Food & Drink

Sizzle in the City: Minneapolis’ 19 Must-Try Carne Asada Spots!

If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine, you've likely heard of carne asada. This dish features thinly sliced beef that is marinated in a blend of spices before being grilled or seared to perfection.

The result is a flavorful, tender meat that is the perfect addition to tacos, burritos, and more.

If you're in Minneapolis and looking for the best places to try carne asada, you're in luck. There are plenty of restaurants and food trucks throughout the city that serve up this delicious dish.

Whether you're in the mood for a casual meal or a sit-down dinner, there are options for every taste and budget.

One of the great things about carne asada is that it can be customized to suit your preferences. Some restaurants may serve it with a side of rice and beans, while others may offer it as a filling for a sandwich or salad.

No matter how you prefer to enjoy it, you're sure to find a restaurant in Minneapolis that can deliver a tasty and satisfying meal.

1. Centro

Centro
1414 Quincy St NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413 (Google Maps)

Centro is a hidden gem for carne asada. The restaurant offers a fast-casual atmosphere with a unique ordering system.

Customers can order at the bar or counter and have their food delivered to their table. The menu features delicious and flavorful tacos, with the Chicken Tinga being a standout choice.

The cocktails are also a must-try, with an extensive menu to choose from. The outdoor patio and industrial-chic interior provide a fun atmosphere to enjoy a quick bite or a night out with friends.

Although parking can be a challenge, the food and atmosphere are worth the effort.

2. Orale Mexican Eats

Orale Mexican Eats
5447 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55419 (Google Maps)

Orale Mexican Eats is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious carne asada. With a range of traditional Mexican dishes on the menu, this restaurant offers a fresh and authentic dining experience.

The staff is friendly and the service is fast, ensuring that you can enjoy your meal without any delays.

The restaurant is clean and well-maintained, adding to the overall pleasant atmosphere. Prices are reasonable, making this a great option for those on a budget.

Whether you're in the mood for tacos, burritos, or carne asada fries, Orale Mexican Eats is sure to satisfy your cravings.

3. El Taco Riendo

El Taco Riendo
2412 NE Central Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55418 (Google Maps)

El Taco Riendo is a must-visit for anyone in search of authentic Mexican cuisine.

This casual eatery serves up generous portions of carne asada and other Mexican staples that are sure to satisfy your cravings.

The prices are reasonable and the service is quick, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner. The atmosphere is laid-back, with comfortable seating options for both eat-in and takeout.

Don't miss out on this hidden gem for some delicious carne asada and other authentic Mexican dishes.

4. Dominguez Family Restaurant

Dominguez Family Restaurant
3313 E 50th St, Minneapolis, MN 55417 (Google Maps)

Dominguez Family Restaurant is a hidden gem for carne asada lovers. This family-owned Mexican restaurant offers a cozy and authentic atmosphere with friendly staff.

The food is fresh and delicious, with a huge selection of dishes to choose from.

The carne asada is the star of the show, with perfectly seasoned meat that will leave you wanting more. The salsa is smooth and fresh, and the chips are warm and crispy.

The prices are very reasonable, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner. Don't miss out on this local favorite for some of the best carne asada in town.

5. Grande Sunrise Seafood and Mexican Restaurant

Grande Sunrise Seafood And Mexican Restaurant
5554 S 34th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417 (Google Maps)

Grande Sunrise Seafood and Mexican Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious carne asada.

The food is fresh and authentic, with perfectly cooked lengua and tender pork tamales. The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a great dining experience.

The menu offers a mix of both traditional and Americanized Mexican fare, with a great selection of Mexican beers.

The service is consistently fast and efficient, with to-go orders ready in just 10-15 minutes. The small and quaint restaurant is decorated with colorful flags, adding to its relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

6. Pineda Tacos Plus

Pineda Tacos Plus
330 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55408 (Google Maps)

Pineda Tacos Plus is a Mexican restaurant that serves up delicious carne asada. The menu offers a wide variety of options, including fajitas and enchiladas.

