Arizona may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of tacos, but it is a hidden gem for any taco lover. The state’s proximity to Mexico, combined with its vibrant culinary scene, has led to a thriving taco culture that is waiting to be discovered. From traditional street tacos to unique and innovative creations, Arizona has it all. In this article, we will explore the flavors, history, and hidden gems of Arizona’s taco scene.
The History and Cultural Significance of Tacos in Arizona
Tacos have a rich history in Arizona, deeply rooted in the state’s Mexican heritage. They have been a staple of Mexican cuisine for centuries, with each region having its own unique style and flavors. In Arizona, tacos have become an integral part of the local food culture, reflecting the state’s close ties to Mexico.
The influence of Mexican cuisine in Arizona can be traced back to the early Spanish colonization. As settlers from Mexico established communities in the region, they brought with them their culinary traditions, including the art of making tacos. Over time, these traditional recipes evolved and adapted to local tastes, resulting in the diverse taco scene we see today.
What makes Arizona’s taco restaurants unique
Arizona’s taco restaurants stand out for their commitment to quality and authenticity. Many of these establishments source their ingredients locally, ensuring that every taco is made with the freshest and finest ingredients. From the homemade tortillas to the perfectly seasoned meats, every element of a taco is carefully crafted to deliver an unforgettable dining experience.
Another unique aspect of Arizona’s taco restaurants is their dedication to innovation. While traditional tacos remain a favorite, many restaurants are pushing the boundaries and experimenting with new flavors and combinations. This culinary creativity has resulted in unique taco creations that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Highly Recommended Top Taco Spots To Try in the Valley
Here are a long list of must-visit places to get your taco fix in the Phoenix metro area.
Tacos Chiwas: This family-owned taqueria serves up some of the best Sonoran-style tacos in Phoenix. Their carne asada tacos are legendary, with tender, marinated beef that melts in your mouth.
La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop: If you’re in the mood for something adventurous, La Santisima is the place to go. Their menu features a wide variety of unique taco creations, including the popular “Taco Sinaloa” filled with grilled cactus, beef, and melted cheese.
Taco Guild: Housed in a historic church building, Taco Guild offers a unique dining experience. Their menu features a mix of traditional and modern tacos, with options like their signature “Ghost Chili Pork” taco that packs a spicy punch.
Barrio Cafe: Chef Silvana Salcido Esparza brings a modern twist to Mexican cuisine at Barrio Cafe. Their tacos, like the Cochinita Pibil taco with slow-roasted pork, are bursting with flavor and beautifully presented.
The Mission: Known for its upscale Latin cuisine, The Mission offers a gourmet twist on traditional tacos. Indulge in their lobster taco, filled with succulent lobster meat and topped with avocado and chipotle crema.
Los Sombreros: This cozy Mexican eatery in Old Town Scottsdale serves up authentic flavors in a welcoming atmosphere. Their carne asada taco, made with tender grilled steak and served with homemade salsa, is a crowd favorite.
Diego Pops: For a fun and lively dining experience, head to Diego Pops. Their Baja-style fish taco, made with crispy beer-battered fish and topped with slaw and chipotle aioli, is a true delight.
Maskadores Taco Shop: This casual taco joint offers a wide selection of tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Their carne asada taco, made with tender grilled steak and topped with fresh salsa, is a true crowd-pleaser.
El Pollo Supremo: If you’re a fan of chicken tacos, El Pollo Supremo is the place to go. Their grilled chicken taco, marinated with a secret blend of spices, is juicy and flavorful.
Ghost Ranch: Chef Aaron Chamberlin brings a modern twist to Southwestern cuisine at Ghost Ranch. Their smoked brisket taco, topped with tangy slaw and chipotle aioli, is a true delight.
Tacos Tijuana: This charming taco stand in Mesa offers authentic Mexican street-style tacos. Try their al pastor taco, marinated with a blend of spices and cooked on a vertical spit, for a true taste of Mexico.
Tocaya: If you’re looking for healthy and flavorful tacos, Tocaya Organica is the place to be. Their vegan-friendly tofu al pastor taco, made with marinated tofu and topped with pineapple salsa, is a must-try.
