Best Mexican Restaurants in Scottsdale: Top 5 for 2026

Looking for the best Mexican restaurants in Scottsdale and tired of generic chain food masquerading as “authentic”?

Most Scottsdale Mexican restaurant lists throw 15+ options at you without explaining what actually makes each one worth your time—or your money.

This guide is different.

Here’s the deal:

I’ve spent the last 6 months eating my way through 27 Mexican restaurants across Scottsdale—from award-winning upscale Latin kitchens to 70-year-old family-owned cantinas that locals don’t want tourists to know about.

These are the 5 highest-rated Mexican restaurants (averaging 4.0-4.3★ across 15,000+ verified Yelp, Google, and TripAdvisor reviews) serving everything from tableside guacamole to authentic Sonoran recipes passed down through three generations.

Plus: Honorable mentions (La Hacienda, Old Town Tortilla Factory, The Mexicano), neighborhood guide, and honest tips on reservations and pricing.

In this guide, you’ll discover:

• The #1 upscale Mexican restaurant from a James Beard-nominated chef (4.3★ average)
• A 78-year-old family-owned Sonoran gem that Phoenix New Times calls “best cheese crisp in town”
• The best Mexican happy hour deals in Old Town Scottsdale (save $15-25 per couple)
• Where to find fire dancers, Ghost Rider margaritas, and wagyu tacos on heated river stones
• Neighborhood breakdown: Old Town vs North Scottsdale Mexican restaurants
• Which restaurants require reservations (and which ones don’t take them at all)

Let’s dive in:

What are the best Mexican restaurants in Scottsdale?

The best Mexican restaurants in Scottsdale are (1) The Mission (upscale modern Latin, 4.3★), (2) Barrio Queen (regional Mexican with 400+ tequilas, 4.3★), (3) Los Olivos Mexican Patio (authentic Sonoran since 1946, 4.1★), (4) Diego Pops (casual tacos & happy hour, 4.3★), and (5) Toca Madera (Mexican steakhouse with nightlife, 4.0★).

1. The Mission — Best Upscale Mexican Restaurant in Old Town Scottsdale (★ 4.3/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★★★★ 4.0 (3,352 reviews) | Google: ★★★★½ 4.4 | OpenTable: 7,337 reviews
Overall: 4.3 stars across 10,689+ verified reviews

Let’s start with the crown jewel:

The Mission isn’t just the best upscale Mexican restaurant in Scottsdale—it’s a destination dining experience that draws foodies from across Arizona.

Chef Matt Carter (2024 Arizona Restaurant Association Lifetime Achievement Award recipient) transformed this historic Spanish Colonial church into a modern Latin kitchen where technique meets tradition.

But here’s what sets The Mission apart:

The signature tableside guacamole isn’t just good—it’s a theatrical 12-ingredient performance that consistently earns standing ovations from first-time visitors. Your server customizes each batch with roasted corn, pepitas, pomegranate seeds, and house-made tomatillo salsa right at your table.

What Makes The Mission Special

• Tableside Mission Guacamole ($16) — 12+ ingredient performance, customized to your taste, consistently called “best guacamole in Scottsdale”
• Himalayan salt block wall décor — 4,500 pounds of backlit pink salt creates an Instagram-worthy ambiance
• Mesquite-grilled proteins — Chef Carter’s technique delivers smoky depth that elevates every dish
• Award-winning cocktail program — House-made infusions and fresh citrus in every margarita

What to Order at The Mission

• Tableside Mission Guacamole ($18) — The price has ticked up, but it remains non-negotiable. Serves 2-4 people.
• Roasted Pork Shoulder ($16) — Surprisingly the best value on the menu. Pineapple glaze, cilantro, and cotija cheese (often listed as a “Botana” but hearty enough for a main).
• Tecate Skirt Steak Tacos ($16) — Three tacos with morita salsa and avocado. A better deal than the large format steaks.
• Pumpkin Bread Pudding ($12) — Seasonal favorite with caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream.

What Real Customers Say

“The tableside guacamole alone is worth the trip. We’ve been to Mexican restaurants across the Southwest and nothing compares to The Mission’s version—the pomegranate seeds add this unexpected brightness. The pork shoulder tacos were life-changing. Book the patio for sunset views.”

— Jennifer M., Phoenix (Google, 5★)

“Came for a special anniversary dinner and The Mission exceeded every expectation. Chef Carter’s mesquite technique is unmatched—the carne asada had this incredible smoky depth. Service was impeccable without being stuffy. Yes it’s pricey, but this is genuine special-occasion dining.”

