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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Central City's best

Taco lunch spots

You have no patience for mediocre tacos and only want a lunch spot that gets them right.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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Updated May 2026
01
Tacos Los Vales image 1
Tacos Los Vales image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Tiny Mexican restaurant with bright lights and reggaeton music creates a trendy, cozy atmosphere. An open salsa bar offers fresh condiments and unlimited guacamole. Bar area features lively service with energetic staff and specialty drinks.

Lunch here features very delicious options that suit groups like students or family. Meals come in a casual setting ideal for sharing time with others.

Birria taco stands out as a highlight, alongside grilled tacos and quesabirria. Tongue taco and carne asada options add variety, all served with excellent service.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is amazing."

"I thought the asada tacos here were amazing and flavorful."

"This lunch spot's carne asada tacos are a flavor explosion."

Good to know

1

The location is very convenient, right in front of Chase Field.

2

Parking can be a little hard to find near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and welcoming staff.

02
Los Cuatro Nietos AZ image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant with clean, festive decor and customer photos on the wall. Warm, family-oriented atmosphere feels welcoming and nostalgic, evoking a sense of being in Mexico. Known for house-made hot sauces and authentic dishes like birria tacos and quesabirria.

Lunch draws a steady crowd with a busy rush and friendly, attentive owners. The spot sits just minutes from the airport, making it a solid choice for a quick, satisfying meal before or after travel.

Scratch-made food includes birria tacos and quesabirrias with rich sauces like ranch, verde, and roja. Carne asada tacos come loaded with steak, and the Al Pastor Torta pairs well with various tacos.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and authentic."

"The owner Alberto makes you feel like family with his friendly conversation."

"This Lunch Spot's tacos and burritos are amazing and authentic."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special deals on tacos every Tuesday.

2

Wings are discounted on Wednesdays, making it a great midweek option.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended during busy hours.

03
El Zaguan Bistro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with authentic decor and warm, welcoming vibe feels like a slice of home. Outdoor patio and limited indoor seating create a cozy atmosphere. Friendly staff and lively music enhance the genuine cultural experience.

Walk down from nearby hotels for breakfast and lunch. Lunch offers great deals that bring people back daily.

Birria tacos stand out with their savory, crispy texture and full flavor. Fish tacos and Al Pastor options also deliver excellent taste with well-made, flavorful fillings and a perfect hot sauce addition.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and authentic Mexican."

"This lunch spot has amazing, authentic Mexican street tacos."

"I loved their tacos; they were juicy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers three tacos and a small beer or margarita for $10.99.

2

Happy hour specials are available all day.

3

The restaurant has late hours on Fridays.

04
Dora's Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican eatery sits inside a convenience store with a bodega-style setup and drive-thru service. Atmosphere feels old American west and mom-and-pop, with a friendly, family-run vibe. Seating is comfortable, and the place is known for fresh, flavorful burritos and tacos.

Quick pickup requires calling orders ahead, fitting short lunch breaks well. Bulk lunch and breakfast orders are available, making it a reliable lunch regular spot for many.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Hard shell tacos and chicharron tacos also offer great taste and quality.

People are saying

"The food at this Convenience Store is insanely good and authentic."

"I had the best breakfast burrito I've ever tasted."

"The fish tacos here are incredibly flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

Call ahead to ensure quick pickup during busy lunch hours.

2

Dora's Kitchen is located inside a liquor store, which may be unexpected.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly, allowing pets on the patio.

05
Condesa Phoenix image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a vibrant interior with Sonoran decor, abundant plants, and murals creating a hipstery vibe. Atmosphere stays clean and relaxed with great music enhancing the experience. Tacos and margaritas stand out as fresh and well-balanced, drawing regular visits.

Offers a solid lunch deal with 3 tacos, chips or duros, and a drink for $15. Casual spot to grab a quick, filling meal.

Tacos come in generous size with fresh tortillas and showcase authentic Mexican flavors with a modern twist. Happy hour features $4 tacos and $10 margaritas, and the menu is very dairy allergy friendly.

People are saying

"I loved their expertly crafted cocktails made with fresh ingredients."

"I could eat the Al pastor tacos every day for the rest of my life."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is so good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2pm to 6pm, Monday to Friday.

2

During happy hour, tacos are $4 and margaritas are $10.

3

Parking can be tricky; consider using rideshare services.

06
El Norteño image 1
Mexican restaurant

Old building with a no-frills setup and a small ordering counter creates a simple, cash-only experience. Outdoor seating faces a busy intersection, making it noisy, while the atmosphere stays quiet and family-oriented. Large menu and colorful mural add character to the otherwise modest space.

