Top Choices for Mexican Food in the Valley

The restaurant industry in the Valley always has something new to offer. With popularity of food trucks on the rise and new establishments constantly innovating, food is something that will always be happening. One of the greatest perks of the food culture in Arizona is the diversity of Mexican food. You don’t have to pay ridiculously high prices to get a taste of authentic sabor! From casual take-out to upscale dining, the Arizona Mexican food pallet is immense in variety. Check out some of the local restaurants listed below to wake up those taste buds and enjoy an exciting culture.

Barrio Cafe

The name says it all, this establishment has a warm urban vibe to it and features wonderful regional specialties like a slow-roasted roast pork dish called cochinita  pibil, black mole chicken and chiles en nogada, poblano peppers stuffed with  chicken, nuts and fruit.

Details: 2814 N. 16th St., Phoenix. 602-636-0240, barriocafe.com.

Mariscos Playa Hermosa

It is not often in Arizona that we experience the authenticity of the sea but at this establishment with such treats as the campechana cocktail, loaded with oysters, octopus, shrimp  and calamari you can almost smell the ocean breeze. Other favorites include octopus in ranchero sauce, shrimp in  garlic sauce and crab enchiladas.

Details: 1605 E. Garfield St., Phoenix. 602-462-1563, mariscosplaya  hermosa.com

The Mission

 This sophisticated, intimate spot, serving modern Latin cuisine in Scottsdale combines mixing French cooking techniques with influences from Spain, Mexico, Central and South America. Start with a stellar smoked pork pozole, or shared plates of duck carnitas empanada and smoked pork shoulder tacos in hand-pressed corn tortillas, then move on to exceptional grilled entrees like the chimichurri.

Details: 3815 N. Brown Ave., Scottsdale. 480-636-5005 Visit Website

Los Taquitos

 With Guy Fieri’s stamp of approval this place feautres some of the best pozole and menudo (served every day) as well as the specialty Bombero (notable for its delicious sweet and spicy sauce) and Arizona (smoky carne asada and diced potato) burritos. The casual relaxed environment is a great stop to dine in or take-out and enjoy excellent Mexican food.

Details: 4747 E. Elliot Road, Ahwatukee. 480-753-4370 Visit Website

Carolina’s Mexican Food

A Valley legend since 1968, Carolina’s has a following for its homemade tortillas, green corn tamales, enchiladas, red machaca burros and, on weekends, menudo. Breakfast burros are another delicious treat for this one of a kind establishment.

Details: 1202 E. Mohave St., Phoenix.  602-252-1503 http://www.carolinasmex.com