Mexican Food in Tempe (2025)

A Tempe institution since 1963, Rosita’s serves Sonoran family recipes across generations—think flat enchiladas, machaca, and hearty combo plates. Featured by Food Network and celebrated by ASU’s State Press for deep community ties.

Beloved for Globe/Miami‑style Arizona Mexican cooking—especially the buttery Gollo Burro—this family‑run spot anchors Tempe’s dining story. Highlighted by Axios Phoenix readers and profiled by local student journalists for its cultural roots.

Locally owned and chef‑driven, Ghost Ranch riffs on regional Mexican and Arizona flavors—green chile enchiladas, pozole, mesquite‑kissed meats. Named to Phoenix New Times’ Top 100 Restaurants, and a regular favorite of local critics.

A Victory Acres mainstay since 1974 serving Jalisco‑ and Zacatecas‑inspired recipes— from menudo and chilaquiles in the morning to mole enchiladas and carne asada at night. Praised by local diners and noted for its neighborhood legacy.

Inside a campus‑area market, this counter fuels Tempe late into the night with carne asada fries, birria quesadillas, and playful specials. Included by Eater Phoenix for top late‑night eats and covered by Phoenix New Times.

A lively Sinaloan seafood house where ceviches, aguachile, whole fried snapper, and micheladas rule. Praised by Phoenix New Times for quality and value; a go‑to for coastal Mexican flavors in Tempe.

Family‑run mariscos specialist focused on a cold seafood bar—bright aguachiles, shrimp cocktails, tostadas, and fresh aguas frescas. A word‑of‑mouth favorite for clean, vibrant flavors and generous portions.

A neighborhood restaurant with a full bar and weekend energy, serving classics from enchiladas suizas to queso fundido. Noted by Phoenix New Times when its sister location closed, leaving Tempe as the flagship.

Just south of Tempe in Guadalupe’s Yaqui community, this taquería turns out Sonoran‑style asada, al pastor, and crowd‑favorite quesabirria. Recommended by Axios Phoenix readers as one of the Valley’s standout taco spots.