Carlitos Barbecue Taqueria Opens in Jersey City

Carlitos is now open on the top floor of Newport Centre Mall. Image courtesy of Carlitos Barbecue Taqueria.

A growing Mexican restaurant that started as a food truck along the Jersey City waterfront has returned home, as the team behind Carlitos Barbecue Taqueria just launched the latest outpost of its pit-smoked barbecue taco concept.

Situated within the Newport Centre’s food court, Carlitos offers a notable alternative to typical mall fare. The company’s first brick-and-mortar opened in the Westfield Garden State Plaza back in 2018, just about a year after they started operating their food cart in Jersey City.

Long-time residents might remember the Carlitos truck around Jersey City over the years. Image courtesy of Carlitos Barbecue Taqueria.

Founder Carlos Castillo’s original smoked Barbecue Taco concept evolved from a culinary journey rooted in his upbringing in New York City. His dream began with cookouts he led with his teenage friends in Queens, where he learned how good food brought people together.

Carlitos’ genesis is centered around traditional smoked Texas barbecue on hand-pressed nixtamal corn tortillas. Proteins to choose from include the brand’s pit-smoked brisket, pulled pork, carne asada, birria, crispy fish, or sweet plantains. A flavorful selection of salsas adds to the customization options.

Image courtesy of Carlitos Barbecue Taqueria.

Nachos and salads can also be personalized at Carlitos, as can their new bowls. Sides include guacamole and chips or esquites, while crispy churros filled with dulce de leche or chocolate highlight the desserts.

The space itself evokes the Mesoamerican heritage, with lively imagery and a welcoming vibe. Carlitos Newport store is now open daily on the top floor of the property, which is located at 30 Mall Drive.

Carlitos also operates another Jersey City location inside the District Kitchen complex at 210 Hudson Street that is open Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. The restaurant can be followed on Instagram at the handle @carlitos_tacos.