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We Tried Them All! Here’s Where to Get the Best Tacos in Phoenix
- Analilia’s Riquezas
- Tacos Tijuana
- Ta’ Carbon
- Fry Bread House
- Chilte
- Taco Chelo
- Taco Boy's
- Tacos Chiwas
- Casa Corazon Restaurant
- La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop
- Tacos Huicho
- Mariscos Playa Hermosa
- Crujiente Tacos
- El Original Tacos Jalisco
- Taco Guild
- Blanco Tacos & Tequila
- Chico Malo
- Barrio Queen
- Sonora Taco Shop
- Pepe’s Taco Villa
- Atoyac Estilo Oaxaca
- Los Taquitos
- Asadero Toro
Phoenix is a real taco heaven. For years, I’ve been on a journey to find the best taco spots in Phoenix.
I’ve tried everything from small food trucks to fancy restaurants, all in search of the perfect taco! And guess what? I’m about to share my ultimate list of the best taco spots in Phoenix!
So buckle up because your taste buds are surely in for a treat!
1. Analilia’s Riquezas
Website: https://analiliasriquezas.e-tab.com/analiliasriquezas/venue/61489640a0c1ca03824f4550/menu
Address: 8520 W Peoria Ave, Peoria, AZ 85345, United States
Contact details: +16237382930
Operating hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Analilia’s Riquezas is a highly-rated Mexican restaurant that does not serve tacos but specializes in birria, a slow-cooked meat dish traditionally made with goat or lamb.
Analilia’s Riquezas uses a special recipe, and many rave about the meat’s melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Their menu features various birria dishes, from quesabirria to birria ramen.
Pro tip: Skip the standard taco for their #1 most liked item, the Quesabirria. Remember to add a side of consomé —the rich broth the birria is cooked in—for a perfect dipping experience. |
2. Tacos Tijuana
Website: https://tacostijuanaaz.com/
Address: 5044 W Peoria Ave, Glendale, AZ 85302, United States
Contact details: +14804275198
Operating hours: Friday to Tuesday – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Tacos Tijuana is a Phoenix staple known for its authentic and delicious Mexican cuisine. Their menu features flavorful fillings made with fresh tortillas and various Mexican favorites beyond tacos, all at very reasonable prices.
The Vampiro is a local favorite that features an open-faced crispy tortilla overflowing with melted cheese and your choice of meat. For an authentic taco experience, top it off with the complimentary salsa, onions, cilantro, and guacamole.
Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to try something new! If you need to familiarize yourself with Mexican cuisine, ask the friendly staff for recommendations. |
3. Ta’ Carbon
Website: http://tacarbon.com/
Address: 2929 N 43rd Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85019, United States
Contact details: +16026827701
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Ta’ Carbon Mexican Grill is on a mission to create the best carne asada in the United States. They also boast a wide selection of salsas and house-made tortillas, making each bite a flavor explosion.
From their famous carne asada to other fillings like al pastor and carnitas, their meats are marinated to perfection and cooked over a real carbon fire, giving them a unique smoky taste.
Pro tip: You can go right with their signature carne asada tacos. The marinated steak is perfectly cooked and tender, and the flavors of the salsas and tortillas are divine. |
4. Fry Bread House
Website: https://www.frybreadhouseaz.com/
Address: 4545 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85013, United States
Contact details: +16023512345
Operating hours: Monday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Founded in 1992 by Cecilia Miller, a member of the Tohono O’odham Nation, Fry Bread House offers a taste of Native American cuisine. The James Beard Foundation has recognized it as an American Classic, solidifying its place in culinary history.
You’ll also find traditional dishes like Indian Pudding, sweet cornmeal porridge, and blue corn enchiladas. No matter what you choose, you’ll surely get a delicious and authentic taste of Native American cuisine.
Pro tip: You can go right with the classic fry bread topped with red chile beef. It’s a perfect combination of savory and slightly sweet, and it’s what Fry Bread House is all about. |
5. Chilte
Website: https://www.chiltephx.com/
Address: 765 Grand Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007, United States
Contact details: +16028075226
Operating hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Led by Chef Lawrence Smith, Chilte draws inspiration from Mexico’s rich culinary heritage but with a modern twist. They use locally sourced ingredients and experiment with unexpected flavor combinations.
Their menu features a variety of tacos, including duck fat chicken carnitas, which have been getting rave reviews. The restaurant is inside the historic Egyptian Motor Hotel in downtown Phoenix.
