Santa Paula's Favorite Mexican Kitchen

Slow-Cooked Carnitas Made the Traditional Way

Every bite tells a story of patience and craft — our carnitas are simmered in lard for hours until fork-tender, then crisped to golden perfection. This is the taste of authentic Mexico, right here in Santa Paula.

Call to Order View Menu

Signature Carnitas

Pork shoulder slow-cooked for 6 hours in lard, seasoned with citrus and spices, then crisped to order.

Rooted in Tradition, Served with Pride

Carnitas El Rey isn't just a restaurant — it's a celebration of the flavors that have brought families together for generations. Our recipes come straight from the heart of Michoacán, the birthplace of carnitas, where pork is slow-cooked in copper vats over open flames.

Every morning, we prepare our meats from scratch using whole cuts, fresh citrus, and a blend of spices passed down through our family. We don't cut corners, because the people of Santa Paula deserve nothing less than the real thing.

Authentic Recipes

Family Owned

Fresh Ingredients

Made with Love

Our Specialties

Crafted with Care,
Served with Soul

From our signature carnitas to hand-made tortillas, every dish on our menu is prepared with the same devotion to flavor and tradition.

Carnitas Platter

Tender, slow-cooked pork served with cilantro-lime rice, refried beans, fresh salsa, and warm tortillas.

Chef's Special

Taco Variety

Choose from carnitas, pastor, carne asada, and more — each taco topped with onions, cilantro, and our house salsa.

Customer Favorite

Enchiladas Verdes

Corn tortillas filled with shredded chicken, smothered in tangy tomatillo sauce, and baked with melted cheese.

Classic

Find Us

650 W Harvard Blvd
Santa Paula, CA 93060

Hours

Mon – Sun
Open Daily

Call Us

(805) 229-7433

Come Visit Us

Taste the Tradition
at Carnitas El Rey

Whether you're dining in, taking out, or craving a taste of home, we're ready to serve you the most authentic Mexican food in Santa Paula.

Call (805) 229-7433 Get Directions