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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to South Scottsdale

Cool Mexican food

A vibrant, cool atmosphere is just as important as the Mexican food on the table.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Taste It Tours Scottsdale Food Tours image 1
Taste It Tours Scottsdale Food Tours image 2
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Food tours combine local history with diverse cuisine like pizza, tacos, and macarons. Groups enjoy a happy atmosphere with live music and photo opportunities. Guides share insightful stories about older places, enriching the experience.

Taco tours highlight tacos and margaritas at local spots. Guides lead to places that are hard to find alone, with stops featuring tequila and a variety of Mexican flavors.

Tours offer a unique and cool way to explore Old Town with a knowledgeable guide sharing insights. Food tours provide a cool experience tasting local flavors.

People are saying

"The food stops on this tour were tasty."

"The Mexican food tour with James was entertaining and informative."

"I found the tour to be a really cool experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for food tours, especially during weekends.

2

Taco Tuesday events offer a fun atmosphere with special deals on tacos.

3

Tours typically last around 2-3 hours, so plan accordingly.

02
Dilla Libre Dos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant offers cozy family-owned vibe with colorful shaded patio courtyard and detailed murals. Atmosphere feels inviting and fun, blending indoor and outdoor seating with a relaxing fountain backdrop. Known for excellent margaritas and standout vegan tacos and quesadillas.

Vegan tacos and quesadillas stand out with rich flavors and fresh ingredients. Burritos and guacamole also impress, alongside shrimp tacos and vegan churros that add variety.

The patio stands out with murals on all the walls, creating a super cool vibe. Inside, the atmosphere feels local and relaxed, making it a cool little spot overall.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is unreal good, especially the tacos."

"The vegetarian tacos here are fresh, flavorful, and phenomenal."

"It's a cool spot with a great local vibe and funky art."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $3.50 tacos with various other specials.

2

Happy hour on Thursdays offers all-day deals on drinks and food.

3

Margaritas are buy one get one free on Wednesdays.

03
Liquor Pig - Kitchen & Cocktails image 1
New American restaurant

Sleek New American restaurant with a speak-easy vibe and moody atmosphere featuring dim lighting and great music. Bartenders engage interactively, crafting thoughtful cocktails that stand out. The space balances lively energy with comfort, highlighted by classic 1920s decor and excellent bar seating.

Short rib tacos come with lemony coleslaw and pack a lot of flavor. The mole chimichanga stands out alongside the taco board and ceviche.

An elevated vibe mixes with interactive bartenders to create a cool atmosphere. The menu feels intentional and the cocktails stand out.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are tasty and imaginative."

"The vibe here is so cool and friendly."

"The Mexican food here is flavorful, especially the short rib tacos."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights like Valentine's Day.

2

A service charge of 22% is automatically added to your bill for groups.

3

A 3% fee applies for credit card payments, which is unusual for high-end places.

04
Velvet Taco image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco restaurant offers rooftop patio dining with modern decor and funky murals upstairs. Casual, laid-back vibe fills the space with great music even when busy. Unique taco combinations and delicious margaritas set it apart from typical taco spots.

Tacos here offer a fun twist on traditional flavors with options like brisket and cauliflower tacos. The menu is diverse, including guacamole, bowls, and desserts like red velvet cake, all at reasonable prices.

Upstairs seating features modern decor and funky murals that create a cool vibe. The building's atmosphere feels super cool and invites people watching in the old Scottsdale area.

People are saying

"The tacos here are exceptional and a great price."

"The tacos here are creative and delicious."

"It's a cool spot with a lively, fun vibe."

Good to know

1

They offer a new special taco every week.

2

Free parking is available across the street in the parking garage.

3

Velvet Taco is open late on Saturday nights.

05
Karsen's Grill image 1
American restaurant

Small rustic space built on an old barn foundation offers an intimate, Cheers-style vibe with limited indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels fun and lively, enhanced by classic country music and a well-stocked bar serving unique cocktails. Sidewalk tables provide a casual option for evening meals in a cozy setting.