The food is prepared fresh and the staff is friendly and hardworking. The restaurant has a casual counter service atmosphere and is kid-friendly.

Prices are affordable and the portions are generous. The tacos are some of the best in the Twin Cities area and the large burrito is a must-try.

If you're looking for authentic Mexican food, Pineda Tacos Plus is definitely worth a visit.

7. Habanero Tacos Grill

Habanero Tacos Grill
3223 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55406 (Google Maps)

Habanero Tacos Grill is a must-visit spot for carne asada lovers. This Mexican restaurant serves up delicious street-style tacos, burritos, and tortas that are piled high with fillings.

The meats are cooked to perfection and the toppings are fresh and flavorful.

The service is warm and friendly, making for an enjoyable dining experience. The prices are reasonable and the portions are healthy-sized, so you won't leave feeling hungry.

Don't miss out on the hot sauces, which come in three levels of spiciness. Habanero Tacos Grill is a hidden gem that's definitely worth checking out.

8. Yeah Yeah Taco

Yeah Yeah Taco
2424 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404 (Google Maps)

Yeah Yeah Taco is a small, unassuming take-out joint that serves up some seriously delicious Mexican cuisine.

Known for their street-style tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, this place is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic, flavorful carne asada. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the service is always quick and efficient.

Whether you're a meat lover or a vegetarian, there's something on the menu for everyone. Don't miss out on their "best pork" taco, which is a fan favorite and a true standout dish.

If you're in the mood for some great Mexican food, Yeah Yeah Taco is definitely worth checking out.

9. Oro by Nixta Tortilleria

Oro By Nixta Tortilleria
1222 NE 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55413 (Google Maps)

Oro by Nixta Tortilleria is a hidden gem for authentic Mexican food lovers. The standout dish is the carne asada, which is juicy and flavorful.

The tortillas are freshly made and add an extra layer of taste to the dish. The restaurant has a rotating menu, so there's always something new to try.

The friendly staff and cozy ambiance make it a great spot for a casual meal. Takeout is also available for those on the go.

If you're in the mood for some delicious carne asada, Oro by Nixta Tortilleria is definitely worth a visit.

10. Listo! Fresh Mexican Grill

Listo! Fresh Mexican Grill
1730 New Brighton Blvd #100, Minneapolis, MN 55413 (Google Maps)

Listo! Fresh Mexican Grill is a great place for carne asada. The steak is soft and easy to chew, and the salsas are authentic and flavorful.

The staff is friendly and the restaurant is aesthetically pleasing.

The food is served hot, fresh and fast, and the portions are nice for the price.

This is a great spot for some quick Mexican food that is more authentic than Chipotle. Highly recommended for anyone who loves flavorful and fresh carne asada.

11. Maya Cuisine – Minneapolis

Maya Cuisine - Minneapolis
1840 NE Central Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55418 (Google Maps)

Maya Cuisine in Minneapolis stands out as one of the best places for authentic Mexican food. This colorful restaurant and bar offers classic dishes, cocktails, and a Sunday buffet.

Their carne asada is exceptional, and their variety of meats and vegetarian options are all cooked to perfection.

The salsa bar is a must-try, as it adds a spicy kick to any dish. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere is cheerful and lively.

Maya Cuisine is the perfect spot for a quick lunch or a night out with friends.

12. Tacos Lupita

Tacos Lupita
5748 S 34th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417 (Google Maps)

Tacos Lupita is a hidden gem for authentic Mexican cuisine. The carne asada is tender and flavorful, served on perfectly toasted tortillas.

The homemade salsas are a must-try and the friendly staff make the dining experience enjoyable.

Don't be fooled by the exterior, the food is top-notch and worth a visit.

Prices are affordable, making it a great spot for a quick bite or a satisfying meal.

13. Manny's Tortas

Manny's Tortas
920 E Lake St #125, Minneapolis, MN 55407 (Google Maps)

Manny's Tortas is a must-visit for anyone who loves authentic Mexican tortas. With a great selection of meats to choose from, each sandwich is bursting with flavor.

