3)

  • Naheed A.

    Best carnitas ever!! Super moist, tender and flavorful meat The best whole in the wall mexican spot I've been to yet! Their salsa is one of the best I've had too!!

    (5)

  • Irma V.

    This used to be one of my favorite places. Not anymore. The waitresses are very nice. But the cashier and the other lady are extremely rude. There have been plenty of times where I have overlooked the bad, nasty attitude, because they had great tacos. This last time they got my order wrong, and after she have me the corrected order, that was wrong too! The lady was so cheap she did not want to change out 2 tacos. She was arguing with me! It was their mistake! I think they sell so much that they don't need any more customers. I've been coming here a long time and I'm talking about 25 year or more. I'm not coming back. The tacos and the beans are getting greasier anyway.

    (1)

  • Carol D.

    Great place carnitas tacos are the bomb!!! Salsa is deliciously spicy. One of those "hole in the wall" places. Cash only Call in advance sometimes it can take up to 40 mins just for takeout

    (5)

  • Steven C.

    A co-worker of mine highly recommended this place to me while talking to him about our search to find the perfect place for us to frequent on Taco Tuesdays. After several weeks of trying different places we had been told about we finally decided to give this place a try. Carnitas Los Reyes is basically your prototypical hole in the wall type Mexican establishment. They have a good assortment of tacos, burritos and other Mexican fare for affordable prices. Be forewarned that Carnitas Los Reyes is a cash only restaurant (this is always a deterrent to me as I rarely carry cash of any sort). My wife and I both decided to try their tacos and despite being fairly busy they came out quickly. The tacos themselves were portioned well and came with chips on the side but the Carne Asada I ordered lacked a bit in the flavor department overall. I believe my wife tried both the Carne Asada as well as the Carnitas and said hers were also just ok. The inside of the place is fairly small and setup a bit strange for ordering. I do appreciate them listing the dishes in English as well as Spanish as this sped up the process and really allows you to see what the food consist of without needing to ask a bunch of questions and hold up the line. Our experience was fair but to me the food just lacked a bit compared to other places we have tried (Original Taco Factory). I am sure we will be back at some point and I will need to sample a different item off the menu to really get a good feel for the place. Check them out for yourself, this place has been a staple of the area for over 20 years so they must be doing something right.

    (3)

  • Bryan G.

    Big, meaty tacos for $1.50. The best part is they are very tasty! I would recommend taking out since it is really cramped in there. The only thing I'm not a fan of is their mediocre salsa selection which doesn't compliment the tacos at all. Lastly, if you want hot sauce, the only choice is Tapatio.

    (4)

  • JOSEPH T.

    UNBELIEVABLE. .Don't be scared away by the center that is located in. Believe in the diversity of patrons and always a line.although very quick. FRESHEST Carnitas Asada Etc. WALLET FRIENDLY AND FLAVORS ABOUND..

    (5)

  • Dana G.

    The food here is awesome. Nice selection of tacos - I especially like the carnitas and chorizo. The tortas and burritos are delicious too. Can't beat the prices. The parking is not the best and there aren't a lot of tables, but it's usually not an issue. The food is worth it.

    (5)

  • Lisa R.

    Love this place been coming since I was little now I take my daughter n she loves it too! We always share a torta de al pastor :)

    (5)

  • Judy R.

    This is just a little whole in the wall taco place. Nothing fancy and no loud music. I love the burritos of carne asada and my kids love their tacos. I really love coming here. Excellent food. I recommend this place if you really want some Mexican tacos.

    (4)

  • Sandy S.

    I FINALLY got to try this place!! And so glad I did! I tried their carnitas taco, costillo (rib) taco, and the chorizo taco. The costillo taco was my favorite. They give you a large, sauced bone-in rib in two corn tortillas topped with chopped onions and cilantro. Yum!!! Then the chorizo taco. Small bits of chorizo topped with onions and cilantro. Salty and flavorful! Yum! Then the carnitas. A tad too chewy for me, but maybe some people like that. The flavors were good! My fiancé got two carne asada sopes and a carne asada torta. They looked good! He enjoyed them!! We will definitely be back!! :)

    (4)

  • Jim V.

    Cash only. Go to ATM first. This is authentic, where local Mexican Americans go. The real deal, almost like my sister-in-law's mom's house.

    (4)

  • Dana A.

    This place makes some decent tacos for the price. A two taco lunch special with rice and beans will set you back a whopping 4.50. I have only tried the asada, chicken and pastor tacos and they are all great for the price. If you are in a hurry this is a good spot because they are quick. The one thing that sets this place apart from other hole in wall taco places is the table service. You order at the counter but then a nice lady serves you chips and salsa for free. Then she delivers your food and drink. Cant beat that at a place like this. While you wait for your food you can gaze at the mural that nicely depicts cock fights as well as various animals being slaughtered. This alone is worth making a trip to try this place. Just so you know when this place is busy you see all races in the long line to get the yummy tacos. This should tell you something about this place. Once again this place is so reasonable it won't hurt your pocketbook if you try it and you end up thinking it sucks...

    (4)

  • Sam H.

    Delicious Authentic Mexican Food!! Very Cheap, & it always hits the spot. Highly recommend this place. Just a heads up to all you people that don't carry cash and only carry plastic. This Place is Cash Only!!!

    (5)

  • Alex V.

    Los Reyes is one of the best authentic mexican hole in the wall taqueria you'll find in O.C. lets start with their beans, i am not a bean person but their beans here are amazing they are so soft and tasty guess they make it just like in Mexico with pork lard what an amazing taste. a taco, burrito andd tortas place not much variety on their menu. I always get carnitas and chicharron tacos they are the best thats why they are called carnitas los reyes, they also have buche chorizo cabeza al pastor etc etc very authentic taqueria. I dont see why would anybody get chicken tacos on an authentic mexican hole in the wall place like this, you want chicken and low fat tacos go to Tacos Mesa dont come here cause all you going to do is complain and make the lines even longer and look like a fool. I am a regular just like many other locals who have been coming here for years and this is by far is the best mexican taqueria. Oh yeah their parking lot is the worst but worth it, it has never stopped me from parking all the way on the other side of the shopping center just to get my hands and those carnitas.

    (5)

  • Jade R.

    This was my second time here after a friend told us it was the best Mexican food in Orange County. The barbacoa is tender and moist. The wet burritos are huge! And the tacos are generous with meat and homemade tortillas complete the package. It was the perfect hangover food!

    (4)

  • Jamie K.

    Carnitas Los Reyes! I have been coming here for 6+ years and they are still amazing! They are cash only, just a heads up... But their prices are reasonable! It is a very small location but it is always packed!! So be prepared to wait, it does go pretty fast and is worth the wait. My favorites, the carnitas tacos (which I believe they have won TWO Orange County taste awards for) and their buche tacos...If you are into that kinda stuff... I wasn't, until i tried it here! This place is authentic! Tasty! Inexpensive! And filling! I whenever I crave tacos, this is where I go! Just wanna spread the word!!!

    (5)

  • Frank S.

    I must've come in on a bad day. I had high hopes for this place, especially for their famed carnitas but I came away pretty disappointed. I ordered 2 carnitas, 1 al pastor, and 1 carne asada tacos. First, don't let the super low prices fool you. The tacos are pretty big, and I could only eat 3 of them, which is very unusual because I usually don't leave any food uneaten at a Mexican joint. The tacos came wrapped in very dry, unheated corn tortilla which made every bite hard to swallow. But more disappointing were the meats inside, which were also dry. I was expecting juicier carnitas and it was not half as good as Northgate carnitas. It was the same with carne asada, which wasn't very flavorful btw, but their al pastor made a better impression on me. I might give them another shot because of all the rave reviews here, but I'm confused as to why the food was so underwhelming during my first visit.

    (2)

  • Steven U.

    So this is definitely one of my go-to places for mexican food. I love everything about this place....fan-tastic. It is definitely a hole in the wall but, they have great food. I have eaten a lot off of the menu over the years but my 'usual' is the torta milanesa....their version of the chicken fried steak sandwich. It is soooo goood. Nice combination of flavors and textures....crunchy, soft, sweet, spicy, salty, creamy. I also really like the tacos dorados. I usually get them with the carnitas (no brainer) or the chicken. They make the crispy taco shells the 'real' way.....they take tortillas and fry them until they can form them into a hard taco shell. Yes, you are correct probably not the healthiest place ever, but in the spirit of sustainability....save (and use) the lard. There is a reason their refried beans are so tasty! 4.5 stars......all......day......long...... Definitely a highlight on a food tour to the OC!

    (4)

  • David F.

    I always get the Carne asada buritto it's really good and the price is great. It's a bit small but I always get it for pickup. Call it in and take it home to enjoy

    (5)

  • George F.

    Monday special, two tacos (wrapped separately for you so the meat doesn't fall out) beans (cooked with lard,good as I have ever tasted) with more cheese on top than a del taco quesadilla, rice, salsa, chips in a brown paper bag that is completely soaked in fresh grease, those awesome home picketed mex carrots and jalapenos. $4.25 And all of it taste great where in the Hell are you going to get all that at such a price. Go get some!

    (5)

  • Samantha B.

    In love with the costilla taco so flavorful I usually go to el toro when down in the OC but wow I'm so impressed with the food I'll definitely be coming back! Definitely would recommend.

    (5)

  • Lori R.

    Even though Los Reyes is a little hole in the wall, it is deliscious! The best carnitas and chicharon tacos, the tacos are huge and very filling. And the price is so cheap! Love it and will definately be back! Yum!

    (5)

  • Andrea B.

