The Southwestern desert metropolitan is a hot spot for good Mexican food, it is actually hard to pinpoint the best Mexican restaurants in Phoenix, thanks to the abundance of superb places. For you, we have compiled 14 of the best authentic Mexican Restaurants in Phoenix AZ:
Restaurants on the Map
Table of Contents
Birrieria Obregon
$$
0720 W. Indian School Rd. Phoenix, AZ / 3134 W. Van Buren St. Phoenix, AZ / 2500 N. 35th. Ave. Phoenix, AZ.
+1 602 442 5142 / +1 602 455 9070
Website: https://birrieriaobregon.info/
Birrieria Obregon is a Mexican restaurant that serves some of the most delicious food you will ever try. Their birria dish is especially popular, offering an incredibly satisfying experience with every bite. They also serve up horchata, which is a must-try for anyone visiting this restaurant. If you’re looking to explore Mexican cuisine, then be sure to try the chilaquiles or huevos rancheros.
The restaurant can get quite busy, so you may want to arrive early to avoid waiting in line. But it is well worth the wait—especially when you taste their delicious red menudo! The staff at Birrieria Obregon are also very friendly and helpful, making your experience even more enjoyable. So if you’re looking for a great Mexican restaurant with mouth-watering food, be sure to check out Birrieria Obregon. You won’t regret it!
La Santisima
$$
4117 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85016
+1 602 254 6330
Website: https://lasantisimagourmet.com
If you are keen on pleasing your palate and eyesight, La Santisima is a good choice. Not only that they serve the best gourmet taco, but you will also be pleased with a series of Calavera paintings (the infamous Mexican skull art) decorating their vibrant walls.
This authentic Mexican restaurant in Phoenix AZ is committed to serving non-greasy, fresh Mexican cuisine. They are famous for their gluten-free gourmet taco and exceptional salsa bar, especially the peanut salsa. Bonus point for vegans, this restaurant offers quite extensive vegan-friendly menu choices.
Mi Patio
$
3347 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85013
+1 602 277 4831
Website: http://www.mipatioaz.com/
Looking for best cheap Mexican food in Phoenix with great margarita? Mi Patio is definitely the answer. You can spend around $25 and still return home with left over to enjoy later on. Even better, their margaritas are something to die for. Margarita prices range from $3.19-8, depending on the type and size.
Apart from serving delightful and affordable margaritas, apparently Mi Patio is also a spinach magician. Their spinach feta chimi and spinach enchilada are definitely worth trying. Their burro and Greek-inspired gyro are also good alternatives.
Not only that their food are great and affordable, their service is also exceptional. Fast, friendly, and satisfactory.
Gallo Blanco
$$
928 E Pierce St, Phoenix, AZ 85006
+1 602 327 0880
Website: https://galloblancocafe.com
“Good ingredients make good food” is the principle held dear by Gallo Blanco. Their commitment to use locally grown products to the table ensures the food quality. Doug Robson, owner and chef of the restaurant, cultivated his passion and expertise in Mexican cuisine from his upbringing in Mexico City.
This cafe-slash-bar is arguably everybody’s favorite brunch place in the Phoenix city area. However, if you want the best Sunday brunch experience, it is advised to make a reservation in advance. Gallo Blanco hosts a high volume of customers every weekend brunch time.
If you visit this place, give their pancake and corn cob a try. The bar also provides excellent service with a wide variety of beverages and a friendly bartender.
Don Jose Mexican Food
$
3734 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018
Website: https://donjosemexicanfood.com
Every town has that one restaurant that gained its fame and legendary status passed down from word of mouth generation to generation. Don Jose is that kind of restaurant to the Phoenix folks. Established in the 1960s, Don Jose Mexican Food maintains their status as one of the most authentic Mexican restaurants in Phoenix AZ.
This is also where you can find the best cheap Mexican food in Phoenix. You can get a full meal item starting from around $10-12. They serve the good old fulfilling, homey Mexican food. The highlighted menu item is their smoked meat (smoked chicken, pork, beef).
The only downside of this place is their cash-only payment. But worry not, they have an ATM installed in the restaurant, so if you are short of cash, you can withdraw on site.
The Original Carolina’s Mexican Food
$
1202 E Mohave St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
Website: Carolinasmex.com
What is better than a cheap, good old greasy, Texan-sized, luscious Mexican food? Nothing! This is what The Original Carolina’s Mexican Food is about. With rich, filling, generous portions, this is definitely a place where you can find the best cheap Mexican food in Phoenix. You can even buy tacos by the dozen here.
