The Ultimate Guide to the 27 Best Tacos in Phoenix

Laura Williams

Photo by Deborah Rainford on Unsplash

If you’re looking for the best tacos in Phoenix, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll show you where to find the tastiest tacos in town. No matter what your preference, there’s a taco spot in Phoenix that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. So let’s get started!

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Ta Carbon

Ta Carbon
Ta Carbon – Photo Source

2929 N 43rd Ave, Phoenix

602-682-7701

https://tacarbon.com/

Opens daily 10 AM-10 PM, Saturdays till 11 PM

If you’re looking for a delicious taco that’s packed with flavor, look no further than Ta Carbon. This westside restaurant offers up some of the best carne asada tacos in town. The meat is cooked over mesquite, giving it a smoky flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. So if you’re in the mood for something truly special, be sure to check out Ta Carbon.

Tacos Chiwas

Tacos Chiwas
Tacos Chiwas – Photo Source

1028 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix

602-358-8830

https://www.tacoschiwas.com/

Opens daily 10 AM-9 PM, Sundays till 4 PM

Looking for something a little different? Tacos Chiwas offers unique takes on traditional Mexican tacos. The menu features items such as the Sonoran hot dog taco and the chicharron taco. And don’t forget to try the house-made salsas!

Backyard Taco

Backyard Taco
Backyard Taco – Photo Source

1524 E University Dr, Mesa

480-464-8226

https://backyardtaco.com

Opens daily 10 AM-10 PM, Sundays closed

If you’re looking for an up-and-coming taco joint in the Phoenix area, Backyard Taco is worth checking out. Owners Ruben and Maricella Alvarez hail from the coastal city of Mazatlán, but rather than opting for the famous mariscos for which their hometown’s known, they mastered the art of mesquite grilling. With two locations in Mesa and one in Gilbert, Backyard Taco has some stellar carne asada — but it’s their smoky and tender Pollo Asada tacos that make them the best in the East Valley. So if you’re looking for a tasty taco option that’s a little off the beaten path, checkout Backyard Taco.

Cocina 10 at Crescent Ballroom

Cocina 10 at Crescent Ballroom
Cocina 10 at Crescent Ballroom – Photo Source

308 N 2nd Ave, Phoenix

602-716-2222

https://crescentphx.com/cocina-10-kitchen/

If you’re looking for some of the best tacos in all of Phoenix, look no further than Cocina 10 at Crescent Ballroom. This downtown Phoenix hotspot offers Mexican cuisine that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate, with dishes like barbacoa, al pastor, and fish tacos. And be sure to ask for their molcajete salsa – it’s always perfectly mixed and has just the right amount of kick.

La Santisima

La Santisima
La Santisima – Photo Source

1919 N 16th St, Phoenix,

602-254-6330

https://lasantisimagourmet.com

Opens daily 11 AM-9 PM, Friday and Saturday till 11 PM

La Santisima is definitely worth checking out for its unique taco experience. This restaurant offers a wide variety of regional Mexican dishes, so there’s something for everyone. The tacos here are especially delicious and include options like the Andalucia, with potato and chorizo, the Baja Sur dogfish shark taco, or some surprisingly impressive vegan and vegetarian options like La Condesa, with poblano and mushrooms. No matter what you order, you’re sure to enjoy your meal at La Santisima.

Carolina’s Mexican Food

Carolina's Mexican Food
Carolina’s Mexican Food – Photo Source

1202 E Mohave St, Phoenix

602-252-1503

https://www.carolinasmex.com/

Opens daily 7 AM-5 PM, closed on Sundays

Carolina’s has been serving up some of the best tacos in Phoenix for more than 60 years, and good reason. Their shredded beef, chicken, and machaca tacos are all delicious and perfectly seasoned, and their homemade tortillas are simply unbeatable. So if you’re looking for an amazing Mexican food experience, be sure to stop by Carolina’s. You won’t be disappointed!

Pepe’s Taco Villa

Pepe’s Taco Villa
Pepe’s Taco Villa – Photo Source

2108 W. Camelback Road, Phoenix

602-242-0379

Opens weekdays 10 AM-8 PM, Friday and Saturday till 9 PM, Sundays till 4 PM, closed on Mondays

Pepe’s Taco Villa has been a west Phoenix staple for decades, serving up some of the best tacos in the city. The restaurant offers both crispy and soft tacos, filled with traditional meats like chicken, shrimp, pork carnitas, carne asada, and barbacoa. But for something truly unique, try the Monterrey taco, which is filled with Machado (dried beef), scrambled egg, chile, tomato, and onions, or the Siberia taco, made with chicken, guacamole, and sour cream. Pepe’s is a must-try for any taco lover visiting Phoenix.