Tacos come with fresh ingredients and include options like blackened salmon, shrimp, and steak. Chips and queso stand out as notably good, with the queso often highlighted as exceptional.

Small size creates a cozy atmosphere with a chill vibe. The place feels cool and chic, sparking curiosity about how it pulls off its magic.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were juicy and grilled to perfection."

"The shrimp tacos here are the best, with amazing spice and sauce."

"I thought the green chile burger was the best I had ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the place gets busy quickly.

2

Happy hour offers great deals right before dinner.

3

Fish specials on Fridays often sell out before dinner time.

06
Not My First Rodeo image 1

Western-themed bar space features decorated ceiling with hats and polaroids and disco ball cowboy boots. Loud, packed atmosphere pulses with EDM remixes of country hits and interactive games like shot glass throwing. Crowd enjoys specialty cocktails and hearty bar food in a lively, party vibe.

Walking tacos stand out as perfect bar food with a top notch taste. Watermelon margaritas complement the menu well.

Space has a cool vibe with a unique activity of shot glass throwing on ice. The overall experience feels fun and lively.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great and delicious."

"I found the vibe here to be really cool and fun."

"I thought the walking taco was top notch Mexican food."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for tables, especially on busy weekend nights.

2

A service fee is added to bills over $150.

3

Expect a large party fee for groups, even small ones.

07
Carlsbad Tavern image 1
Southwestern restaurant (US)

Outdoor patio features an adobe fireplace, waterfall, and heaters for comfort. Atmosphere feels chill and unique, blending indoor and outdoor spaces with lively bar seating and sports on TV. Crowd enjoys relaxed dining with distinctive Southwestern vibes.

Veggie enchiladas and blue corn enchiladas stand out with rich flavors. The queso is creamy and well-made. Chicken fajitas, lobster enchiladas, green chili burrito, chimichanga, and chicken tacos offer solid variety with tender meats and good seasoning.

A bat-themed decor creates a unique vibe, making the space feel like a cool bat cave. Outdoor seating includes a patio with a waterfall and a bar with varied seating options.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really great."

"The bat theme and cave decor are really cool."

"The Mexican food here is excellent and the service is friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 2-6pm with discounted drinks and food.

2

The late night menu starts at 10pm every night.

3

Reservations are recommended due to the tavern's popularity.

08
Julio's Too image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican eatery blends 50's diner vibe with pink neon lights and laid-back atmosphere. Seating splits between a cozy interior and a spacious patio overlooking a busy road. Known for strong margaritas and a casual, family-like feel.

Carne asada tacos feature thick chunks of tender meat with a grill taste. Breakfast burritos serve all day and come very filling. Enchiladas taste solid and satisfying.

A cool diner vibe fills the space with vibrant colors and a neon classic look. The ambiance feels laid-back and inviting.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the carnitas; they're super tender and delicious."

"It's got a cool diner vibe with vibrant colors."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 2:00 PM with margaritas for $4.

2

Lunch specials are available from 11 AM to 4 PM.

3

Indoor and outdoor seating is first-come, first-served.

09
El Camino image 1

Bar with a retro 70s dive style offers a chill atmosphere filled with great music and plenty of TVs. Crowd enjoys affordable prices and a casual, laid-back vibe. Known for excellent burgers and solid drink options like house margaritas.

Tacos come with hard shells and simple, non-spiced ground beef topped with sour cream, tomato, and lettuce. The menu includes street style quesadillas and house margaritas.

Retro 70's style sets a modern dive apart with a super cool vibe throughout.

People are saying

"I thought the smash burgers here were legit."

"The smash burgers here are amazing and loaded with toppings."

"The smash burgers here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Prices for beers range from $4 to $5 each.

2

Food items are well-priced, with burgers and fries under $10.

