Chela’s y Carnitas and Rainbow Desserts

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 won't regret it.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Good food and great service. The hand made tortillas are super good.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

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 enjoyed a meal

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 1

Service: 4

The food is authentic Mexican food. It was fresh and delicious. The staffs were attentive and friendly.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Best carnitas between LA and Vegas

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Tacos, Burritos

The food is delicious! They make fresh handmade tortillas. The Staff is incredibly nice. We ordered carnitas burritos and were super delicious! Highly recommend this place!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Texans driving to Cali!

Very Friendly staff. We were greeted with chicharrones while we waited for our food. We had the special which was a lot of food and perfect for a family of 4. Tortillas were hot and freshly made. Carnitas we moist and tasty! The nopalitos were wow! Aguas frescas were delicious. Will definetly come back if we drive through the area again!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Friendly service, tacos al Pastor were like they are in Mexico, asada burrito was a generous portion with juicy meat, melty cheese and beans.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

Small place with awesome customer service oriented staff. Cesar greeted us as we walked in the cozy establishment and took care of our to-go order. We live in Vegas and were driving home from LA. Some of the BEST Carnitas I've have. It's worth the small detour from the 15 fwy.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Wow, we were so impressed! I didn’t see any vegetarian options on the menu but I asked if they could make me a veggie burrito and it was the best one I’ve ever had. They also gave my baby her first tortilla and she agrees it’s delicious. Definitely worth a stop if you’re in the area.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Burritos

Very Tasty !!! Recommend 💯!!

This place is horrible they give raspados with very light vainilla they do not look like the picture. And the lady had a very bad attitude. And she came outside and told the kids to get off the chairs from outside cuz she needed to put them inside.

Great spot for Mexican comfort food. We were passing through Barstow and found this place and gave it a try and it was a great decision. We tried Doña Chela's Cartinas pack, beans and rice are delicious, comes with hand made tortillas, nopalitos salsa, your choice of cartinas or a mix of buche, cueritos, and masisa which is what we had and made for some great tasting tacos. The green chile gorditas are delicious and very filling. Great experience, kids loved the asada quesadilla. It was a very good lunch stop, will return when we come through again.

Carse asada were good. Hamd made tortillas. The chicharrón taco was not. The chicharron was not cooked enough. All the other food looks great.

No A/C.
Food good, service good.