Located in the valley, The Original Carolina’s easily find ways to everyone’s heart through their five-star Oaxaca special and green chili burrito. Their well-rounded service covers dine-in, delivery, and takeaway. Sadly, this place does not open on Sundays, but any other days of the week are perfect to visit.
Taco Guild
$$
546 E Osborn Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Website: Tacoguild.com
Taco Guild is a taco heaven housed in a former church building with chandeliers and color-stained glass. Offering a wide selection of tacos, this place is number one when it comes to menu variety. Here, you can have every taco you could imagine: from lamb taco to lobster taco, all at its prime quality.
Not satisfied with their taco selections? Take a sip of their frozen margarita, or try the favorite cherry-braised steak. Another highlight from the menu includes street-style corn on the cob and duck taco.
They have happy hour everyday from 2pm-6pm and Taco Tuesday, well, every Tuesday. Overall, this place has something for everyone, so much so that their relatively small parking space can not contain the vast amount of customers arriving daily.
Cocina Madrigal Tacos + Tequila
$$
4044 S 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85040
Website: https://www.cocinamadrigal.com
Cocina Madrigal Tacos + Tequila gained fame from its proximity to the airport. Located only around 7 minutes away from the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, this place is traveler’s favorite stop by spot for some Mexican delicacies.
If you visited Cocina Madrigal Tacos + Tequila, give their beef tenderloin tacos a shot. This menu item is highest in the recommendation list. Otherwise, their mushroom enchilada, tropical fish taco, and elote (grilled corn) are also good alternatives. But do not forget to save some space for the cream pie for dessert, as it is rated 5 stars by customers.
Comedor Guadalajara
$$
1830 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Website: https://www.comedorguadalajara.com
Established over 50 years ago, Comedor Guadalajara started as a family business. Nowadays, it has become a legendary Mexican restaurant in Phoenix.
They specialize in Sonoran-style Mexican food, marked with hearty meaty features. Additionally, the name Guadalajara refers to a city in the western part of Mexico, famous for beans-based foods and hearty tortas (sandwich) submerged in chili-based sauce.
Comedor Guadalajara is also a go-to place if you love seafood. They have, perhaps, the most extensive seafood-combined-Mexican menu in this list. They serve shrimp tacos, tilapia pescado, and even octopus. But, one should never leave Comedor Guadalajara without trying their best-selling Parrilladas, abondigas, and machaca.
Rosita’s Place
$
2310 E McDowell Rd, Phoenix, AZ
Website: Rositasplace.com
This restaurant has been a part of Phoenix landscape for more than 60 years and is currently being run by the 2nd generation of its founder. Having a reputation as the best authentic Mexican restaurant in Phoenix, this valley gem is everybody’s favorite place to go whenever they crave good, pocket-friendly Mexican food.
Their menudo and chile relleno are must-tries. Or, you may also try their machaca, which has been crowned as some of the best in the valley. If you are a fan of green chillies, their green salsa and green chile surely will not disappoint.
Apart from serving food on site, they also do catering service. So, whenever you need some Mexican spice-up for your parties, Rosita’s Place is only one call away.
Joyride Taco House Central
$$
5202 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ
It is hard to beat the modern-vibrant vibe of Joyride Taco House Central. This is the place to go if you want a good bar atmosphere. They also have a cool patio if you prefer chilling outside.
They have superb prices for happy hour, which reigns before 5 pm, when you can get tacos and margaritas for half the price. Alternatively, you can go on Taco Tuesday, when menu items are sold at discounted price all day.
If you are up for some groovy margaritas, Joyride Taco House Central has your back. Their cucumber serrano pepper margarita received upstanding commentary, as well as the blood orange margarita.
La Piñata Mexican Food Restaurant
$$
5521 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ
What is better than a burrito? A deep-fried burrito, a.k.a chimichanga. If you are a fan of good old Tex-Mex style Mexican food, rest assured, you will love La Piñata. They serve glossy, tasty, fulfilling chimichanga that reminds you of Grandma’s cooking. Ask every Phoenician, where is the best chimi? Everybody will definitely answer La Piñata.
