Chela’s y Carnitas Barstow — Restaurant in Barstow

A hidden gem shimmering in the Mojave Desert, Chela’s y Carnitas in Barstow is an absolute must-stop for anyone seeking authentic, mouth watering Mexican food. On a recent trip, I decided to bypass the usual fast-food chains and was rewarded with one of the best culinary experiences I’ve had in years. The welcoming atmosphere was immediately apparent, with staff greeting me warmly and ready to help.I ordered a pound of their famous carnitas picadas, generously mixed with cueritos (pickled pork skin), and it was a decision I won't soon forget. From the moment I opened the container, the aroma was intoxicating. The carnitas were the star of the show: incredibly juicy, perfectly seasoned, and so tender they practically melted in my mouth. Each piece was a perfect balance of succulent meat and crispy, rendered fat. The cueritos added a delightful, gelatinous texture that beautifully complemented the richness of the pork. What truly elevated the meal, however, were the salsas. They were absolutely phenomenal. The fiery red salsa packed a serious, flavorful punch, while the tangy green tomatillo salsa provided a bright, acidic counterpoint that cut through the richness of the meat perfectly. They weren't just afterthoughts; they were complex and expertly crafted. Combine this incredible food with genuinely great customer service, and you have a winning formula. The staff was friendly, efficient, and clearly passionate about the food they serve. Chela’s y Carnitas isn't just a meal; it's a destination. Don't just drive through Barstow stop here. You...

It’s hard to find really good Mexican Food in Barstow, especially for me who is used to the Mexican food down the hill in the LA area, and I gotta tell you this place has really good food. Their tortillas are handmade (except the flour tortillas), the salsa is delicious, and their selection of meats are perfectly cooked and well-seasoned. They specialize primarily in pork cuts such as carnitas, buche and chicharrones, which you can order by the pound, as a platter or as a taco. The chicharron tacos are cooked in a green or red salsa, depending on your preference, and it makes the dish that more savory and mouthwatering, so much so that the chicharron melts in your mouth. I recommend this place to anyone who wants the real deal in...

I was referred to this place by a coworker, but unfortunately, I was not pleased with the food. For a Mexican restaurant, I expected the flavors to be seasoned well, but that was not the case. The Asada tacos had no seasoning at all, and even though I asked for my taco shell to be fried in a little oil, it wasn’t done.

The refried beans and rice also lacked seasoning, leaving the entire plate very bland. To make matters worse, the meat had crunchy pieces in it, which I didn’t understand and found unappetizing. For a plate that cost $16, I expected much better quality and taste.

Overall, I was disappointed and will not be returning. Just my opinion, but I felt like I simply donated my money rather than...