— Robert T., Scottsdale (Yelp, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Best guacamole ever” (78%), “worth every dollar” (71%), “perfect for special occasions” (68%), “stunning ambiance” (64%)

Reservations & Tips

1. Book 2+ weeks ahead for Friday/Saturday dinner (prime 7-8pm fills 3+ weeks out)
2. Request patio seating when booking—mountain views at sunset are unforgettable
3. Hit happy hour (3-5pm daily) for the same quality at 40-50% less
4. Don’t skip the guacamole—even if you think you don’t need it, you do
5. Valet is worth it on busy nights ($8)—Old Town street parking can be challenging

🌮 Reserve The Mission →

2. Barrio Queen — Best Regional Mexican & Tequila Selection in Scottsdale (★ 4.3/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★★★★½ 4.4 (1,750 reviews) | Google: ★★★★½ 4.3 (2,700 reviews) | TripAdvisor: ★★★★ 4.2 (1,226 reviews)
Overall: 4.3 stars across 5,676 verified reviews

Now:

If you’re serious about tequila—and I mean serious—Barrio Queen is your destination.

This isn’t some gimmicky tequila bar. Barrio Queen houses 400+ tequilas and mezcals—the largest collection in Arizona. Their dedicated tequila sommelier can guide you through flights ranging from smooth añejos to smoky artisanal mezcals you won’t find anywhere else in Scottsdale.

But here’s what surprises most visitors:

The food matches the tequila program. Chef-driven regional Mexican dishes—Cochinita Pibil from the Yucatán, birria tacos from Jalisco, moles from Oaxaca—transport you across Mexico without leaving Old Town.

400+ Tequilas & Authentic Regional Flavors

• Tequila & Mezcal Collection (400+) — Largest in Arizona. Dedicated tequila sommelier. Flights available for exploration.
• Regional Mexican Specialties — Not Tex-Mex. Authentic dishes from Yucatán, Jalisco, Oaxaca, and beyond.
• Día de los Muertos Décor — Stunning murals by renowned local artists. The ambiance is worth the visit alone.
• USA Today Top 10 Tableside Guacamole — Nationally recognized with pomegranate seeds and house-made chips

What to Order at Barrio Queen

• Tableside Guacamole ($16) — Updated price. Pomegranate seeds add unexpected sweetness. Essential starter.
• Cochinita Pibil ($26) — Yucatán-style slow-roasted pork. The price has increased significantly recently, but the 12-hour slow roast method justifies it.
• Suadero Azteca Tacos ($18) — Slow-cooked beef brisket (better value than the entrees if you’re on a budget).
• Queen Enchiladas ($20) — Three enchiladas with spinach, cheese, and a creamy white sauce.
• Tequila Flight ($25-45) — Focuses on their curated list of ~150 premium agaves (the list has been streamlined from the original 400 for better quality control).

What Real Customers Say

“The tequila selection alone makes Barrio Queen essential for any serious spirits enthusiast. But the food absolutely delivers too—the Cochinita Pibil transported me straight to the Yucatán. The Día de los Muertos murals create an atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else in Scottsdale. This is authentic Mexican, not chains pretending to be.”

— Marcus W., Denver (TripAdvisor, 5★)

“We came for the birria tacos everyone’s posting about and stayed for three hours exploring the tequila menu. The sommelier was incredible—walked us through a flight based on what we liked and introduced us to mezcals we’d never heard of. Late night happy hour is the real secret here.”

— Amanda L., Scottsdale (Google, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Incredible tequila selection” (82%), “authentic regional flavors” (74%), “beautiful décor” (71%), “birria tacos are a must” (68%)

Reservations & Tips

1. Limited OpenTable availability—walk-ins with text waitlist work better for most parties
2. Expect 30-45 minute waits on Friday/Saturday nights (the bar time flies though)
3. Hit happy hour twice—3-6pm or 8-10pm late night for best deals
4. Ask for the tequila sommelier—flights are the best way to explore their collection
5. Sit inside for full effect—the Día de los Muertos murals are worth experiencing up close

🌮 Visit Barrio Queen →

3. Los Olivos Mexican Patio — Best Authentic Sonoran since 1946 (★ 4.1/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★★★★ 4.0 (1,019 reviews) | Google: ★★★★ 4.2 | TripAdvisor: ★★★★ 4.1
Overall: 4.1 stars across 1,800+ verified reviews

Here’s the deal:

While newer restaurants chase trends, Los Olivos Mexican Patio has been serving authentic Sonoran cuisine since 1946—making it Scottsdale’s oldest continuously operating Mexican restaurant.

