Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Phoenix, United States
1. Chimichanga at Casa Aurelia
A traditional Mexican-American dish deep-fried burrito originated in Arizona, filled with meat and beans. Served with cheese, lettuce, sour cream, and salsa.
- Authenticity: Casa Aurelia has been serving authentic chimichangas for over 50 years.
- Atmosphere: Diners enjoy the family-friendly ambiance of this old-school restaurant.
- Portion Size: The chimichanga comes in a generous size, perfect for sharing.
2. Sonoran Hot Dog at El Guero Canelo
A unique twist on the classic hot dog, wrapped in bacon and topped with pinto beans, mustard, mayonnaise, jalapeños, onions, and tomatoes.
- Local Flavor: El Guero Canelo is a staple in the Tucson area and known for its Sonoran Hot Dogs.
- Unique Toppings: The combination of ingredients provides a burst of flavors with every bite.
- Historic Significance: El Guero Canelo was founded in 1993 and has become a must-visit location for Phoenix visitors.
3. Phoenix Salsa at Barrio Queen
A spicy blend of roasted tomatoes, tomatillos, onions, and serrano peppers. Perfect for adding heat to your tacos or chips.
- Homemade Ingredients: Barrio Queen uses fresh, locally-sourced ingredients in their salsa.
- Versatility: The Phoenix Salsa can be used as a dip or added to your favorite Mexican dishes for an extra kick.
- Flavor Profiles: Barrio Queen offers mild, medium, and hot versions of their signature salsa.
4. Navajo Tacos at Cattle Track Inn
Navajo Fry Bread tacos topped with ground beef, beans, lettuce, and cheese. A unique dish with Native American roots.
- Cultural Significance: Cattle Track Inn is a historic landmark that celebrates Navajo culture.
- Unforgettable Experience: Diners can enjoy their meal while exploring the art galleries and shops on the property.
- Authentic Flavors: The Navajo Tacos at Cattle Track Inn are made using traditional methods.
5. Prickly Pear Margarita at Durant's
A refreshing margarita made with prickly pear juice, tequila, lime juice, and triple sec. A perfect blend of sweet and tart.
- Unique Ingredient: Durant's uses locally-sourced prickly pear juice in their margaritas.
- Tradition: Durant's has been serving Phoenix residents and visitors since 1929.
- Perfect Balance: The sweetness of the prickly pear juice is perfectly balanced with the tartness of the lime.
6. Carne Asada at Los Dos Molinos
Grilled, marinated beef served with rice, beans, and tortillas. A popular dish in Phoenix's Mexican restaurants.
- Flavorful Marinade: Los Dos Molinos uses a special marinade to ensure their carne asada is full of flavor.
- Large Portions: The portion sizes at Los Dos Molinos are generous, perfect for sharing or taking leftovers home.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Los Dos Molinos offers a casual, family-friendly dining experience.
7. Sonoran Burrito at Rito's Mexican Food
A giant burrito filled with carne asada, beans, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and sauces. A hearty meal for hungry travelers.
- Gigantic Portions: Rito's Sonoran Burritos are known for their size and deliciousness.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The quality of ingredients used at Rito's ensures a fantastic taste experience.
- Convenient Location: Rito's is located near popular tourist attractions, making it easy to grab a bite after sightseeing.
8. Pho at Phoenix Vietnamese Restaurant
A traditional Vietnamese soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, and various meats or vegetables. A warming dish for cooler days.
- Authenticity: Phoenix Vietnamese Restaurant offers an authentic pho experience.
- Wide Variety: The menu features various types of pho, allowing diners to customize their dish.
- Comforting Atmosphere: Phoenix Vietnamese Restaurant offers a cozy and inviting dining experience.
9. Breakfast Burrito at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
A hearty breakfast burrito filled with eggs, cheese, and your choice of proteins. Perfect for starting the day right.
- Creative Options: Snooze offers unique flavors like the Huevos Rancheros or the Potato Tamale Pie.
- Fresh Ingredients: Snooze uses fresh, locally-sourced ingredients in their breakfast burritos.
- Friendly Service: The friendly and attentive staff at Snooze will make your breakfast experience enjoyable.
10. Bison Burger at Knuckle Sandwiches
A juicy bison burger served on a freshly baked bun with lettuce, tomato, and your choice of cheese. A healthier alternative to traditional beef.
- High-Quality Meat: Knuckle Sandwiches uses high-quality bison meat in their burgers.
- Gourmet Toppings: Knuckle Sandwiches offers unique toppings like jalapeño jam and house-made pickles.
- Casual Atmosphere: Knuckle Sandwiches has a laid-back, friendly atmosphere that encourages relaxation.
11. Barbacoa at Barrio Cafe
Slow-cooked beef wrapped in maguey leaves, served with corn tortillas and salsa. A traditional Mexican dish with rich flavors.
- Homemade Ingredients: Barrio Cafe uses homemade tortillas and slow-cooked meats to ensure the best taste.
- Unique Preparation: The barbacoa is cooked in a pit lined with maguey leaves, giving it a unique flavor.
- Creative Presentation: Barrio Cafe serves their barbacoa beautifully, making your meal an aesthetic experience as well as a delicious one.
12. Rattlesnake Fritters at The Mission Restaurant
Deep-fried rattlesnake meat served with a spicy ranch dipping sauce. A unique and adventurous dish for the daring traveler.
- Exotic Ingredient: The Mission Restaurant offers rattlesnake fritters as a specialty item.
- Crispy Texture: The deep-frying process creates a crispy outer layer and tender interior for the rattlesnake meat.
- Adventurous Experience: Trying rattlesnake fritters at The Mission Restaurant is an unforgettable experience.
13. Phoenix Pizza at Pizzeria Bianco
A Neapolitan-style pizza with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and a variety of toppings. A delicious twist on a classic dish.
- Craftsmanship: Pizzeria Bianco prides itself on using the best ingredients and artisanal techniques.
- Unique Toppings: Pizzeria Bianco offers unique toppings like figs, arugula, and prosciutto.
- Cozy Atmosphere: Pizzeria Bianco has a warm and inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation.
14. Southwest Salad at Matt's Big Breakfast
A fresh salad featuring mixed greens, avocado, black beans, corn, and a Southwest vinaigrette. A healthy and flavorful option.
- Healthy Option: Matt's Big Breakfast offers a salad as a lighter alternative to their delicious breakfast menu.
- Fresh Ingredients: Matt's Big Breakfast uses fresh, locally-sourced ingredients in their Southwest Salad.
- Flavorful Vinaigrette: The Southwest vinaigrette adds a unique and tasty twist to the salad.
15. Churros at Churro Co.
Crispy, golden churros dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with a dipping sauce. A sweet treat for any time of day.
- Homemade Ingredients: Churro Co. uses fresh, homemade dough to create their churros.
- Unique Dipping Sauces: Churro Co. offers a variety of dipping sauces like salted caramel and Nutella.
- Portable Snack: The churros at Churro Co. are perfect for snacking on the go or enjoying as a sweet treat during sightseeing.