19 Authentic Spots for the Best Tacos in Phoenix

Whoever said diamonds are a person’s best friend never tasted the vibrant, flavorful tacos nestled in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona.

These are no ordinary tacos – they are bursting with bold Mexican flavors with a unique Arizonian twist.

If your stomach just let out a rumble of anticipation, this is a food adventure you won’t want to miss.

Time is of the essence, because the sooner you read, the sooner you eat! Whether you’re a long-time local or a visiting foodie, prepare to bookmark your new favorite taco hotspots.

Korean Fried Chicken Taco at CRUjiente Tacos Phoenix AZ
Photo Credit: CRUjiente Tacos Phoenix AZ

1. CRUjiente Tacos

If you’re a taco enthusiast, CRUjiente takes tacos to a whole new level. This eatery serves dinner only and boasts a modern spin on its globally influenced tacos.

Dig into customer favorites like the Korean Fried Chicken Taco, joining the best of two worlds on your plate.

They also serve a Grilled Pork Belly Taco that’s garnered a loyal following. It’s like biting into a cloud of taco heaven! Tip: they have a Salsa Trio that complements their signature tacos.

2. Joyride Taco House Central

Phoenix is blessed with this groovy little spot that’s gonna rock your taco-loving soul. Yep, Joyride Taco House is here to make your mouth water with its vibrant Mexican goodness.

What do Tacoholics rave about here? The crispy fish tacos and the juicy carne asada top the list as customer favorites.

There’s more to that though, like the tender carnitas and fresh Baja fish tacos – there’s no going wrong with your choices!

Joyride Taco House isn’t just ace at tacos. They’re a margarita haven where you can sip and savor some of the finest in town.

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3. El Taco Tote Phoenix

El Taco Tote is a paradise where taco dreams become a delicious reality. This mouth-watering gem has climbed the charts, earning its spot as one of Phoenix’s go-to taco hubs!

Their out-of-this-world tacos will make you feel like you’ve teleported to flavor central. You don’t want to miss their magnificent carne asada, barbacoa, or juicy chicken adobado tacos.

You’ll quickly catch on to why so many taco enthusiasts can’t get enough of this place – it’s all in the secret sauce.

La Santisima Tacos
Photo Credit: La Santisima

4. La Santisima

If you’re searching for the best tacos in Phoenix, La Santisima is a must-visit spot. This lively eatery serves up mouth-watering Mexican cuisine, snagging praise from locals and visitors alike.

Feeling indecisive? No worries! You can’t go wrong with fan-favorites like their Taco Platter which lets you choose any 3 tacos, Street Al Pastor Tacos or the Speciality Mahi Mahi Tacos.

5. Ta Carbon Mexican Grill

Ready for a taco spot that’ll rock your world? Let’s chat about Ta Carbon Mexican Grill.

This gem is known for the best carne asada in Phoenix, and it’s all about authentic Mexican flavors.

Sink your teeth into favorites like the Asada Taco or Pastor Taco, as the locals can’t get enough of these mouthwatering delights.

Ta Carbon Phoenix Arizona
Photo Credit: Ta Carbon

6. Tacos Calafia Downtown

Tacos Calafia is located in downtown Phoenix, a delightful taqueria that’ll make your heart sing and your taste buds dance.

Founded by Adolfo Torres, who comes from a lineage of taqueria masters, this little gem has quickly become the talk of the town.

Feast your eyes on their mouthwatering carne asada tacos or indulge in the perfectly cooked chips and guacamole.

Craving something to wash down those delightful tacos? How about a delicious margarita or their exquisite horchata?

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7. Tacos Huicho

Like a secret treasure stashed in the heart of Phoenix’s bustling food scene, Tacos Huicho tantalizes and tempts the taste buds with every forkful of their genuine Mexican cuisine.

Your senses will be seduced by the irresistible, vibrant energy that oozes from every corner of the restaurant.

Prepare for a taste explosion as you sink your teeth into their crown jewel—the al pastor tacos, an epicurean delight.

These are cooked with an artisan’s touch, served on fresh tortillas and crowned with a savory duet of onions and fresh cilantro. It’s the kind of heavenly bite that can send shivers down your spine.

Oh, and don’t forget to try their salsas, turning up the flavor dial on every bite.

Tacos Huicho Phoenix AZ
Photo Credit: Tacos Huicho

8. Taco Guild

Get excited because Taco Guild in Phoenix is here to make your taco dreams come true! This unique eatery is located in the historic Bethel Methodist Church, boasting a one-of-a-kind ambiance.

From cherry steak tacos to barbacoa, they’ve got it all. Savor the Phoenix Shrimp, or maybe even go for the Street-Style Carnitas – you’ll be blown away either way.

And if you’re thirsty, Taco Guild offers a selection of over 150 tequilas and creative cocktails!

9. Taco Boy’s

Taco Boy’s in Phoenix is a fiesta of flavor you won’t want to miss. This eatery, nestled in the heart of downtown, is known for their mouthwatering Mexican food cooked over mesquite charcoal wood, giving their dishes an authentic smoky taste.

When you pop in, don’t shy away from trying their highly praised Pastor tacos, only $2.99 each at the time of writing.