    This place the BEST!!!!!! Chicharron!!!!!! Chicharron!!! If you are in the area stop here ... Or if it is completely out of your way STOP here!!! Lol If you like authentic Mexican food this is the spot! I can feed my family of 4 for about 20 bucks and everyone leaves happy! Oh yea... And by the way... the BEANS!!! That's all I have to say!!! CASH ONLY ..but worth the trip to the ATM!!!

    (5)

  • Alex C.

    first time here and will definitely be back. the carnitas are excellent. tacos are stuffed with meat, I could only handle 2. if you order to go, you have to be aware of what order is being given, they don't have any numbers they just yell out the contents of the order.

    (5)

  • Thomas G.

    Carnitas and chicharon are the staple here. The carne asada was tough and dry. I've found it difficult to find a Mexican restaurant that is good at many different dishes. Los Reyes is no different, amazing tacos de chicharon, my personal favorite in Southern California.

    (4)

  • Fernando D.

    They have some delicious carnitas but i wouldnt call them the kings of carnitas. I have had other carnitas that are better. These guys do move quick, but they only take cash. It is super and i do mean super small in there. People hawk tables like birds of prey. Many people take the food to go home. The tacos are delicious and the asada is good alternative if you dont eat pork.

    (4)

  • Freddy R.

    Cash only. damn good tacos. I am packing a good 5 pounds extra from this place alone. I would give it a 5 if they offered guacamole and improved their chicken tacos. Al Pastor also leaves something to be desired. but it's all about the carrnitas anyways.

    (4)

  • Ray H.

    A great little Taqueria, tacos, burritos and plates. My fav is the Rancho Asada plate. When the girls are fronting they get cheap and give only one set of chips and salsa for the both of us, so bust them if you want your chips!

    (5)

  • Vetta C.

    If I were a pig that knew it was going to be slaughtered and dismembered, I would want to know I was going to end up here. This is hands down the most tasty, authentic Mexican Food I have found. You need to go with at least 2 people if you are going to eat in. One person has to order and one person has to snag a table or fight off the pigeons as it is busy in there! Do not expect fancy ambiance. It is like being in Mexico. This place is for people that want to eat and experience flavor first and foremost. The carnitas goes without saying. It is so good, but I recommend you order the Chiccharone. Very similar , but it has more of the crispy bits of skin. The chorizo is like no where else. It has this clove type unique flavor and that red oil that drips from your taco is so sinfully delicious. I love buche and they do it the best. Chew, flavorful. The prices are so cheap. I think the tacos are around $1.25 including tax. They are the big tacos and not the little ones all the other places serve. You get chips and salsa when you dine in which are greasy with lard and so good. And the salsa is a finer chop salsa with so much flavor and a heat that creeps up on you. The beans are insane. I think they dump lard in the beans making it taste so good. I have not had tastier beans anywhere! The tacos dorodos are good. They are more expensive, but they come with all this salad stuff and I think beans as well. A lot more ingredients than the soft tacos. Its a good way to get a side of beans without paying the price for a side order. Burritos are MEAT laden. They don't use a lot of beans in them. If you are entertaining at home, go here and order carnitas and everything by the pound. They give you everything (tortillas, salsa, onion, cilantro). Get beans and rice and unpack it at home and tell everyone you slaved over a stove making it. It's one of the cheapest catering options that wow your guests that you can do. I can't speak more highly of how tasty the food is here and how inexpensive the huge tacos are.

    (5)

  • Chris P.

    This is the real deal. Great place for tacos. My favorites are the tacos al pastor--haven't found any better. The atmosphere is simple (fast food style booths, murals of Mexico on the walls, and Mexican soaps and soccer on the TV), but at peak hours, there's a line out the door and nowhere to sit inside. Fast, friendly service, great food, and excellent prices.

    (5)

  • Anthony T.

    if you have never been here you are missing out... they have the best chicharrones and carnitas around!!! been coming to this spot since i was a kid!!!

    (5)

  • Paul P.

    I've got six words for ya: The Ultimate Hole-In-The-Wall. Yes, I included "the" as a part of the phrase, I'm living dangerously today. Ok now, whenever I want to satisfy my taco OR burrito cravings, I come to this place. When I come here, I usually will pick up one the following items (all have been excellent!): * Carnitas taco(s) * Carne asada taco(s) * Carne asada wet burrito * Al pastor taco(s) * Horchata * Orange Bang * Menudo ( on weekends ) I love hole-in-the-walls that aren't pretentious, trying to be something they are not, and this place is totally what-you-see-is-what-you-get. My kind of place. What I mean is that usually when I come here (in the evenings or Sunday late morning) this place is packed with people who are winding down from a long, hard day at work; sometimes there's a line down the middle of the place going out to the outside. Though the vast majority of the Patrons here are Spanish-speaking locals, I once saw a surfer dude, two skaters, and a couple of Asians picking up some grub here, so it looks like the locals that live around here also know that this place has got the right stuff. If you want ambiance, just look to the TV up on the corner or the jukebox that's ready for your money so you can crank out some Vicente Fernandez (the king!!!) or Ramon Ayala or Los Tigres....etc., etc., etc...... This place is small, quite spartan, and a bit disheveled at times; but I usually get my food to go. If you love Mexican food and holes-in-the-wall then you've got to try this place. Tip #1: They only take cash here (bummer). Tip #2: Don't confused this place with "El Taco" down the block, they aren't nearly as good as this place. Tip # 3: There's an ARCO station right next to this place, so you CAN kill two birds with one stone. Tip #4: They do catering here; I used them for a party and ordered a ton of tacos for 25 people and they did an excellent job! Tip #5: Their menudo tends to run out quickly so the earlier you come and pick it up the better. It totally varies too. One time I came here at 10:48 am and they were already out! Another weekend I came by at 11:41 am and I got the bottom of the barrel, go figure. I would suggest the optimal time be before 10:00 am.

    (4)

  • Yuna C.

    This little hole in the wall is a great place to go for tacos! We came in, ordered, found a place to sit and got our drinks and chips and salsa in a matter or 10-15 minutes! Based on the the fact that this is not a fancy shamncy restaurant- they have attentive staff and although it looks and sounds chaotic, they have a system that works. They also give you refills on chips and salsa and the carrots and jalepenos! We tried the following tacos: Carne Asada Chicharones Carnitas BBQ pork All good and tasty! Gotta try it at least once! I would definitely recommend the chicharones.. It has a great crunch and it is a very unique flavor. So good!!

    (4)

  • N G.

    One day I had a craving for tortas and my older sis recommended this place. We are very picky eaters when it comes to Mexican food, it never amounts to the food you get at home, so when my sis said I had to go there I sprinted! Lol I tried their torta with carnitas & Jamaica to drink, my husband got the same thing. OMG! It was flippin' delish! It was tasty, it wasn't dry at all. I do recommend it, my husband has had their tacos,sopes, taquitos and other stuff on the menu & he loved everyone. If you go take cash, as it's cash only. Be prepared to take it to go cuz they have very limited seating. The counter to order is really weird off to the side, it's very inconvenient, so if you're claustrophobic have someone order for you. Other than that food is great!

    (5)

  • Stephen L.

    Carnitas Los Reyes is pretty legit. I personally prefer the carne asada over the carnitas, which is inconsistently prepared. 'Cash only' can be annoying, but that's more my problem than their's. If they had avocado or guacamole I would give them another star.

    (3)

  • Cynthia M.

    Some of the best tacos in O.C. And their prices are fair. I recommend this place if your in the area.

    (5)

  • Henry V.

    This place is the real deal for Carnitas. Very authentic, do not let the whole in the wall feel fool ya! I will be back for some carnitas some time soon!!! I found it strictly on Yelp ratings, so thank you!!!

    (5)

  • Marco H.

    I have been waiting to try this place out for a LONG time. I've cycled by it a number of times and the smell of meat being prepared instantly awakens my hunger for carnitas. However, I finally gave it a taste a couple of days ago and I was not disappointed. WARNING: If are trying out this place make sure that you aren't starving (as you will have to wait) and that you bring cash. This place doesn't take cards but they have an ATM inside. Also, if you are picky about the cleanliness and health options then this place isn't for you. If you are looking for some finger lickin', greasy and heavy food, then most-definitely give this place a try. The prices are pretty considering that I got a torta de jamon, 2 carnitas tacos and a chicken sope for $10 - wow!!! I'm definitely bringing my folks here as I know they will love it. I would love to give it five stars but the serving times were long and the service wasn't the most friendly. Which, for me, are factors on deciding whether to give four versus five stars. This doesn't detract from the quality of the food though. I will keep coming back though as it a walk from my place and it is sooo worth the wait. Good eats!!!

    (4)

  • Lisa M.

    I love this place and I've been missing it since I moved away from Orange County.. The carnitas tacos are so good, but my favorite thing is actually their beans, which are extra lard-filled and extra delicious.

    (5)

  • Mr B.

    Finally ate here the other day after hearing how good the tacos are. I think this made my top 5 taqueria list for Southern California. Good prices. Lots if meat in tacos. They are a bit drier than I would like but a spoon full of salsa they bring to your table fixes that. I really liked the carnitas and barbacoa tacos. Pickled carrots, salsa and chips were good too.

    (5)

  • Noah T.

    Great hole in the wall. I've been coming here for 20+ years and the place is still going strong. Tacos are regular size so don't be a gordo and order like you're ordering street tacos. All the meats are great, especially the carnitas. The beans are hardcore lard beans but damn they are delicious. The place is small and always busy so seating is cramped. If you end up getting a table you'll get rewarded with some chips and salsa.

    (5)

  • Travis W.