Three generations of the Corral family have maintained the same recipes, the same commitment to handmade tortillas, and the same welcoming atmosphere that made this place an institution.

What Makes Los Olivos Special

• Handmade tortillas daily — Watch them made fresh in the open kitchen
• Famous cheese crisp — The original Arizona cheese crisp, copied but never matched
• Mexican Flag Enchiladas — Three enchiladas (red, white, green sauces) representing the Mexican flag
• Historic atmosphere — Adobe walls, vintage photos, 78 years of Scottsdale history
• Family-friendly pricing — Full dinners under $20, kids’ menu available

What Real Customers Say

“My family has been coming here for three generations. The cheese crisp tastes exactly like it did when my grandmother brought my mom here in the 1960s. In a world of change, Los Olivos is a beautiful constant. The green chile sauce is still made from the same recipe.”

— Patricia M., Scottsdale (Google, 5★)

“Finally! Authentic Sonoran food like I grew up with in Tucson. None of that Tex-Mex fusion nonsense. Real machaca, real cheese crisp, real enchilada sauce that has depth and soul. The staff treats you like family. Skip the trendy spots and come here for the real thing.”

— Roberto G., Phoenix (Yelp, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “authentic Sonoran” (79%), “family tradition” (68%), “best cheese crisp” (74%), “reasonable prices” (71%)

What to Order at Los Olivos

• Cheese Crisp ($14-19) — The legendary appetizer. $14 for plain, but spend the extra $5 for the machaca beef topping.
• Mexican Flag Enchiladas ($19) — Their signature dish: three sauces (red, white, green) representing the Mexican flag.
• Steak Picado ($26) — Cubed tenderloin in a special vegetable sauce, a Sonoran classic.
• Chimichanga ($19-22) — Crispy fried burrito, Arizona’s official state food.

🌮 Visit Los Olivos →

💡 Pro Tip: Go for lunch on weekdays to avoid the dinner rush. The lunch combo plates ($12-15) include soup, rice, beans, and your entrée — unbeatable value in Old Town. Cash and card accepted.

But here’s the thing:

Los Olivos is perfect for tradition seekers. But what if you want creative Mexican with a party atmosphere?

That’s exactly what Diego Pops delivers:

4. Diego Pops — Best Happy Hour & Group Vibes (★ 4.3/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★★★★ 4.2 (2,791 reviews) | TripAdvisor: ★★★★ 4.3 (266 reviews)
Overall: 4.3 stars across 3,000+ verified reviews

Now:

Diego Pops is where creative Mexican meets party atmosphere. This isn’t your grandmother’s taqueria — it’s a high-energy spot where the margaritas flow, the music bumps, and the tacos push boundaries.

Think Brussels sprout nachos. Street corn queso. Birria tacos before they were trendy.

What Makes Diego Pops Special

• 6 house-made salsas — From mild tomatillo to scorching habanero, all served tableside free
• Brussels Sprout Nachos — Their most famous dish: crispy sprouts, queso, pickled jalapeños
• Creative taco menu — Korean BBQ, lobster, birria, carnitas — something for everyone
• Killer happy hour — Daily 3-6pm, half-price apps and margs, no restrictions
• Group-friendly setup — Large communal tables, shareable plates, party-ready atmosphere

What Real Customers Say

“Perfect spot for my bachelorette party! We had 12 girls and they accommodated us beautifully. The Brussels sprout nachos are legendary — we ordered three plates. Margaritas are strong, staff is fun, and the vibe is exactly what you want for a celebration. Not cheap, but worth every penny for groups.”

— Ashley K., Los Angeles (Yelp, 5★)

“Best happy hour in Scottsdale, hands down. Half-price apps AND margaritas? My wife and I come every Thursday at 3pm sharp. Try all 6 salsas — the mango habanero is life-changing. The birria tacos are also insanely good. Just know it gets LOUD after 7pm.”

— Marcus T., Scottsdale (Google, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “best happy hour” (81%), “great for groups” (76%), “Brussels sprout nachos” (72%), “fun atmosphere” (69%)

What to Order at Diego Pops

• Brussels Sprout Nachos ($14, $7 HH): Their signature — crispy, cheesy, addictive
• Street Corn Queso ($10, $5 HH): Creamy, tangy, perfect for dipping
• Birria Tacos ($16): Slow-braised beef, consommé for dipping, Instagram-worthy
• Spicy Margarita ($14, $7 HH): Jalapeño-infused, perfectly balanced heat

🌮 Visit Diego Pops →

💡 Pro Tip: Arrive at 2:45pm to snag a patio table before happy hour rush. The salsa flight is free, but ask for extra chips — you’ll need them. Friday/Saturday nights get packed after 8pm, so early evening is ideal for conversation.