La Piñata is also one of the best Mexican restaurants in Phoenix where you can enjoy authentic Sonoran style chow while being soothed by the crackling sounds of a fireplace (yes, they have a fireplace). Overall, the decor provides a good ambient vibe yet still vibrant and Mexican-y.
Customers have left five star reviews on their machaca chimichanga, cheese crisp, and green chili chimi. Next time you stop by La Piñata, those menu items are worth the try.
Los Dos Molinos
$$
1044 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85014
8646 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042
Website: Losdosmolinosphoenix.com
This restaurant is so successful, they are open in two places in Phoenix: one on Camelback Road and one on Central Avenue. Named after their great grandmother’s chile grinder (‘molinos’), this restaurant has been running for about thirty years.
If you are a Southwesterner who love Mexican food, dining in Los Dos Molinos would be a sweet trip back home. They take their New Mexican specialty very seriously, so there is no such thing as a ‘mild spicy’, as they only use New Mexico chile–which is quite powerful.
Los Dos Molinos outdone everyone else with their adovada. This menu item is all-time favorite, followed by shredded beef, garlic roasted pork, and green chile stew.
Valle Luna
$$
3336 W Bell Rd, Phoenix, AZ
+1 602-993-3108
1648 N Cave Creek Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85032
+1 602-867-9100
Website: https://valleluna.com
Valle Luna, literally translates to ‘moon valley’, was established by Tia Rita, an acclaimed Sonoran-style Mexican cook. In 1983, she and her family set up the original Valle Luna on West Bell Road. Now, they have the second establishment on North Cave Creek Road.
This is a great place if you want to get a good custom-filled chimichanga with meats and beans of your choice. Their cheese crisps and Oli’s Mexican pizza are well-known as some of the best in the valley. For a reduced happy hour price, come before 7.30 PM and on Wednesdays to discover rousing daily specials. Come here to get the best Mexican Food in Phoenix.
Tempe City Tacos
$
119 E SOUTHERN AVE, TEMPE, AZ 85282
480-967-8226
Diving right into the heart of Phoenix’s Mexican cuisine scene, Tempe City Tacos stands out not just for their tacos, but for a dish that’s wrapped in flavor and comfort – their burritos. Taking cues from the enthusiasts at Femalefoodies.com, the California burrito here is the embodiment of comfort food. Stuffed generously with carne asada, fried potatoes, pico de gallo, cheese, and guacamole, it’s a harmonious dance of flavors in every bite.
But that’s not where the burrito journey ends. The fried shrimp burrito offers a sea-inspired twist, while the chorizo breakfast burrito brings in morning delights irrespective of the time of day, given that it’s served all day long. If you’re looking to elevate the experience even further, their house-made salsas are the way to go. While all their salsas are crafted with passion, the tomatillo salsa brings in a tangy punch, and for those who love a good kick, the avocado jalapeno salsa is sure to satisfy.
In a city that’s brimming with Mexican offerings, Tempe City Tacos solidifies its position with its commitment to flavors and its undying love for crafting the best burritos in town. Don’t just take our word for it; drop by and indulge in their culinary wonders for yourself
Mariscos Playa Hermosa
$$
1605 E GARFIELD ST, PHOENIX, AZ 85006
Website: https://www.mariscosplayahermosa.com/
602-462-1563
When imagining Arizona, sprawling deserts and iconic cacti may come to mind. But, Mariscos Playa Hermosa will transport you straight to the coastal regions with their spectacular seafood offerings, making you momentarily disregard the desert sands of Phoenix. It’s a testament to their prowess that they can make such authentic seafood dishes in a landlocked state.
Their extensive menu is a journey through the vast oceans, providing seafood lovers with a multitude of delightful choices. But if you’re in the mood to sample a bit of everything, the molcajete with green sauce, as suggested by Femalefoodies.com, is an impeccable choice. This culinary spectacle boasts a harmonious mix of grilled shrimp, fried fish, carne asada, and chicken, all sumptuously drenched in a mouthwatering tomatillo lime sauce. It’s a feast not only for the palate but also for the eyes. Plus, the generous portion ensures that you can share it with a companion and yet, you might find some delicious morsels remaining.