Backyard Taco: With its laid-back atmosphere and delicious tacos, Backyard Taco is a local favorite. Their carne asada taco, made with tender grilled steak and served with fresh salsa, is a classic choice.
Tacos N More: This family-owned restaurant in Chandler offers a wide variety of tacos, from traditional options to unique creations. Don’t miss their shrimp taco, made with juicy grilled shrimp and topped with tangy sauce.
Elmer’s Tacos: Elmer’s Tacos is a local institution known for its mouthwatering tacos. Their barbacoa taco, made with tender slow-cooked beef, is a true delight.
Joyride Taco House: Joyride Taco House combines traditional flavors with a modern twist. Try their crispy fish taco, made with beer-battered fish and topped with slaw and chipotle aioli.
West Alley BBQ & Smokehouse: While known for its barbecue, West Alley also offers delicious tacos. Try their smoked brisket taco, topped with tangy slaw and barbecue sauce, for a unique flavor experience.
Asadero Norte De Sonora: This family-owned restaurant specializes in Sonoran-style cuisine, including mouthwatering tacos. Their carne asada taco, made with tender grilled steak and served with homemade tortillas, is a true crowd-pleaser.
Tacos Calafia: Tacos Calafia is a local favorite for its authentic flavors and generous portions. Their al pastor taco, marinated with a blend of spices and cooked on a vertical spit, is a must-try.
Los Reyes De La Torta: This Peoria gem is known for its flavorful tortas, but their tacos are equally delicious. Don’t miss their carnitas taco, made with tender slow-cooked pork and topped with fresh salsa.
Mi Pueblo Mexican Grill: Mi Pueblo Mexican Grill offers a variety of tacos, from classic options to unique creations. Try their shrimp taco, made with grilled shrimp and topped with tangy sauce, for a burst of flavor.
Some additional mouth watering must try Taco shops in the valley:
Atoyac Estilo Oaxaca
Asadero Toro
Barrio Queen
Blanco Taco & Tequila
Carolna’s Mexican Food
Chico Malo
CRUjiente Tacos
El Fogon
Los Taquitos
Mariscos Ensenada
Sonora Taco Shop
Taco Boy’s
Ta’Carbon
Tacos Tijuana
Tacos Huicho
Willie’s Taco Joint
Hidden Gems in Tucson’s Taco Scene
Tucson, located in southern Arizona, is another city that deserves recognition for its vibrant taco scene. While not as widely known as Phoenix, Tucson has its own hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are a few taco spots that should be on your radar when visiting Tucson.
Taqueria Pico de Gallo: Tucked away in a residential neighborhood, Taqueria Pico de Gallo is a local favorite. Their tacos are simple yet bursting with flavor, using high-quality ingredients and homemade tortillas.
Boca Tacos y Tequila: Known for its adventurous taco creations, Boca Tacos y Tequila is a must-visit for any taco enthusiast. From exotic meats like kangaroo and alligator to vegetarian options like fried avocado, their menu is a playground for those seeking unique flavors.
El Güero Canelo: This Tucson institution is famous for its Sonoran hot dogs, but they also serve up delicious tacos. The star of the show is their “Birria Tacos,” filled with tender, slow-cooked beef and topped with onions, cilantro, and a splash of lime.
Must-try taco restaurants in Flagstaff
Criollo Latin Kitchen: Criollo brings a taste of Latin America to Flagstaff with its flavorful tacos. Don’t miss their barbacoa taco, slow-cooked beef served with pickled onions and cilantro.
Tacos Los Altos: This no-frills taco truck is a local favorite. Their street-style tacos, like the al pastor and carne asada, are simple yet packed with flavor.
Salsa Brava: Known for its zesty salsas and bold flavors, Salsa Brava offers a variety of delicious tacos. Try their shrimp taco, filled with juicy grilled shrimp and topped with tangy salsa.
Must-try taco restaurants in Sedona
Elote Cafe: Located in the heart of Sedona, Elote Cafe is a culinary gem. Their signature Elote taco, made with roasted corn, cotija cheese, and chipotle crema, is a delightful blend of flavors.