Pro tip: While the menu changes, one dish that consistently gets high praise is the duck-fat chicken carnitas tacos. Combining rich duck fat with flavorful chicken is a must-try for any taco enthusiast. |
6. Taco Chelo
Website: http://tacochelo.com/
Address: 501 E Roosevelt St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Contact details: +16023685316
Operating hours: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Taco Chelo is a collaborative effort between Chef Sunny Santana, artist Gennaro Garcia, and restaurateur Aaron Chamberlin. Their concise menu features authentic Mexican tacos, vegetables, and beverages.
Their specialty is the hand-pressed tortillas, made to order for each taco. This ensures a delightful textural contrast – warm, soft on the inside, and slightly crisp on the outside – the perfect vessel for their flavorful fillings.
Pro tip: Beyond the tacos, Taco Chelo offers a curated selection of craft cocktails and imported draft beers so you can find the perfect drink to complement your meal. |
7. Taco Boy’s
Website: https://aztacoboys.com/
Address: 620 E Roosevelt St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
Contact details: +16026753962
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Taco Boy’s is a local favorite that serves a variety of delicious Mexican fare in a casual, vibrant setting. The Cornejo family recipes are the menu’s heart, with fresh ingredients and generations of tradition in every bite.
Taco Chelo’s menu focuses on tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and vampiros made with your choice of protein. Don’t miss out on the smoky beans, salsa, and topping bar to customize your meal.
Pro tip: While everything on the menu is delicious, you can’t go wrong with the carne asada taco. Remember to load it up with your favorite toppings from the salsa bar for a truly unforgettable experience. |
8. Tacos Chiwas
Website: http://tacoschiwas.com/
Address: 1028 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85014, United States
Contact details: +16023588830
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Tacos Chiwas is a family-owned restaurant in Phoenix that serves up generations-old recipes focused on Chihuahuan cuisine. Their menu features all the classic Mexican staples you crave, like tacos, burritos, and gorditas.
One of the things that makes Chihuahuan cuisine unique is its emphasis on using beef cuts like barbacoa and carne asada. These cuts are often slow-cooked to melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, resulting in an explosion of flavor in every bite.
Pro tip: The barbacoa taco is a crowd favorite for a reason. The slow-cooked beef cheek is incredibly tender and flavorful, and the combination of onions, cilantro, and their homemade salsa is pure magic. |
9. Casa Corazon Restaurant
Website: https://casacorazonrestaurant.com/
Address: 2637 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States
Contact details: +16023341917
Operating hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Casa Corazon Restaurant offers gourmet Mexican food inspired by the southern regions of Mexico. With a variety of house-made salsas and fresh taco garnishes, you can customize your taco experience to your liking.
You’ll find all the classics like enchiladas and chile rellenos, alongside specialties like cochinita pibil, a slow-roasted pork dish from the Yucatan. They also offer fresh Mexican seafood dishes like ceviche and agua chiles.
Pro tip: Casa Corazon is open for Sunday lunch and brunch, making it a versatile option for any meal. They even have a banquet hall that can seat up to 250 guests, making them an excellent choice for parties and events. |
10. La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop
Website: https://lasantisimagourmet.com/
Address: 4117 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85016, United States
Contact details: +16022546330
Operating hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop offers a vibrant Mexican eatery experience. Its menu boasts gourmet takes on classic Mexican favorites, elevating the taco experience with fillings like Mexico City-style chicken tinga or spicy Yucatan pork shoulder.
You’ll find a salsa bar overflowing with fresh, house-made salsas to complement your tacos. Each salsa offers a unique flavor profile, allowing you to customize your taco experience to your taste buds’ desires.
Pro tip: While everything on the menu is bound to be delicious, a must-try is their Oaxaca Black Mole Chicken Taco. This dish features a rich, complex mole sauce that will leave you wanting more. |
11. Tacos Huicho
Website: http://www.tacoshuicho.com/
Address: 1941 E Oak St, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States
Contact details: +14803986766
Operating hours: 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Tacos Huicho is a no-frills restaurant praised for its delicious and affordable tacos. It boasts a wide selection of fillings, from carne asada (grilled steak) and al pastor (marinated pork) to carnitas (braised pork) and cabeza (cow’s head).
You can also find all your favorite Mexican staples on the menu, like burritos, quesadillas, tortas (sandwiches), and huaraches (sandal-shaped fried masa). Breakfast is served until noon, featuring chilaquiles (tortilla casserole) and breakfast burritos.
Pro tip: Be sure to try their homemade salsa! It comes in various spice levels, so you can find one that perfectly suits your taste. |
12. Mariscos Playa Hermosa
Website: https://www.mariscosplayahermosa.com/
Address: 1605 E Garfield St, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States
Contact details: +16024621563
Operating hours: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Mariscos Playa Hermosa, also known as MPH among regulars, is a vibrant Sinaloan-style Mexican seafood restaurant that prides itself on bringing the flavors of the beach to the Arizona desert.