The friendly customer service and quick service make dining-in or ordering online a breeze.

While the sandwiches may be on the smaller side, the price point is fair for the quality of the food.

Don't miss out on the Manny's Special Torta, a favorite among regulars. Manny's Tortas is a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner.

14. Taqueria Victor Hugo #2

Taqueria Victor Hugo #2
6020 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55419 (Google Maps)

Taqueria Victor Hugo #2 is a gas station restaurant that serves authentic Mexican food. The carne asada is tender and spiced well.

The tacos are generously filled with meat and the salsas are delicious. The condiment bar offers multiple kinds of hot sauces to choose from.

The food is reasonably priced and the service is friendly. The restaurant also offers a seating area for customers who want to dine in.

Don't let the gas station location fool you, this place serves up some of the best tacos in the Twin Cities.

15. Fuzzy's Taco Shop Taqueria

Fuzzy's Taco Shop Taqueria
701 N Washington Ave Ste #125, Minneapolis, MN 55401 (Google Maps)

Fuzzy's Taco Shop Taqueria is a modern counter-service chain that serves Baja-style tacos and other Mexican eats.

Their carne asada is a must-try and pairs well with their delicious margaritas. The staff is friendly and provides fast service.

The restaurant has a great outdoor patio with lawn games that add to the fun atmosphere.

Prices are reasonable, making it a great option for those on a budget. Fuzzy's Taco Shop Taqueria is a great place to grab a quick and tasty meal while on the go.

16. Salsa A La Salsa

Salsa A La Salsa
920 E Lake St #155, Minneapolis, MN 55407 (Google Maps)

Salsa A La Salsa is an excellent Mexican restaurant that offers a wide range of delicious dishes. The place is known for its flavorful carne asada, which is cooked to perfection and served with the right amount of spices.

The restaurant also has a wide selection of tasty drinks, including margaritas and hibiscus drinks.

The staff is very friendly and attentive, and they always make sure that the customers are satisfied with their food and drinks.

The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. If you are looking for a great place to enjoy some authentic Mexican food, Salsa A La Salsa is definitely worth a visit.

17. Taqueria y birrieria las cuatro milpas

Taqueria Y Birrieria Las Cuatro Milpas
1526 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55407 (Google Maps)

Taqueria y birrieria las cuatro milpas is a must-visit place for carne asada lovers. The restaurant offers authentic Mexican food at a reasonable price.

The staff is friendly and helpful, always ready to assist customers in making a decision. The portions are generous, and the food is delicious. The Birrieria Tacos and Consome' are a must-try.

The restaurant is clean, and the service is excellent. The waiting time is short, and the vibe is inviting. The quesabirria tacos are a crowd favorite and are highly recommended.

Whether you choose to dine in or take out, Taqueria y birrieria las cuatro milpas is a great place to satisfy your craving for carne asada.

18. Taqueria Mi Guanajuato

Taqueria Mi Guanajuato
3909 Minnehaha Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55406 (Google Maps)

Taqueria Mi Guanajuato is a top-notch Mexican restaurant that serves authentic and delicious carne asada.

The fast and friendly service is a plus, and the homemade hot sauce is a must-try. The steak burrito is highly recommended, and the gorditas are a unique and tasty treat.

Although online ordering for pickup is not available, the world-class food and friendly atmosphere make it worth the visit.

Taqueria Mi Guanajuato is a great option for anyone looking for excellent Mexican cuisine.

19. Valerie's Taqueria Inc

Valerie's Taqueria Inc
30 E 32nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55408 (Google Maps)

Valerie's Taqueria Inc is a Mexican restaurant that serves authentic and delicious carne asada. The street tacos are a must-try and come with multiple salsas on the side.

The staff is friendly and efficient, making it a great spot for a quick bite. The prices are also very reasonable, making it a great value for money.

The restaurant has a small counter seating area and is clean and well-maintained. In addition to carne asada, they also serve other types of tacos, sopes, tostadas, and churros.

If you're looking for great Mexican food, Valerie's Taqueria Inc is definitely worth a visit.