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Barrio Cafe

Barrio Cafe
Barrio Cafe – Photo Source

2814 N 16th St #1205, Phoenix

602-636-0240

https://www.barriocafe.com/

Opens daily 11 AM-9 PM, Fri. & Sat. ’till 10 PM

Barrio Cafe is the go-to place for an unforgettable taco experience. Owned by James Beard Award-winner Silvana Salcido Esparza, Barrio Cafe offers a unique take on Mexican cuisine, with dishes like chiles en nogada — a traditional stuffed poblanos dish — and Tecate-battered fish tacos. Salcido Esparza’s commitment to using local, seasonal ingredients has made Barrio Cafe a favorite among locals and visitors alike. And her focus on southern Mexican cuisine means you’ll find flavors and dishes here that you won’t find at other Mexican restaurants in the Valley. If you’re looking for the best tacos in Phoenix, you can’t go wrong with Barrio Cafe.

Taco Chelo

Taco Chelo
Taco Chelo – Photo Source

501 E Roosevelt St, Phoenix, AZ 85004

602-368-5316

https://tacochelo.com

It Opens from 11 AM-to 10 pm on Sun. – Thurs, Friday and Saturdays open till midnight

Taco Chelo is a restaurant that knows how to do tacos right. Located in trendy Roosevelt Row in downtown Phoenix, this eatery offers classic favorites like carne asada tacos, as well as more unique options like barbacoa tacos. And don’t forget to order a side of frijoles a la charra or chicharrones – they’re the perfect accompaniment to any taco dish.

Taco Guild 

Taco Guild
Taco Guild – Photo Source

546 E. Osborn Road, Phoenix

602-264-4143

https://www.tacoguild.com/

Opens daily 11 AM–10 PM, Fri & Sat until 11 PM

If you’re looking for a unique taco experience, Taco Guild is the place to be. This Phoenix restaurant is housed inside the historic Bethel Methodist Church, which was built in 1893. Here, you can enjoy Old World and New World tacos, both of which are sure to please your taste buds. Some of our favorite Old World tacos include the al pastor pork and the coffee-braised beef. And for a taste of the New World, we recommend the chipotle cherry steak or the Peking duck. So whether you’re a fan of Old World or New World tacos, Taco Guild has something for you. Stop by today and see for yourself!

Blanco Cocina + Cantina

Blanco Cocina + Cantina
Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Photo Source

2502 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix

602-429-8000

https://www.blancotacostequila.com/

Opens daily 11 AM-9 PM, Friday and Saturday till 10 PM

If you’re looking for a high-end taco experience, look no further than Blanco Tacos and Tequila. This Phoenix favorite offers up some of the most delicious tacos around, from the grilled Mahi to the crispy shrimp to the Baja chicken. And because you deserve it, indulge in an after-taco dessert, including brown sugar caramel flan or the tres leches cake.

Atoyac Estilo Oaxaca

Atoyac Estilo Oaxaca
Atoyac Estilo Oaxaca – Photo Source

1830 W. Glendale Ave., Phoenix

602-246-1111

http://places.singleplatform.com/atoyac/menu

Opens daily 10 AM-9 PM, closed on Sundays

If you’re looking for an authentic taco experience, look no further than Atoyac Estilo Oaxaca. This small west side restaurant has been a favorite of local taco lovers for years, thanks to its delicious selection of tacos, tamales, and quesadillas. And while the restaurant has gone through a few changes in ownership over the years, it’s still going strong thanks to its loyal following.

Chico Malo 

Chico Malo
Chico Malo – Photo Source

50 W. Jefferson St., Phoenix

602-603-9363

https://www.chicomalo.com/phoenix

Opens daily 11 AM-9 PM, Fri & Sat till midnight

For a taco with some attitude, Chico Malo is the place to go. This hip spot in downtown Phoenix offers a South American-inspired menu, featuring fresh and local ingredients. Some of the taco offerings include Diablo shrimp, made with cabbage, avocado crèma, and Criolla salsa; al pastor, made with marinated pork, pineapple, cotija cheese, and pickled Fresno chiles; and crispy avocado, featuring corn fondue, pickled cabbage, radish, cucumber salsa, and cotija. No matter which taco you choose, you can be sure it will pack a flavorful punch.