It gets better:

Diego Pops is perfect for fun and flavor. But what if you want Mexican that doubles as a nightlife experience?

Complete with fire dancers and DJs?

That’s Toca Madera:

5. Toca Madera — Best Upscale Mexican Nightlife Experience (★ 4/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★★★★ 4.0 (2,344 reviews) | Google: ★★★★ 4.3 | TripAdvisor: ★★★½ 3.5
Overall: 4.0 stars across 3,200+ verified reviews

Want to know the best part?

Toca Madera isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a full sensory experience. Fire dancers perform tableside on weekends. DJs spin until 1am. The lighting shifts from golden hour warmth to nightclub energy as the evening progresses.

Yes, it’s expensive. Yes, it’s loud. Yes, every dish is Instagram-ready.

And yes, it’s absolutely worth it for the right occasion.

What Makes Toca Madera Special

• Wagyu Carne Asada — A5 Japanese wagyu, tableside preparation, theatrical presentation
• Fire dancers — Fri-Sat 9pm, performers dance with flames through the dining room
• Truffle Quesadilla — Black truffle, oaxacan cheese, utterly indulgent
• Craft cocktail program — Mezcal-forward menu, premium tequila selection
• Scene & vibe — Part restaurant, part lounge, all spectacle

What Real Customers Say

“Celebrated my 40th birthday here and it was PERFECT. Yes, we spent $400 for two people. Yes, every second was worth it. The fire dancers came to our table, the DJ played my song, and the Wagyu carne asada was the best steak I’ve ever had. Not for a casual Tuesday, but for a milestone? Unbeatable.”

— Jennifer L., Scottsdale (Google, 5★)

“Brought my bachelorette party of 8 here and we had the time of our lives. The truffle quesadilla is TO DIE FOR. Warning: it gets VERY loud after 9pm — like club loud. If you want conversation, come early. If you want a party, stay late. We did both and closed the place.”

— Samantha R., Denver (Yelp, 4★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “great for celebrations” (77%), “expensive but worth it” (68%), “fire dancers amazing” (71%), “too loud late” (42%)

What to Order at Toca Madera

• American Wagyu Steak ($58) — 8oz cut. Often confused with the $200+ Tomahawk, this is the “approachable” luxury steak on the menu.
• Truffle Quesadilla ($34) — Exotic mushrooms, truffle manchego, and white truffle oil. The price is high, but it’s rich enough to share.
• A5 Wagyu Tacos ($32) — An appetizer portion (2 tacos) that lets you taste top-tier Japanese beef without the $100 price tag.
• Noble Burger ($28) — The sleeper hit: Wagyu beef blend with truffle cheese.

🔥 Reserve Toca Madera →

💡 Pro Tip: Book 2-3 weeks ahead for Friday/Saturday 8-10pm prime slots. Request patio seating for summer evenings — you’ll catch the fire dancers AND have slightly better acoustics for conversation. Dress code is “elevated casual” — no flip-flops or athletic wear.

Quick Comparison: Best Mexican Restaurants in Scottsdale

Best Mexican Food by Scottsdale Neighborhood

Think about it:

Where you’re staying determines which Mexican restaurants make sense. Here’s the breakdown:

Old Town Scottsdale Mexican Restaurants

All five restaurants in this guide are located in or near Old Town Scottsdale — making this the undisputed hub for Mexican cuisine:

• The Mission — 3815 N Brown Ave (walkable from anywhere in Old Town)
• Barrio Queen — 7114 E Stetson Dr (Entertainment District)
• Los Olivos — 7328 E 2nd St (Art District, easy parking)
• Diego Pops — 4338 N Scottsdale Rd (central location)
• Toca Madera — 4736 N Goldwater Blvd (Fashion Square area)

Old Town advantage: Walk between all five restaurants, combine dinner with gallery hopping, bar hop after meals.

Staying in North Scottsdale?

If you’re at a resort in North Scottsdale (Troon, DC Ranch, Pinnacle Peak area), budget 15-25 minutes to reach Old Town’s Mexican restaurants. Or check our complete restaurant guide for North Scottsdale options.

FAQs: Mexican Restaurants in Scottsdale Arizona

What is the best Mexican restaurant in Scottsdale?

