Tempe's Best Authentic Mexican Food [Updated 2024]

Having grown up in this vibrant city, I have had the pleasure of exploring numerous Mexican restaurants and immersing myself in the rich flavors of traditional cuisine. After extensively reviewing 15 establishments, I am confident in my selection of the top spots that truly capture the essence of authentic Mexican food.

From savoring mouthwatering tacos bursting with flavors to indulging in heavenly enchiladas, this guide will take you on a tantalizing journey through Tempe's culinary scene. Whether you are a local looking to expand your foodie horizons or a visitor craving an authentic Mexican experience, this article is your gateway to the best the city has to offer.

Get ready to embark on a delightful adventure!

Someburros

Highlights
Premium food
Supreme meal
Variety of flavors
Create your own plate
Awesome service
Great atmosphere
Family-friendly
Tons of happy customers

Walking into Someburros, I was immediately greeted with a vibrant and lively atmosphere. The smell of sizzling meat, freshly made tortillas, and authentic mexican spices filled the air, heightening my anticipation for a supreme meal.

The menu offered a variety of flavors that catered to all tastes and preferences. From classic favorites like Carne Asada burritos to their unique and delicious Pollo Fundido, there was something for everyone. I couldn't resist creating my own plate with their build-your-own options.

As I placed my order, I was impressed by the friendly and awesome service provided by the staff. They were knowledgeable about the menu and made excellent recommendations. It was clear they genuinely cared about my experience.

Once my plate arrived, I was blown away by the presentation and quality of the food. Each bite was a burst of authentic mexican flavors that transported me to the streets of Mexico. The ingredients were fresh, and the dishes were packed with premium food.

What added to the overall experience was the family-friendly atmosphere. It was heartwarming to see the smiling faces of families enjoying their plates while creating beautiful memories together.

Someburros truly lived up to its reputation as having tons of happy customers. The food, service, and atmosphere exceeded expectations, making it a top contender for the best authentic mexican food in Tempe. I am already planning my next visit, eager to explore more of their menu and experience their mouthwatering dishes again.

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Barrio Queen

Highlights
Authentic flavors
Hand-crafted dishes
Fresh chips & salsa
Jalepeno margarita
Cool decor

Walking into Barrio Queen, I instantly felt transported to the vibrant streets of Mexico. The cool decor, with its colorful murals and rustic furniture, set the perfect atmosphere for my Mexican culinary journey.

As a connoisseur of authentic Mexican flavors, I was delighted to find that Barrio Queen delivered on its promise. Each bite of their hand-crafted dishes was a burst of flavor that awakened my taste buds to the true essence of Mexican cuisine. From the rich and savory mole to the tender and juicy carnitas, every dish was a mouthwatering delight.

What truly impressed me was their attention to detail. The waiter brought out a basket of warm, freshly made tortilla chips accompanied by a variety of salsas, each with its own unique blend of flavors. The fresh chips and salsa were a perfect prelude to the meal that awaited me.

Speaking of drinks, I couldn't resist trying their Jalapeño margarita. The slight kick from the jalapeño infused tequila combined with the refreshing lime made it a unique and delightful concoction that perfectly complemented my meal.

Overall, my visit to Barrio Queen was a feast for both my eyes and taste buds. Its authentic flavors, hand-crafted dishes, and attention to detail make it a standout among the Mexican food scene in Tempe. If you're in search of a true taste of Mexico, Barrio Queen is a must-visit. Ole!

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Karla’s Taco Shop

Highlights
Delicious
Welcoming
Fast
Clean
Top-notch

Let me begin by saying that Karla’s Taco Shop truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best spots for authentic Mexican food in Tempe.

From the moment I stepped through the door, I was greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff was friendly, and their genuine smiles added an extra touch of hospitality.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, where do I begin? The flavors that burst out from their dishes were absolutely delicious. Every bite took me on a journey across the vibrant Mexican culinary landscape. Whether it was the perfectly seasoned carne asada or the mouthwatering al pastor tacos, each dish showcased the authentic flavors that are synonymous with Mexican cuisine.

Another aspect that stood out to me was the speedy service. Despite the bustling crowd, my order was promptly taken, and within a blink of an eye, my plate was in front of me. Fast and flavorful – what more could you ask for?

It's also worth mentioning the spotlessness of the restaurant. No stray crumbs on the floor or untidy tables here. Karla’s Taco Shop takes cleanliness seriously, adding to the overall enjoyable dining experience.

Overall, my visit to Karla’s Taco Shop left me with a sense of satisfaction and a happy belly. The combination of delicious food, welcoming ambiance, fast service, and top-notch cleanliness make it a must-visit for anyone in search of authentic Mexican cuisine in Tempe.

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La Casa De Juana

La Casa De Juana in Tempe was a delightful surprise. From the moment I stepped inside, the lively atmosphere and vibrant decor transported me to Mexico. The menu was a tantalizing array of traditional favorites, and I couldn't resist ordering the sizzling fajitas. Each bite was a flavor explosion, with tender meats and perfectly seasoned vegetables. The margaritas were heavenly, perfectly balancing the sweetness and citrus tang. The friendly staff made me feel like family, ensuring my dining experience was top-notch. La Casa De Juana is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Mexican cuisine in Tempe.

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Manuel's Mexican Restaurant & Cantina | Tempe

Manuel's Mexican Restaurant & Cantina | Tempe is a hidden gem in the heart of Tempe. The vibrant decor and friendly atmosphere immediately transport you to Mexico. The menu offers a wide array of flavorful authentic dishes, from sizzling fajitas to savory enchiladas. Don't forget to pair your meal with one of their margaritas – they're top-notch. The service is impeccable, making you feel like a cherished guest. If you're looking for a genuinely Mexican culinary experience, Manuel's has you covered.