Lunch specials come with a drink and cost around $7.99, making them very affordable. Weekly specials cover breakfast, lunch, and dinner with consistently great pricing.

Carne asada tacos stand out with rich, authentic flavor. Other options like tacos dorados, chicken tacos, and shredded beef tacos offer variety and taste close to traditional Mexican street food.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be really very good and authentic."

"I thought the carne asada tacos were the best I've ever had."

"This lunch spot's food is authentic and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

El Norteño offers daily lunch and dinner specials.

2

The restaurant accepts only cash payments.

3

Customers may have to wait outside in the heat for their orders.

07
Huss Brewing Downtown PHX Brewpub + TOGO image 1

Brewpub combines indoor and outdoor seating with misters for heat relief on the patio. Atmosphere stays chill and relaxed, even when lively after events. Craft beers include unique styles like Coffee Kölsch alongside fruity sours and high IBU options.

Located across from the convention center, it offers a convenient spot for lunch during busy days. The food and brews consistently satisfy, making it a frequent choice for midday meals.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh flavors and the Baja shrimp tacos deliver consistent excellence. Street tacos offer a solid, authentic taste that pairs well with the beer selection.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is really impressive and large."

"The food at this lunch spot is great, especially the fries."

"I loved the Baja shrimp tacos; they were excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm with pitchers priced at $8.

2

Expect limited parking options, typical for downtown areas.

3

The brewery closes at 9pm, which is early for a nightlife spot.

08
Testal Mexican Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small taco eatery blends dive bar feel with traditional coffee shop style, featuring indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere stays chill and welcoming, with lively music including a DJ and karaoke. Local vibe attracts a casual crowd enjoying authentic Mexican food and drinks.

Offers quick lunch options like burritos and light meals. Also serves cocktails for a casual midday break.

Birria tacos stand out with great consistency and packed flavor. Tacos come generously filled with carne asada, onions, and cilantro, making them a solid choice.

People are saying

"These burritos taste homemade, fresh, and incredibly authentic."

"The birria tacos here are especially delicious."

"This lunch spot's burritos are savory, flavorful, and comforting."

Good to know

1

Friday night is karaoke night, starting at 8pm.

2

Breakfast burritos are only served before 11am.

3

The venue is clean and organized, enhancing the dining experience.

09
Dust Cutter image 1

Southwestern-chic bar with open garage door windows and comfortable bar stools creates a modern, laid-back vibe. Live guitar performances and TVs showing local sports add to the lively atmosphere. Attention to detail in decor and service stands out in this trendy, beautiful space.

Staff know the menu well and offer great recommendations for lunch and dinner. It serves as a convenient spot for a late or midday meal during a busy day at the convention center.

Brisket tacos stand out with rich flavor and tender meat. Fish tacos offer a complex blend of flavors that work well together.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the grilled cheese with tomato soup."

"The staff here give great recommendations for your Lunch Spot."

"The brisket tacos melt in your mouth and have outstanding flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 3-6 PM with half-price appetizers.

2

Breakfast starts at 6:30 AM daily.

3

Dust Cutter is a kid-friendly place with a diverse menu.

10
Huarachis Taqueria image 1
Taco restaurant

Vibrant pink décor, neon lights, and Mexican trinkets create a modern vecindad vibe with an energetic, lively atmosphere. Music often plays loudly, filling the space with a club-like energy where dancing happens. The crowd is vibrant, and the design feels Instagram-worthy and trendy.

Warm greetings set the tone for lunch here. The spot offers a family-friendly vibe with a focus on casual dining.

Tacos come in many varieties like carne asada, pescado, and crispy papa with rich Sonora-style flavors. Vegetarian options feature crispy shells and great taste. The lively atmosphere adds to the taco experience.

People are saying

"The tacos here are superb, especially the tripa and asada."

"I thought the tacos, especially the asada and chicharron, were excellent."

"This Lunch Spot's papas tacos and quesadillas are savory and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets busy quickly.

2

Parking costs $30 for two hours due to limited free options.

3

The restaurant often runs out of popular menu items, so check availability.

11
Barrel & Bushel image 1
Bar & grill

Bar & grill offers an airy, contemporary design with indoor and outdoor patio seating featuring heaters, a fire pit, and televisions. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and cozy for conversations to lively and vibrant with live music and sports on display. The space attracts a mix of people looking to relax with cocktails or enjoy energetic evenings in an upscale yet inviting setting.

Lunch offers delicious options like the Southwest salad and breakfast sandwiches. Outdoor seating at the bar provides a nice spot to enjoy the pleasant weather during a weekday.