So, if you’re looking to escape the desert heat and dive into oceanic delights, make your way to Mariscos Playa Hermosa. The flavors here will not only satisfy your seafood cravings but will also remind you of the vastness and diversity of Mexican cuisine
Ta’Carbon The Real Mexican Grill #2
$$
2929 N 43RD AVE, PHOENIX, AZ 85019
Website: http://tacarbon.com/
(602) 682-7701
When one thinks of pristine, classic Mexican fare, Ta’Carbon stands out as a shining beacon in Phoenix’s culinary landscape. Recognized by Femalefoodies.com and many ardent Mexican food enthusiasts, this establishment takes pride in serving what is arguably the finest carne asada in town.
At Ta’Carbon, simplicity is the essence. Tacos here are served in their most elemental form, letting the flavors of the meat take center stage. Just tortillas and meticulously seasoned and cooked meat – it’s a culinary symphony in every bite. Though the meat alone is a gastronomic experience, patrons are encouraged to enhance their tacos by visiting the bountiful salsa bar. Here, you can adorn your meal with crisp onions, fresh cilantro, tangy limes, and a variety of salsas, each imparting its own unique flavor profile to the already delightful tacos.
Among their star-studded menu, the carne asada is a must-try. For those looking to elevate their taco experience, the “Hazz taco” is a treat. It comprises the signature carne asada topped with zesty green chilis and gooey melted cheese. And to complement this hearty meal, a cup of their refreshing horchata is highly recommended.
Though Ta’Carbon often sees a line of eager customers, fret not; the line progresses at a brisk pace. The establishment is efficiently set up with designated areas for ordering and payment, so do keep an eye out for signs to ensure a seamless experience.
All in all, Ta’Carbon is more than just a restaurant; it’s a testament to the timeless beauty of traditional Mexican cuisine. Every visit is a promise of authenticity, flavor, and memories to cherish
Casa Corazon
$$
2637 N 16TH ST, PHOENIX, AZ 85006
Website: https://casacorazonrestaurant.com/
602-334-1917
In the thriving food landscape of Phoenix, where many establishments compete for the title of the best chips and salsa, Casa Corazon reigns supreme in the eyes of many. Femalefoodies.com can’t stop raving about their extensive salsa bar, and for a good reason. Offering a staggering ten varieties of salsa, all crafted in-house on a daily basis, they not only cover all the beloved traditional flavors but also venture into creative territories with unique concoctions like cucumber, serrano, and pineapple. It’s a salsa lover’s paradise.
However, the prowess of Casa Corazon doesn’t end at the salsa bar. As tantalizing as their salsas are, diners are advised to maintain some restraint and save room for the main courses, which are nothing short of culinary masterpieces.
Their enchiladas are notably exceptional, widely recognized as the finest in the valley. The luscious red sauce enveloping these enchiladas is so exquisite; it’s practically worth its weight in gold. But if you’re in the mood for a taco experience that redefines convention, Casa Corazon’s tacos de canasta al vapor are a must-try. These beef and cheese delights, drenched and steamed in a robust red chili sauce, offer an explosion of flavor in every bite. The tortilla, soaked in the sauce, turns incredibly flavorful, resulting in a taco that’s so rich and laden with goodness, you’ll need a fork to navigate its depths.
A visit to Casa Corazon is not just a meal; it’s a journey through the heart (corazon) of authentic Mexican cuisine, where every dish reflects passion, tradition, and innovation. Whether you’re a salsa enthusiast or someone seeking a memorable main course, this place promises an experience that’ll linger in your heart and taste buds
Barrio Cafe
$$
1205, 2814 N 16TH ST, PHOENIX, AZ 85006
Website: https://www.barriocafe.com/
602-636-0240
Barrio Cafe, having already won accolades from femalefoodies.com and numerous patrons, effortlessly secures its spot among Phoenix’s finest Mexican dining establishments. A significant chunk of the love and admiration directed towards this culinary gem revolves around its renowned tableside guacamole – an experience in itself that has left countless diners mesmerized.
However, pigeonholing Barrio Cafe as just a guacamole hotspot would be a disservice to their diverse and innovative menu. Take, for instance, the quesadilla borrachaan, a tantalizing open-faced shrimp quesadilla that boasts a thick, house-made tortilla base that elevates the dish’s taste and texture to celestial heights.
Yet, it’s the queso fundido at Barrio that is nothing short of legendary. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill queso dip. At Barrio, the queso fundido is a celebration of flavors and textures. Crafted with a symphony of cheeses, including the rich tanginess of goat cheese, it’s further enriched with a lavish dose of cream. Layered with chorizo, pico de gallo, avocado, mushrooms, and spinach, each bite promises an explosion of flavor. The accompanying spicy salsa verde ensures that this dish remains etched in your memory long after the last bite.
