1.Cocina Madrigal– #1 MEXICAN CUISINE RESTAURANT IN ARIZONA!! VOTED #1 RESTAURANT IN THE US BY YELP! ALSO VOTED “Top 100 Places To Eat In The United States” BY FORBES! Also, on the Kelly Clarkson Show!… This place is UNREAL! Located at 16th St. and Broadway.
OK, If you haven’t been, I’m sorry. Truely. Everything else you eat pales in comparison. God sent “O” for your tastebuds, Cocina Madrigal stands as a hidden gem in the Valley, proving that the best Mexican cuisine often requires a journey beyond the familiar. Nestled unassumingly, this culinary haven defies the ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’ mantra, as its unassuming exterior belies the extraordinary culinary journey that awaits inside. Renowned for crafting the most exceptional Mexican dishes, Cocina Madrigal has elevated the art of Mexican cuisine to unparalleled heights, leaving an indelible mark on taste buds and hearts alike. From exquisite flavors that dance on the palate to meticulously crafted dishes that embody the essence of Mexican gastronomy, every bite at Cocina Madrigal is a revelation. This culinary masterpiece is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience worth the drive, and we recommend securing reservations to ensure a seat at the table for a taste of the best Mexican cuisine the Valley has to offer
Our FAVE: EVERYTHING. LITERALLY EVERYTHING. But just to be nice, you have to try the Oaxaca Fundido, Mango Steak Salad, Guacamole de Casa..OMG!, Wild Mushroom Enchiladas, Tropical Fish Tacos…the list just goes on and on…!!!
2. Sol Azteca**- **#1 LOCAL restaurant in the East Valley and our Family Favorite! (This is where we take all the company to when they come in town:-). Located at Ellsworth and Baseline.
Sol Azteca is a family run business dedicated to authenticity, capturing the essence of Mexican cuisine in PHX East Valley. With a menu featuring rich and varied flavors, the restaurant’s commitment to quality shines through, making every visit a memorable experience (we still haven’t found a dish that isn’t incredible) .
Popular Dish: Mole Poblano – Chicken smothered in a rich and flavorful mole sauce made with chocolate, chilies, and spices. Also, Seafood Tacos and the Creamy Mushroom Plate…There’s so many..
Our FAVE– You will think you have died and gone to heaven with the Sol Azteca Veggie Burrito smothered in their deliciously spicy Guac sauce! But don’t forget the HORCHATA!!! You’ve NEVER had horchata like this before! I promise, it’s worth heading there just for the horchata…Even tho Soda Rush is right next door, a couple of my kids would rather have the horchata:-)
3. Boca Taqueria– 3 Locations! Point 22 and Signal Butte, Higley and Baseline, Greenfield and Brown
Boca Taqueria in PHX East Valley is your go-to for affordable and flavorful tacos. With Barbacoa Tacos and more on the menu, our eatery provides a casual yet delicious dining experience for taco enthusiasts.
Popular Dish: Barbacoa Tacos – Tacos filled with slow-cooked and shredded beef, topped with onions and cilantro.
Our FAVE– Salmon and Shrimp Tacos, Bean dip, Salsa and chips ALL the way!
4. Gecko Grill– Greenfield and Baseline
Gecko Grill offers a lively setting and a diverse menu filled with Mexican culinary delights in PHX East Valley. From Pollo Fundido to specialty dishes, our restaurant caters to various tastes with bold flavors.
Popular Dish: Pollo Fundido – Grilled chicken wrapped in a flour tortilla, fried until crispy, and topped with cheese sauce.
Our FAVE– Shrimp Mango Quesadilla, Shrimp and Salmon Tacos, Any Enchiladas, Bean dip, salsas….everything is good!
5. Rancho de Tia Rosa’s- McKellips and Lindsay (OG), Higley and Guadalupe
Tia Rosa’s is your go-to family-friendly Mexican restaurant in PHX East Valley. Experience the comfort of home-cooked and unique Mexican fare in the coolest atmosphere you’ve ever been, with a menu inspired by traditional recipes-but with flare.
Popular Dish: Enchiladas Suizas – Enchiladas topped with a creamy tomatillo sauce and melted cheese.
Our FAVE– How to choose?? Salmon and Shrimp Tacos, Bean dip with chips and salsa. Do we need anything else?
