If you want to discover the best Mexican Restaurants in Tucson, Arizona, prepare to be swept up in rich flavors and traditions! This town is a culinary paradise, with each bite reflecting its history and vibrant culture, from the taste of an expertly crafted salsa to the hearty embrace of a well-stuffed burrito.
From the historic avenues of downtown Tucson to the upscale boulevards of La Encantada, get ready to explore a lineup of eateries that will redefine your definition of Mexican dining. There’s traditional Mexican fare, fusion cuisine, and modern twists to explore, so there’s truly something for everyone!
I’ve compiled this list of some of the most amazing Mexican restaurants in the area, so you can choose from the best. So, let’s dig in!
Top Picks for Mexican Dining in Tucson
The top picks for amazing Mexican dining in Tucson will leave you savoring every bite and recounting the tales of flavor to anyone who’ll listen. These are the places where you’ll get the love and tradition alongside bold, vibrant flavors that will make you want to come back again and again.
El Charro Cafe – A Time-Honored Culinary Gem
Stand at the threshold of 311 N Court Ave, AZ 85701, and breathe in the lingering aroma of decades-spanning culinary excellence. El Charro Cafe, an undeniable Tucson treasure, brings the Sonoran style to new heights with its legendary carne seca and iconic cheese crisps.
Generations of the Flin family, starting with Monica Flin back in the 1920’s, have preserved El Charro’s status as the oldest Mexican restaurant in Tucson, serving up some of the best menudo you’ll ever lay your spoon in.
Each bite is a piece of history, a story told through flavor, serving up not just food, but a slice of Tucson’s soul. You can dig in every day from 11am -9pm local time.
If that’s not enough to convince you, they’ve been nominated for a James Beard award and have claimed to be the inventors of the chimichanga, so you know it’s going to be great! Plus, they ship on Goldbelly so you can fill that tamale craving even after you head back home.
Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen – Elevated Classics
At Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen in Tucson, you can experience classic Mexican fare, as well as some more modern interpretations, meaning there’s something for everyone!
There’s classic street tacos, simply topped with onion and cilantro for the perfect bite. My favorite is the less-classic birria ramen, combining amazing flavorful broth into a soup that’s incredibly delicious! Don’t forget the chocolate flan for dessert!
They’ve also won awards for their house-made salsas (and for good reason) so don’t forget to dive into a bowl of that while you’re there!
Open most days from 7am – 8:30pm (Sunday is 8a-8p), with Friday and Saturday nights staying open until 9pm, you can surely find a great time to try one of the best Mexican restaurants in Tucson!
Guadalajara Original Grill – A Feast for the Senses
For an atmosphere that’s as lively as the flavors, step into the bustling Guadalajara Original Grill. This Mexican restaurant in Tucson invites your senses to a fiesta!
Here, the marriage of fresh ingredients creates a symphony of taste that’s hard to forget. Savor the goodness as servers prepare salsa and guacamole right before your eyes. It is as delicious as it is entertaining, for a culinary show you won’t want to miss!
After your fill of chips, try something unique, like the amazing lobster enchiladas, or my personal favorite, the Mexican paella. It’s loaded with mussels, shrimp, and Mexican inspired rice for a delicious fusion.
They’re also got the classics, like burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas, and molcajetes, served in a volcanic rock bowl. There’s a large vegetarian menu as well, so it’s a great option if you have a non-meat eater in your party.
Open every day from 11am – 9pm (10pm on Friday and Saturday nights), this is Mexican cuisine done right—with flair, finesse, and a generous helping of soul!
Mi Nidito Restaurant – A Cozy Nook for Mexican Delights
Once you step into the cozy confines of Mi Nidito Restaurant at 1813 S 4th Ave, you’re embraced by an ambiance that whispers tales of a Tucson long treasured.
This spot, serving Mexican dishes since ’52, has welcomed the likes of President Bill Clinton. His meal of choice—the President’s Plate, of course. It is a legendary assembly of a bean tostada, birria taco, chicken enchilada, and beef tamale smothered under a velvety chile relleno.
