Scottsdale, Arizona, a city known for its luxury and vibrant desert landscapes, also boasts a rich and diverse culinary scene. Among its many offerings, Mexican cuisine stands out, promising an array of flavors that range from time-honored traditions to innovative contemporary twists. For those seeking an authentic taste of Mexico in Scottsdale, the options are plentiful, but knowing where to find the truly exceptional experiences is key. This guide explores ten top Mexican restaurants in Scottsdale that rise above the rest, each celebrating the depth and breadth of Mexican gastronomy.
The Mission
The Mission Scottsdale
Blending Old World charm with contemporary flair, The Mission presents a menu influenced by the culinary traditions of Mexico, Spain, and Central and South America. Celebrated Chef Carter, a recipient of the 2024 Food Pioneer Award from the Arizona Restaurant Association, crafts dishes where meats are lovingly slow-cooked over pecan and mesquite woods. From whole roasted pig brunches to dinner offerings like duck confit carnitas empanadas and uniquely flavored espresso churros, The Mission delivers a memorable dining experience. Don’t miss their “Guac-tail” hour, featuring dips, chips, and a bottle of wine at an attractive price. With two Scottsdale locations, one in Old Town and another at Kierland Commons, The Mission offers accessibility and consistent quality.
La Hacienda
La Hacienda Margaritas
Nestled within the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, La Hacienda provides an upscale take on traditional Mexican dining. The ambiance is defined by plush seating and cozy beehive fireplaces, making it ideal for both intimate dinners and group gatherings. A highlight is their tableside-crafted guacamole, offering five distinct variations including innovative combinations like watermelon and chile ancho, or sweet corn and cream. The sunset patio provides a stunning backdrop to savor signature dishes such as the Filet a la Parrilla, inspired by a Governor’s dinner in Puebla, Mexico, and the Tampiqueña, a dish representing the diverse people of La Huasteca.
Barrio Queen
Barrio Queen Tacos
Barrio Queen distinguishes itself with a vibrant, Day of the Dead-inspired décor and a menu that takes Mexican street food flavors seriously. While the atmosphere is playful, reminiscent of Three Amigos humor, the cuisine is meticulously crafted. A standout for vegan Mexican options, Barrio Queen also boasts over 20 taco varieties featuring a wide selection of proteins. For drink enthusiasts, margarita flights offer a taste adventure, and for those who appreciate a spicy kick, the Death’s Door margarita, infused with chili tequila, is a must-try, albeit with a playful warning.
Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila
Cien Agaves Churro Sundae
Located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila is a lively, casual spot with two inviting patios. The restaurant is adorned with vibrant Mexican artwork and warm, rustic lighting, creating an authentic and welcoming environment. Alongside classic Mexican favorites, the menu features contemporary twists such as island shrimp tacos and delectable churro sundaes. True to its name, Cien Agaves offers an impressive selection of over 100 agave spirits and specialty margaritas, all made with freshly crafted mixers and juices. Notably, Cien Agaves partners with the Trails + Tequila Tasting Tour, offering a unique experience to enjoy their tacos and tequila while exploring the desert terrain.
Spotted Donkey Cantina
Spotted Donkey Cantina
Situated in North Scottsdale at el Pedregal, adjacent to The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Spotted Donkey Cantina provides a patio dining experience with breathtaking desert views. The dinner menu is distinct, featuring creative dishes like charred avocado tacos, a surf and turf burrito, and a Sonoran quesadilla filled with squash and mushrooms. To conclude your evening like a local, sample their oak barrel-aged cocktails, which develop smoky caramel and vanilla notes through careful aging.
Diego Pops
diego pops – insta worthy – body
Stepping into Diego Pops, located in a historic Old Town pottery shop, is like entering a relaxed taco stand on the Yucatan beaches. The menu is playful and reasonably priced, especially known for the Sonoran hot dog, a Southwestern culinary staple. Refresh with cocktails made with fresh guava, coconut water, and prickly pear, or spice things up with Brussels sprout nachos and street corn dusted with flamin’ hot Cheeto. Diego Pops offers a fun and casual Mexican dining experience in Scottsdale.
Los Olivos Mexican Patio
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A Scottsdale institution since the 1950s, Los Olivos Mexican Patio is currently managed by the family’s third generation, maintaining its legacy of authentic Mexican cuisine. The focus is on traditional dishes, such as their signature tri-colored Mexican Flag enchiladas, complemented by a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. The unique “blue room,” with its domed skylights and large tropical fish tank, adds to the restaurant’s charm. Known for its friendly energy, reliable service, and consistently delicious food, Los Olivos is a Scottsdale favorite for classic Mexican dining.
Toca Madera
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Located at Scottsdale Fashion Square, Toca Madera presents itself as a sophisticated Mexican steakhouse, marked by its vine-covered ceilings, live fire performers, and opulent Arabesque décor with marble and wood accents. The menu features a fusion of flavors, including Mayan prawns, chicken al pastor, seabass and carne asada tacos, and truffle quesadillas. For a sweet finish, the Oaxacan chocolate mousse is highly recommended, making Toca Madera a destination for upscale Mexican dining in Scottsdale.
Sol Mexican Cocina
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Situated in Scottsdale Quarter, Sol Mexican Cocina is celebrated for its fresh coastal Mexican cuisine and authentic cooking methods, inspired by the owner’s surf trips along the Baja peninsula. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by Taco Tuesday live music. With an impressive offering of 24 house-made salsas, the menu highlights fresh seafood, from ceviche to grilled octopus and shrimp chile relleno. Don’t miss their 18 specialty tacos, including the popular Vampiro, a double blue corn tortilla taco filled with carne asada and a variety of flavorful toppings. Sol offers a taste of Baja California in Scottsdale.
Call Her Martina
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Tucked away on the Scottsdale Waterfront, Call Her Martina is a culinary gem worth discovering. Founded by a family from Sonora, Mexico, the restaurant blends northern and central Mexican culinary influences, inspired by the father’s experience in Mexico City. The name “Call Her Martina” honors the strength of the family’s women, a theme reflected in the dishes, which feature elegant twists and unique touches. Signature dishes include roasted bone marrow with elotes and microgreens, crunchy ribeye tacos, seafood tostadas, and “abuela’s” huevos rancheros, offering a fusion of traditional and contemporary Mexican flavors in Scottsdale.
Scottsdale’s Mexican restaurant scene is rich and diverse, offering everything from casual taco spots to upscale dining experiences. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, exploring these culinary destinations will undoubtedly lead to discovering your new favorite spot for Mexican food in Scottsdale.
