A standout among local restaurants, La Santisima delivers unique flavors from diverse Mexican regions (including the state of Sonora) with their menu of taco, burrito (called burros locally) and quesadilla dishes. Among the fresh, appetizing ingredients that make this place so popular you’ll find Oaxacan cheese, fresh flour tortillas, chiles, wild mushrooms, dogfish and arrachera steak. Rightfully famous for their tacos—particularly the Sonoran carne asada or the Mayan cochinita pibil tacos—La Santisima also offers an amazing salsa bar with more than a dozen homemade versions to choose from.
7829 W. Thomas Rd.
Macayo’s has been a Phoenix institution since 1946 when founder Woody Johnson is said to have accidentally created the first chimichanga. So of course this Desert Sky Mall location of the legendary chain serves chimis—three kinds—as well as other Mexican favorites like tacos, burros (burritos) and fajitas. Sonoran-style cheese crisp is a popular starter, and if you’re having trouble choosing the perfect dish, try the Sonoran enchilada trio—three savory enchiladas filled with beef, chicken and cheese. And if you have a sweet tooth, try the mini chocolate chimis for dessert. The dining room’s bright, contrasting colors create a festive setting for your meal, so it’s no surprise that Macayo is one of the Desert Sky area’s fun things to do with friends.
flickr / CC BY-SASonoran Hot Dogs
Various Locations
A staple of carts, food trucks and other mobile places to eat throughout Phoenix, Sonoran hot dogs inspire a devoted and passionate following among locals, who all seem to have a favorite version. The typical Sonoran-style dog is grilled, wrapped in bacon and topped with beans, chopped tomatoes and onions and drizzled with mayo. They usually come served in a roll called a bolillo that’s more like French bread than a traditional hot dog bun. Additional mouth-watering toppings you’ll see around town include cheese, guacamole, salsa, jalapenos, mustard and ketchup.