Carnitas Ramirez

- 210 E 3rd St, New York, NY 10009

In New York City, the search for truly authentic and unforgettable Mexican food is a journey many of us are on. While the city offers countless options, few places specialize in one thing and do it with such passion and expertise as Carnitas Ramirez. This popular spot on the Lower East Side is a temple to the art of carnitas, a classic Mexican dish made of slow-cooked pork. They have taken a traditional street food and elevated it to a new level, earning a dedicated following and rave reviews from locals and food critics alike.

Carnitas Ramirez is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience. The focus is simple and unwavering: it's all about the pork. As one customer aptly put it, "Don't bother if you can't or don't eat pork!" This singular focus allows them to perfect their craft, resulting in carnitas that are rich, flavorful, and incredibly tender. The atmosphere is casual and trendy, with a fast turnover that makes it perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Despite its popularity and a reputation that has grown through features on major food publications, Carnitas Ramirez has managed to maintain its authentic charm and a commitment to quality that is evident in every single bite.

Carnitas Ramirez is situated at 210 E 3rd St, New York, NY 10009, USA. This prime location places it in the heart of the East Village, a neighborhood celebrated for its vibrant and diverse food scene. The area is easily accessible for both locals and tourists exploring the city.

Getting to the restaurant is convenient whether you're using public transportation or looking for parking. The F and M trains at 2nd Avenue, as well as the 6 train at Astor Place, are all within walking distance, making it a simple stop on your journey. For those who prefer to drive, the area offers both free and paid street parking, which is a significant plus in a busy Manhattan neighborhood. The restaurant itself has a small but fast-moving dining space, ensuring that even during peak hours, the wait is typically quick. This fast turnover, combined with its central location, makes Carnitas Ramirez an ideal spot for a lunch break, a solo dinner, or a casual meal with friends.

Carnitas Ramirez focuses on providing a straightforward, high-quality, and efficient dining experience.

• Onsite Dining: The restaurant offers a casual dining experience with limited seating, including benches, that encourages a quick turnover. It's perfect for a satisfying and fast meal.
• Dine-in: While the space is compact, it provides a cozy and authentic atmosphere for those who want to eat at the restaurant and enjoy their meal fresh.
• Takeout: For those on the go, Carnitas Ramirez provides takeout services, allowing you to enjoy their delicious carnitas wherever you like.
• Fast Service: Known for its speedy service, you won't have to wait long to get your food, even when there's a line. This makes it a great option for a quick bite during a busy day.
• Cash and Card Payments: The restaurant accepts major credit and debit cards, making payments simple and convenient.

Carnitas Ramirez has a number of standout features that have cemented its reputation as a must-visit destination for Mexican food lovers in New York City.

• Unmatched Carnitas: The restaurant is a true specialist. They focus on nose-to-tail cooking, utilizing every part of the pig—from the cheek (cachete) to the ear (oreja) and snout (trompa). This dedication to authenticity and quality results in incredibly flavorful and texturally diverse carnitas.
• Customizable Salsa Bar: A major highlight is the self-serve salsa and toppings bar. Customers can "fix up your tacos however you want," with a selection of fresh salsas, pickled onions, and other condiments to customize their meal. One reviewer rated this a "10/10 experience."
• Fast Turnover: Despite its popularity, the restaurant is praised for its incredibly fast service. This is ideal for those who want to grab a quick and delicious meal without a long wait.
• Gourmet Comfort Food: The menu offers classic comfort food with an elevated twist. The focus on high-quality pork and traditional preparation methods makes for a truly gourmet experience that remains accessible and casual.
• Casual and Trendy Atmosphere: The vibe is a perfect mix of laid-back and trendy, drawing in a crowd that includes both locals and tourists. It's a great spot to soak in the energy of the Lower East Side while enjoying some of the city's best Mexican food.
• Limited but Perfect Menu: The simplicity of the menu, centered around different cuts of carnitas and a few sides like Nopales de Mercado and Chicharron, shows confidence in their specialty. This focus ensures that every dish is prepared to perfection.

For all inquiries or to find the restaurant, here is the contact information for Carnitas Ramirez:

Address: 210 E 3rd St, New York, NY 10009, USA

The restaurant's website is the best place to check for current hours and the full menu. Since they do not have a public phone number for general inquiries, it's best to visit in person to experience the fast service and grab your meal.

When you visit Carnitas Ramirez, the choice is simple but incredibly important: which cut of pork will you choose? For first-time visitors or those who want a little bit of everything, the Surtida is the perfect option. This mixed taco includes a variety of different pork cuts, offering a delightful combination of textures—from crispy skin to gelatinous fat and tender meat. It's a true showcase of their expertise.

For those with more adventurous palates, the offal cuts are a must-try. The Trompa (snout) is highly recommended for its unctuous, rich flavor, while the Oreja (ear) offers a unique crunch. Another popular choice is the Carnitas Torta, a sandwich packed with their signature pork. No matter which cut you choose, be sure to take advantage of the self-serve salsa bar to customize your meal. Adding a side of Nopales de Mercado (cactus salad) or a Chicharron order will also enhance your experience, providing a fresh and crunchy complement to the rich, savory pork. Carnitas Ramirez is a destination for anyone who truly appreciates the art of Mexican food and is looking for a memorable, pork-centric meal that lives up to the hype.

Carnitas Ramirez

210 E 3rd St, New York, NY 10009, USA