It’s worth noting that their Tempe location is now up and running, so both Phoenix and Tempe can enjoy these legendary tacos.

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10. Barrio Cafe

Barrio Cafe is a cozy Mexican eatery with an oasis of appetizing aromas, colorful art, and vibrant flavors.

When you step inside, your senses are greeted with fan-favorite dishes like Cochinita Pibil and Chiles En Nogada.

But let’s talk about the real reason you’re here – the mouthwatering tacos. With options like asada, succulent pollo, or pescado made with halibut, it’s no wonder taco enthusiasts flock to this hotspot.

Here’s a little secret: don’t forget to ask for their churros. This masterpiece of a dessert will be sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Taco Chelo Phoenix AZ
Photo Credit: Taco Chelo

11. Taco Chelo

Nestled in the heart of downtown Phoenix, Taco Chelo combines mouthwatering delights with an artsy vibe that’ll make you want to salsa dance your way to the table.

When you dive into the menu, your taste adventure begins with stellar items like the Sonoran tacos that have been praised time and again by customers.

Or, perhaps, the Carnitas tacos will catch your eye; either way, you’re in for a flavor fiesta!

12. Willie’s Taco Joint

Get ready to meet your next favorite place in Phoenix: Willie’s Taco Joint. This hot spot combines Mexican flavors with a fun, vibrant atmosphere that will have you coming back for more.

Their award-winning Green Butcher Taco is a definite crowd-pleaser, while the Traditional Carnitas Taco has won hearts (and stomachs) far and wide.

Willie’s is also a gem for breakfast! Rise and dine with their amazing breakfast burritos and fuel your day with a taste explosion.

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13. Taqueria La Hacienda

Taqueria La Hacienda is where the magical world of Mexican cuisine awaits you. This hidden gem takes tacos to a whole new level with its fantastic food truck vibes and mouthwatering morsels.

Bite into their chorizo tacos, classic asada, and carnitas. But the deliciousness doesn’t end there. Try out their famous pastor tacos, which have become a fan favorite.

Just Tacos and More
Photo Credit: Just Tacos and More

14. Just Tacos And More

Just Tacos And More is a family-owned taco shop with a delicious twist. Combining traditional flavors with a modern spin, these tacos are made with quality and passion.

Don’t know what to order? Bite into one of their customer-favorite Street Tacos and El Jefe Taco.

15. Chico Malo

Chico Malo is a daring and vibrant taco spot in Phoenix’s CityScape. The name means “bad boy” in Spanish, and this edgy eatery definitely lives up to the hype.

With a South American-inspired menu, Chico Malo stands out as a taco haven that’s shaking things up in downtown Phoenix.

Multicultural influences add a unique flair to their menu. You’ll go loco for favorites like the birria tacos or the baja fish tacos, offering a delicious twist on traditional favorites.

Beyond the tasty menu, the ambiance plays a significant role in etching this place in your heart forever.

Sonora Taco Shop
Photo Credit: Sonora Taco Shop

16. Sonora Taco Shop

Sonora Taco Shop is located near Chase Field and stands out for its casual atmosphere, perfect for a quick bite. Are you a fan of outdoor seating? Well, good news! They’ve got that too.

Now, let’s talk tacos! The scrumptious Tacos, Burritos, and Tostadas are all-stars on the menu, leaving you drooling for more.

And since we’re best friends now, here’s an insider tip: don’t miss out on the Asada and pollo tacos to elevate your meal.

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17. La Frontera

La Frontera is a hidden gem in Phoenix that’ll blow your taco-loving mind. This food truck has become the talk of the town for serving up delicious tacos like a boss.

When you visit, make sure to try the Pezcado Tacos or indulge in their top-notch Camaron (shrimp) tacos. These mouthwatering delights have customers coming back for seconds and even thirds!

La Frontera is known for more than just their tacos; their tostadas, burritos, and burgers are also all the rage.

Taqueria Jalisco
Photo Credit: Taqueria Jalisco

18. Taqueria de Jalisco

Let your taste adventure begin at Taqueria de Jalisco in Phoenix, where the authentic flavors are guaranteed to make your heart sing and your belly do a happy dance.

The Carne Asada tacos and Lengua are fan favorites at Tacos Jalisco; you’ll be dreaming about them for days!

Their house-made salsas are the secret weapons in making their tacos simply irresistible, make sure you load up on the condiments.

19. Backyard Taco

Call all enthusiastic taco fans, Backyard Taco brings Mexican cuisine to a whole new level.

With their mesquite grill cooking up Tacos al Carbon, it’s no wonder this joint has been voted the Best Tacos in Arizona for six years running.

Your taste buds will sing praises for their smoky, tender Carne Asada tacos. In the mood for Al Pastor? Oh, don’t worry, they’ve got you covered too, and it’s phenomenal!

Final Thoughts

Have we sparked your appetite yet? Have we sent your taste buds on a wild salsa dance of anticipation? We bet we have!

Now that you’ve been seduced by the symphony of salsas and enchanted by the harmony of handmade tortillas, it’s time to plunge into the magical world of authentic Mexican food in Phoenix.

From hearty chiles rellenos to creamy enchiladas, get ready to experience an explosion of flavors that will take you straight to the heart of Mexico. Sound like your kind of culinary journey? Of course, it does!