Of course, you can also enjoy other classics, like tacos, burritos, flautas, and a warming bowl of menudo. Don’t forget the margarita, or a classic Mexican beer!
Now, the restaurant did change owners, selling outside the family for the first time in March of 2024. The new owners are committed, however, to keeping the history and delicious food you can find here going strong!
Fun fact if you’re a snowbird hanging out in Arizona for the season – Mi Nidito means “my little nest” and their logo features birds. Tell me it’s not fate!
You can check Mi Nidito out from Wednesday – Sunday from 11am to 9:30pm (11:30pm on Friday and Saturday nights) if you’re ready to dive in!
Penca Restaurante – Rustic and Upscale
Wander into Penca Restaurante and find yourself at the crossroads of tradition and innovation. It’s a place started more than 10 years ago by the Schwabe family, quickly becoming a beacon of evolution within the Tucson dining scene.
Try out their nopales, for a taste of the desert that’s as unique as the restaurant itself. From creamy queso fundido to classic street tacos, you’ll find something to suit every palette.
Don’t forget the tres leches cake for dessert, either! It’s here that Tucson’s culinary heritage is not just preserved—it’s re-envisioned.
Penca is located nearby to Fox Theatre, so it’s a great place to grab a bite before or after your show! If you’re out for date night, make sure to check out some of the other great things to do in Arizona for couples for more inspiration!
They’re open Wednesday – Sunday from 4pm – 9:30pm. Happy Hour (which I highly recommend if you plan to enjoy some of their signature agave and Mezcal drinks) runs from 4pm-6pm daily when they’re open!
The Best of Southern Tucson’s Mexican Restaurants
Now, let’s take a trip to the Southern side of Tucson and some of the best Mexican restaurants there, where the flavors are as rich and deep as the history they represent!
BK Carne Asada & Hot Dogs – South 12th Ave
Let’s talk about BK Carne Asada & Hot Dogs on South 12th Ave. It is a spot that’s been dishing out Mexican treats as warm as the Tucson sun since ’94.
If you haven’t sunk your teeth into their carne asada tacos, you’re truly missing out! Then there’s the combo of dogs and carne asada, making this restaurant a winner in any local’s book. When that desert heat cranks up, their covered patio becomes a little oasis—complete with a cold Michelada to keep things cool.
The thing I truly believe you have to experience, though, is their Sonoran dog. It’s basically the Arizona version of a Chicago dog. Wrap a hot dog in bacon, place it in a fresh-baked bun, and top it with pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, mayo, mustard, jalapeno sauce, and grilled peppers. It’s a flavor explosion!
With many menu items under $10, it’s a place that won’t break the bank while still allowing you to enjoy some delicious eats. You can check them out 7 days a week, from 10am, with closing hours varying between 9pm to Midnight, depending on the day.
Taqueria Pico de Gallo – A Local Favorite
Over on South 6th Ave, nestled snugly in the heart of AZ 85713, there’s Taqueria Pico de Gallo. Don’t let the humble exterior fool you – they serve authentic meals that are so delicious!
It’s a total understatement to call their fish tacos good—they’re award-winners, scooping up accolades from Tucson Weekly and the hearts of locals alike.
For me, though, it’s their homemade corn tortillas and horchata that are the real showstoppers, making every meal a memorable one.
You can stop by daily from 6am to 9pm (they open at 9am on the weekends) – make sure to check out their breakfast burritos if you’re out and about early!
El Güero Canelo Restaurant – Exquisite Dining
Go on over to El Güero Canelo on 22nd St, and you’ll be in for a treat! This place took those Sonoran-style hotdogs from street stands to the big leagues. They wrap them up with all the fixings you could dream of.
What started as little more than a snack hut near a parking lot has turned into a Tucson staple over 30 years running. They’ve even been nominated for a James Beard award! Now, that’s street fare at its finest!
Of course, they have other tasty options like quesadillas and my favorite, the torta! This Mexican sandwich is packed with flavor.