    If that cutting board and meat cleaver could talk oh the stories it would tell. I swear its the same ones as when I was a kid and used to come here. And that is why Los Reyes has been around for so long. Killer food from a heck of a hole in the wall. When I was a kid would get a taco and go next door to the laundry-mat to play Mortal Kombat. Man that brings back memories. I'd be Sub Zero and finish my opponent and then finish that delicious taco and repeat the process. You want some of the best re-fried beans? Los Reyes is where to go if your answer was yes, add a little salsa and dip some chips in and enjoy. I recommend using the salsa here to help get that tortilla a little moister as a warning they can sometimes get dry. Man!!! An ice cold brew sure would be ideal. Sneak one in from the Arco next door!! CHEERS!!!

    (4)

  • Thomas T.

    Dank.. Love their chorizo breakfast burritos! Only problem is they only take cash, but the speed and quality make up for it..

    (5)

  • Michelle L.

    I do not like Carnitas. I love Mexican food but I do not like Carnitas. My boyfriend went here a few times on his lunch hour and he told me that I just might like the Carnitas here because apparently it is their specialty. Well I guess that makes sense since "carnitas" is in their name. They are a really small restaurant so it might be easier if you go in a pair. One to order your food, and the other to hover and nab tables when they become available. We ordered one Carne Asada Burrito, one Carnitas Burrito, and one Carne Asada Taco. I really loved that chips came with our meal. The chips came with some spicy carrots and peppers along with some tasty salsa. I only wish that the salsa was a little more thick because this one was really watery. Super flavorful but watery for some reason. I also thought that the carrots could have been a bit spicier but I don't usually eat that so it didn't bother me. Now, coming from a person that never orders Carnitas, I throughly enjoyed my burrito. It was super flavorful and delicious. I will go as far to say that I enjoyed it more than my Carne Asada Burrito. The Carne Asada was delicious though. It was just way too greasy for me. My burrito was dripping grease which is a big no no. I liked the carne asada a lot more in taco form. It was super yummy in the tacos. Of course no Mexican meal is complete without horchata according to my boyfriend and their horchata is full of flavor and tasty. I wouldn't come here by myself because it's a little ghetto for me but if you're in the area and love carnitas, this place is a must try. Cheap and delicious. 4/5

    (4)

  • Nancy M.

    Love Los Reyes, the carnitas tacos are my fav (husband too). It's like a little bit of Mexico in OC. A true hole in the wall with the best most authentic food. If you get there during lunch, there could be a line out the door.

    (5)

  • Dave L.

    I used to come to Carnitas Los Reyes a lot. It is a no frills hole in the wall authentic Mexican food place that serves us some delicious and abundant food. I usually get the carnitas - after all, it's part of the name so it must be the specialty of the house. The carnitas are moist and flavorful. Not super spicy but a lot of flavor here. They serve them with a bit of salsa, onions, and cilantro. My wife really likes the carne asada. In addition, they have chicken, barbacoa, lengua, chicharones, al pastor, and one or two other meats. Plates with rice, beans, and escabeche will run you about $7.00. My only problem with Carnitas Los Reyes is that it gives me some fierce heartburn. I really can't eat it too much any more, but I do enjoy it when I am willing to face the consequences. Recommended if you are in the area and need a solid Mexican meal for cheap.

    (4)

  • Kathy C.

    Chicharrones Tacos. That's all you need to know. I don't think it's listed on the menu as a taco offering but they serve it all day, everyday. And yes, the place's name boasts their carnitas as prime, but honestly, once you go chicharrones tacos you can never go back!

    (5)

  • jonathan s.

    3.5 chorizo tacos were possibly the messiest, tastiest, that i have had. there was some type of almost smokey flavor in there that i had never had. pastor, carnitas, and asada were all kind of dry/sad which was surprising. torta was big but needed some type of sauce or salsa.

    (4)

  • Caitlin C.

    This place is off-the-wall awesome. Carnitas make my mouth water. Eat in-house and you get chips, salsa, and pickled carrots. So much good food, so so cheap (we were starving and ordered a ton of food plus horchatas and the total was $12 for two people. crazy!). Warning: cash only!

    (5)

  • Jessica L.

    Tacos are bomb. Beans will give you a heart attack but they are so delicious. My husband always gets asada tacos meat and cheese only (special order ) tacos are 1.25 for most of them. They do have green hot sauce but not advertised. I have been coming here for years. I love the tacos de chirraron.

    (5)

  • Tasha R.

    Fast service. Carne asada tacos .25 more. Lots of fat. Good green sauce but they need more on the taco. Bonus they give you chips and salsa. Salsa is kind if watery without taste but spicy. Ok but wouldn't go back.

    (3)

  • Annjanett N.

    Everything in the menu is good

    (4)

  • Leandro D.

    This place has the best tacos and burritos in town!! I have been coming here for 20 years and their tacos and burritos have never changed. It is a really small place the waitresses are always nice. Make sure you ask for the GREEN salsa, they don't give it to you so you have to ask for it, its super good. The price of the food is not bad either, 20 years ago one taco was $1 now its still just $1.25 Burritos are only $5. Don't be afraid of this hole in the wall place, even if you don't speak spanish just say "UNO BURRITO POR FAVOR" haha jk they will understand you .

    (5)

  • Sharri U.

    It doesn't get much better than this for authentic Mexican food! The sopes are 2nd to none! The salsa and marinated carrots are also great. This place is so "wallet-friendly" as the Register stated (article about them on their wall) and super good. Not much seating inside (you probably want to take the food home anyway, as there are "frequent flies" swarming around the tables). Other than that small annoyance, this is just the best place...oh, I forgot to mention the outstanding carnitas and barbacoa tacos.

    (5)

  • Valaree R.

    There are only s couple of authentic Mexican places in orange and los Reyes is definitely one of them. Its a very small place but the food there is the bomb!!! I loovvveee the wet burrito with red sauce.... And not to mention prices are very affordable

    (5)

  • Justin P.

    Delicious authentic Mexican food and the prices are amazing. Other then the fact the restaurant s seating is limited I have no complaints five stars and recommendations absolutely

    (5)

  • Eloise O.

    Aside from the things that I NEVER eat, (um Buche? don't think so) their food is the best. This is my favorite place to get a torta or tacos without having to bother anyone in my family to cook for me. The lengua is juicy (yes, yes I did just call a tounge "juicy".) The Carnitas are also moist and have a wonderful meat flavor... most places overcook carnitas to the point where it's jerky not meaty. Their bread, rice and beans accompany your meat selection nicely. They aslo serve really good carne asada.

    (5)

  • Daniel K.

    My favorite place for Mexican food in Orange County. If I extra time for lunch to make the drive out from Newport, then I come here. The tacos are great, the carne asada burritos are awesome. Prices are great too. You can not go wrong here

    (5)

  • Frida C.

    Ugh! I expected more out of Carnitas Los Reyes. All of these positives and I was not convinced. My taco de chicharon was "A-IGHT", nothing special...but my torta de al pastor was absolutely DISGUSTING! It was dry and overloaded. Some people may appreciate an overflowing torta, but not ME! I will not be a returning customer. The only item I enjoyed was my agua de jamaica.

    (2)

  • Stephen P.

    This place is legit. The tacos are well priced, off the hook, and gluten free. Get a side of beans: I'm guessing they're cooked in lard and laced with pure crack because they're unlike anything you've tasted (unless you grew up in that kind of household, which I have not). The vibe isn't much different from a Spanish speaking McDonald's, so I wouldn't take a date there, but get it to go and you're royally set.

    (5)

  • Chico P.

    Watch youtube video of Canitas Los Reyes by Jack n Rick youtu.be/-ajPE-JOHH8

    (5)

  • Katie W.

    Fresh tasting and cheap! Very close to my work and a great place for lunch. A lot of different meat selections; my favorites are barbacoa and carnitas. So yummy! I usually take it to go because it's a VERY small place and a little stuffy. But don't let that deter you! CASH ONLY. And come hungry

    (5)

  • Christopher B.

    I absolutely love this place. In reading the reviews, I am surprised no one has mentioned their Chile Verde! #1 on my list, in my search for great Chile Verde. It's a bit spicy, and strong on my howlee stomach, but my mouth cannot refuse. The Bistek Ranchero is my other favorite...there is still a lot on the menu I have to try since I rotate frequently between those two. Tacos are good. ...and the place is economical.

    (5)

  • Jim V.

    Cheap AND good! What more do you want in a Mom & pop restaurant?! The salsa was some of the tastiest I've ever had. Take note: CASH ONLY

    (4)

  • Karla C.

    My favorite tacos in OC. I love the costilIas tacos. Their wet burritos are also big and good. I like their carnitas. Prices are very affordable. Small place but very busy. Fast service though and friendly workers.

    (4)

  • Sarah S.

    Small "restaurant", good luck finding a seat during any major meal times - or a parking spot for that matter, very small (read: cramped!) strip of parking spots for lots of businesses. Also, it's kind of hidden in the corner... passed by it the first time and had to drive around a bit to find it. Came here for lunch, VERY busy. GREAT prices, for less than $5 you can definitely get a good-sized meal (four pretty large street tacos). Ate two-and-a-half and was stuffed. Usually not a huge fan of carnitas but this time, the carnitas blew the chicken and barbacoa out of the water. I suppose that's why they're known for their carnitas. Will return!

    (4)

  • Sean S.

    This is one of the best taquerias I have been to and has been consistently good for many years. The tacos are always filled with lots of steak (or your protein of choice), and are very inexpensive. Chips and salsa are included with every order. It's a small hole in the wall, but very authentic and serves great food.