Here, you’ll find everything from aguachiles, the spicy marinated seafood salad, to giant seafood towers—a feast for a group. They also have fish tacos, shrimp tacos, and all your favorites, but they’re prepared with that special Sinaloan twist using fresh ingredients.
Pro tip: While any taco on their menu is bound to be delicious, try the shrimp ceviche tostada for a refreshing and flavorful starter. The marinated shrimp with crisp tortillas and toppings is a perfect introduction to the vibrant taste of Mariscos Playa Hermosa. |
13. Crujiente Tacos
Website: https://www.crutacos.com/
Address: 3961 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018, United States
Contact details: +16026877777
Operating hours: Monday to Saturday – 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Crujiente Tacos is a haven for those seeking unique and flavorful tacos. Chef Richard Hinojosa takes taco fillings to new heights with globally-inspired creations like Korean fried chicken, duck breast, or garlic-roasted mushrooms nestled in warm tortillas.
If you’re looking for a taste of tradition, their “Tacos De La Calle” is a must-try. These specialty tacos showcase Chef Hinojosa’s culinary creativity, with fillings like Korean fried chicken, duck breast, or garlic-roasted mushrooms.
Pro tip:Don’t miss out on their extensive margarita selection. We also recommend their Tacos De La Calle if you want to embark on a culinary adventure and try a variety of these unique and flavorful tacos. |
14. El Original Tacos Jalisco
Website: http://tacosjaliscoscottsdale.com/
Address: 3060 N 68th St, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, United States
Contact details: +14809419095
Operating hours: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
El Original Tacos Jalisco prepares everything from scratch using fresh ingredients daily. This dedication to quality is evident in the taste – each bite is a burst of flavor that will transport you straight to the streets of Guadalajara.
Their menu features classic Mexican staples, like carne asada, al pastor, and chicken tacos. They also have an extensive salsa bar that offers everything from mild to fiery to complement your tacos.
Pro tip: Be sure to try the tortas (Mexican sandwiches)—another hidden gem on the menu. Al pastor tacos are also a must-try, but don’t skip exploring the salsa bar to find your perfect flavor combination. |
15. Taco Guild
Website: http://tacoguild.com/
Address: 546 E Osborn Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85012, United States
Contact details: +16022644143
Operating hours: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Housed in a beautifully repurposed Baptist church built in 1893, Taco Guild offers a unique blend of history and modern Mexican cuisine. Its menu features “unexpected tradition,” putting delicious twists on familiar recipes.
Not only are their tacos consistently rated among the top 10 in the country, but Taco Guild has also been recognized by the Travel Channel as one of the nation’s best Mexican restaurants.
Pro tip: Happy hour is a great way to try a variety of tacos and cocktails at a discounted price. They offer happy hour deals all day Monday, Tuesday, and Sunday from 2 PM to 7 PM. |
16. Blanco Tacos & Tequila
Address: 2502 E Camelback Rd #122, Phoenix, AZ 85016, United States
Contact details: +16024298000
Operating hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Blanco Tacos & Tequila is a haven for those seeking authentic Mexican fare with a Baja and Sonora twist. They take pride in using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create a taste of Mexico within the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
The menu features all the classics you’d expect at a Mexican cantina, like perfectly seasoned guacamole and mouthwatering tacos. But what truly sets them apart is their focus on Baja and Sonora styles, which are known for their fresh seafood options.
Pro tip: For an authentic taste of Baja, try the fish tacos. The combination of fresh seafood, crisp slaw, and creamy aioli is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. |
17. Chico Malo
Website: http://chicomalo.com/
Address: 50 W Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85003, United States
Contact details: +16026039363
Operating hours: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Chico Malo, which translates to “bad boy” in English, is anything but bad in terms of flavor. This restaurant brings a fresh perspective to the downtown Phoenix food scene with its unique and elevated takes on Mexican and South American dishes.
But tacos are the star of the show here. They use high-quality ingredients, like USDA Prime Carne Asada, to create mouthwatering flavor explosions in every bite. Their menu boasts a variety of flavor combinations inspired by different regions in Mexico.