Brisket on the Navajo taco stands out with rich flavor. Tacos come with steak, fries, and a gluten-free corn combo that pairs well.

People are saying

"The staff's positivity and professionalism made our outdoor seating experience exceptional."

"The lunch sandwiches here are delicious and a must-try."

"The tacos here are super delicious."

Good to know

1

Barrel & Bushel is cash-free; credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Parking in the area costs $20 during events; plan accordingly.

12
Pitic Restaurant and Lounge image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with cozy yet chic atmosphere and unique, artistic tables offers authentic flavors like carne asada and homemade salsa. Space feels old-school and bright, quiet with serious charm. Prices stay very affordable, making it a hidden gem near nightlife and airport areas.

Lunch offers economical options with reasonable lunch specials that provide good value.

Shredded beef tacos come crispy and flavorful, reminding of homemade meals. Carne asada tacos are tender, juicy, and expertly seasoned, paired well with authentic beans and rice.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and a great price."

"I thought the homemade salsa was very tasty."

"The carne asada tacos are tender, juicy, and expertly seasoned."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is centrally located, making it easy to find.

2

There is ample parking available at the restaurant.

3

Prices are very affordable, with meals for two under $30.

13
Rito's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Tiny Mexican restaurant resembles an old house with old school charm and a screen door entrance. Outdoor patio offers casual seating with no indoor dining, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere. Known for exceptional burritos, it draws a steady crowd seeking authentic flavors.

Busy during lunch hour on weekdays, it serves as a convenient spot to grab a meal. Many come here with coworkers, making it a popular choice to support the local economy.

Shredded beef tacos come with crunchy shells and rich guacamole. Green and red chili burritos pair well with these tacos, making for a delicious combo.

People are saying

"The red chile burrito here is tender, flavorful, and authentic."

"I loved their shredded beef tacos and green chile burritos."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and always piping hot."

Good to know

1

Rito's Mexican Food has no restrooms available for customers.

2

There is no indoor dining available at Rito's Mexican Food.

3

Going earlier during the day helps avoid the crowd.

14
Knock Kneed Lobster image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant in an old building with a nautical theme and authentic dive vibe. Atmosphere feels laid-back and homey, reminiscent of eastern shore seafood spots. Self-serve condiment and drink stations support a casual, order-at-the-counter experience.

Food arrives quickly even during the lunch rush with large groups. The spot suits a casual lunch vibe and stays quiet for late lunches during the week.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh flavor and great taste. The taco platter offers a delicious variety.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh, golden fried fish and chips."

"I thought the fish tacos were dope."

"This lunch spot's fried fish is crispy and tastes so fresh."

Good to know

1

They close at 7:00 p.m. during the week and till 9:00 p.m. on weekends.

2

There is ample parking available, including handicapped spots.

3

30 minutes before closing, only takeout orders are accepted.

15
The Original Carolina's Mexican Food image 1

Simple, old building with a hole-in-the-wall charm and community tables creates a casual, welcoming vibe. Atmosphere feels authentic and unpretentious, with a cash-only policy and a busy, popular scene. The place offers a walk back in time experience rather than modern decor.

Green chili and red chili burritos stand out as lunch favorites. The spot suits groups of friends, family, and teams easily for midday meals.

Old school fried tacos stand out with nice and crunchy shells. Breakfast tacos and tamales come made the way they should be, featuring homemade taco shells and satisfying fillings.

People are saying

"I've been eating this Mexican food since I was a kid."

"The shredded beef tacos are bomb and nice and crunchy."

"The green chili burrito is a flavorful, satisfying lunch spot staple."

Good to know

1

They are cash only, so bring cash for your meal.

2

The restaurant's schedule can be inconsistent; call ahead to confirm hours.

3

The Mojave location has limited seating and no table service.

16
La Canasta Capitolio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with bright, festive decor and a comfortable patio area offers a relaxed yet lively atmosphere that gets noisy during lunch rush. The space features authentic vibes and beautiful artwork, attracting families and groups for casual dining.

Quick service and gluten-free options make it a solid choice for lunch. Food holds up well for leftovers and suits busy lunch hours.

Tacos come in beef, shrimp, and carne asada varieties with a homemade feel. They serve tacos with rice, beans, and fresh lettuce and offer ground beef tacos that stand out.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing and decently priced."

"The free chips and salsa here are fantastic!"

"I loved the awesome carne asada and shrimp tacos."

Good to know

1

Expect large portion sizes that provide good value for money.

2

The restaurant has gluten-free options available for those with dietary restrictions.

3

They charge a dollar for additional salsa.

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