    (4)

  • Ruben A.

    Food is great, tacos are amazing, beans with cheese are delicious, chips are a great addition to your food, but if you go for great service and ambiance then you won't like it. The cashier has an attitude like as if she has to make all the food herself. It's really small and kind of uncomfortable to eat there so I always take it to go. You could order ahead of time which I recommend.

    (4)

  • Everett J.

    I have been a loyal customer at Carnitas Los Reyes for over 5 years. Great Asada and Carnita Tacos. Tortas are good. Burritos are great. the only things that I do not like are the chips (too much salt), chicken (too wet, sometimes it makes the tortilla soggy), and mexican drinks (too much sugar). They should make those drinks by scratch. As long as they buy their meat not frozen, Carnitas Los Reyes will be around forever. P/s; You guys need more seats. :) Oh, and I wish you guys where open late on fridays, saturdays and sundays. Make more money!!! Make more customers happy. Its a win win.

    (4)

  • Camm C.

    serious shit..the Fxckkn most disgusting food served. they only use the nasty cheap trimmings of every meat possible. a disgrace to all mexican food. they even lied about all there menu prices, they showed $3.50 for a burrito online, inside showed $4 burritos, and I got charges $4.50 for the burrito. when I confronted them about it, they said "do you want the burritos or not." FXCKK THIS NASTY ASS RESTUTAUNT!!

    (1)

  • Patrick C.

    I have been going there for years and have never been disapointed. The food is excellent. If you are looking for taco bell style mexican food, this is not the place. It is true mexican food with lots of flavor. Well priced for the portions. Try the El Pastor Burrito, you will love it! Usually crowded, no air conditioning, but well worth the stop.

    (5)

  • Danielle J.

    Why have I not tried this place sooner?!?! I've always heard this is THE spot for carnitas so I tried the place for lunch Friday. A sign prompts you that it is "cash only." As soon as I walked in, I felt transported to my fave taco stand in TJ. It was hot inside, the decor was Mexican art, and the place was bustling. I got the carnitas tacos and tacos al pastor to go. Oh. My. Gosh! They were the best tacos I've had north of the border. They were tender on the inside with a little crunch on the outside. I was most impressed with the size of the taco and amount of meat given. They also give you complimentary chips & salsa and offer you pickled carrots and jalapenos. The ambience? Definite strip mall. Nothing special on the inside, just the bare bones tables/booths. Dine in for authenticity, take out for a romantic date night/picnic. I'm going back and trying more items off the menu asap. Judging by the looks of the food going out to the seated patrons, you can't go wrong with anything off the menu!

    (5)

  • Lynn N.

    HANDS DOWN BEST CARNITAS... My husband and I tried the following: Carnitas ~ Delicioso! The best we've tried & believe me we've tried carnitas from a lot of places here in so cal! Carne Asada ~ OK... Nothing to write home about Chicken Taco ~ Eh... Alright... Chorizo Taco ~ Yum! Gotta say though, they are mighty shady on the salsa and chips... They charge 25cents for a tiny little cup - equates to about 1/4 cup if you are really measuring. And an extra bag of chips are a dollar! We go back for the carnitas only now & just get a side of cilantro & onion + salsa of course.

    (4)

  • catarino d.

    Good little taco shop! Must try their Costilla tacos de puerco adobada!!! Fast service! It's a CASH ONLY place, they do have an ATM but I'm sure there is a large fee to use. Seating is limited so if you expect to be seated immediately at lunch time, you're wrong be patient.

    (5)

  • Andrew B.

    This place is very affordable and does have some great options but can be a bit inconsistent across the menu. I've been here a few times and the tacos always are a good buy. I prefer the carnitas to any of the other meats I've tried here. Their burritos are also pretty good. However, I'm a huge quesadilla fan and their quesadillas definitely leave me wanting. They're really greasy, have not crisp to the tortilla and use orange cheese, not white. Not really what I'm looking for. However, stick with tacos and burritos and you'll be good. Very cheap and delicious. Cheers!

    (3)

  • Bryce C.

    Hands down my favorite Mexican place in Orange County. There's a reason this place has been open for 20+ years. Their menu is easy to understand and even has English translations for the gueros. Everything from Sopes to Menudo, this place knocks it out of the park! It can get crowded, especially around dinner time. But don't sweat it, they're pretty quick. Cash only, so don't forget to hit the ATM before you get there. While they do have an ATM, the service fee will gouge you.

    (5)

  • Susan S.

    My family loves Los Reyes! We usually call our order in for take out. Our usual order consists of chicken, carnitas or carne asada tacos and a side of rice. Always extra jalpenos and carrots. They have really good salsa and chips free with every order. The only down side to Carnitas Los Reyes is my husband and I argue whose going to go in and get the order. The order line is also the pick up line. It's kind of a mess. It really makes us not eat there sometimes because it takes so long to get up to the register. They should really have a pick up area and I do believe I've mentioned it to them before. Also I'm short and sometimes they cant see me at the counter so I have to get on my tip toes to make sure I don't get ignored. Great food but there is real disorder in the order and pick up process. Please fix it!

    (4)

  • Paige S.

    SOOOOOOO good!!!!!! The cutting board and the meat cleaver are two of the things I remember most in my childhood. I would be just in awe watching how everyone worked in that kitchen so quickly. If I had to choose one place to get a regular Carnita burrito, THIS is the place.... As a picky food eater myself, I have tried multiple places that serves mexican foods. The staff is wonderful and everything about this place is wonderful. I will sincerely be crying my eyes out if this places shut down..... please Los Reyes stay alive forever :)

    (5)

  • Meh R.

    I ordered 4 tacos, it came with chips and two bowls, all for 5$! And it tastes good. The place is kinda dirty which is a part of its character IMO.

    (5)

  • Sergio G.

    If you are looking for the best Mexican Tacos & Burritos, this is the place!! Reasonable prices,clean, some times finding a parking space could be challenging, however is well worth it. Don't listen to the person that said you have to speak fluent Spanish, the people that take your order are bilingual , you'll find multicultural customers. I believe that the reason they been in business for such a long time is for the consistency of the quality in their food.

    (5)

  • Sam S.

    I definitely went through a phase with my friend, where we had to go to Los Reyes once a week to get the smashing deal of a $4.00 burrito. It might take you a while to choose from the many options available at Los Reyes, but rest assured that any selection will be fantastic. My personal preference is the chile verde and the carnitas, both of which are tantalizing. With the purchase of anything at Los Reyes, you get chips and salsa and a cup of the spicy pickled carrots. Such a great deal with many perks including the fantastic food. The environment inside the restaurant is great. You can watch the food being made and put out to hungry customers. Probably the only drawback is the fact that sometimes you can't immediately find a seat. Although you may have to stand and wait a bit after ordering your food, the wait will only make your food that much more enjoyable. I will continue to eat at Los Reyes and recommend it to as many friends as possible.

    (5)

  • Rayann C.

    Holy Carnitas, Batman. This joint is hands down one of my new fave mexi-joints. The place is tiny but clean. I have only gone in the evening so I've never experienced the summer day sweaty adventures others have raved about so I'll stick to the PM taco cravings. WHAT WE LIKE! - Hubby digs the al pastor tacos and free chips/salsa. He has mentioned the Al Pastor Torta as being his favorite so far. He is very particular about his bread to meat ratio and he felt this was fair as well as very tasty. - Now, I am the Carnitas snob. I have loved Carnitas since I was a small bean and I still can't get enough. I really, and I mean really, loved the Carnitas torta. Flavorful, not dry, & good bang for your buck. The tacos are tricky little suckers, looking all tiny wrapped up and then BAM!. Not so tiny...fooled you. So amazing. Peeps are always friendly, service is quick, and food is good. A+ in my book!

    (5)

  • Jose A.

    Let me start out with the negative. This is a cash only place and the dinning room is tiny. Now the positives. The food is great. You can't go wrong with their signature carnitas. Everything else on the menu is just as tasty. The tacos are built generously and very tasty. The refried beans are top notch. If you bring cash, you won't be disappointed. Provecho.

    (4)

  • Rebecca G.

    Love this place for their chicken taco's! Two for $2.50 plus chips and salsa is the perfect Poor Woman's Dinner. I would give them 5 of 5 stars if they either accepted ATM or credit cards, alas, it's cash only. Still great bang for the buck, though.

    (4)

  • Niño M.

    pros: - rice and beans - chips and salsa - tacos - prices cons: - meat is a little too oily for my preference. - parking is usually 90% occupied. recommendation: - personally i'd just hit up Taqueria De Anda on 4th. better food there...

    (4)

  • Annissa H.

    i been coming here since i can remember. since i was a little girl this taco joint has been a family routine sincw forever. at least 3x a month im here getting some of their delicious tacos, tortas, or burritos. this place is small and its cash only but the owner has been here forever. same spot. and with the buisness they get i know their not going anywhere. but everything is so perfectly priced. you can get 3 tacos and a drink for about 5 bucks. they have amazing chips and salsa too!! but please take my word for it and try this place. you wont regret it!!

    (5)

  • Asant M.

    First time I came here I was not impressed at all the food was lacking flavor the salsas are not spicy at all I gave them another chance a couple of days ago and still the food was lacking flavor I don't know something is missing I will not come back. Don't believe the hype.

    (2)

  • Margarita G.