3

You must order at the bar; there is no waitress service at tables.

10
Metropolis image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor seating with beautiful patio and abundant greenery creates a cozy, welcoming vibe. The atmosphere stays lively yet intimate, suited for dates or small groups. Dog-friendly bar and good music add to the relaxed energy.

Tacos come with small tortillas but offer decent size portions, especially the shrimp street tacos. The Tuesday special pairs tacos with margaritas for 7 dollars each, making for a popular combo.

Cool placement of the venue stands out. Service adds to the overall cool vibe despite small tortillas.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"I loved the tacos and margaritas, especially on Tuesday!"

"It's cool how the relaxed vibe and small size make it great for a date."

Good to know

1

Parking is free in the nearby garage, just a short walk away.

2

Tacos and margaritas are $7 each on Tuesdays.

3

The menu offers reasonably priced options for Scottsdale.

11
The Canal Club image 1
American restaurant

Indoor and outdoor spaces showcase lush greenery and palm plants creating a Caribbean-inspired vibe. Lounge areas include a back patio with fire pits and scenic views, complemented by live music and a DJ setting a lively mood. Cocktails focus on rum-based drinks and the menu features standout dishes like Cuban Caesar salad and churros.

Chilaquiles stand out with perfect runny eggs and super cheesy cheese delivering amazing flavor. Tacos come highly recommended, and the churro desserts, especially the Churro Donut Holes with Guava Jelly, bring a scrumptious finish.

A chill vibe fills the lobby area, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Large parties happen in the courtyard, adding to the cool energy of the spot.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, flavorful, and fresh."

"You have to try the Chilaquiles; they looked amazing and tasted even better."

"The vibe here is really cool and chill."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted over the phone, even for hotel guests.

2

Parking is limited, so consider using ride share services.

3

The restaurant accommodates vegan preferences upon request.

12
The Grapevine Restaurant & Karaoke Bar image 1

Karaoke bar with three distinct sections and a rooftop patio offering sunset views over Old Town Scottsdale. Atmosphere stays lively and interactive, supported by excellent DJs who provide a wide song selection. Outdoor seating includes misters for comfort, creating a fun and engaging environment.

Street tacos stand out with pork carnitas as a popular choice. Quesadillas come in huge portions and pair well with bar-style sides like onion rings.

Crowds here enjoy karaoke with a cool vibe and friendly people. The karaoke host adds to the fun atmosphere.

People are saying

"I experienced the best karaoke with a great song selection."

"It's a cool place with chill vibes and lively energy."

"The Mexican food here is perfect for karaoke."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Thursday with a lively atmosphere.

2

Cash is needed for bar payments; credit cards are not accepted.

3

Everyone at the table must order something to stay seated.

13
Oasis - Bar Hookah Eats image 1

Hookah bar with dim lighting and cozy seating offers a chill, lively vibe with loud trap and hip hop music. Crowd is predominantly Black, creating a comfortable atmosphere for diverse groups. Outdoor patio and quality hookah enhance the relaxed, social experience.

Quesadillas and burritos come fresh and tasty here. Chicken wings also pair well with the Mexican dishes served alongside simple sides like Caesar salad.

A chill atmosphere sets a cool tone here, especially on the outdoor patio. The overall vibe stays relaxed and inviting.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was pretty good."

"It's a cool, chill spot with a great vibe."

"I loved the quesadillas and chicken wings."

Good to know

1

There is a $10 cover charge per person, cash only.

2

Food and hookah service starts after 2am.

3

Prices for drinks can be high, with water costing $15.

14
Wolf by Vanderpump at Caesars Republic Scottsdale image 1

Lavish interior with stunning decor creates an elegant, inviting atmosphere. Live DJ and rooftop bar offer panoramic sunset views and vibrant energy. Cocktails and food focus on quality and presentation, attracting adults for dates or social outings.

