Scottsdale, Arizona, boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, and when it comes to Mexican food, the city truly shines. From time-honored family recipes to innovative culinary fusions, Scottsdale’s Mexican restaurants offer an array of flavors and experiences that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, discovering the Best Mexican Food In Scottsdale is a delicious journey. Here are 10 top restaurants that celebrate the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine, promising an unforgettable dining experience.
The Mission
The Mission Scottsdale Restaurant Interior
Where Old World charm meets contemporary flair, The Mission offers a menu inspired by the culinary traditions of Mexico, Spain, and Central and South America. Recognized with the 2024 Food Pioneer Award from the Arizona Restaurant Association for Chef Carter, The Mission is a culinary destination. Experience the rich flavors of meats slow-cooked over pecan and mesquite wood, indulge in a whole roasted pig brunch, or savor dinner specialties like duck confit carnitas empanadas and delightful espresso churros. Don’t miss their “Guac-tail” hour, featuring dips, chips, and a bottle of wine for just $20. With two convenient Scottsdale locations in Old Town and Kierland Commons, The Mission is easily accessible for your next Mexican food craving.
La Hacienda
La Hacienda Scottsdale Signature Margaritas
For an upscale and traditional Mexican food in Scottsdale experience, La Hacienda at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is the perfect choice. With plush seating, cozy beehive fireplaces, and group-friendly high-top tables, the ambiance is as inviting as the menu. Guacamole lovers will rejoice with five types of tableside-crafted guacamole, including unique options like watermelon and chile ancho, or sweet corn and cream. As the sun sets, the patio becomes an idyllic spot to share signature dishes such as the Filet a la Parrilla, inspired by the Governor’s dinner in Puebla, Mexico, or the Tampiqueña, a dish representing the flavors of La Huasteca.
Barrio Queen
Barrio Queen Delicious Tacos Selection
Barrio Queen brings a fun, Day of the Dead-inspired vibe to the Scottsdale Mexican food scene, but their commitment to flavor is no laughing matter. This Mexican street-influenced restaurant is a haven for both meat-lovers and vegans, offering an extensive menu with over 20 taco varieties featuring diverse proteins and excellent vegan Mexican options. Spice things up with their margarita flights, or for chili-infused tequila enthusiasts, dare to try the Death’s Door margarita—warning label included!
Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila
Cien Agaves Scottsdale Authentic Churro Sundae Dessert
Located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila is a casual eatery with vibrant Mexican artwork and rustic lighting, creating a lively dining atmosphere. Enjoy your Mexican food on one of their two patios while exploring a menu that blends authentic favorites with innovative twists, like island shrimp tacos and decadent churro sundaes. With over 100 agave spirits and specialty margaritas crafted with daily-made mixers and juices, the drinks are as noteworthy as the food. Fun fact: Cien Agaves partners with the Trails + Tequila Tasting Tour, offering a unique desert off-roading experience combined with their signature tacos and tequila.
Spotted Donkey Cantina
Spotted Donkey Cantina Outdoor Patio Dining Area
Nestled in North Scottsdale at el Pedregal, adjacent to The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Spotted Donkey Cantina provides patio dining at its finest. Savor your Scottsdale Mexican food while taking in breathtaking desert vistas and a unique dinner menu featuring dishes like charred avocado tacos, a surf and turf burrito, and a Sonoran quesadilla filled with squash and mushrooms. For a truly local experience, complement your meal with an oak barrel cocktail, aged to perfection to deliver smoky caramel and vanilla notes to your evening.
Diego Pops
Diego Pops Scottsdale Insta-Worthy Restaurant Interior
Step into Diego Pops, located in a historic Old Town pottery shop, and instantly feel transported to a relaxed beachside taco shack in the Yucatan. This playful spot offers a menu of reasonably priced and delicious Mexican food in Scottsdale, especially known for its Sonoran hot dog, a Southwest staple. Cool down with refreshing cocktails made with fresh guava, coconut water, and prickly pear, or turn up the heat with their Brussels sprout nachos and Flamin’ Hot Cheeto-dusted street corn.
Los Olivos Mexican Patio
Los Olivos Mexican Patio Authentic Chips and Salsa
A Scottsdale institution since the 1950s, Los Olivos Mexican Patio is currently run by the family’s third generation, maintaining its legacy of authentic Mexican cuisine. Must-try dishes include their signature tri-colored Mexican Flag enchiladas. The restaurant exudes colorful energy, especially in the domed “blue room” featuring skylights and a large tropical fish tank. Experience friendly service, reliable quality, and consistently delicious food at this Scottsdale staple.
Toca Madera
Toca Madera Scottsdale Fire Dancer Entertainment
For a sophisticated Mexican food experience in Scottsdale, visit Toca Madera at Scottsdale Fashion Square. This self-proclaimed Mexican steakhouse boasts vines trailing the ceilings, live fire dancers, and an interior adorned with Arabesque accents, rich marble, and wood. Explore a fusion menu featuring Mayan prawns, chicken al pastor, tacos filled with seabass and carne asada, and truffle quesadillas. Save room for dessert—the Oaxacan chocolate mousse is a destination-worthy treat.
Sol Mexican Cocina
Sol Mexican Cocina Fresh and Flavorful Tacos
Located in Scottsdale Quarter, Sol Mexican Cocina is celebrated for its fresh coastal Mexican cuisine and authentic cooking techniques, inspired by the owner’s surf trips down the Baja peninsula. The Taco Tuesday live music adds to the vibrant atmosphere. With 24 house-made salsas and a focus on fresh seafood, the menu highlights ceviche, grilled octopus, shrimp chile relleno, and 18 specialty tacos, including the popular Vampiro: a double blue corn tortilla loaded with serranos, scallions, guacamole, chipotle sauce, and carne asada. For coastal Mexican food in Scottsdale, Sol is a must-visit.
Call Her Martina
Call Her Martina Scottsdale Exquisite Tacos Presentation
Tucked away on the Scottsdale Waterfront, Call Her Martina is a hidden gem worth discovering. Opened by a family from Sonora, Mexico, the restaurant’s cuisine is a fusion of northern and central Mexican dishes influenced by the father’s culinary experiences in Mexico City. The name “Call Her Martina” represents the strength and power of the family women, reflected in dishes with unique flourishes and elegant twists. Indulge in roasted bone marrow with elotes and microgreens, crunchy ribeye tacos, seafood tostadas, and “abuela’s” huevos rancheros for a memorable Mexican food Scottsdale experience.
Exploring the best Mexican food in Scottsdale is an adventure for your palate. From lively cantinas to sophisticated dining rooms, these top 10 restaurants offer a taste of Mexico that you won’t want to miss. So, come hungry and get ready to discover your new favorite Mexican spot in Scottsdale!