    I have been coming to this place for 11 years, and it's never disappointed me. I rarely enjoy Mexican food places because I am Mexican and have grown up with my family's food. If you are looking for an authentic Mexican restaurant, then this is your place. I have never had a problem with an order or bad customer service. They certainly have a devoted clientele (as I am living proof), and it is for a reason. The prices are unbelieveable (my boyfriend and I go all the time and for 2 burritos with chips and salsa and a large drink it comes out to $10!), and if you eat there it's even more of a steal. You get endless chips and salsa (although you do have to pay for refills). I'm sorry Tony G. had a bad experience, but I've never had an encounter with "gang bangers" in the parking lot "hanging out in the shadows". But the greasiness can be attributed to their beans, because let me tell you, they sure are greasy... and I love it!

    (5)

  • L L.

    The food -7 stars! The salsa -5.5 stars The price- 4.5 stars The place -3 stars Overall 5 stars One of my all time faves! The best taco joint ever, at least to me ;). TTFN!

    (5)

  • Cesar O.

    You cannot get any more authentic Mexican food than this place. I was fortunate enough to have stumbled upon this place as I was filling my gas tank at the ARCO station next door. It was going to be between Chipotle and this place and I'm soo glad I picked this place! Luckily I had cash at hand(which never happens BTW) this is mainly why I gave this place a 4 star rating, that and customer service. I'm Mexican and as soon as I walked in I was immediately hit with very familiar smells and my appetite grew! I tried their amazing tacos de costilla and their chicharron taco, omg my life will never be the same! Please try them, you won't be sorry! BTW all of their meat is seasoned well! Also even if you're super hungry these tacos are a good size, I thought they would be the small tortillas but it ended up being the regular ones so keep that in mind. I ordered 4 tacos but I barely even finished them. All in all I ordered 4 tacos: 2 costilla, 1 chicharron, 1 al pastor, and I spend around $5 bucks!! TALK ABOUT CHEAP! AND THEY AREN'T STINGY WITH THE MEAT! Most places slam a bunch of onions salsa and cilantro with a teeny tiny mound of meat but not this place. Next time I'll try their wet burrito! Enjoy!

    (4)

  • Chau P.

    Decent tacos and my favorite would be carnitas and carne asada. I have been here a couple of times and a definite repeat customer.

    (4)

  • Jannira L.

    I love this place! Tacos here are always the bomb. I think the taco's are pretty good for their size, other places have smaller tortillas and everything. It can get packed though and sometimes you have to wait for a seat. The place is small but I think it's worth the good meals!

    (5)

  • J T.

    Quick, delicious, cheap and my favorite kind of Mexican food....looks like used greased was used and tastes amazing!

    (4)

  • Bill S.

    This is the real deal in Mexican food! They even use lard in the frijoles! My favorite meal is the carnitas plate with rice and beans. My only caution is don't eat here before your cholesterol labs. In a word ... Delicioso!

    (5)

  • Ryan D.

    It truly pains me to lower my rating with Carnitas Los Reyes because I love their food. It still is the best Mexican I have found in my area...but it would be remiss of me to not inform Yelpers of my most recent experience. You know the phrase, "The customer is always right," yes? Well, that is not their motto...even when the customer has the numbers to back it up. As you may have guessed, they screwed me on an order by overcharging me. Everyone makes mistakes, right? Well, apparently not the staff working on this final Sunday of 2012. I called in an order of 18 tacos and two large sides of rice and beans. I could hardly imagine the total coming to more than 40 bucks, but I brought 60 anyways just in case (cash only). Upon pick-up, my total came to 41 and change. At first I thought, "huh, good thing I brought sixty." However, while waiting my mind's calculator started ticking away and the total did not add up. 18 tacos at $1.10 and two large orders of rice and beans at $4.50 a piece. That adds up to $28.80. Even with tax, that is no where near over $41. When I received my food, I mentioned it to the women and she looked a little confused, then said, "No, tacos are $1.25 with tax." Feeling rushed, I reluctantly acknowledged her explanation and took my food out to the car. I thought to myself, "an additional 15 cents per taco does not make up for the $10 discrepancy I calculated....so I decided to go back in and inquire once more. Once I described my concerns about being overcharged, they looked at the receipt and said the rice and beans are separate at $4.50 for rice, $4.50 for beans and since I had two orders of each, it was $18. I expressed to her that it says on the menu "Rice and Beans - Small $1.75 Large $4.50." She disagreed and one of the other workers handed me a menu. I then pointed out on their menu that it said "Rice AND Beans" not "Rice OR Beans." She disagreed further. I then asked, "So you are telling me I spent $20 on 18 tacos and another $20 on rice and beans? She and the rest of the staff started to ignore me. I asked if I could talk to a manager or have someone come out here so I could further clarify and explain. They continue to ignore me. I then became frustrated that they chose not to acknowledge me further and I told them to keep the $10 bucks and left. I was fuming. It wasn't so much the $10, it was how they treated a customer who felt cheated. Like I said, people do make mistakes, but they should own up to them...or at the very least, show concern. I wish I hadn't taken the food to the car because I would have just returned the $20 in rice and beans right there. Lesson to be learned...make sure you know what you're paying for, otherwise you may get the gringo 30% mark-up.

    (2)

  • E. Scott D.

    Authentic and inexpensive. I usually stick with steak. The two times I ordered pork, it was a bit dry. Otherwise, the burritos and tacos are excellent. It's turning into a monthly habit for me.

    (4)

  • Isaac R.

    A family member directed me to this place. I had the carne asada, al pastor, and carnitas taco. Yes I was being a fatty! My brothers had the wet burrito de asada and carnitas. I wasn't super impressed with their tacos because you have to be really estupeed to mess up a taco. The wet burrito though was on point with the sauce they used. Pretty damn tasty if you ask me. I would give this place 5 stars but I'll give it 4 stars because it's small and not meant to handle a big group. Just group of four and well when you are Mexican, you know we roll, there's like eight of us in the back seat and like six of us in the front seat. Overall tasty tacos and tasty burritos mi amigos..

    (4)

  • Carrie R.

    We mainly go for the al pastor! Muy Bueno!! And our favorite thing to do is order it by the pound then take it home to eat. This place is really tiny ... maybe only about 10 tables. But their food is super yummy! We have had their carnitas, which is good, but the al pastor is so much better! Also, I really like chile verde ... they have a yummy chile verde burrito there! They are kinda funny with their little bags of tortilla chips though! ... Not sure why! You could go in with a group of friends and each of you individually order a burrito or whatever, to go. They will give each of you a little bag of chips to go with your order. But if you order 6 burritos on one order, they will still only give you 1 bag of chips ... and if you ask for extra bags, they will charge you a quarter. ... and you can tell the girl does not like to be asked for more chips ... you will get a little bit of attitude. But if you expect that going in, it won't catch you by surprise. Finally, they have the yummiest beans ... we call them 'Bad Beans'! God only know what's in them to make them so yummy .. but you know they are not good for you when there is a small puddle of grease or fat at the top ... then they throw on a handful of cheese ... it's definitely an artery clogger, so you probably shouldn't have the beans too often ... but you need to just at least try them once!

    (4)

  • Anthony K.

    Love this place. Been coming to it for a long time. I always had the carne asada burritto until I tried the chicharron tacos. Now it's mostly what I order, but every now & then I'll buy some chorizo tacos. You will like it. I recommend the chicharron tacos!!!

    (4)

  • David T.

    Not a big fan of carnitas until now. I've always preferred carne asada and al pastor tacos but ever since I tried the carnitas at Los Reyes I've been a big fan. Carnitas at other places I've had are dry and bland. The carnitas here are juicy and perfectly seasoned. I've had the carne asada, al pastor, and chicken tacos too and they are good but the carnitas are off the hook. You won't be disappointed at $1.15 for really big and delicious tacos

    (4)

  • Lyana G.

    I've been going here for years, hands down a great place to have authentic mexican food... and for cheap... they put so much meat into anything you order! Only thing is that sometimes its super busy, but you can call in your order!

    (5)

  • Nick O.

    If you think Chipotle is Mexican food, please don't eat here, you'll bring their average down. On the other hand, if you like cheap, greasy, oily, unhealthy Mexican food you should love this place. I love the chorizo tacos that drip red oil through their wrappers and then through the bag they are packed in. Good carne asada, carnitas, chicharron if you really want to kill yourself. Killer milanesa torta. I also really love the chile verde wet burritos, and the costillas are a nice treat I don't really see anywhere else. Probably my favorite place for optimizing price to satisfaction.

    (5)

  • Jessica F.

    For many years, my experiences with Mexican food basically consisted of runs to Taco Bell, Del Taco, and the occasional run to Alerto's. But thanks to my friend Jason W., we visited Carnitas Los Reyes. I ordered a carnitas taco and carne asada taco at $1.15 per taco. These tacos were awesome! The tacos are wrapped with two corn tortillas, which I prefer over flour tortillas. They pile on a lot of meat with cilantro and onion which I also like very much. The carnitas was my favorite; the meat was juicy and very flavorful, with just the right amount of fat. The carne asada was good too, but I thought the meat was a bit too dry. You're also served with chips and salsa, along with a side of jalapenos and carrots. The place isn't too big; I could see it getting packed really fast. Parking can be limited too. But I'll definitely be coming back for more carnitas tacos :)

    (5)

  • Kevin T.

    Best al pastor taco in period! Ive gone to over 50 mexican food spots in socal and this is one of my top favorites. The carnitas is very flavorful and tender and the chorizo taco bursts with flavor. Highly recommend tacos dorados with al pastor.

    (5)

  • luke h.

    Great carnitas, fast service, and cheap. Also didn't get charged the 30% gringo tax that the reviewer below is complaining about. Maybe it was actually a douchebag tax.

    (5)

  • Irem H.

    Nothing was good about the place except for the prices.

    (1)

  • OC F.

