Introduction
Arrowhead Mall, a bustling hub of retail therapy, stands as a beacon for shoppers seeking the latest trends and must-have items. But after hours of browsing and bagging, a growling stomach often demands attention. Luckily, you don’t have to settle for generic mall fare. The area surrounding Arrowhead Mall in Glendale, Arizona, is a treasure trove of culinary delights, with Mexican cuisine taking center stage. Whether you’re craving a quick bite, a traditional family meal, or a sophisticated dining experience, you’ll find it within easy reach of the mall’s exits. From casual taquerias to upscale cantinas, the options are plentiful and sure to satisfy any craving. This guide will navigate you through the vibrant landscape of Mexican food near Arrowhead Mall, showcasing the best spots to refuel after a successful shopping spree. We will talk about everything from affordable places for a quick lunch to the more sophisticated settings for a special night out.
Casual Mexican Dining and Quick Bites around the Mall
Sometimes, you just need a quick and satisfying meal without breaking the bank or sacrificing flavor. The area surrounding Arrowhead Mall boasts several casual Mexican food spots perfect for a no-fuss lunch or dinner. These restaurants offer affordability, speed, and convenience, making them ideal for shoppers on the go or families looking for a relaxed meal.
Tacos El Norte
First up is “Tacos El Norte,” a popular spot located just a few minutes from Arrowhead Mall on Bell Road. The atmosphere is lively and family-friendly, with bright colors and a constant buzz of conversation. Their menu is packed with classic Mexican favorites, but their signature dish is undoubtedly the carne asada tacos. Tender, marinated steak is grilled to perfection and served on warm corn tortillas with your choice of toppings, like cilantro, onions, and salsa. The price is reasonable, and the portions are generous, making Tacos El Norte a great value for your money. You can expect to pay around ten dollars for a satisfying plate of tacos.
Burrito Express
Next, consider “Burrito Express,” a local chain specializing in customizable burritos. Located on 75th Avenue, close to the mall, this spot is ideal for a quick lunch or a post-shopping snack. The atmosphere is casual and efficient, with friendly staff ready to guide you through the burrito-building process. You can choose from a variety of fillings, including chicken, beef, pork, and vegetarian options, then customize your burrito with rice, beans, cheese, salsa, and other toppings. A loaded burrito can easily run around 12 dollars, so come hungry.
Quesadilla King
For a slightly different take on casual Mexican food, try “Quesadilla King.” This hidden gem, tucked away on a side street near the mall, is known for its creative and delicious quesadillas. The atmosphere is laid-back and inviting, with colorful murals adorning the walls. While they offer traditional quesadillas with cheese and your choice of meat, their specialty quesadillas are where they really shine. The spicy shrimp quesadilla is a particular standout, with succulent shrimp, melted cheese, and a kick of heat from the chipotle sauce. Quesadilla King provides excellent food at a reasonable price.
If you are looking for something cheap and filling, you should try the Tacos at Tacos El Norte. For building your own burrito, Burrito Express might be a better choice. Quesadilla King stands out due to their unique options.
Authentic Mexican Experiences Near Arrowhead Towne Center
For those seeking a more immersive and traditional Mexican food experience, several restaurants near Arrowhead Towne Center offer authentic dishes and a vibrant atmosphere. These establishments focus on using traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients to create a truly memorable dining experience.
Casa de Juarez
“Casa de Juarez,” located on Peoria Avenue, stands out as a family-owned restaurant with a long history in the community. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with traditional Mexican decor and a friendly staff. Casa de Juarez is known for its mole poblano, a complex and flavorful sauce made from chili peppers, chocolate, and spices. The mole is served over chicken or enchiladas and is a true taste of authentic Mexican cuisine. The price point is mid-range, reflecting the quality of the ingredients and the care taken in preparing each dish. Casa de Juarez can be a bit more expensive, but the atmosphere and authentic recipes are worth it.
