Arizona is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. But one of the state’s most irresistible draws is its incredible Mexican cuisine. Influenced by its proximity to Mexico and a deep-rooted Hispanic heritage, Arizona’s Mexican restaurants offer a feast for the senses. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, indulging in the must-try dishes at Arizona’s Mexican restaurants is an absolute necessity. In this post, we’ll explore some of the iconic dishes you should not miss, along with some of the best places to find them.
Carne Asada Tacos
A Classic Delight
Carne Asada Tacos are a staple of Mexican cuisine, and Arizona offers some of the best you’ll find anywhere. These tacos feature marinated, grilled beef, usually served on a soft corn tortilla and topped with onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. The beef is often marinated in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and spices, giving it a burst of flavor that is perfectly complemented by the fresh toppings.
Where to Try:
Tacos Chiwas
Address: 1923 E McDowell Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85006
Website: Tacos Chiwas
Tacos Chiwas is renowned for its authentic and delicious Mexican street food, and their Carne Asada Tacos are a crowd favorite.
Chiles en Nogada
A Festive Treat
Chiles en Nogada is a traditional Mexican dish often served during celebrations, particularly around Mexican Independence Day. This dish features poblano peppers stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, fruits, and spices, topped with a creamy walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds. The dish’s vibrant colors—green, white, and red—represent the Mexican flag, making it as visually appealing as it is tasty.
Where to Try:
Barrio Café
Address: 2814 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006
Website: Barrio Café
Barrio Café is known for its creative takes on traditional Mexican dishes, and their Chiles en Nogada is a standout, offering a perfect balance of flavors.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
A Savory Snack
Elote, or Mexican Street Corn, is a simple yet immensely flavorful dish that has become a favorite in Mexican cuisine. The corn is grilled and then slathered with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and a squeeze of lime juice. The result is a deliciously messy snack that’s both sweet and savory, with a hint of heat.
Where to Try:
The Mission
Address: 3815 N Brown Ave, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Website: The Mission
The Mission in Scottsdale serves a fantastic version of Elote, making it a perfect appetizer before diving into their other mouth-watering dishes.
Tamales
Wrapped in Tradition
Tamales are a quintessential Mexican dish that consists of masa (a dough made from corn) filled with meats, cheeses, fruits, or vegetables, and then steamed in corn husks. They are a staple during holidays and special occasions, but you can enjoy them year-round at many Mexican restaurants in Arizona. Each tamale is a little bundle of flavor, with fillings that range from savory to sweet.
Where to Try:
El Bravo Mexican Food
Address: 8338 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85020
Website: El Bravo Mexican Food
El Bravo Mexican Food is famous for its tamales, offering both traditional pork tamales and other unique variations that are equally delightful.
Pozole
A Hearty Hominy Soup
Pozole is a traditional Mexican soup made with hominy (dried corn kernels treated with an alkali), meat (usually pork or chicken), and seasoned with red or green chilies. It’s a rich and comforting dish that’s often served with garnishes like shredded lettuce, radishes, onions, lime, and tostadas. Pozole has deep roots in Mexican culture and is often enjoyed during festive occasions.
Where to Try:
Los Dos Molinos
Address: 8646 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042
Website: Los Dos Molinos
Los Dos Molinos is known for its spicy Mexican cuisine, and their Pozole is a flavorful and satisfying choice, perfect for those who enjoy a little heat.
Mole
A Symphony of Flavors
Mole is one of Mexico’s most complex and revered sauces, made with a long list of ingredients that typically includes various chilies, chocolate, nuts, and spices. The sauce is rich, thick, and deeply flavored, often served over chicken or turkey. Each region of Mexico has its own version of mole, and Arizona’s Mexican restaurants offer some stellar interpretations.
Where to Try:
Richardson’s Cuisine of New Mexico
Address: 6335 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Website: Richardson’s Cuisine of New Mexico
Richardson’s offers a fantastic version of Mole, where the deep, complex sauce is perfectly balanced with the tender meat it accompanies.
Ceviche
A Fresh Coastal Delight
Ceviche is a refreshing dish made from fresh seafood, usually shrimp or fish, marinated in lime juice, and mixed with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and chilies. The acidity of the lime juice “cooks” the seafood, giving it a firm texture and bright flavor. Ceviche is light, healthy, and bursting with fresh flavors—ideal for warm Arizona days.
Where to Try:
Mariscos Playa Hermosa
Address: 1605 E Garfield St, Phoenix, AZ 85006
Website: Mariscos Playa Hermosa
Mariscos Playa Hermosa specializes in seafood and offers an outstanding Ceviche that’s as fresh as it gets.
Chimichangas
A Deep-Fried Delight
The Chimichanga, a deep-fried burrito, is believed to have originated in Arizona, making it a must-try dish when visiting the state. It’s typically filled with a combination of meats, beans, cheese, and rice, then deep-fried to a golden brown. Served with guacamole, sour cream, and salsa, this dish is a hearty and satisfying treat.
Where to Try:
Macayo’s Mexican Food
Address: 4001 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Website: Macayo’s Mexican Food
Macayo’s Mexican Food is an Arizona institution and one of the best places to enjoy a Chimichanga, offering a crispy, flavorful version of this iconic dish.
Tortas
A Mexican Sandwich with a Twist
Tortas are Mexican sandwiches that are packed with a variety of fillings such as grilled meats, cheese, avocado, beans, and salsa. Served on a soft, round roll, they are a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Tortas are versatile and can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or as a hearty snack.
Where to Try:
Tortas Paquime
Address: 2822 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006
Website: Tortas Paquime
Tortas Paquime is the go-to spot for authentic Tortas, offering a wide selection that caters to all tastes.
Sopapillas
A Sweet Ending
Sopapillas are a delightful dessert that hails from Mexican cuisine. These light, puffy pastries are typically fried until golden and then drizzled with honey. They are light and crispy on the outside, yet soft and airy on the inside, making them a perfect sweet treat to end a meal.
Where to Try:
Carolina’s Mexican Food
Address: 2126 E Cactus Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85022
Website: Carolina’s Mexican Food
Carolina’s Mexican Food is a favorite for authentic Mexican fare, and their Sopapillas are a must-try, offering a perfectly sweet and satisfying finish to any meal.
Final Words
Arizona’s Mexican restaurants offer a culinary journey that is rich in flavor, history, and tradition. From the hearty Carne Asada Tacos to the sweet and delightful Sopapillas, there is something to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, make sure to indulge in these must-try dishes that showcase the best of Arizona’s Mexican cuisine. Each dish is a testament to the vibrant cultural fusion that defines this state’s food scene, and every bite will leave you wanting more.
When you’re ready to embark on this culinary adventure, head to the addresses mentioned above, or visit their websites for more information. Arizona’s Mexican restaurants are ready to welcome you with open arms and, most importantly, with plates full of unforgettable flavors.