Shrimp tacos come filling and flavorful, with enough to take home. Tuna tostadas and fresh bread add variety. Churros arrive with dips and ice cream for dessert.

Super cool decor sets the vibe here. The caviar appetizer with 18k gold adds a unique touch, making it a cool spot for pictures and a romantic bar experience.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots is delicious and full of flavor."

"The bartenders here are so friendly and make great drink recommendations."

"The goat cheese balls were delicious and melted in my mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.

2

Parking is available with both lot and valet options.

3

The restaurant is not family-friendly; it's better suited for dates or outings with friends.

15
Well Seasoned image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with sleek modern decor and a stylish lounge atmosphere. Live DJ plays R&B and Oldies, keeping energy lively with quick song changes. Offers hookah and table games, creating a welcoming and fun vibe.

Tacos come in unique styles like shrimp, catfish, lamb chops, and oxtail, all well seasoned and flavorful. Taco Tuesday offers $1 tacos, making it a popular time to enjoy these well-crafted dishes.

Cool vibes fill the space, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. It works well as a spot for hanging out and playing board games with friends.

People are saying

"The food here is so well seasoned and delicious."

"The oxtail tacos here are amazing."

"The vibes here are so cool."

Good to know

1

Bottomless mimosas are available on Sundays from 2 to 5 pm for $20.

2

Wings are 40ยข each on Wednesdays, a great deal for wing lovers.

3

Taco Tuesday features special offerings with Zay P and Daivon.

16
PHX Beer Co. image 1

Patio overlooks a beautiful lake with a dog-friendly and shaded outdoor seating area. Atmosphere stays laid-back and quiet, ideal for relaxing or catching up. Offers amazing beer and food with a wide variety of selections and unique flavors.

Fish and salmon tacos stand out with excellent flavor and fresh ingredients. Tacos may take a bit longer to arrive but deliver amazing taste worth the wait.

Amazing beer pairs with a cool setup tucked away in a corner of the mall. The vibe feels relaxed and unique.

People are saying

"I appreciated the great beer selection."

"The tacos here are awesome and amazing."

"The breakfast skillets here look really good."

Good to know

1

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

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to all bills for parties of six or more.

17
Cartel Roasting Co. image 1

Cozy coffee shop blends industrial and warm design with varied seating options, including a shaded outdoor patio and private back area. Atmosphere stays relaxed yet lively, with good music and plenty of space for work or socializing. Regulars enjoy a quiet study vibe alongside casual hangouts.

Egg and potato burritos stand out with their rich flavor and satisfying texture. Mini burritos offer a delicious bite-sized option alongside freshly made lattes and matcha.

A cool mix of industrial and cozy fills the space, with plenty of seating for work or catch-ups. The atmosphere stays low key with some friendly staff and cool music.

People are saying

"The coffee here is excellent and well-balanced."

"It's a cool, relaxed vibe with chill music."

"I found the burritos here to be delicious Mexican food."

Good to know

1

The outdoor parking lot provides three hours of free parking.

2

WiFi is often unreliable, making it unsuitable for work.

3

The loyalty program offers quick points accumulation for rewards.

18
Outrider Rooftop Lounge image 1

Rooftop lounge offers breathtaking views and comfortable seating with fire pits and misters enhancing the space. Atmosphere shifts from laid-back elegance to high-energy with a DJ setting the tone. Guests often reserve seats to enjoy cocktails and small bites while watching sunsets.

Cocktails include mojitos, spicy mango margarita, and strawberry daiquiri slushy. Quesadillas come out well prepared and flavorful.

A cool view sets the vibe at this rooftop lounge. It works well as a fun night starter with friends.

People are saying

"The sunset views here are breathtaking."

"The Mexican food here is great with stunning sunset views."

"The view here is cool, wrapping around the building."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended after 5 pm to secure seating.

2

Seating is limited, especially during peak hours.

3

Expect private parties to block some rooftop space at times.

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South Scottsdale, Scottsdale

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