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Rosita's Fine Mexican Food

Rosita's Fine Mexican Food in Tempe is a hidden gem for lovers of authentic Mexican cuisine. Bold flavors and generous portions make every bite a fiesta. The classics like tacos and enchiladas shine, but don't miss out on their show-stealing carne asada. mmm...delicioso!

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Casa Reynoso

Casa Reynoso in Tempe is a hidden gem for those seeking the best authentic Mexican food. From their flavorful enchiladas to their mouthwatering tacos, every bite is like a fiesta in your mouth. And don't get me started on their homemade salsas – ¡delicioso! The friendly staff and vibrant atmosphere only add to the irresistible charm of this place. Make sure to visit Casa Reynoso for a truly memorable Mexican culinary experience. Ole!

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Poliberto’s

Poliberto's in Tempe is a hidden gem for authentic mexican food lovers. From the moment I stepped through the door, I knew I was in for a treat. The vibrant decor and friendly staff set the stage for a memorable dining experience. The menu offers a variety of delicious options, but I highly recommend trying the street tacos. The flavorful meats, fresh toppings, and authentic tortillas will transport your taste buds straight to Mexico. Don't forget to try their homemade salsa – it's the perfect blend of spicy and tangy. Whether you're craving a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Poliberto's is the place to be.

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Garcia's Mexican Restaurant - Arizona Mills

Garcia's Mexican Restaurant - Arizona Mills in Tempe is a stellar spot for an authentic mexican culinary adventure. From the flavorful salsas to the tender carne asada, every bite was a fiesta in my mouth. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff made it the perfect place to indulge in some seriously delicious mexican cuisine.

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Susie's Mexican Cafe and Lounge

Oh, Susie's Mexican Cafe and Lounge! What a mouthful of flavor! From the moment I walked in, the aroma of spices danced in the air, enticing my taste buds. The authentic dishes were a fiesta for my senses, with tender carnitas and smoky salsa. Creativity and passion infused every bite, making Susie's a must-visit for true Mexican food aficionados in Tempe. Ole!

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Aunt Chilada's Tempe

I must say, Aunt Chilada's Tempe is a hidden gem when it comes to authentic Mexican cuisine in Tempe. From the moment I walked in, the vibrant atmosphere transported me straight to Mexico. The menu is overflowing with flavorful dishes, making it hard to choose just one. With every bite, I could taste the authenticity and love that goes into their food. The tortillas were fresh and the salsa had just the right amount of kick. The staff was incredibly friendly and made me feel right at home. Whether you're craving some sizzling fajitas, mouthwatering enchiladas, or even a refreshing margarita, Aunt Chilada's Tempe has got you covered. It's a fiesta for your taste buds that you don't want to miss. Trust me, this place is the real deal when it comes to authentic Mexican food in Tempe.

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El Tlacoyo

Hey there! So, I recently had the pleasure of visiting El Tlacoyo in Tempe for my quest to find the best authentic Mexican food in town. Let me tell you, it was quite the flavorful adventure! From the moment I stepped inside, I knew I was in for a treat. The lively atmosphere and colorful decor set the stage for what was about to be an unforgettable culinary experience.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh my guacamole! The menu at El Tlacoyo is a treasure trove of traditional Mexican delights. From the moment I took my first bite, I could taste the love that went into each dish. The flavors were bold, the spices perfectly balanced, and the presentation was a feast for the eyes.

One standout dish that stole my heart was the tacos al pastor. The marinated pork was tender and juicy, and the pineapple added a tantalizing burst of sweetness. ¡Delicioso! Another must-try is the mole poblano, a rich and velvety sauce that danced on my taste buds and left me craving more.

But let's not forget about the churros. Oh, those heavenly sticks of fried dough coated in sugar and cinnamon. They were like little bites of happiness. The crispy exterior gave way to a warm, soft interior that melted in my mouth. Trust me, you won't want to skip dessert at El Tlacoyo.

The service at El Tlacoyo was top-notch. The staff was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. They were more than happy to make recommendations and ensure that my dining experience was nothing short of fantastic.

In summary, if you're on the hunt for the best authentic Mexican food in Tempe, do yourself a favor and make a stop at El Tlacoyo. You won't be disappointed. The vibrant atmosphere, bold flavors, and impeccable service make it a standout option that truly captures the essence of Mexican cuisine. ¡Buen provecho!

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El Pollo Supremo

I must say, El Pollo Supremo in Tempe is a hidden gem for authentic Mexican food seekers like myself. From their succulent pollo asado to their mouthwatering enchiladas, every bite is bursting with flavor. Don't forget to wash it all down with an ice-cold horchata. ¡Que delicioso!

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Loco Patron

Loco Patron in Tempe is a must-visit if you're on the hunt for the best authentic Mexican food. The playful yet professional atmosphere sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. From the tangy salsa to the flavorful tacos, every bite is a fiesta in your mouth. Don't miss their mouthwatering guacamole, it's the real deal. Pack your taste buds for a wild ride at Loco Patron!

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Mesquite Fresh Street Mex

Mesquite Fresh Street Mex in Tempe is a hidden gem for authentic Mexican food enthusiasts. From the moment you walk in, you can't help but be captivated by the vibrant colors and mouthwatering aromas. The menu boasts a variety of traditional dishes, each bursting with bold flavors. I highly recommend trying the tacos al pastor, which are perfectly balanced with tender, marinated pork, pineapple, and a hint of smoky goodness. Don't forget to wash it down with their refreshing horchata. The staff is friendly and attentive, making your dining experience even more enjoyable. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Mesquite Fresh Street Mex is a must-visit destination for true Mexican cuisine aficionados.