Don’t forget the drinks! Try coffee, Mexican soda, or horchata, including their hibiscus flower horchata which is the perfect unique spin (and I think it’s insanely delicious). It’s the perfect sidekick to all that savory goodness!
The Southern Tucson location opens daily at 9am for your coffee fix, and remains open until 9pm – 11pm, depending on the day.
Jalisco Restaurante – Authenticity at Its Best
Jalisco Restaurante over on W Irvington Rd doesn’t mess around when it comes to a Mexican breakfast. Their chilaquiles? Out of this world. It’s like a morning fiesta on a plate, and it’s calling your name loud and clear. You’ll know you’re eating something crafted with tradition and a sprinkle of love.
If you’re not a morning person, then stop in for some fresh tamales, tacos, enchiladas, and more! Their menudo is always hot, perfectly seasoned, and Mexican comfort food at its finest. I’m a fan of the red menudo, but they usually have a couple flavors to offer.
You can enjoy a cold beer here, both Mexican and American bottles are available, and they also have sodas and horchata. There are no cocktails, though, so if you’re craving a margarita then you’ll have to stop somewhere else.
Jalisco’s is open daily from 7am to 8pm, except on Sunday when they close at 3pm instead.
Rollies Mexican Patio – Modern Twists on Classics
When you hit Rollies Mexican Patio on S 12th Ave, you’re in for more than just a meal. It’s an experience!
Their birria tacos are next level; like a fiesta on a plate! They even have it in ramen form if you prefer it that way. True to their namesake, though, you have to check out their rollies!
Rollies are rolled tacos topped with pickled veggies and signature sauce and the combination is delicious! I’m a big fan of the chicken, but you can get them in birria or potato filling options too.
You’ve also got to see their birria pizzadilla, which is basically a giant birria-filled quesadilla that’s perfect for sharing. Definitely do not skip dessert either! The ice cream concha is an ice cream sandwich on a traditional Mexican sweet bread that I just can’t pass up.
There’s a reason they’ve won so many food awards in Tucson, so be sure to stop by and check them out! You can visit Rollie’s Monday through Saturday from 11am to 7pm, or through 8pm Thurs-Sat. They’re closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly.
Discovering Tucson’s Mexican Street Food Scene
Tucson’s streets are a canvas painted with vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas of Mexican street food. Each bite tells a story, from mouthwatering enchiladas to those perfect little cups of horchata. It’s a tale of tradition, family, and some serious culinary chops.
Tacos Apson – S 12th Ave
Not too far from Rollie’s, you can check out the hidden gem that is Tacos Apson. Sitting in the Southern side of Tucson on 12th Avenue, it’s the kind of place that keeps things real.
Named after the Mexican rock band The Apson Boys, this restaurant brings the flavor of Sonora straight to your plate, with a hefty side of street cred!
Like many Tucson joints, their claim to fame is their Sonoran hot dog. I’m telling you, though, do not sleep on the tacos al pastor! If you’re really brave (which I am not), I’ve heard their lengua is pretty tasty too.
At the salsa bar, you’ll find all the fixings to tailor your taco to just how you like it! There are usually a few different types of salsa, plus onions, cilantro, limes, and pico de gallo.
You can check out Tacos Apson 7 days a week. They’re usually open 10am to 10pm, but stay open until midnight on Friday and Saturday nights. Sundays they open at 11am, so you can get an extra hour of sleep after rocking all night long.
Calle Tepa – Mexican Street Eats and More
Calle Tepa is where it’s at if you’re hunting for street eats with soul. This bustling nook offers up a spread of Mexican delights that’ll have you coming back for seconds before you’ve even finished the firsts!
Their street tacos are where it’s at, and I highly recommend the carne asada – it’s the real deal! Don’t worry, though, they still have Sonoran dogs, tortas, quesadillas, taco salads, and more, so you can change things up anytime.
From the sizzle of the grill to the bright burst of flavors, every bite is a reminder of why Tucson’s Mexican cuisine is something to be celebrated, savored, and shared.
You can check out Calle Tepa every day of the week from 11am to 8pm, with Thursday, Friday, and Saturday giving you an extra hour with a 9pm closing time. Happy Hour runs from 3-6pm and that means discounts on house margaritas!