Pro tip: While everything sounds delicious, the Smoked Duck Breast Al Pastor taco is a must-try. This unique twist on a classic dish features succulent duck marinated in achiote paste, pineapple, and guajillo chiles, and all served on a warm corn tortilla. |
18. Barrio Queen
Website: https://www.barrioqueen.com/
Address: 7114 E Stetson Dr., Suite 105, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, United States
Contact details: +14806564197
Operating hours: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Barrio Queen is a vibrant restaurant chain that brings Mexico’s rich history and culture to Arizona with a focus on fresh, authentic flavors. Their menu boasts unique recipes passed down through generations, representing the heart and soul of Mexican barrios.
The lively atmosphere features Day of the Dead decor, creating a visually stunning and culturally immersive experience. Beyond the tacos, Barrio Queen offers a world-class tequila and a menu of legendary cocktails.
Pro tip: While the entire menu is tempting, you can’t go wrong with their signature three Taco Plates. These allow you to sample a variety of their delicious fillings, from savory barbacoa to fresh fish options. |
19. Sonora Taco Shop
Website: https://sonoratacoshopusa.com/
Address: 1009 S 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034, United States
Contact details: +16022522795
Operating hours: Monday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Sonora Taco Shop is a hidden gem in Phoenix for those seeking authentic Mexican cuisine. This humble eatery boasts a simple menu focused on all the classics, but it is crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients that elevate the experience.
Their commitment to using fresh ingredients ensures each dish bursts with flavor, transporting your taste buds straight to the streets of Sonora, Mexico. The covered outdoor seating provides a casual and comfortable spot to enjoy your meal.
Pro tip: While everything on the menu is bound to be delicious, you can’t go wrong with their namesake dish – the Sonora Taco. This taco features a unique combination of meats and other fillings, all wrapped up in a warm, fresh tortilla. |
20. Pepe’s Taco Villa
Website: http://places.singleplatform.com/pepes-taco-villa/menu?ref=google
Address: 2108 W Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85015, United States
Contact details: +16022420379
Operating hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Pepe’s Taco Villa is a longstanding eatery that offers a taste of Mexico right in the heart of Arizona. They specialize in Monterrey-style tacos, known for their unique fillings and handmade tortillas.
They boast many classic Mexican dishes, such as enchiladas, chimichangas, and burritos. Their mole is noteworthy, praised for its complex flavors that perfectly complement the shredded chicken enchiladas.
Pro tip: Take advantage of their house specialties! The Taco Monterrey, filled with machaca (shredded dried beef) and eggs, and the Taco Siberia are both customer favorites. |
21. Atoyac Estilo Oaxaca
Website: http://places.singleplatform.com/atoyac/menu?ref=google
Address: 1830 W Glendale Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85021, United States
Contact details: +16022461111
Operating hours: Tuesday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Atoyac Estilo Oaxaca is a hidden gem in Phoenix, serving simple and delicious Oaxacan street food. This no-frills roadside taqueria is known for its bustling lunch scene, so be prepared for a lively atmosphere.
Their menu features a variety of tacos, with options like fish and shrimp alongside more common fillings like carne asada and pollo. They also offer other Oaxacan specialties like tlayudas (large, crispy tortillas loaded with goodies) and molotes.
Pro tip: The tacos de pescado (fish tacos) are a house specialty and a great way to experience Oaxacan-style seafood tacos. Try their horchata, a traditional Oaxacan drink made with rice, milk, and cinnamon, for a refreshing meal accompaniment. |
22. Los Taquitos
Website: https://lostaquitosaz.com/
Address: 7000 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85020, United States
Contact details: +16023710111
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Los Taquitos is a long-running, family-owned favorite serving delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine in Phoenix. It boasts a menu overflowing with classic Mexican fare, but its claim to fame is its tacos.
They offer a wide variety of fillings, from carne asada (grilled steak) and al pastor (marinated pork) to carnitas (slow-cooked braised pork) and veggie options. They use only the finest meats, vegetables, and tortillas to create their dishes.
Pro tip: Try their salsa verde (green salsa) if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s made with fresh tomatillos and has a delicious tangy flavor that perfectly complements their tacos. |
23. Asadero Toro
Website: http://www.asaderotoro.com/
Address: 1715 W McDowell Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85007, United States
Contact details: +16028535298
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Asadero Toro is a counter-service restaurant that has been serving classic Mexican cuisine since 1994. Its menu features a variety of taco fillings, including barbacoa, lengua, and cabeza.
At Asadero Toro, you can choose hand-made flour or corn tortillas for your tacos. It also offers a range of other Mexican favorites like burritos, tortas (Mexican sandwiches), and quesadillas.
Pro tip: For an authentic taste of Asadero Toro, try their carne asada tacos. The grilled steak is marinated to perfection, and the combination of flavors with the fresh tortillas will leave you wanting more. |