Every dish at Barrio Cafe narrates a tale of culinary craftsmanship, authenticity, and innovation. While every offering is an invitation to indulge, the queso fundido stands as a testament to Barrio’s ability to turn a classic dish into a culinary masterpiece, making it a must-visit on any Phoenix food journey.
Tacos Chiwas
$$
1028 E INDIAN SCHOOL RD, PHOENIX, AZ 85014
Website: http://www.tacoschiwas.com/
(602) 358-8830
Tacos Chiwas, one of the mexican restaurants phoenix, has established itself as a pivotal landmark on Phoenix’s Mexican culinary scene. While the restaurant’s name might suggest a singular specialty, their menu goes beyond mere tacos, presenting a delicious array of authentic offerings. Femalefoodies.com and numerous patrons rave about their visits, testifying to the restaurant’s unwavering consistency in taste and quality.
One can’t help but marvel at their tacos – true embodiments of Mexican authenticity. The asada and pastor tacos certainly do justice to their traditional counterparts. However, it’s their pollo taco that often steals the limelight. Seasoned grilled chicken harmoniously combined with pickled red onions and a dollop of cilantro crema creates a blend that can only be described as ‘heaven in a tortilla’.
But why stop at tacos? Tacos Chiwas offers gorditas that deserve equal attention. A soft masa shell acts as a vessel for a delightful mix of potatoes and beans. The choice of red or green shredded beef acts as the pièce de résistance, providing that extra layer of flavor and texture.
In terms of value, Tacos Chiwas stands as a testament to the belief that quality doesn’t always demand a hefty price tag. With unbeatable prices for the caliber of dishes they serve, it’s no wonder they are often hailed as one of Phoenix’s finest Mexican restaurants.
Taco Chelo
$$
501 E ROOSEVELT ST, PHOENIX, AZ 85004
Website: https://tacochelo.com/
(602) 368-5316
In the vibrant culinary scene of Phoenix, Taco Chelo has ascended to an almost legendary status, having clinched the top spot on femalefoodies.com‘s guide to the best Mexican restaurants in Phoenix. This commendation alone paints a vivid picture of the culinary artistry and authenticity the establishment brings to the table.
The brilliance of Taco Chelo lies not just in the expansive range of their offerings but the perfection they achieve in every dish on their deliberately concise menu. While every taco is a symphony of flavors, it’s the costra taco that has gained a near cult-like following. This carne asada taco, generously layered with cheese and embellished with caramelized onion, serves as a testament to the restaurant’s ability to craft iconic dishes. The melding of the juicy carne asada with the gooey cheese and the sweetness of the caramelized onion makes for a sensory delight unlike any other.
But the magic doesn’t stop at the tacos. A side of crisply fried chips accompanied by their zesty salsa and luxuriously creamy guacamole acts as the perfect complement to the main course. To round off this fiesta of flavors, a sip of their house-made horchata provides a refreshing and sweet counterpoint, ensuring a truly holistic dining experience.
Filibertos Mexican Food
$
4201 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85013, United States
Website: https://www.filibertos.com
602-266-3454
Filiberto’s stands out as a beacon of authentic Mexican fast food in the Southwest. Renowned for its scrumptious late-night offerings and prompt service, it masterfully blends convenience with tradition. The chain, characterized by its modest settings, ensures that despite the quick service nature of its operations, there’s no compromise on the quality and flavor of its dishes.
Evoking nostalgia for the vibrant street food stalls of Mexico, Filiberto’s offers a range of dishes that promise a genuine taste of Mexican heritage. From the hearty carne asada burritos to sizzling fajitas and richly-filled tacos, each item on the menu is meticulously crafted to provide an authentic experience. It’s this dedication to tradition and flavor that has made Filiberto’s a cherished spot for both locals and visitors alike.
Conclusion
There are so many places to choose when it comes to Mexican food in Phoenix. Everything from a humble, hearty homey restaurants to starred fancy taco bars, Phoenix has it for you. You will never have a hard time finding authentic Mexican restaurants in Phoenix AZ.
Indulge in Phoenix’s multicultural culinary offerings by exploring our comprehensive guide, ‘Taste the World in Phoenix: A Culinary Journey Through the City’s International Cuisine‘.
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