18 Best Authentic Mexican Restaurants in Phoenix

1. Cocina Madrigal

Cocina Madrigal is a chef-owned gem in South Phoenix; with its legendary authentic Mexican dishes served in a casually charming atmosphere, this place is hotter than a jalapeño on fire!

You’ll be blown away by the fresh made to order guacamole, handmade tacos, scrumptious enchiladas, and vibrant, bold salads.

Round up your fellow foodie enthusiasts and make your way to Cocina Madrigal pronto – because missing out on this fiesta of flavors would be a true gastronomical tragedy.

2. Comedor Guadalajara

Comedor Guadalajara is a culinary paradise in Phoenix acclaimed for its delicious authentic Mexican food. Once you step inside this esteemed eatery, there’s no turning back.

Comedor Guadalajara has been satiating the taste buds of South Phoenix foodies for over 40 years!

Can’t decide what to devour? Why not try their Cheese Crisp, Red Beef Enchilada Plate, or the legendary Parrilladas De Tres Carnes? These dishes will catapult you straight to food heaven, leaving you longing for more.

3. Asadero Norte de Sonora

Your quest for authentic Mexican food in Phoenix has led you to a hidden gem. Asadero Norte de Sonora is the real deal when it comes to flavor-packed meals that transport you right to the heart of Mexico.

A cozy hole-in-the-wall, this family-owned restaurant is where authenticity meets culinary magic.

Treat yourself to their mouthwatering Pastor Tacos, Whole Pollo Asado, and Tortas. Take a sip (or two) of their delicious Mexican Sodas, which goes perfectly with any dish on the menu.

Insider tip: try their acclaimed House Special Steak Picado! This succulent tender dish will easily become the star of your meal.

4. Carolina’s Mexican Food

Carolina’s Mexican Food is where authenticity and flavor intertwine in a fantastic dance!

This eatery has been delighting patrons since 1968 with their fresh homemade tortillas and delicious dishes.

When you’re ready to dive into a plate, let the renowned shredded machaca beef Chimichangas or a sizzling Chicken Enchilada be your guide.

Rumor has it that the Tamales with Carolina’s world-famous green sauce here is a favorite among locals!

5. El Bravo

Fiesta time, anyone? When you’re craving authentic Mexican food in Phoenix, let’s talk about El Bravo.

Their scrumptious tamales, cheese and onion enchiladas, and bean & cheese burritos are perfect for sharing with friends or going on a cheeky solo culinary adventure. After all, who says you have to share?

Apart from their menu packed with customer favorites, El Bravo also serves delicious beer, and wine to quench your thirst.

Your Mexican food journey wouldn’t be complete without a refreshing libation by your side.

6. Los Dos Molinos

Oh, Phoenix, delightful land of sunshine and spectacular Mexican cuisine! Let us tell you about a little gem called Los Dos Molinos.

This vibrant eatery is the pinnacle of authentic Mexican deliciousness, bursting with flavor and vibrant colors.

When you step inside, prepare to be captivated by their mouthwatering dishes like the customer-favorite New Mexico Green Chile Stew or the lip-smacking Carnitas.

Need a zestier option? They’ve got you covered with their fiery Blue Corn Tamale. There’s truly something for every palate here.

7. El Norteño

El Norteño is where the humble exterior hides a true gem. Many customers agree that this cash-only eatery serves some of the best beans, rice, and salsa in town.

Feel like you’ve unlocked a secret as you discover their delicious traditional menu items like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas – all at wallet-friendly prices!

While there, you simply must try their customer-favorite Machaca Chimichangas, the star of their authentic Mexican cuisine.

8. Rito’s

Rito’s Mexican Food is where authentic flavors and age-old family recipes collide. This legendary eatery has been serving some of the best Mexican dishes in town since 1977!

When you swing by Rito’s, be sure to dig into their award-winning green chili Chimichanga and other mouth-watering delights.

Can you believe they’ve expanded to four locations? That’s quadruple the deliciousness!

9. Presidio Cocina Mexicana

Presidio Cocina Mexicana is a hidden gem tucked away in Central Phoenix. With its exotic aromas and scrumptious dishes, this eatery is a go-to spot for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine.

The food here is crafted with love, using slow-cooked meats and indigenous herbs and spices, giving them an undeniably authentic touch.

Now, what to order, you ask? Presidio’s chilaquiles, Chile Verde (stewed pork) , and Carne Asada (grilled beef) are all worth a spot in your tummy.

