Recent Seattle Carnitas Experiences

• El Rinconsito in Burien: akin to San Diego Mexican food, I had one of almost everything: two tacos, a burrito, a quesadilla, and taquitos. Far too much food. The carnitas was quite good, the beans could have had more flavor but across the board it was a uniquely authentic Mexican experience, especially for Seattle, and I would happily go back again and again. Horchata galore!
  
• Bandoleone in Fremont: recently moved here from their previous Eastlake location, their carnitas is tender, juicy and delicious and is served with three different sauces including a habanero ketchup and tortillas on the side. I would love to eat two bowls of this daily, but recognize that as an unhealthy approach.
  
• La Puerta on 45th near UW: can't find anything on this place online, used to be called Taqueria Morelia, it is right next to the enormous bank on N 45th, and looks absolutely filthy from the outside, but the food is great. Carnitas is high-qual, tacos are also excellent.

If I had to recommend only one of the above it would be Bandoleone. They also have a fabulous Drunken Mussels dish which includes bits of chorizo floating in the sauce, mmm, the more pork fat, the better.

Mexican Pork Preparation Especial

Otherwise known as Pork Surprise:

http://www.batista.org/carnit.html

"Since the recipe is very simple and does not involve any chili sauces everyone likes carnitas."