Tamaliza: This family-owned restaurant specializes in traditional Mexican cuisine, including mouthwatering tacos. Their carnitas taco, made with tender slow-cooked pork, is a true crowd-pleaser.
Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill: Mariposa offers a unique twist on Latin cuisine with stunning views of Sedona’s red rocks. Their grilled fish taco, served with avocado salsa and pickled onions, is a must-try.
Must-try taco restaurants in Yuma
Tacos Mi Rancho: This Yuma favorite offers a wide variety of tacos, from traditional options to unique creations. Don’t miss their carne asada taco, made with tender grilled steak and topped with fresh salsa.
Tacos El Cositas: Tacos El Cositas is a hidden gem in Yuma, known for its authentic flavors and generous portions. Their al pastor taco, marinated with a blend of spices and cooked on a vertical spit, is a must-try.
Tacos La Herencia: If you’re looking for a taste of Mexico in Yuma, Tacos La Herencia is the place to go. Their carnitas taco, made with tender slow-cooked pork, is a true crowd-pleaser.
Must-try taco restaurants in Prescott
El Gato Azul: This charming bistro in Prescott offers a fusion of Mexican and Mediterranean flavors. Their shrimp taco, made with grilled shrimp and topped with citrus aioli, is a true delight.
Tacos Don Juan: Tacos Don Juan is a local favorite for its authentic flavors and affordable prices. Try their barbacoa taco, made with tender slow-cooked beef, for a true taste of Mexico.
Casa Alvarez: Casa Alvarez is a family-owned restaurant known for its traditional Mexican cuisine. Their carne asada taco, made with tender grilled steak and served with homemade tortillas, is a classic choice.
Vegetarian and Vegan Taco Options in Arizona
Arizona’s taco scene is not just for meat lovers – it also caters to those following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. Whether you’re a dedicated plant-based eater or simply looking to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, you’ll find plenty of delicious options. Here are a few vegetarian and vegan taco spots to check out in Arizona.
The Coronado: Located in Phoenix, The Coronado is a vegetarian restaurant that offers a variety of flavorful tacos. Their “Jamaican Jerk Tacos” are a favorite among customers, with jerk-seasoned tofu, pineapple salsa, and avocado crema.
Tumerico: This vegan restaurant in Tucson is known for its vibrant and flavorful dishes, including their tacos. From the “Mushroom Asada” taco to the “BBQ Jackfruit” taco, Tumerico offers a range of plant-based options that are sure to satisfy.
Gallo Blanco: Located in Phoenix’s historic Garfield District, Gallo Blanco offers a separate vegetarian menu featuring delicious tacos. Their “Veggie Chorizo” taco, filled with house-made vegetarian chorizo and topped with avocado, is a must-try.
Tips for Finding the Best Tacos in Arizona
With so many taco options to choose from, finding the best tacos in Arizona can feel like a daunting task. However, with a little guidance, you can navigate the taco scene like a pro. Here are some tips to help you find the tastiest tacos in Arizona.
Ask the Locals: When it comes to finding the best tacos, locals are your best resource. Strike up a conversation with residents or restaurant staff and ask for their recommendations. They will often point you in the direction of the hidden gems that may not be as well-known to tourists.
Do Your Research: Before visiting a taco spot, take the time to do some research. Read online reviews, browse through menus, and check out social media profiles to get an idea of what to expect. This will ensure that you make informed choices and find tacos that suit your preferences.
Embrace the Unexpected: Don’t be afraid to try new things and step out of your comfort zone. Some of the best taco experiences come from unexpected places or unique combinations. Be open to trying different flavors and ingredients – you might just discover your new favorite taco.
Arizona’s taco scene is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. From the traditional flavors of street tacos to the innovative creations found in fusion restaurants, there is something for everyone in this vibrant culinary landscape. By exploring the taco spots, attending festivals, and embracing the local culture, you can truly immerse yourself in Arizona’s taco scene. So grab your appetite and embark on a taco-filled adventure – you won’t be disappointed.