And to satisfy your sweet tooth, indulge in their heavenly flans, churros, and buñuelos which are famous for their melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

Thirsty? Don’t miss their margaritas, sangria, and micheladas – they’re simply irresistible!

10. Gallo Blanco

Are you yearning for some authentic Mexican food in Phoenix? Look who’s your new best friend! Gallo Blanco is an absolute gem located in the Historic Garfield District, dishing out delectable street tacos, mouth-watering brunch, and delightful vegetarian options.

Customers can’t get enough of their juicy carne asada and family-style tacos. Not in a taco mood?The chilaquiles and enchiladas have been known to woo even the pickiest eaters.

Their full bar also packs a punch with craft beer, wine, and specialty drinks. So, go ahead and treat yourself to some cheers-worthy libations.

11. Via Delosantos

Get ready for a fiesta of flavor at Via Delosantos! This authentic Mexican restaurant is a gem in the heart of Phoenix, offering mouthwatering dishes that will leave your palate dancing in delight.

Via Delosantos is famous for its machaca beef, so make sure not to miss out on that. Their pollo fundido and flavorful cheese enchiladas are also worth ordering.

As an added bonus, the restaurant also caters to vegetarians and vegans with their array of enticing options.

12. Rosita’s Place

Located in Phoenix, Rosita’s Place is a family-owned Sonoran Mexican eatery that’s been serving up incredible dishes since 1964.

Customers can’t seem to get enough of their Machaca Enchilada and Tamale Verde. But here’s a secret: their White Menudo is a hidden treasure that’s totally worth trying.

13. Los Reyes de La Torta

Los Reyes de La Torta is a sizzling spot for authentic, Mexico City-style food. Hailed as the Kings of the Torta, they’ve even gained fame through a feature on Travel Channel’s “Man v. Food”!

Scoop up one of their customer favorites like the drool-worthy Del Rey Torta. Or, you might fancy trying their Asada Taco or King Tacos – more mouthwatering menu highlights.

14. Barrio Cafe

Barrio Cafe is a true gem for authentic Mexican cuisine in Phoenix. Nestled on 16th Street, this vibrant eatery shines like a supernova, with creative dishes that’ll make you swoon.

Treat yourself to their absolutely legendary Chiles En Nogada – it’s a customer favorite that might just change your life. Or perhaps dive into their Cochinita Pibil, a classic dish bursting with savory flavors.

Here’s a fun tidbit to impress your friends: President Joe Biden and Kamala Harris paid a visit to Barrio Cafe in 2020!

15. Don Jose Mexican Food

At Don Jose Mexican Food, you’ll find the heart and soul of Sonoran-style Mexican cuisine.

They serve smoked meats alongside beloved classics like enchiladas, chimichangas, and more.

Sink your teeth into Phoenix’s favorite cheese crisp, a dish that keeps locals coming back for more! And if you’re in the mood for something different, why not try their mouthwatering Don Jose Special? It’s worth every flavorful bite.

16. El Encanto Dos

If you’re craving authentic Mexican food in Phoenix, you have to check out El Encanto Dos.

This enchanting spot takes you on a culinary journey to Mexico with its Old-World Mission-style restaurant vibe.

El Encanto uses fresh ingredients and the dishes are prepared the traditional Mexican way.

Can’t decide what to order? Some customer favorites include the pollo fundito and “South of the Border” sampler platter; it’s all guaranteed to be drool-worthy.

El Encanto is also a haven for tequila lovers. With a plethora of imported tequilas, you can sip on some flavorful beverages that truly complement your meal.

Mexican Restaurants Near Phoenix:

17. Casa Reynoso

Take a trip to Tempe and visit the lively Casa Reynoso, a family-run eatery that’s been serving Mexican cuisine since 1938.

This vibrant, hacienda-style restaurant boasts recipes from the Reynoso family’s hometown of Globe-Miami, Arizona – it’s the real deal!

Craving an explosively delicious burrito? Treat yourself to their famous “Gollo Burro”, a crowd favorite packed with all the zesty goodness you could ask for. If you’re a green chile enthusiast, you’re in for the time of your life!

18. Espo’s

You might think you’ve had some top-notch Mexican food before, but Espo’s Mexican Food is truly a game-changer.

This family-owned restaurant in Chandler, AZ, has been serving the most lip-smacking Mexican cuisine for over 54 years, making it one of the oldest landmarks in town.

If you’re unsure what to order, try their customer favorites like spicy street tacos or enchiladas drowned in green chile sauce.