    Very good Chorizo & Al Pastor Tacos. This is a DIVE....little dirty. Good food overall. Order food TO GO...

    (3)

  • Ricky F.

    This little taco shop seems to always have big business! If you eat in, they will give you free chips/salsa, as well as peppers and carrots! This past time I went I got a carnitas taco, a carne asada taco, and a lengua taco! The carnitas was the better of the three, however, all of them were a bit dry! The lengua was almost like shredded beef, which doesn't sit well with me! With all of the taco shops around, I could eat at a different one each day. Carnitas Los Reyes is good, but not good enough for me to not try a new one.

    (3)

  • Tam L.

    This is hands own my favorite taco shop in OC. Taco average $1.15ea and their bean are excellent. You can feed 2 people for $10. This place is the true definition of cheat eats so I try to come once a week if I can. Its tucked in a small plaza next to gas station & it's cash only.

    (5)

  • Eric L.

    This is the one of the best hole-in-the-wall Mexican place around. By no means am I Mexican (and therefore not the authenticity police) so I won't say. The food is cheap, greasy, and delicious. It was crowded even at 8:00 on a Sunday night. If that says anything about it...

    (4)

  • Andrew Y.

    Best taco ever.

    (5)

  • Erich W.

    I had driven by this place many times since I moved to Orange, and after reading some positive Yelp reviews, I decided to give this them a try. I am a huge fan of hole-in-the-wall authentic Mexican joints, where I am the only Gringo in sight...this place was my cup of tea. Colorful murals adorn every wall of this place, and a small television in the corner has a soccer game going 24/7. The atmosphere is humble and cozy, and the menu is very large and visible right when you walk in. I ordered 1 taco de cabeza & 3 tacos de Carnitas, since that is their claim to fame here. The carnitas was very flavorful and not too dry, but did not blow my mind. As I sat and ate my food, a waitress brought me a basket of chips and homemade salsa, which was delicious. Overall, the service is quick and prices are very modest. This is my new lunch spot when I want some good tacos. They lose a star because they do not carry Tripas.

    (4)

  • Marie N.

    ME GUSTA MUCHO. This is the best place for authentic Mexican food in Orange! My life changed when a good friend of mine introduced me to this amazing taqueria. Yes, the restaurant is teeny tiny, but so are the prices! I always get the carnitas burrito with a side of half rice and half beans and of course, the chips and salsa. Their refried beans are the best! The only thing that kinda sucks is that the restaurant is so tiny there's almost never a seat to enjoy your food, but I live less than 5 minutes away, so I can always enjoy it at home. I highly recommend eating here if you want a taste of Mexico!

    (5)

  • Matthew C.

    Great little dive. The pork in salsa verde is terrific although the pork is a bit dry. Same for the carnitas. The tongue was excellent.

    (4)

  • David R.

    Best taco place!! I don't recommend going towards closing time seems like they give you whatever they didn't sell. But overall very good tacos.

    (5)

  • Tanya S.

    This place is hardcore!! If you want lard filled beans, then visit Los Reyes! The chile verde burritos are delicious and I dont think I've ever ordered anything else. The size of this restaurant is small and seating can be difficult. It's frequented by many local hispanic families in the neighborhood and prices are very affordable. If you are looking for a date spot or family fun night, go somewhere else.

    (4)

  • Ryan P.

    Not to rain on everybody's parade, but...I gave CLR two chances and in my opinion this place was blah. I ordered a torta both times...first chorizo then al pastor. The chorizo was interesting and had A LOT of flavor but I didn't care for its nutmeg-like taste. The al pastor was lousy. It was dry, burnt, and semi-flavorless. The torta was put together rather haphazardly and other than meat didn't have much other toppings. I hear their tacos are great but who cares when there's a million other taco joints in the area! Conclusion: this place is cheap, I like how they give you chips and salsa to go, but ultimately doesn't live up to the hype.

    (2)

  • TT T.

    Pros: Price Tacos Carnitas Specials Easy to find Legit Cons: Parking Really Small Restaurant No where to sit at peak hours Cash Only Cramped and uncomfortable

    (4)

  • Joe A.

    Good food for a Good price, I have to say just my 10th time here and the same outcome, food is good here....however I had about everything on the menu and certain places cook diffrent and you might also have a different taste in food my opinion that the meat can use more moisture also just a little more flavor.

    (3)

  • Steve L.

    Carne Asada tacos and sopes are fantastic. Free chips and salsa (comes with red salsa but they will also bring you a saucer of green salsa if you ask). The food is five stars as are the very low prices. The only reason I gave it 4 stars overall instead of 5 is the lack of seating. Because the food is so darn good and the prices so affordable, the place is packed especially on the weekend. We often have to stand for quite a while before a table opens up. The weekdays are fine for avaialble tables. I think there are about 10 tables. My son loves the tortas - everything is delicious.

    (4)

  • Bum R.

    This is one of my favorite hole-in-the-wall places for relatively cheap food. After tax, the tacos are $1.24 each. They're not dollar tacos anymore, but for the price, that's still a pretty dang good price. The tacos are stuffed with meat, just the way I like it. It could have just been a bad day for them, but the Al Pastor taco I ordered was not even close to as flavorful as ones I had in the past. I'll have to try another one to know if it was a fluke or not. The Chorizo taco was greasy goodness. Carne Asada is always a safe bet. Pollo wasn't bad but it's not something I will order often here. I didn't order a Carnitas taco because in terms of pork, the Al Pastor was tastier when I recall past visits. They've also got other options I haven't got around to trying yet. While I hear the beans are good, the cashier told me that if meat is what I care about, tacos are the best investment. You do NOT have to speak Spanish to get by here. It is, however, authentic in the sense that tables, when they're actually available, are pretty dirty. The oily chips, salsa, and those pickled vegetables were complimentary; no refills, though, just like their drinks. Furthermore, the complimentary items are one per table or to-go order, so it's not a lot of food. Good bang for the buck, but no refills on salsa and drinks, and usually no tables available prevent this place from being perfect for me.

    (4)

  • Rebecca C.

    So, what do you eat when you love comida mexicana, but are a few burritos mojados away from a Lap Band? Why tacos, of course! This is the place to go for carnitas, al pastor, asada, and chorizo taco yumminess. The meats here are cooked with some love. I adore walking in and seeing their steam table full of num nums and watching my tacos being assembled. The salsas are good and pickled veggies they include with my order are a special treat. Definitely plan to take your food to go. Not the place to go if you want to sit (the place packs em in).

    (4)

  • Leo C.

    Great tasting 'hole in the wall' mexican food for the price! Had their lunch special. The give you plenty of food!!! The carne asada burrito kicked ass. If I get a craving for mexican food again, I'm definitely going back!!

    (4)

  • Richard N.

    I have been coming here for years. It's literally across the street from my place of business and is a great place for a quick bite. You can order pretty much anything off their menu... it's all good (although I have never seen the need to order the chicken soft taco). If you're feeling a little adventurous, order a taco with beef tongue (lengua) or maybe pork stomach (buche). The taco reigns supreme here and for just $1.15, the price can't be beat. These tacos are not the small street variety either. They are full sized, double layered corn tortillas filled to bursting with meat, onions and cilantro. I always ask them to give me a bowl of the green salsa and some cut limes. Their decor use to be a little run down but within the last year, they have repainted the murals on the wall and have added new tables/benches. My only concern usually stems from the fact that they get crowded sometimes and may be difficult to find a seat. I rate this place as... AWESOME!!! (that's with 3 exclamation points)

    (5)

  • L M.

    Carnitas Los Reyes was shut down by the Orange County Health Department on 10/29/2010 due to a severe cockroach infestation. Go to ocfoodinfo.com and check out the restaurants that have been closed by the Orange County Health Department. Give me a break! Everyone working in the restaurant knew about this problem a long time before they got caught by the health department. I'm not giving them any breaks Shame on Carnitas Los Reyes for not taking care of this huge health issue before they were forced to. Here's an idea: Next time you're there try the house specialty........ La Cucaracha Tacos !!!!

    (1)

  • Fred A.

    You have to try the chorizo and chicharron tacos here. They are the best I've had anywhere in Orange County. The chicharron typically sells out early so try to come by earlier in the day. You also get a great value for each taco since you only pay a bit more than a dollar for each and you get a regular size tortilla full of meat. Their red salsa isn't that great so I suggest you ask for the green one if you're eating in.

    (5)

  • Monica D.

    Absolutely LOVE this place... I've tried just about everything on their menu besides the Sat/Sun menudo. And they even humor me with my half English/half Spanish amalgamation. The kind server lady totally just speaks Spanish to me, and although I completely understand her, I'm still flattered that my Spanish passes here :) Anywho, it's all about the food, right? I LOVE the more obscure meats in my Mexican food, like lengua (tongue) and buche (um... piggy leftovers, to put it nicely). Their $1.15 tacos just cannot be beat... chock full of meat and two storemade thick corn tortillas to top it all off. They offer you a small plate of chips, salsa, and side veggies before you get your food, which are always hit or miss on their freshness. But everything else is to DIE for. The best part about CLR is their beans... completely freshly made, and are just about the best refried beans you can get anywhere. Aside from their tacos, their tortas are gigantic and dripping with all the goods... but never too overpowering on any one ingredient. Another eventual must-try are their sopes, which are like really thick Taco Bell gordita bread pieces deep fried and topped like tostadas. Plenty of veggies, meat, beans, and queso fresco to go around. I don't really care for the tomato on top but perhaps that is how sopes are really served... I wouldn't know. Bottom line, CLR is a great little stop if you have a true Mexican food fix in the area. After a late night bar run (if you catch them before they close, I believe it's 10pm) or even right after work, they are always very kind, patient, and busy behind the counter. Only thing is, it's cash only, so beware what you wind up ordering :) And, in my humble opinion, jamaica goes with everything they serve!

