Carnitas Sahuayo

You can experience the true taste of Mexican traditions at a legendary spot called Carnitas Sahuayo. This is not just a restaurant, but a true gastronomic landmark of Colima. The establishment specializes in carnitas — tender pork simmered in its own juices and lard until it melts in your mouth.

The restaurant's interior is designed in a simple and cozy family style, allowing you to focus entirely on the food's flavor. The cuisine here is based on authentic recipes from the state of Michoacán, the birthplace of this meat preparation method. High ratings and hundreds of positive reviews confirm that this is one of the best spots on the city map for those who want to get acquainted with authentic Coliman and Mexican gastronomy.

On the menu, Mexico is showcased in all its diversity: from classic tacos and tortillas to generous portions of meat with sides of beans and fresh guacamole. Affordable prices and impressive portion sizes make this restaurant attractive to both curious tourists and local families who come here for a taste familiar from childhood.

To book a table or check for availability, you can use the following contact information. The establishment actively engages with its guests and is always happy to welcome new visitors.

The main reason to visit Carnitas Sahuayo is, undoubtedly, the tasting. Visitors are recommended to start with the classic carnitas tacos, served with a traditional set of toppings: juicy lime, fresh cilantro, onion, and several types of spicy salsa. Be sure to try the meat mix to appreciate the different textures of pork prepared using this ancient method.

Attentive guests may notice elements of the open kitchen, where the magic of turning simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece happens. Watching the chefs masterfully carve the aromatic meat adds a special flair to your meal. The atmosphere of the establishment is perfect for taking a few vibrant photos of the dishes for social media — the presentation is simple yet incredibly appetizing.

Beyond the food, this place is great for socializing. Large Mexican families often gather here, creating a uniquely lively and hospitable backdrop. If you're in a hurry, you can use the takeaway service, but we recommend staying in the dining room, ordering a chilled agua fresca or a local beer, and enjoying the moment in the heart of the state of Colima.

Finding this cozy corner of Mexican cuisine is easy. The restaurant is located at Felipe Sevilla del Río 477 in the Jardines Vista Hermosa III district. If you are traveling from the center of Colima by car, the trip will take only 10–15 minutes heading northeast.

For those who prefer public transport, city buses serving this area are available. You can also always use a taxi — a trip from the main square (Plaza Colima) will cost approximately 100–150 pesos. The neighborhood is quite peaceful, and there are usually parking spots available near the entrance.

If you enjoy long walks, the journey on foot from the center takes about an hour (approximately 4–5 km). However, given the Mexican climate and the midday heat, we recommend using transport to save your energy for gastronomic discoveries and exploring the city's historical monuments.

The name of this place carries deep meaning and a geographical connection. Sahuayo is a city in the state of Michoacán, which is considered the cradle of the traditional pork preparation method known as carnitas. It is believed that this culinary style originated back in the 19th century, evolving from a simple way of preserving meat into a true symbol of Mexican gastronomic heritage.

The tradition of slow-cooking pork in huge copper cauldrons (cazos) dates back to the colonial period, when pork became an affordable and popular food for large family celebrations. The recipes used in the restaurant have been passed down through generations. The family that founded the establishment in the city of Colima has carefully preserved the secrets of the marinade and temperature control characteristic of the Sahuayo region.

While the exact opening date of this specific branch may not be widely known, its existence highlights the cultural ties between the states of Michoacán and Colima. This is more than just a business; it is a family affair that allows locals and tourists alike to touch Mexican history through a taste that has remained unchanged for decades.

When planning your visit to Carnitas Sahuayo, it’s worth budgeting approximately 1–1.5 hours. This is plenty of time to enjoy the main dishes at a leisurely pace. During peak hours (especially on weekends), you might need to wait 20–30 minutes for a table or for your order, as the place is very popular among locals.

If you are visiting with a large group for a slow lunch with appetizers and drinks, your visit may extend to 2 hours. The establishment operates mainly in the first half of the day, making it perfect for a hearty breakfast or an early lunch before further exploring the city of Colima.

The doors of this gastronomic establishment are open to guests primarily in the first half of the day, which is characteristic of restaurants specializing in carnitas. The operating hours are as follows:

• Monday and Tuesday: 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM
• Wednesday: Closed
• From Thursday to Sunday: 08:00 AM – 04:30 PM

Keep in mind that the best cuts of meat are usually sold out by midday, so we recommend coming for breakfast or an early lunch for the widest selection of dishes. It’s a good idea to double-check the schedule before visiting on holidays.

Exploring the local cuisine can easily be combined with a stroll through the neighborhood. The Jardines Vista Hermosa III district and adjacent parts of the city offer several interesting locations for relaxation after a hearty lunch.

Visiting nearby parks and small squares will allow you to better feel the rhythm of life in Colima and see how the locals spend their leisure time. Below is a list of attractions reachable on foot or via a short taxi ride.