Street – Taco and Beer Co – A New Star on the Block
If you haven’t heard about Street-Taco and Beer Co., it’s high time you did. This hotspot is buzzing with locals and visitors (like snowbirds) alike! They’re drawn in by an infectious combo of heavenly tacos and top-notch craft beers.
Their fish tacos are my go-to, though I can never say no to churros for dessert too! However, the real appeal here is the beer! They’re slinging local brews on draft, as well as an absolutely massive cooler stocked with Mexican and American bottles that pair perfectly with their tacos and other Mexican fare.
There’s also margaritas if you’re not a beer drinker, and if you don’t drink at all, no worries, they have agua frescas and Jarritos too!
Since this location is downtown, it’s sometimes a little tricky to find parking. There is a small patio with outdoor seating, but since it sits next to the busy street, I usually choose to sit inside instead.
Check out Street- Taco and Beer Co Monday – Saturday from 11am-7pm (8pm on Fri and Sat nights), and Sundays 12p-6pm.
The Best Mexican Seafood Restaurants in Tucson
From lime-kissed ceviche to a savory mariscos stew, Tucson’s seafood scene is a deep dive into flavor that’s well worth the plunge. So, let’s dive into some of the best Mexican seafood restaurants in Tucson to try!
Oh, and if you’re headed East at all this year, don’t forget to check out some of the best seafood restaurants in Naples (Florida) or make a list of seafood restaurants in Myrtle Beach (South Carolina) to try!
Mariscos Chihuahua – South 6th Ave
Mariscos Chihuahua isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an institution, serving up a unique take on the seaside Mexican fare. Picture this: a shrimp (camarones) culichi swaddled in a creamy green sauce so divine, it’s made Mariscos Chihuahua a blueprint for seafood success!
I love their tangy ceviche, but I feel like the Marlin is a must-try if you’ve never had it before. Every dish they plate is a love letter straight from the coastal kitchens of Mexico, sealed with a splash of tangy lime. Trust me, your taste buds will be doing the salsa all the way home!
You can also grab a cold beer, Michelada, margarita, or refreshing horchata to pair with your seafood feast!
Mariscos is open every day except Tuesday from 11am to 8pm, and during the Lenten season on Fridays they usually stay open until 9pm so you can get your fish fix!
La Yaquesita Mexican Cuisine – Tasty Tacos & More
At La Yaquesita, while not specifically a seafood restaurant, they serve up a storm of culinary delights, including some of my favorite shrimp tacos! If that’s not enough to lure you in, the free musicians they feature often might just seal the deal.
Of course, they have other great dishes like their birria, and unique offerings like the Yaquesita taco – an Anaheim chili stuffed with steak, steak, mushrooms, bacon, and cheese in a corn tortilla.
You’ve also got to try the Papa Loka, which is one of the most unusual baked potatoes I’ve ever experienced, loaded with asada, veggies, and cheese, and served with tortilla chips so you can scoop up every last bite!
La Yaquesita is closed on Mondays, but you can find them at their corner spot Tuesday – Saturday from 11am to 9pm (10pm Fri and Sat nights) and Sunday 11am – 6pm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Mexican Food is Tucson, Arizona Known For?
Tucson is known for all sorts of Mexican foods, but Sonoran hot dogs are probably the most famous.
However, you’ll also find amazing carne asada, and classic Mexican breakfasts like chilaquiles and huevos rancheros too.
What is the Most Popular Mexican Restaurant Dish?
While the popularity of dishes always varies by personal preference, one of the most popular Mexican restaurant dishes overall is a carne asada burrito.
They’re stuffed to the brim with grilled, marinated beef and your favorite fixings, and offer a food-based window into the world of Mexico’s culinary heritage.
Are There Many Mexican Restaurants in Tucson, Arizona?
Yes, there are! While numbers can fluctuate as restaurants open and close, there are currently over 400 Mexican restaurants in Tucson, Arizona.