    (4)

  • Anna R.

    Tacos are good! The beans are the bomb!!

    (5)

  • Jeff W.

    Great combination plates at a great price. They rotate their daily specials but the Carnitas plate for 4.99 is an outstanding dish. It is a very small place with too few tables so be prepared to wait during the busy times.

    (4)

  • Addison I.

    Last time I visited this place the tacos were a buck even. Now they're like $1.15 plus tax. 4 tacos came out to 5 bucks but it's still a good deal because they're big tacos. Tacos Jalisco down the street has better lengua but this place is still good. BTW, I've only tried the tacos here. The parking lot can get cramped during dinner and lunch hours. I like to pick up some bread pudding at the small market that's a few doors away. Really bomb with coffee.

    (4)

  • Ron H.

    3.5. Sorry, I'm out of line from everyone else I guess. The place is pretty authentic, but ultimately taste trumps authenticity. I like it more than El Gallo Giro, though. I had 3 tacos for $1.15 each - one carnitas, one carne asada, and one pollo. So far, so good, right? For all three, the corn tortillas were pretty tasty, being soft with a light corn flavor, while not being too mealy. The pollo was OK. The chicken was tender and juicy, but overall the taco wasn't that interesting, but for $1.15, one shouldn't complain too much. The carne asada was mediocre, lacking substantial flavor. I didn't even realize I was eating carne asada until my friend asked me about it. He had ordered one too, but didn't realize he had eaten the carne asada one until after he had tasted his carnitas taco. Speaking of which, the carnitas was definitely the best of the three. I usually don't even like carnitas, but it was pretty memorable, so for the interim, I'll compare other carnitas tacos to here. I guess it makes sense when you consider the name of this restaurant. Overall, if this place were across the street from my apartment or something, I'd be visiting everyday. Simple, cheap food, hell yeah. Unfortunately, it's about 10 miles away from me, and really isn't worth the drive.

    (3)

  • Shouka S.

    Honestly the best hole in the wall taqueria I've been to! Two carne asada tacos and a large horchata for $3.97?! Can't get better than that. The quality of the meat is not bad at all for that price! Their chicken tacos are very juicy and tasty as well. This place can get busy and parking and seating can be a problem. Today was pouring rain so my friend and I were quickly served our drinks and food. They give you chips and salsa and spicy pickled carrots and chiles too. So yummy!

    (4)

  • Peter L.

    I have been eating lunch here at least once a week for the past 2 years. Carnitas Los Reyes does not skimp on the meat, they pile it on. The prices have gone up recently, it's now $1.15 instead of $1.00 for a taco and the burritos have gone up $0.25 and is now $3.50. A small price to pay for such good food. They do charge you for extra salsa (additional $0.25) if you order your food to go. A tip to beat the lunch rush... call ahead of time and place your order. Wait about 10 to 15 minutes and once you get there, simply walk to the front of the line to pay and pick up your food. Or you can just go and have lunch after 1:00pm. They do not serve breakfast and they do not serve alcohol.

    (5)

  • Kym C.

    This place is too good and I can't wait to go back. The carnitas are frickin delicious. Juicy, seasoned and lots of it in ea taco. We ordered a plate of enchiladas with some kick ass rice and beans, 3 tacos and 2 hotchatas. All for $13.50. Staff is friendly. I wish they had more selection of salsas, but what they do have is authentic and spicy.

    (5)

  • HawaiiFive0 H.

    The burittos are not what they use to be. The size is significantly smaller. Since they've gotten more popular they don't give as much food. Not a fan anymore!

    (1)

  • Luis T.

    My mom took me here in the early 90's and I've been eating here ever since. Did Carnitas los Reyes change owners a couple of years back? Even if the people behind the counter have changed, but the food is still the BOMB! I give this place 4.5 stars, regardless of it showing a 4-star rating. My faves are the carnitas, asada, al pastor, or lengua in the form of sopes, tortas, tacos or burritos. Horchata, chips & salsa, and the pepper/carrot relish top it off for me. They double up on the corn tortillas with the tacos, and I occasionally tend to peel off the outer one when I don't feel like getting filled up. I bring new people to this place all the time, and they all seem to like it enough to eat here again.

    (4)

  • Craig T.

    I'll start off trying to review an item that no one else has talked about that seems to be popular here. If you're a menudo fan, Los Reyes makes a pretty damned good batch that is only sold on the weekends. They open @ 8:30 am and usually sell out of it by 10 or 11. I've been going here since the mid-90's and cried "G*D Damn!" when they raised their their taco prices from .99 to $1.15 (ooohh boy!, LOL!). To those Yelpers that have had bad experiences with the food some words of advice: Look before you buy! I've had good and bad samples of food from them. If you're coming in at 9:45pm before they're closing and see them "sweeping up" the pans to make your taco, don't expect it to taste as good as when they are in full swing and rotating the food. As said by others, the Carnitas is what they are known for and that's what you should get. It's kinda hilarious that the salsa is sometimes all over the map ranging from colored tomato water to fry-yer-throat hot GOOD! Live with it, look before you leap, Enjoy!

    (4)

  • Andrew H.

    I cop introduced me to this place on a ride along when I was 17. I've been hooked ever since. The only thing that's changed in the last ten years is the price and it's well below the normal inflation rate. They cater to lower income people so the price is more than fair. Everything is made from scratch and taste fantastic. Beans are cooked in lard and grease drips down your arm when your eating their burritos. If you want something a little cleaner, try a torta. This is the kind of place you crave but then feel sick after eating it. In the end, it's all worth it and the craving comes right back.

    (5)

  • Jennifer M.

    So this place kind of makes you feel like you want to spray down the tables with Lysol before you sit down to eat, but if you can put that aside, the tacos are delicious! They are soooo soo cheap and always great! I always get two carnitas tacos and a large horchata and am totally happily stuffed, and all for less than $5!

    (4)

  • Kevin E.

    The place offers tremendous value and really good food. It is small and often crowded at peak hours. It is not the place to take someone you are trying to impress with atmosphere, but once they taste the food they will be hooked. Carnitas, Carne Asada and Al Pastor are good. You can get a big sized burriro for about $3.

    (5)

  • leslie g.

    Foor real authentic food this is the place. You can buy individual tacos or buy carnitas by the pound and make your own at home. The carnitas here are as good as it gets in the OC. They are located in a modest strip mall in the city of Orange where Tustin and Chapman intersect. Try this place if you;re craving carnitas you will not regret mis amigos!

    (5)

  • Lanceman S.

    Good food at a great price.. Be ready for a crowd if you go at lunchtime ! Dont be fooled by the surroundings its a bit on the dirty side but the flavor will win you over.

    (5)

  • Bob N.

    Having visited Los Reyes perhaps 30+ times, I am prone to think that they HAVE THE BEST MEXICAN FOOD IN ORANGE COUNTY! It's a funky little place that's very small, somewhat sparse, but OH SO AUTHENTIC! I have never swayed from ordering my very favorite---the carne asada burrito and a regular drink...all for the massive expense of $4.85. Wow...what a bargain! They have great tamales. You order then take a seat...then you are promptly served a dish of carrots, jalapenos, chips, and some great hot (mild) sauce. This place is so real...with wall murals and a 20" TV mounted in the corner playing your favorite Mexican "Novelas" soap opera. This place takes me back to the restaurants I frequented in T.J. as a small child...just the thought of it makes me tear all up! Some one get me some tissue! Having over-consumed their delicious hot sauce...it's a guarantee that you'll experience a gastric upsurge right about the 3 a.m. hour the following day! Oh sure, that's my fault......but it was worth the pain! THIS IS MY FAVORITE PLACE TO EAT HANDS DOWN!

    (5)

  • Kenneth K.

    If you are a fan of authentic Mexican taco stands then you have to stop by Carnitas Los Reyes. They offer a huge menu of authentically prepared meats and specialty items. I've been stopping in here for years, it's one of my all time favorites. Try a torta, burrito or taco there are all excellent. Enjoy!!! Prices are excellent as well. It's a tiny place but worth a visit anytime. NOTE: Access for wheelchairs is tight. You have to order in the back of the store in a tiny little hallway area. Getting back there may be a challenge for larger chairs. Also seating offers only small booths. But the food and service are great!

    (4)

  • Tarun B.

    Best fucking chorizo tacos I've had in Orange County, so far. Prices are low, the freshness can be tasted, and when you ask for spice, you get real spice. Truly a great hole-in-the-wall find.

    (5)

  • Ken D.

    I have been going to Carnitas Los Reyes since I was a little kid! By far the best place for lengua burritos I have ever been to!! Even places in East LA can't touch the lengua burrito from carnitas los reyes. The other burritos are also really good too! If you like authentic mexican food, definitely come and try the food here; you will not be disappointed!!

    (5)

  • Eric J.

    Oh hell yes...I have to agree with Stephen on this. I'm just pissed he beat me to the first review! For a full Los Reyes experience try the burrito. The Los Reyes asada burrito is the burrito that God designed right after he created Mexico. I'm not sure if it was on the third or fourth day, but the burrito is gorgeous. The fun part is that you can acutally watch them build it. Onion, Cilantro, beans and so much tasty meat that you would BET they can't wrap it. But they do manage to wrap it...and wrap it in paper and foil for easy transport. Last time I had one I needed a frame of reference for the size and decided that the burrito was the circumfrence of a Lysol can. Thick and good. And MUCH better tasting than Lysol. The tortillas are perfect...you don't have to tear them off in bites with your teeth; they are so soft that the bite takes care of it. The red salsa has perfect heat to flavor ration. If you order to go you can also ask for chips and pickled jalapenos and carrots. Muy tasty. Go there...order take out if you can. Order, pay, head out to Irvine Park or the Plaza in Orange and enjoy.