Tacos Jalisco

3060 N 68th St, Scottsdale

480-941-9095

http://places.singleplatform.com/tacos-jalisco/menu

Opens daily 8 AM-10 PM

If you’re looking for a no-frills taco experience, Tacos Jalisco is the spot for you. This traditional taqueria has been a neighborhood favorite in Scottsdale since 1996, thanks to the Reyes family’s delicious carne asada tacos. The standout taste is thanks to the red adobo salsa in which they’re cooked, though the family has refused to reveal their secret recipe.

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El Chullo Peruvian Restaurant

El Chullo Peruvian Restaurant
El Chullo Peruvian Restaurant – Photo Source

2605 N 7th St, Phoenix

602-279-8425

https://www.elchullorestaurant.com/

Opens weekdays 11 AM-9 PM, weekends 9 AM-9 PM

If you’re in the mood for Peruvian food, El Chullo is the place to go. This bistro offers traditional Peruvian dishes with a modern twist. The tacu tacu taco is a must-try, featuring seared steak, beans, and rice all wrapped up in a soft shell taco.

Sonora Taco Shop

Sonora Taco Shop
Sonora Taco Shop –

1009 S. 7th St., Phoenix

602-252-2795

https://www.sonoratacoshopphoenix.com/

Opens daily 10 AM-9 PM, closed on Sundays

For some of the best tacos in Phoenix, Sonora Taco Shop is the place to head to. This no-frills, hole-in-the-wall restaurant offers simple but delicious tacos made with your choice of carne asada, chicken, or al pastor. The meat is grilled to perfection and served hot off the grill in a flour or corn tortilla. So if you’re looking for some good old-fashioned Mexican tacos, Sonora Taco Shop is the place to go.

La Frontera Comida Mexicana

La Frontera Comida Mexicana
La Frontera Comida Mexicana – Photo Source

209 N. 16th St, Phoenix

602-434-8867

http://www.lafronterafoodtrucks.com/

Open daily 8:30 AM–12:45 AM on weekdays, weekends 8:30 AM–1:45 AM

If you’re looking for some of the best tacos in Phoenix, look no further than La Frontera Comida Mexicana. This food truck and restaurant offers up some of the most delicious tacos in the city, with fillings that include everything from carne asada to carnitas to el pastor. Plus, the atmosphere is perfect for enjoying a plate of tacos – it’s like eating them right on the street! So if you’re in the mood for some of the best Mexican food in town, be sure to check out La Frontera.

Crujiente Tacos

Sonora Taco Shop
Sonora Taco Shop – Photo Source

3961 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix

602-887-7777

https://www.crutacos.com/

Opens daily 4 PM-10 PM, Fridays & Saturday -11PM, closed on Sundays

Arcadia’s Crujiente Tacos is a restaurant that takes tacos to a whole new level. Chef Richard Hinojosa creates new and inventive versions of tacos that no one else is doing, like the Texas wagyu cap steak, Korean fried chicken, and grilled summer squash. The restaurant has even created a dessert taco, which is the perfect end to a perfect meal. If you’re looking for an amazing taco experience, Crujiente Tacos is the place to go.

Ladera Taverna y Cocina

Ladera Taverna y Cocina
Ladera Taverna y Cocina – Photo Source

8729 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix

602-606-2258

https://laderaphx.com

Opens weekdays 3-10 PM, weekends 10 AM-10 PM, Mondays closed

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy some delicious tacos in Phoenix, Ladera Taverna y Cocina is the spot for you. This north-central neighborhood spot offers an expansive outdoor patio and a wide variety of tasty taco options. From the traditional al pastor tacos to more modern twists like the pineapple slaw, there’s something for everyone at Ladera. And because tacos always taste better with a cold drink in hand, the cocktail menu is sure to please. So next time you’re in the mood for some tacos, be sure to check out Ladera Taverna y Cocina.

Los Taquitos

Los Taquitos
Los Taquitos – Photo Source

7000 N. 16th St., Phoenix

602-371-0111

https://www.lostaquitosaz.com/

Opens daily 9AM-8PM

If you’re looking for some of the best tacos in Phoenix, you need to check out Los Taquitos. This Mexican restaurant has been featured on several TV shows, thanks to the amazing food they serve. The tacos here are some of the best around, and there are plenty of different options to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for chicken, beef, shrimp, or even veggies, Los Taquitos has you covered. So if you’re looking for a great meal and some delicious tacos, this is the place to go!