6. Backyard Taco– Several Locations!
Backyard Taco in PHX East Valley is your go-to for quick and delicious Mexican street food. Our menu, featuring Carne Asada Street Tacos and more, caters to those seeking authentic flavors in a laid-back setting.
Popular Dish: Carne Asada Street Tacos – Grilled and seasoned beef tacos with onions, cilantro, and salsa.
Our FAVE– Chicken Tacos all the way, everyday. Just trust us. Oh, and don’t forget the Guac sauce!
7. Barrio Queen– 4 Locations! Ellsworth Loop and Rittenhouse and Gilbert Rd. and Guadalupe
Indulge in a culinary fiesta at Barrio Queen, an iconic Mexican restaurant in PHX East Valley. Our menu showcases a fusion of traditional Mexican flavors and innovative creations, all within a lively and colorful atmosphere.
Popular Dish: Chiles en Nogada – Poblano peppers stuffed with picadillo, topped with walnut cream sauce and pomegranate seeds.
8. Rocky Point Seafood– Gilbert Rd. and Pecos
Savor the taste of the coast at Rocky Point Seafood in PHX East Valley. Specializing in seafood with a Mexican twist, our restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy fresh catches and coastal-inspired dishes.
Popular Dish: Ceviche de Camarón – Shrimp ceviche marinated in citrus juices with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and avocado.
9. Rio Rico– Val Vista and Guadalupe
Discover a taste of Mexico’s rich culinary heritage at Rio Rico in PHX East Valley. With a blend of traditional flavors and a modern touch, Rio Rico offers a diverse menu in an elegant setting. Explore our menu to savor the essence of authentic Mexican cuisine.
Popular Dish: Carne Asada Tampiqueña – Grilled and seasoned beef served with enchilada, guacamole, and rice.
10. Creekside Taco Shack– Sossaman and Queen Creek Rd.
Creekside Taco Shop provides a casual setting in PHX East Valley, celebrated for its quick service and Adobada Burrito. Perfect for those seeking a quick and tasty Mexican meal, our eatery is a local favorite.
Popular Dish: Adobada Burrito – Burrito filled with marinated and grilled pork, beans, rice, and salsa.
11. Morenos– 2 Locations! Combs and Gantzel and Power and Main St.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant and contemporary Mexican dining experience at Morenos in the PHX East Valley. Known for reimagining classic dishes, Morenos provides a sophisticated ambiance and a menu that perfectly balances tradition and innovation.
Popular Dish: Cochinita Pibil Tacos – Slow-cooked achiote-marinated pork tacos with pickled red onions.
12. Rudy’s Mexican Grill– Guadalupe and Hawes
Rudy’s Mexican Grill is a local favorite in PHX East Valley, offering generous portions and flavorful dishes. From appetizers to main courses, the restaurant provides a warm and inviting atmosphere to enjoy traditional Mexican recipes.
Popular Dish: Chile Relleno – Poblano pepper stuffed with cheese, battered, and fried, served with ranchero sauce.
13. Golden Taco– Power and Brown
Golden Taco is your quick-service destination in PHX East Valley, specializing in flavorful Birria Tacos. Whether you’re on the go or looking for a taco fix, our eatery combines convenience with bold and authentic Mexican flavors.
Popular Dish: Birria Tacos – Tacos filled with tender stewed beef, topped with onions, cilantro, and served with consommé for dipping.
14. Comedor Guadalajara– Central Ave. and I-17
Not quite in the PHX East Valley, but when you know, you know. Who doesn’t travel for good food?? You will experience the heart of Mexico at Comedor Guadalajara in PHX, just off the I-17. With an extensive menu of classic Mexican dishes, our restaurant combines traditional flavors with a welcoming ambiance for an authentic dining experience.
Popular Dish: Molcajete – A sizzling bowl of grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, chorizo, and cactus, topped with cheese and salsa.
15. Tacos Calafia– McQueen & Elliot
Tacos Calafia in PHX East Valley is a haven for taco enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in a world of inventive and mouthwatering taco options, where traditional flavors meet creative twists in a vibrant atmosphere.
Popular Dish: Al Pastor Tacos – Tacos filled with marinated and spit-grilled pork, pineapple, and cilantro.
