Carnitas el Momo
Mexican
Carnitas el Momo, Fairmount Street, Los Angeles, CA, USA
OUR SCORE
Accolades
- Featured on The Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives”
- Named in the LA Times’ list of “101 Best Restaurants”
- Recognized by Eater LA as a top destination for carnitas
- Winner of the LA Taco Madness tournament
- Listed in Los Angeles Magazine’s “Best of LA” food category
Restaurant Summary
Carnitas el Momo in Los Angeles is an authentic gem in the bustling city known for its traditional Mexican cuisine that specializes in one thing and does it exceptionally well: carnitas. The atmosphere of the restaurant is unpretentious, with a focus on delivering a pure and rich culinary experience that draws food enthusiasts from near and far.
This family-run eatery has built a reputation on the back of its succulent, slow-cooked pork served in a variety of ways, all featuring the rich, complex flavors that can only be achieved through a meticulous cooking process honed over generations. The carnitas are prepared using a time-honored recipe, featuring the perfect blend of spices, and are cooked in large copper pots that help to evenly distribute heat and ensure a perfect cook every time. This method ensures that the pork is tender and juicy on the inside, with a delightful crispness on the outside that provides a satisfying contrast in textures.
At Carnitas el Momo, patrons can expect a simple yet enticing menu. One of the standout dishes is the Carnitas Taco, which offers mouthwatering pieces of pork tucked inside warm, freshly made corn tortillas. For those looking to indulge in a variety of flavors, the Surtdio Plate offers a sampling of different cuts of pork, including the belly, shoulder, and skin. Each cut offers a distinct taste and texture, making it a celebration of the pig's versatile culinary range.
Beyond the classic carnitas, the restaurant also serves up delightful accompaniments such as refried beans, rice, and a selection of salsas ranging from mildly tangy to fiery heat, allowing diners to customize their dish to their liking. A fan favorite, the Pork Belly Taco, comes highly recommended, featuring unctuous slices of pork belly that melt in your mouth, providing a rich and indulgent flavor profile. For those looking to experience the ultimate crunch, the Chicharron Taco includes crispy pieces of pork skin that offer an irresistible bite.
Visitors will find that the ambiance at Carnitas el Momo is casual and welcoming, with the staff exhibiting genuine warmth and a passion for the food they serve. The eatery's commitment to using high-quality ingredients and age-old cooking techniques resonate in every bite, making it not just a meal, but a cultural experience that pays homage to the traditional flavors of Mexican cuisine.
Whether you're a local or traveling through Los Angeles, Carnitas el Momo stands as a must-visit destination for anyone with an appetite for authentic, expertly cooked Mexican carnitas. It's a place where the simple pleasure of a well-crafted meal shines through, earning it a treasured spot in the city's vibrant culinary scene.
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