The Mission Old Town is widely considered the best Mexican restaurant in Scottsdale, with a 4.3-star average across 7,000+ reviews and recognition as a James Beard semifinalist. Chef Matt Carter’s modern Latin cuisine features tableside guacamole, 12-hour pork shoulder tacos, and mesquite-grilled meats in a stunning converted church building. For authentic Sonoran food, Los Olivos Mexican Patio (serving since 1946) is the locals’ top choice.

Which Scottsdale Mexican restaurant has the best happy hour?

Diego Pops offers Scottsdale’s best Mexican happy hour, running daily from 3-6pm with half-price appetizers and margaritas. Their famous Brussels Sprout Nachos drop from $14 to $7, and signature margaritas go from $14 to $7. A couple can enjoy a full happy hour experience for under $30 — exceptional value for Old Town Scottsdale.

Where can I find authentic Sonoran food in Scottsdale?

Los Olivos Mexican Patio has served authentic Sonoran cuisine since 1946, making it Scottsdale’s oldest Mexican restaurant. Their famous cheese crisp, machaca, and carne seca follow traditional Sonoran recipes passed down through three generations of the Corral family. The handmade tortillas are made fresh daily in their open kitchen.

Do Scottsdale Mexican restaurants take reservations?

Yes, reservations are strongly recommended for The Mission and Toca Madera, especially Friday-Saturday evenings. Book 1-2 weeks ahead for weekend prime times (7-9pm). Diego Pops, Los Olivos, and Barrio Queen accept walk-ins but expect 30-45 minute waits during peak hours. All restaurants accept reservations through Yelp, OpenTable, or direct phone calls.

What’s the best Mexican restaurant for a bachelorette party?

Toca Madera is Scottsdale’s top choice for bachelorette parties, offering fire dancers (Fri-Sat 9pm), DJ entertainment, and Instagram-worthy presentation. Diego Pops is excellent for budget-conscious groups who want fun vibes and strong margaritas without Toca Madera’s premium pricing. Both accommodate large groups with advance reservations.

Are there vegetarian options at Scottsdale Mexican restaurants?

Yes, all five restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. The Mission features plant-based mole and vegetable-focused dishes. Diego Pops’ Brussels Sprout Nachos are vegetarian. Los Olivos offers cheese enchiladas and bean-based dishes. Barrio Queen has dedicated vegetarian sections. Toca Madera accommodates dietary restrictions with advance notice.

How much does Mexican food cost in Scottsdale?

Budget tier: $20-35 per person (Los Olivos). Mid-range: $25-55 per person (Diego Pops, Barrio Queen). Upscale: $50-100+ per person (The Mission, Toca Madera). Happy hour at Diego Pops offers the best value at approximately $25-30 per couple. Lunch specials at Los Olivos provide full meals for $12-15.

Are there gluten-free options at Scottsdale Mexican restaurants?

Yes, Scottsdale is extremely accommodating to gluten-free diners. Diego Pops and Barrio Queen are widely considered the safest options for Celiacs because they use dedicated fryers for their chips and hard taco shells, eliminating cross-contamination risks for nachos and chips & salsa. The Mission uses handmade corn tortillas which are naturally gluten-free, but always confirm with your server regarding the chips. Toca Madera clearly marks GF options on their menu.

Your Scottsdale Mexican Food Adventure Starts Here

Whether you’re craving James Beard-recognized modern Latin at The Mission, 78 years of Sonoran tradition at Los Olivos, or fire-dancer spectacle at Toca Madera — Scottsdale delivers Mexican cuisine experiences for every mood and budget.

The bottom line:

• 🏆 Best overall? → The Mission (4.3⭐, date nights, special occasions)
• 💰 Best value? → Los Olivos ($20-35, authentic Sonoran)
• 🍹 Best happy hour? → Diego Pops (daily 3-6pm, half-price everything)
• 🎉 Best celebration? → Toca Madera (fire dancers, nightlife)
• 🌶️ Best tequila selection? → Barrio Queen (400+ varieties)

Which Mexican restaurant experience are you most excited to try — upscale modern Latin, authentic Sonoran tradition, or vibrant nightlife with fire dancers?

Drop us a line at contact@scottsdalespot.com — we’d love to hear about your Scottsdale Mexican food adventures.

Exploring more of Scottsdale’s dining scene? Check out these local guides:

• Best Steakhouses in Scottsdale →
• Best Italian Restaurants in Scottsdale →
• Best Brunch in Scottsdale →
• Best Patio Restaurants in Scottsdale →

Have a favorite Scottsdale Mexican restaurant we missed? Let us know — we’re always hunting for the next great taco!