Where to Buy the Best Carnitas by the Pound in Vancouver, WA

If you’ve ever had a bite of perfect carnitas—crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside—you know it’s one of the best things to ever happen to a taco. Whether you're planning a taco night at home, prepping for a weekend gathering, or just craving a no-fuss meal that hits the spot, finding the right place to buy carnitas by the pound in Vancouver, WA, is a game-changer.

Thankfully, Vancouver has several markets and butcher shops where you can pick up freshly made carnitas, along with tortillas, salsa, and all the fixings. From small neighborhood Mexican stores to full-scale supermercados, here’s where to go when you need some serious taco fuel.

best carnitas in vancouver wa

1. Mercado Latino

📍 5910 NE Fourth Plain Blvd, Ste A, Vancouver, WA 98661

If you’re looking for authentic carnitas with incredible flavor, Mercado Latino is the place to go. This small but well-stocked Mexican market is a favorite among locals for fresh meats, tortillas, and their homemade carnitas. People love the crispy-yet-juicy texture, and they also offer freshly made green salsa that pairs perfectly with the pork.

⭐ What people say: “The carnitas here are a steal! $6 a pound and packed with flavor. Don’t forget to grab some of their handmade tortillas.”

🔥 Pro Tip: Ask for a side of their house-made green chili sauce—it’s the ultimate game-changer.

2. Supermercados Mexico

📍 17420 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97236

Yes, it’s just across the river in Portland, but Supermercados Mexico is worth the drive if you’re looking for a full-scale Mexican grocery store with an incredible meat counter. Their carnitas are slow-cooked to perfection, packed with bold flavors, and always fresh and juicy.

⭐ What people say: “Great selection of meats, but the carnitas? Absolutely unreal. You can grab a pound along with fresh salsa and queso fresco, and you’re set.”

🔥 Pro Tip: Don’t leave without trying their house-made chicharrón (fried pork rinds)—crispy, salty, and perfect for snacking.

3. La Tapatia Market

📍 18330 SE Stark St, Portland, OR 97233

Another Portland-based gem, La Tapatia Market is well-known for its fresh meats and traditional carnitas. Whether you want a half-pound for tacos or a few pounds for a family feast, they’ll hook you up with some of the most flavorful carnitas in the area.

⭐ What people say: “Their carnitas have the perfect mix of crispy and tender bits. This is the kind of food that makes you wanna dance.”

🔥 Pro Tip: Pair your carnitas with their freshly made refried beans and guacamole for a killer meal.

4. Butcher Boys

📍 4710 NE St Johns Rd, Vancouver, WA 98661

While Butcher Boys isn’t a Mexican grocery store, their Mexican-style carnitas are legit. They’ve been a trusted name for quality meats in Vancouver for decades, and they make their carnitas fresh in-house. If you want to switch it up, check out their smoked meats too!

⭐ What people say: “Not your traditional Mexican market, but their carnitas are super flavorful. Great for taco nights at home.”

🔥 Pro Tip: Ask about their weekly meat specials—they often have great deals on fresh cuts of pork and beef.

5. Becerra’s International Groceries

📍 7803 NE Fourth Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98662

A hidden gem in Vancouver, Becerra’s International Groceries is the go-to spot for carnitas that taste homemade. Their meat is cooked low and slow, and you can smell the goodness as soon as you walk in.

⭐ What people say: “You have to get there early because their carnitas sell out fast. That should tell you everything you need to know.”

🔥 Pro Tip: Grab some freshly made tamales while you’re there—they’re just as delicious as the carnitas.

6. Las Palmas Mexican Market

📍 212 NE 164th Ave, Ste 16, Vancouver, WA 98684

For a small but mighty market, Las Palmas delivers big flavors when it comes to carnitas. They’re known for having high-quality meats and authentic Mexican groceries, making it a convenient spot to grab everything you need for a taco night.

⭐ What people say: “Friendly service, great prices, and carnitas that taste like they came straight from a taqueria in Mexico.”

🔥 Pro Tip: Check out their fresh bakery section—the conchas (Mexican sweet bread) are a must-try.

When you’re craving authentic carnitas by the pound in Vancouver, WA, these spots have you covered. Whether you’re picking up a quick dinner, hosting a taco night, or just need an excuse to eat more crispy, juicy pork, you can’t go wrong with any of these markets.