Phoenix, AZ
For Mexican in Phoenix, the local food press points to Bacanora PHX, Chilte, and Barrio Cafe Sky Harbor. Picks from Phoenix New Times, updated July 2026.
Editor’s picks
Press picks, until locals rank their own Top 5s. Sourced from the local food press. As seen in Phoenix New Times. Updated July 2026.
Bacanora PHX · Grand Avenue
Chef René Andrade. a 2024 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southwest. House-made tortillas and Sonoran cooking driven by an open flame.
Chilte · Grand Avenue
Phoenix New Times: modern Mexican from Food & Wine's 2024 Best New Chef Lawrence Smith. Birria in squid-ink tortillas and mole de la casa inside the revamped Egyptian Motor Hotel.
Barrio Cafe Sky Harbor · Phoenix
Chef Silvana Salcido Esparza's landmark for modern regional Mexican, guacamole made tableside and cochinita pibil.
Alebrijes Cafe & Grill · Litchfield Park
A pozole loaded with spoon-tender pork, hominy, and fresh vegetables anchors this West Valley kitchen, where burritos and enchiladas come smothered in mole negro or a slightly spicy rojo. The colorful Litchfield Park dining room regularly draws a wait on weekends.
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