Asadero Toro

Asadero Toro
Asadero Toro – Photo Source

1715 W. McDowell Road, Phoenix

602-340-9310

http://asaderotoro.com/

Opens daily 10 AM-10 PM

If you’re looking for an all-you-can-eat taco experience, head to Asadero Toro in Phoenix. This restaurant is known for its massive variety of tacos, all of which are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for steak, barbacoa, or chicken, Asadero Toro has you covered. And if that’s not enough, be sure to try one of their delicious specialty tacos, like the lengua (tongue) or Cabeza (cow head) tacos. Wash it all down with a cold horchata or Mexican soda and you’ll be stuffed – in the best way possible!

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Mariscos Ensenada #3

Mariscos Ensenada #3
Mariscos Ensenada #3 – Photo Source

3242 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix

(602) 353-8880

http://ordermariscosensenada3.com/

Mon – Thur 9AM-9PM, Fri – Sun 9AM-10PM

Seafood tacos that will take your taste buds on a wild ride are found at Mariscos Ensenada. This Mexican restaurant has four locations throughout Phoenix, and each one offers a unique and delicious seafood taco. The shrimp Gobernador is a must-try, with its shrimp, bell peppers, tomato sauce, and cheese. So if you’re in the mood for some tacos that are out of this world, Mariscos Ensenada is the perfect spot.

Tacos Huichol

Tacos Huichol
Tacos Huichol – Photo Source

3831 E Thunderbird Rd, Phoenix

602-404-7545

http://www.tacoshuicho.com/

Opens daily 9 AM-8 PM

Phoenix’s Tacos Huicho is known for its delicious al pastor tacos. Al pastor is a traditional Mexican dish made with pork that is shaved from a rotating spit. At Tacos Huicho, they take great pride in their al pastor, ensuring that it is cooked to perfection and served on a warm tortilla with onions and cilantro. If you’re looking for some of the best tacos in Phoenix, then be sure to stop by Tacos Huichol!

Joyride Taco House Central

Joyride Taco House Central
Joyride Taco House Central – Photo Source

5202 N. Central Ave., Phoenix

602-632-8226

https://joyridetacohouse.com/

Opens daily 11 AM-11 PM, Fri & Sat till midnite

If you’re looking for a great taco spot in Phoenix, Joyride Taco House is the place to be. With its California-beach vibe and delicious tacos, Joyride is a must-visit spot in Phoenix. The tacos here are served family-style, so there’s something for everyone. Try the carne asada or carnitas tacos for a real taste of Mexico, or go for something a little different with the crispy fish or ahi tuna tacos. No matter what you choose, you won’t be disappointed at Joyride Taco House.

Asadero Norte de Sonora

122 N. 16th St., Phoenix

602-253-4010

https://asaderonortesonora.weebly.com/menu.html

Opens daily 8 AM-8 PM, closed on Wednesdays

If you’re looking for an authentic Sonoran taco experience, Asadero Norte de Sonora is the place to go. This restaurant specializes in charcoal-grilling its meats, giving them a smoky flavor, and serving them up in tin-foil trays. Whether you prefer carne asada or barbacoa, you can build your tacos here, using tortillas, vegetables, beans, and red salsa. And be sure to save room for dessert – the churros are delicious!

Willie’s Taco Joint

Willie’s Taco Joint
Willie’s Taco Joint – Photo Source

333 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix

602-559-4059

https://williestacojoint.com/

Opens Tuesday 11 AM–12 AM, Wednesday 11 AM–8 PM, Thursday 11 AM–10 PM, Friday 11 AM–11 PM, Saturday and Sunday 10 AM–11 PM

Willie’s Taco Joint is a great place to grab a taco before or after a game. The Green Butcher taco is a personal favorite, but they have a variety of tacos to choose from that are all equally delicious. They also have a great selection of beers to choose from, making it the perfect spot for a night out.

BONUS: Fry Bread House

4545 N 7th Ave, Phoenix

602-351-2345

http://places.singleplatform.com/fry-bread-house/menu

Opens daily 10 AM–7 PM, closed on Sundays

If you’re looking for a delicious and unique taco, be sure to check out Fry Bread House. This westside restaurant offers up some of the best Indian tacos in town. The fry bread is cooked to perfection and the refried beans are packed with flavor. So if you’re in the mood for something truly special, be sure to check out Fry Bread House.

If you’re looking for a delicious taco, be sure to check out one of the spots we’ve mentioned. Whether you’re in the mood for al pastor, carne asada, or barbacoa tacos, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your taste buds at one of these restaurants. And don’t forget to save room for dessert – the churros at Asadero Norte de Sonora are not to be missed!

Discover the diverse culinary landscape of Phoenix with our guide, ‘Taste the World in Phoenix: A Culinary Journey Through the City’s Global Cuisine‘, and embark on a gastronomic adventure like no other.

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