This includes a wide variety of Mexican eateries, from corner taquerias to elegant dining establishments. Each one boasts a menu bursting with traditional dishes that’ll transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Mexico City.
What Style of Food is Arizona Known For?
Arizona is most known for Mexican style food. The proximity to the Southern border and the sheet amount of Mexican restaurants in the state are a testament to that.
Additionally, Sonoran cuisine, which is an offshoot of Mexican, and desert fare, featuring cactus dishes like prickly pear, are also noteworthy.
What is the Food Capital of Arizona?
All signs point to Tucson as the food capital of Arizona.
With restaurants that have stood the test of time and new spots adding modern twists, Tucson proudly bears the crown for a vibrant, flavorful food scene.
Can I Experience Authentic Mexican Cuisine at the Best Restaurants in Tucson?
Many of the best Mexican restaurants in Tucson pride themselves on serving authentic Mexican cuisine, with menus featuring traditional dishes, homemade salsas and sauces, and time-honored cooking techniques passed down through generations.
However, you can also find amazing restaurants that include modern foods and cooking methods, as well as fusion cuisine. While much is personal preference, don’t discount the modern options entirely!
Can I Find Vegetarian or Vegan Options at These Restaurants?
Yes, many of the best Mexican restaurants in Tucson offer vegetarian and vegan options, including dishes made with fresh vegetables, beans, rice, and plant-based protein substitutes, catering to diverse dietary preferences.
If you need these options, I highly recommend reading over the menus, which are readily available online, to make sure you can find dishes that suit your taste preferences as well as meeting your dietary needs.
Are Reservations Required at Mexican Restaurants?
Many of Tucson’s best Mexican restaurants are fast casual or outdoors, and these locations do not require reservations.
If you plan to go to a more upscale or sit down restaurant, like Penca for example, then reservations are recommended, especially if you have a larger party or plan to visit during a busy time.
Do Mexican Restaurants Offer Takeout or Delivery Options?
Most, though not all, Mexican restaurants in Tucson offer takeout options. Some require ordering in person for takeout, while others you can call or order online in advance for pickup. Make sure to check online for the most up to date information, as it can change.
Also note that some establishments can offer sealed beers for takeout, but typically you cannot enjoy mixed drinks like margaritas to-go.
On the flip side, delivery is not something offered by the majority of Mexican restaurants. However, depending on your location, you may be able to order via a third party delivery service.
Final Thoughts: The Best Mexican Restaurants in Tucson, Arizona
Embarking on a culinary journey through Tucson’s Mexican food scene is like flipping through the pages of a history book, where every bite tells a story. Whether you’re craving time-honored recipes or a taste of innovation, you can find it at some of the best Mexican restaurants in Tucson, Arizona.
Your quest for authentic Mexican food is met with wide-open arms here! So, treat your taste buds to the genuine article. Ultimately, Tucson’s Mexican restaurants blend tradition and taste into this culinary paradise.
If you’re looking for a place to stay while visiting on your culinary tour, make sure to check out my guide to Tucson monthly rentals for some great options!
I was born and raised in the northern United States, and one thing I learned pretty early on in life is: I hate the cold and snow. Sure, there’s something charming about the first snowfall of the year, but after that, I’m out.
While a part of my heart will always lie in New England, the older I get, the more I want to escape it during the coldest months.
That’s where the snowbirding lifestyle earned its appeal for me. When the bad weather starts to loom, I head south to find warmer climates to get me through until spring and warmer weather returns.
- 15 Best Mexican Restaurants in Tucson Arizona - May 17, 2024
- 23 Fun Things to Do for Your Birthday in Florida - May 9, 2024
- How to Be a Snowbird on a Budget: Don’t Break the Bank! - April 2, 2024
Related posts:
Best Restaurants in Lakeland Florida – Your Ultimate Dining Experience Guide
Best East Texas Restaurants: A Culinary Journey Through Flavorful Eats
Discover the 18 Best Restaurants in Mobile Alabama – Your Ultimate Dining Guide
Discover the Best Restaurants in Destin Florida – The Ultimate Dining Guide