    (4)

  • Gunnar B.

    This place has been here for many years and quality still hasn't changed. Carnitas is what they're known for so Get a carnitas torta or burrito try to eat there if you can cause you get unlimited chips and salsa just get up and ask for more!

    (5)

  • Jannet G.

    My family has been coming to this hole in the wall place for just a little over 9 years. Its price is reasonable and the portions are great. The food always tastes great. Its only down fall is they have a small dine in area but if you don't mind waiting you'll enjoy some great Mexican food.

    (4)

  • Addy I.

    The tacos and the meat is well cooked and for a low price! There IS waitressing for all of those who don't know. Amazing painting on the walls too.

    (4)

  • Brion M.

    Nothing fancy but great carnitas. Super cheap and the salsa, chips and tortillas are good also. Not a date place but a great place for cheap, good mexican food.

    (4)

  • Cory J.

    I have been coming here for years and have never been disappointed. Today I had an Al Pastor burrito for lunch, muy sabroso.

    (4)

  • Froilan D.

    Price wise, taste wise, selection wise-- absolutely amazing! I've eaten their burritos and tacos. I highly recommend the tacos. Another person bought 5 tacos for $5, and they were legit. Highly recommend.

    (5)

  • Nat S.

    Ok, so I came back and omg, they seriously must have messed up my order last time or something because the carnitas definitely looked and tatsed like carnitas. I opted for the carnitas burrito this time and yeah, definitely good carnitas.

    (4)

  • Stephen U.

    Now this place is a real beauty. They don't give free refills (be sure to spring for the large drink), but everything else makes up for that minor sin. Their re-fried beans are meaty and flavorful, their rice has just the right hints of seasoning, and their taco meats are exquisite. I found out about this place only recently, and I've been back a few times to try out different things on the menu. I started with their two fried taco deal: two deep-fried tacos in any of a plethora of meats, along with a full plate of fix-ins (lettuce, tomato slices, rice, beans, and cheese), for only $5. The next times I came back, I had their normal tacos (one for a dollar!) and their menudo ($5 for a healthy bowlful, but only on Saturdays and Sundays), both times very well worth the money. Come prepared to eat, but be forewarned: Los Reyes is a popular place--it gets quite busy after work hours. I heartily recommend the lengua and barbacoa!

    (5)

  • Cesar C.

    This is as authentic as it gets and they don't disappoint! Everything on their menu is absolutely delectable. Their beans alone set them apart from all other Mexican joints in the area! Los Reyes is 100% hands down the best Mexican hole in the wall restaurant.

    (5)

  • Sozizzle S.

    so... I went to this place because it said it was authentic, been a born & raise chilanga/jalisquilla that misses her grandma's cooking I gave it a try... the menu is pretty much tacos, tortas, tostadas & combination plates with your choice of all kinds of meats; so I order 2 tacos al pastor & chorizo... the meats were good & the tortillas are your "can buy at the store" normal size corn tortillas... the salsa not bueno, I'm a Mexican I need good salsas choices & que esten picantes (& I like them HOT)! yeah they give you a side of tortilla chips & some pico de gallo salsa... =/ so, I guess the next time i go in here is going to be if i want a "quick, not expensive at all" bite... & I'll try to eat what they're famous for...Carnitas ;)

    (3)

  • Lori M.

    So good. So simple. This is one of those hole-in-the-wall dives that always delivers. It's cheap, delicious and fast--some the of the best mexican food this gringa has ever had.

    (4)

  • Bob D.

    I'm changing from 4 stars to 5 stars, as I no longer order carne asada from here ever since I discovered their chicharon . For those who don't know what chicharon is, it is the crispiest part of the carnitas, the outside portion which includes a lot of fried pork skin. It is heaven on a tortilla! Seriously, try the chicharon tacos or burritos, and you will be hooked! I DO NOT reccomend their chicken, it's really not that good, and their carne asada is mediocre to good at best. Come here for the carnitas and the chicharon, and you will not be disappointed. One complaint though is that they are very stingy with their salsa. While a lot of restaurants now a days are offering all you can eat salsa with salsa bars, this place tries to charge you extra beyond ONE little cup of salsa (even on big orders), this needs to change, as it makes no sense. Big orders should include extra chips and salsa at no extra charge...

    (5)

  • Selena B.

    My boyfriend is a huge fan, but I'm not. I've only tried the carne asada and the lengua tacos, so maybe I need to try some of the other items. But yeah, there's always a lot of fat in the carne asada, and the tortillas are awful -- absolutely no flavor. Good price, though. The restaurant's always hot and crowded. I don't know. Not really worth it to me.

    (3)

  • mike a.

    I have eaten here before but I decided to finally write this review based on my last visit ...I brought my brother inlaw Dan with me, ( he'll eat just about anything that comes from a cow or pig ! LOL)... We had just been cycling for 35 miles and so we were hungry and cold. I had 2 carnitas tacos with beans and he had the sopes with carne asada...like all the other reviews...the food is just awsome!!!...you get plenty to eat along with free chips and salsa. The carnitas are seasoned so well you just can't get enough....In my mind you cant beat the taste of their food in this city...and Yes the place is small,but some of you really need to relax ! If you choose to go there, take a look around first, if you need more room to eat ?? take it home with you !...wow....Yes it could be kept cleaner but dont sweat it...they are trying but its hard to do when there is always a line of people there!!

    (5)

  • Richard B.

    carnitas los reyes have by far the best carnitas in orange county !!!! not to mention great prices and a great variety of mexican food to choose from. my favorite, carnitas torta with sour cream doesnt come with sour cream but ask for it its delicious.

    (5)

  • Scott M.

    Al pastor burrito all the way. My favorite hole-in-the-wall.

    (4)

  • Keith M.

    Is there any such thing as healthy, good Mexican food? HELL NO! And you won't find any healthy food here just hella good Mexican food. I wouldn't eat here every day but when I want good Mexican food I come here.

    (4)

  • Dani T.

    The best Mexican food ever! Yes the surroundings are not ideal but if that is what you are looking for then just go somewhere else(maybe then I wont have to wait so long) I wont go there unless I am with someone who speaks Spanish. If you want great Mexican food try Los Reyes, if the place scares you then turn around and walk away, I will gladly take your place in line.

    (5)

  • Epi I.

    I came here to Los Reyes because I buddy of mine recommended it. I came by around 11 a.m. and the place was busy. Los Reyes is not a restaurant. It's more of a taqueria. However, it does have table/booths you can sit after you place your order and then a friendly young lady brings your order to your table/booth. Now, this place is tiny but they have the kitchen squared off in the back and the eatery area is the front. It's in a shopping center right on Tustin Ave. and it faces the street. There's a carniceria and other Mexican-oriented businesses adjacent to this taqueria. I gave this 3 STARS because it's a casual type of taqueria and it looks like it's well run. But I'll base my 3-star review based on what I ordered and what I observed while I was waiting for my order. The menu is on their wall up above where put the ready to pick-up food so once you know what you want, you walk over to the left and put in your order. The prices are very reasonable. There's no atmosphere. You just eat and quickly and leave. It caters to a lot of the Mexican clientele but I did see some gringos come in while I was waiting for my to-go order. I did order 1 carnitas burrito and a carnitas torta. I figured since their name is "Carnitas Los Reyes", carnitas was their bread and butter. Well, while I liked the carnitas, I thought you get a ton of fat with the carnitas. I've had carnitas at other places and while I know they're pork meat, it can be just carnitas and minimal fat. Now, all the ingredients in the burrito/torta tasted really yummy, especially the beans but I'm sure they tasted good because they're cooked with lard. So, all in all, I liked the taste of the food less the pieces of fat I pulled out my burrito/torta. Oh yeah, the chips I got with my order were stale. But, I'd venture to this taqueria again and order something else and then I'll update my review. I will recommend it but just keep an eye on the carnitas so you don't end up with too much fat.

    (3)

  • R M.

    very good, inexpensive food! Great carnitas tacos and burritos. Muey Bueno!

    (5)

  • Titha Y.

    The best burritos and tacos ever at the perfect price. I've been here since my days at Orange High back in 1990 and I still come back to this place when ever I am down in Orange. Full size tacos are loads of meet for $1.15 and huge burritos with loads of meat for $3.50. Prices has not really changed since then. It was $1.00 for Tacos and $3.25 for Burritos during my time at Orange High. This place has great flavor and very very good portion as cheap prices. I wish they open a another Los Reyes in Los Angeles. I'm still search for places that can provide the same portion and taste as this place in LA. None found so far after 15 years. I consider this place to have the best burritos and tacos. My favorite is the Chicken burrito and Chicharon Tacos.

    (5)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Mon :8:00 am - 10:00pm

Specialities

  • Takes Reservations : No
    Delivery : No
    Take-out : Yes
    Accepts Credit Cards : No
    Good For : Lunch, Dinner
    Parking : Private Lot
    Bike Parking : No
    Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
    Good for Kids : Yes
    Good for Groups : No
    Attire : Casual
    Ambience : Casual
    Noise Level : Average
    Alcohol : No
    Outdoor Seating : No
    Wi-Fi : No
    Has TV : Yes
    Waiter Service : No
    Caters : Yes

Categories

Mexican Cuisine

If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.

Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.

Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.

Carnitas Los Reyes

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