Oftentimes, the best food is hiding in the most unassuming restaurants. That’s definitely the case at Carolina’s Mexican Food, a Valley icon since 1968. For over 50 years, Phoenicians have been flocking to this hole-in-the-wall joint for tamales, carne asada, and homemade flour tortillas. It just might be the best Mexican food in Arizona!

When it comes to great Mexican food, Arizona has some of the best!
TripAdvisor/Kristen B
With the motto, "The Best Tortillas in Town," Carolina's Mexican Food has been a Valley favorite since 1968.
It all started with Manuel and Carolina Valenzuela, a hardworking couple who sold homemade tortillas, burritos, and tamales out of the back seat of their car.
Carolina's Mexican Food
Business quickly began to boom, and before long, the brick-and-mortar restaurant (one of numerous unassuming but no less delicious restaurants in the state) we all know and love was born.
The interior can only be described as simple and humble.
TripAdvisor/Mary P
You won't see any décor on the walls and the paint is even chipping in spots - but the food is so good, the atmosphere is of little importance.
Be sure to hang back and study the menu for a bit, as it's a counter-service joint.
TripAdvisor/Nikki P
With dozens of delicious options to choose from, you'll have quite a dilemma on your hands!

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Authentic Mexican food items run the gamut.
Carolina's Mexican Food
So whether you like chimichangas, burritos, tamales, or virtually any other Mexican staple, there's something here for everyone.
Yeah, we know...its so hard to decide!
TripAdvisor/IGCCengr
But don't stress it. Just make it a combo Mexican food plate and try a bit of everything!
No matter what you order, don't forget to add a side of chips.
TripAdvisor/heathernta
Served warm and perfectly salted, they're an ideal complement to any meal and an Arizonan must eat!
Carolina's is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so you can satisfy your cravings from morning 'til night.
TripAdvisor/Nikki P
Pro-tip: their world-famous green sauce (and their amazing salsa) goes great on everything from breakfast burritos to enchiladas, so don't skip it.
Of course, we have to mention their iconic flour tortillas.
TripAdvisor/Mary P
Made fresh daily and bigger than your face, they'll keep you coming back for more. All in all, Carolina's is one of the best Mexican food places in Arizona.

Carolina’s has four thriving locations in Phoenix, Peoria, Mesa, and Glendale. Visit the restaurant’s website or Facebook page for more information, including current hours and a full menu.

Have you ever eaten at Carolina’s? If so, what did you order and how was it? We’d love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

Don’t forget to check out our previous article for more of the best Mexican food in Arizona.

If you’re in the mood for a different kind of Arizona adventure, take a look at this video about spectacular Sedona!:

 

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Gastronomic Adventures in Arizona

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | February 16, 2023

Where can we find the best burger restaurants in Arizona?

  • Rehab Burger Therapy in Scottsdale features a relaxed beach theme features and scores of creative burger options.
  • Benny's Burgers and BBQ in Sun City has great burgers plus sandwiches, ‘que, and wings.
  • Zinburger Wine and Burger Bar in Tucson, Phoenix, Gilbert and Scottsdale is a great place to pair delicious wines with your burger.

Read on to learn more about the many mouthwatering burger restaurants in Arizona.

 

Where can we find the best steakhouses in Arizona?

  • Big E Steakhouse & Saloon in Tusayan uses only Harris Ranch beef for its amazing steak offerings.
  • Cattlemen's Steakhouse & Lounge in Show Low serves mouthwatering steaks, prime rib, pork chops, and more.
  • Western View Steakhouse in Williams features an upscale menu in a casual and regulars love their French onion soup.

Read on to learn more about the many outstanding steakhouses in Arizona.

 

Where can we find the best breakfast restaurants in Arizona?

  • The Bisbee Breakfast Club in Bisbee serves all-day huevos rancheros, omelets, biscuits, and other traditional breakfast fares.
  • The Bread & Butter Café in Tucson serves huge portions and is known for its outstanding cinnamon rolls.
  • Darbi's Café in Pinetop serves up sizeable and affordable breakfast items.

Read on to learn more about the many delicious breakfast restaurants in Arizona.

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Featured Addresses
Carolina's Mexican Food - Cactus, 2126 E Cactus Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85022, USA
Carolina's Mexican Food - Mesa, 1450 S Country Club Dr, Mesa, AZ 85210, USA
Carolina’s Mexican Food, 5920 W Greenway Rd, Glendale, AZ 85306, USA
Carolina's Mexican Food- Peoria, 9030 W Peoria Ave, Peoria, AZ 85345, USA