Discovering the Flavorful Gems: The Best Mexican Food in Flagstaff
Flagstaff, Arizona may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Mexican cuisine, but this charming mountain town is home to a vibrant and diverse Mexican food scene that is worth exploring. From traditional classics to bold and unique flavors, Flagstaff offers a wide range of options for every palate. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor wanting to experience the flavors of the Southwest, Flagstaff’s Mexican food scene has something for everyone.
The Top Mexican Restaurants in Flagstaff
When it comes to Mexican restaurants in Flagstaff, there are several standout options that consistently deliver delicious and authentic dishes. One such restaurant is MartAnne’s Burrito Palace, a local favorite known for its hearty breakfast burritos and flavorful chilaquiles. Another must-visit spot is Salsa Brava, which offers a menu filled with fresh and flavorful dishes like their famous fish tacos and sizzling fajitas. For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, Criollo Latin Kitchen is the place to go. With its innovative menu that combines traditional Mexican flavors with modern culinary techniques, Criollo offers a unique dining experience that is sure to impress.
Tried and True Classics: Authentic Mexican Dishes to Try
When exploring Flagstaff’s Mexican food scene, there are certain classic dishes that should not be missed. One such dish is the carne asada taco, a simple yet flavorful combination of grilled steak, onions, and cilantro wrapped in a warm tortilla. Another classic dish to try is the chiles rellenos, which consists of roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese or meat and then battered and fried until golden brown. For those looking for something on the spicier side, the enchiladas suizas are a great choice. These enchiladas are filled with chicken and topped with a creamy green sauce made from tomatillos and serrano peppers.
Bold and Spicy: Exploring Flagstaff’s Unique Mexican Flavors
| Restaurant Name | Address | Menu Items | Price Range | Customer Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| El Capitan | 5402 E. Rte. 66, Flagstaff, AZ | Chimichangas, Enchiladas, Tacos | 10-20 | 4.5/5 |
| Tacos Los Altos | 3650 E. Rte. 66, Flagstaff, AZ | Tacos, Burritos, Quesadillas | 5-10 | 4.8/5 |
| La Fonda Mexican Restaurant | 1900 N. 2nd St., Flagstaff, AZ | Chile Rellenos, Carne Asada, Fajitas | 10-25 | 4.3/5 |
| Tacos Los Altos II | 2500 S. Woodlands Village Blvd., Flagstaff, AZ | Tacos, Burritos, Tortas | 5-10 | 4.7/5 |
Flagstaff’s Mexican food scene is not just about traditional classics; it also offers a variety of bold and unique flavors that are sure to excite your taste buds. One such dish is the mole poblano, a rich and complex sauce made from a blend of chilies, spices, and chocolate. This sauce is typically served over chicken or enchiladas and is known for its deep, smoky flavor. Another unique dish to try is the cochinita pibil, a traditional Yucatecan dish made from slow-roasted pork marinated in citrus juices and achiote paste. The result is tender, flavorful meat that is perfect for tacos or sandwiches.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Mexican Cuisine for Everyone
For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, Flagstaff’s Mexican food scene has plenty of options to choose from. One popular vegetarian dish is the chiles en nogada, which consists of roasted poblano peppers stuffed with a mixture of fruits, nuts, and cheese, and then topped with a creamy walnut sauce. Another vegetarian option is the nopales salad, which features tender cactus paddles marinated in lime juice and tossed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. For vegans, the mushroom tacos are a great choice. These tacos are filled with sautéed mushrooms seasoned with spices and topped with fresh salsa and guacamole.
Satisfying Your Sweet Tooth: Desserts and Drinks to Try
No meal is complete without something sweet to end it on a high note, and Flagstaff’s Mexican food scene has plenty of delicious desserts and drinks to satisfy your sweet tooth. One popular dessert is the tres leches cake, a light and moist sponge cake soaked in three types of milk (hence the name) and topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. Another classic dessert is the flan, a creamy caramel custard that is silky smooth and rich in flavor. To wash it all down, try a refreshing agua fresca, a fruit-infused water that comes in a variety of flavors such as horchata (a sweet rice milk), Jamaica (hibiscus), and tamarind.
Family-Friendly Dining: Mexican Restaurants for Kids
When dining out with the whole family, it’s important to find a restaurant that is not only delicious but also kid-friendly. Luckily, Flagstaff’s Mexican food scene has several options that fit the bill. One such restaurant is La Fonda Mexican Restaurant, which offers a kids’ menu with smaller portions of classic Mexican dishes like tacos and enchiladas. Another family-friendly spot is El Capitan Fresh Mexican Grill, which offers a build-your-own taco bar where kids can choose their own toppings and fillings. For those looking for a fun and interactive dining experience, Casa Duarte Mexican Restaurant offers tableside guacamole preparation, which is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
Late-Night Eats: Mexican Food for Night Owls
Sometimes cravings strike late at night, and when they do, Flagstaff’s Mexican food scene has you covered. Several restaurants in town stay open late to satisfy those late-night munchies. One such spot is Late for the Train, a coffee shop that also serves delicious breakfast burritos and tacos until midnight. Another late-night favorite is The Mayor, a popular bar and restaurant that serves up tasty Mexican-inspired dishes like nachos and street tacos until 2 am. For those looking for a quick bite on the go, the El Paisano food truck is open until 3 am and offers a variety of delicious tacos and burritos.
Supporting Local: Flagstaff’s Best Mexican Food Trucks
Food trucks have become a popular trend in recent years, and Flagstaff is no exception. The city is home to several fantastic Mexican food trucks that offer delicious and authentic dishes on the go. One such food truck is Tacos Los Altos, which serves up mouthwatering tacos filled with your choice of meat, along with flavorful salsas and toppings. Another popular food truck is El Guero Canelo, which specializes in Sonoran-style hot dogs topped with beans, onions, tomatoes, and a variety of sauces. For those looking for a unique twist on traditional Mexican flavors, the Pachamama food truck offers dishes inspired by Peruvian and Mexican cuisine, such as their popular ceviche tostadas.
Bringing the Flavor Home: Where to Find the Best Mexican Ingredients in Flagstaff
If you’re inspired to recreate the flavors of Flagstaff’s Mexican food scene at home, there are several stores in town where you can find authentic Mexican ingredients. One such store is La Bella Vita, a specialty grocery store that offers a wide selection of Mexican spices, sauces, and pantry staples. Another great option is La Plaza Vieja Market, which not only sells ingredients but also offers freshly made tortillas and tamales. For those looking for fresh produce and ingredients, the Flagstaff Community Market is a great place to shop. This farmers market features local vendors who sell everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to homemade salsas and hot sauces.
Flagstaff’s Mexican food scene may be a hidden gem, but it is definitely worth exploring. From traditional classics to bold and unique flavors, this charming mountain town offers a wide range of options for every palate. Whether you’re craving tried and true favorites or want to venture out and try something new, Flagstaff’s Mexican restaurants have something for everyone. So next time you find yourself in Flagstaff, be sure to indulge in the flavors of the Southwest and support local businesses along the way.
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