Carlitos Barbecue Taqueria Information

Carlitos Barbecue Taqueria in Paramus, NJ, is a hidden gem that fuses the smoky goodness of barbecue with the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine. Located at 1 Garden State Plaza Blvd, this cozy spot has garnered a loyal following for its unique approach to tacos and grilled meats. Whether you're a fan of classic barbecue or craving something with a little more zest, this place has something for everyone.

One of the highlights of Carlitos Barbecue Taqueria is its diverse menu. For starters, the tacos are the true stars here, with options like the tender pulled pork, juicy grilled chicken, and smoky beef, all generously loaded into soft tortillas. Each bite is packed with a balance of savory flavors and just the right amount of seasoning. The meat is cooked to perfection, tender yet flavorful, and the smoky char adds an extra layer of depth to every taco. For a spicier kick, the salsa bar offers a range of homemade salsas that cater to all levels of heat tolerance, from mild to fiery hot.

The atmosphere at Carlitos is casual and inviting, with a laid-back vibe perfect for grabbing a quick bite or hanging out with friends. The rustic decor, with hints of vibrant Mexican culture, sets the stage for a relaxed dining experience. Whether you're stopping in for lunch or grabbing takeout for dinner, the friendly staff ensures that each visit feels personal and warm. Their prompt service and attention to detail make it clear that they take pride in delivering a memorable experience to each customer.

Beyond tacos, the menu also offers a variety of other dishes that are sure to please. The barbecue ribs, for example, are a crowd favorite, tender and coated in a rich, tangy sauce that complements the smoky flavor of the meat. If you're in the mood for something lighter, the fresh guacamole and chips are the perfect starter to whet your appetite before diving into the heartier options. The portions are generous, ensuring that you'll leave satisfied, whether you're dining solo or sharing with friends.

Carlitos Barbecue Taqueria has earned its place as a must-visit for those seeking a delicious blend of barbecue and Mexican flavors. With its unbeatable combination of mouthwatering food, friendly service, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder this spot continues to draw in both locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a full meal, Carlitos delivers on every front, making it a go-to destination for food lovers in the area.

Most Popular Dishes

Choose Any 3 Tacos Special $13.16

Limit of 1 beef option per order

Brisket Taco $5.50

Our O.G taco starts with a hand pressed to-order nixtamal tortilla (100% corn), and topped off with our signature juicy brisket. All our tacos come "con todo" on the side: Cilantro, Onion, Avocado sauce, and Salsa Roja.

Birria Taco $5.50

Tender combination of beef cuts marinated and braised in a complex adobo. Comes with 2 oz of rich slightly spicy, sweet and sour melted butter-like textured consome. Our nixtamal tortillas are then dipped in the flavorful beef fat and warmed on a griddle until crisp and pliable. This might be the juiciest taco you’ve ever had, facts.

Carne Asada Taco $5.50

Tijuana carne asada on a hand pressed nixtamal corn tortilla.

Chicken Taco $4.40

Oak-smoked all-natural chopped chicken on a hand-pressed to order nixtamal tortilla (100% corn). All our tacos come "con todo" on the side: Cilantro, Onion, Avocado sauce, and Salsa Roja.

Crispy Fish Taco $4.95

Fish filet battered fresh to order served with jicama slaw and spicy morita mayo on a fresh hand-pressed corn tortilla

Pulled Pork Taco $4.40

Award winning 16 hour oak smoked pulled pork, on a fresh hand-pressed nixtamal corn tortilla. All our tacos come "con todo" on the side: Cilantro, Onion, Avocado sauce, and Salsa Roja.

Portobello Taco (VEGAN) $4.40

Panko breaded portobello, seared coconut quest, on an organic hand pressed tortilla (GF).

Full Menu

Business Info

What People's Say About Place

Whenever my husband and I come to Garden State mall, our brains are so conditioned to expect a food court meal that it took us some time before we realized this lively taqueria existed. It's on the top floor (or the ground level if you're coming from an outdoor parking lot) and one of several mall eateries that aren't in the food court. The ordering decision tree proceeds as follows: 1) Decide whether you want tacos, cheesy tacos (called, or a platter, 2) Pick your proteins (vegetarian options available), and 3) Determine which toppings and accoutrements you want on top of your tacos. The best part of ordering was seeing the fresh masa and tortilla press right behind the counter, a reassurance that these tortillas would be as fresh as one can get. And they were. Not only that, the meats inside them were incredible. We tried the birria, carne asada, crispy fish, and smoked chicken, all of which were conversation-silencing delicious. I'm also not a bit embarrassed to admit I sipped straight from the small cup of that rich consommé that's meant as a dipping broth for the birria tacos. If I had to pick a least favorite from the bunch, it would be the smoked chicken, but that's not to say they were bad; the other ones just blew me away far more. The chicken tacos were packed with tender meat and redolent of smoked wood, a flavor I wouldn't have expected to encounter in the middle of a shopping mall. Most of the restaurant space seems to be reserved for the ordering and food prep area, but there's a decently sized seating area right outside the restaurant and even more places to sit a little further away from Carlito's if the tables are full.

Tried Carlitos for the first time and my expectations were blown away. The food was amazing and extremely affordable! My bf and I got a little bit of everything to try. We ordered the 3 quesotacos special with chicken, fish, and brisket. All 3 were filled with so much flavor. Additionally we tried their chocolate churros and passionfruit aqua fresca which were also delicious. The service was cooked to order and very fast. We ordered and received our food in less than 5 minutes. Will definitely be coming back every time I’m at Garden State Plaza!

UPDATE March 2025- great stays great! These are still the best tacos in NJ. The birria and fish are a must. Despite what you might think about buying tacos at the mall these are absolutely the best tacos you'll buy no matter where they are. There is nothing better than the quesa-taco from Carlitos be it the recently added fish, the pulled pork, the brisket, the veggie with the fried plantain, you name it it's all perfect. So if you're a local head over, if you're driving through make a stop for Carlitos..

The food is very fresh and it does have some good flavor to it as well as the customer service I received from yaroc and Olga in garden states plaza don’t miss out you won’t be disappointed

This is our favorite fast food Mexican. We have been coming here for the past 5 years. Our favorite is the Brisket Plato with smoked black beans. Beef is tender, juicy, tasty, smoky. I mixed the rice with salsa roja, cilantro, lime, jalapeño pepper. Highly recommended!

Not to say every time I visit Carlitos everyone is so welcoming and sweet their fish tacos are the star of the menu. I’m a very picky eater and yesterday I happen to request something special and that’s never been requested. I ordered fish with everything that goes on top of the taco except the tortilla with their spicy mayo sauce on the side it’s something different that’s not in the menu (not my first time doing special request that aren’t in the menu). So anytime you need to make any adjustments or special request let them know. Thank you to everyone at Carlitos for always making my experience with them so great and special!!

Carlitos Barbecue Taqueria is a hidden gem! The food is incredibly delicious—authentic flavors that hit the spot. From the tender meats to the perfectly seasoned tacos, everything tasted fresh and satisfying. Plus, it’s super affordable, which makes it even better. Great spot for a quick bite or a casual meal with friends. Highly recommend if you're craving real-deal barbecue and Mexican street food!

The tacos are good enough to make GSP a pleasant experience, and I don't like malls. Great fresh corn tortilla ls, generous fillings, delicious vegetarian and vegan options. And the staff is very friendly and warm.

Carlitos Barbecue Taqueria