La Hacienda
Another notable option is “La Hacienda,” a vibrant restaurant located a short drive from Arrowhead Mall. The atmosphere is lively and festive, with live music and a bustling bar area. La Hacienda specializes in dishes from the state of Jalisco, known for its rich and flavorful cuisine. The birria, a slow-cooked goat stew, is a must-try, as is the carne en su jugo, a flavorful beef broth with beans and bacon. They have a very large selection of authentic Mexican meals.
Abuela’s Cocina
“Abuela’s Cocina” is a charming restaurant known for its home-style cooking. Stepping inside feels like entering a Mexican grandma’s kitchen with colorful walls. You must try the enchiladas rojas and their homemade tortillas.
Whether you are in the mood for some Mole or stew, these restaurants offer true authentic Mexican cuisine near Arrowhead.
Upscale Mexican Dining close to Arrowhead
If you’re looking for a more refined and elevated take on Mexican food, the Arrowhead Mall area has several restaurants that offer a sophisticated dining experience. These establishments focus on innovative cuisine, creative cocktails, and impeccable service.
Santo Coyote
“Santo Coyote,” situated on Glendale Avenue, is a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and modern Mexican restaurant. The atmosphere is chic and sophisticated, with sleek décor and a lively bar scene. Santo Coyote’s menu features innovative takes on classic Mexican dishes, such as the lobster enchiladas and the grilled octopus tacos. Their cocktail menu is equally impressive, with creative concoctions that perfectly complement the cuisine. The price point is higher than the casual and authentic options, but the quality of the food and service justifies the expense.
Comedor Guadalajara
For an alternative high end option, “Comedor Guadalajara” offers a fine dining environment, with white table cloths, and dishes that look as good as they taste. Their menu features items such as Filete Relleno, which is a steak filled with cheese, or Camarones Borrachos, which is a shrimp plate served in a tequila-based sauce. This upscale option can be a bit more expensive, but the experience will give you a night you won’t forget.
Hidden Gems and Local Mexican Food Favorites
Beyond the well-known restaurants, the Arrowhead Mall area is home to several hidden gems and local favorites that offer exceptional food and value. These establishments are often family-run and offer a more intimate and authentic dining experience.
Rosa’s Taqueria
“Rosa’s Taqueria,” tucked away in a small strip mall on 67th Avenue, is a favorite among locals for its authentic and affordable tacos. The atmosphere is no-frills, but the food speaks for itself. Rosa’s is known for its al pastor tacos, made with marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit. The tacos are served with cilantro, onions, and salsa and are a true taste of Mexico. The prices are incredibly reasonable, making Rosa’s a great option for a quick and satisfying meal. They offer very authentic and delicious cuisine for a very fair price.
El Ranchito
“El Ranchito,” a family-owned restaurant on Northern Avenue, is another local favorite known for its generous portions and home-style cooking. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. El Ranchito’s menu features a wide variety of classic Mexican dishes, including enchiladas, burritos, and tacos. Their carne asada is a particular standout, with tender and flavorful steak served with rice, beans, and tortillas. Another place that is very reasonably priced that provides authentic and delicious Mexican plates.
These hidden gems are sure to surprise you in taste and value. Don’t be fooled by the no-frills appearance, as these will provide a great meal.
Conclusion: A Fiesta of Flavors Near Arrowhead Mall
As you can see, the area surrounding Arrowhead Mall offers a diverse and exciting array of Mexican food options. From casual tacos to upscale dining experiences, there’s something to satisfy every taste and budget. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, be sure to explore the culinary landscape around Arrowhead Mall and discover your new favorite Mexican restaurant near Arrowhead Mall. No matter if you are in search of a cheap and quick bite, or a nice dinner with family, Arrowhead Mall has options for everyone. So, next time you’re done shopping at Arrowhead Mall, skip the food court and venture out to experience the authentic flavors of Mexico. We hope you enjoy the best Mexican restaurants in Glendale, AZ!
We encourage you to try out these restaurants and share your own experiences. The flavors of Mexico await!
