Chico Malo

154

324

2 years ago

This is an absolute YES. Great ambiance, beautiful aesthetic, amazing food, and even better cocktails. Highly recommend the birria, the chorizo mashed potatoes---yes you read that right--CHORIZO MASHED POTATOES. The potato tacos were amazing too as they came with a chorizo jam. Service was great as well with awesome recommendations. read more

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Luciana V.

254

137

141

2 years ago

Good plates, the atmosphere is bright and welcoming. We were there for lunch and overall we had a positive experience. I found the pricing to be fair and portion sizes were appropriate. I enjoyed the salsas from our appetizer! The agua chile wasn't as spicy as your traditional authentic agua chile but it was still tasty. The server that took care of us was nice and just the right amount of attentive. We were there for a business lunch in a party of 6 and she did a great job taking care of us. read more

Chico Malo - Carne asada tacos - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Shrimp agua chile - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Rachel D.

105

7 months ago

Amazing food. The Chile relleno was fantastic, mushrooms inside were a special and surprising treat. Rice was risotto texture with great flavor. Drinks were good as was the service. Highly recommend. read more

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Chloe P.

3 months ago

Came in with a girlfriend on a whim and we had such a wonderful curated experience! We sat at the bar and Merek, our bartender, was wonderful and so friendly. The cocktails were delish and so was the conversation. Thank you for the local anecdotes and the best dirty martini I've had in Phoenix!! Will be bringing in more friends next time to try the recommended menu items! Shout out Merek! read more

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Kim S.

218

131

1 year ago

Absolutely delicious. Big fan of chips and dip just in general. Had the queso fundido to munch on and it was excellent. Staff was good. Place wasn't too busy. I would like to come for a happy hour and see what that is like. read more

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Bill M.

108

1 year ago

Excellent ambiance and stellar service from Allyianna , who pours a tasty margarita. Rib eye steak for tacos was a nice touch. read more

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Kim S.

131

2 years ago

Really enjoyed this place! Great drinks with a balance of flavors- everything was tropical but not too sweet (we got the margs, poblano Escobar was quite refreshing) The ceviche was a table favorite to start but I really liked the chicharron de ribeye (add shrimp). Only came with three tortillas though- beware! My hubby and I shared the smoked birria for dinner and it was so much food! Loved the slight smoke flavor with the birria! I was bummed they were all out of the seasonal veggies, but the beans and rice were quite good. Service was good- they were very busy but they were attentive. Cool atmosphere and decor- higher end modern Mexican! read more

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Brian A.

7 months ago

Drinks where meh ... flavorless nothing fancy there only the names also food ordered chicken enchiladas the tortillas were cold and the service was hard to flag down a lot of people drinking bottled beers but nothing else I wouldn't recommend eating or drinking any cocktails here read more

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Ted H.

8 months ago

Its ok. Food is decent quality but menu and dishes really didn't make sense or do it for us. They get some things right with ingredients and atmosphere / design, but wouldn't try it again. read more

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Mike M.

131

2 years ago

Sat at the bar, on the outside, having lunch and people watching. The bartender, Zach, was very personal and interactive. Had the trio of salsas for starters, great! I had Pastor tacos, great taste and flavor. Beans and rice were great. I had the Oaxacan Old Fashioned, Tequila and Mezcal. Friend had the Pablano Escobar, Mexican Gin and Limoncello. Both drinks were outstanding! Gonna be back! read more

Chico Malo - Carne Asada Taco Plate - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - El Pastor Taco plate - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Cindy L.

219

1481

15967

3 years ago

We stopped in to get some snacks but after we ordered our first drinks, then the guac and the salsa we decided not to eat anything else. The place is decorated so cute. We love it but the guacamole is just meh, the salsa is just liquid there's no substance. My drink was good. It made with coconut rum and coconut milk little spicy. It was great but small and not really worth the money that we paid for it or my husband's margarita that was just filled with ice. I guess when you order a skinny margarita it means there's not a lot of liquid, lol. No sure if I'd go back. read more

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Jordan L.

573

495

1332

2 years ago

Really loved this spot!! We made a last minute decision to come here before the Suns game and it did not miss. The chips and salsa were a cheap and spicy start. I LOVED the chicken enchiladas (green). They were so good. The Birria tacos were also delicious. There was plenty of seating inside and outside and it was still pretty full. Good decorations and ambiance across the board. The waiter was friendly and chatty and helpful. I would absolutely come back here! read more

Chico Malo - Chicken enchiladas verde - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Chips - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Birria tacos - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Salsa Verde (This salsa is green) - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Donald T.

Elite 17

437

131

1 year ago

Chico Malo - The "Bad Boy" of Mexican Cuisine, but in a Very Good Way. Tremendous Tacos. Classy Spice. Folks, I've eaten a lot of Mexican food--probably more than anyone you know. People say, "Mr. Trump, you know enchiladas like you know real estate," and it's true. I do. But let me tell you something: Chico Malo? It's not just good. It's muy fantástico. First of all, the name--Chico Malo, which I'm told means "Bad Boy." Very cool. Very tough. Probably the kind of guy who builds a wall and serves guac on top. I walked in, and immediately the place had swagger. Like if James Bond wore a sombrero. Dark wood, bold colors, cocktails with smoke--literal smoke, folks, not the kind from CNN. Let's talk food. I had the short rib birria tacos--so tender, I almost appointed them to my Cabinet. The table-side guacamole? Unbelievable. Better security around that avocado than the Capitol. And the elote--tremendous corn. The best corn. Iowa is shaking. Service? Beautiful people. Beautiful service. The waiter said, "Would you like spicy?" I said, "Buddy, I am spicy." Huge laugh. We had a good time. I tipped well. Like a gentleman. Only winners tip. The cocktails were strong. Presidential strength. I had a margarita that made me feel like I just won Nevada again. Still waiting on the official count, but we're confident. If you're in Phoenix and you don't go to Chico Malo, you're missing out. Probably fake news told you not to. Ignore them. Eat the tacos. Feel the power. Chico Malo--the baddest, in the best way. I loved it. Melania said I looked like a handsome luchador afterward. Not sure what it means, but I'll take it. -- Donald J. Tacopreneur read more

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Nisha J.

232

342

249

3 years ago

It's been years since I've been back to Chico Malo, and it did not disappoint! It was just as good as the first time I visited! The staff were very accommodating, especially to a large group of 11! The music and vibe were lively but not too loud. The elote was delicious, I had the chicken enchiladas with both sauces, and it was so good. I got 3 enchiladas in the order - definitely more than enough to share. The grand margarita was a fav of the table as well. Definitely recommend! read more

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Stephanie O.

252

274

580

3 years ago

Was in town and came for a quick bite! We ordered the smoked birria - mild spice and rich flavors with side of onion, cilantro, lime, radish, and red cabbage. It came with flour tortilla and we also got corn tortilla to make your own tacos We got an ipa and the wild thots cocktail (champagne with pineapple and passionfruit). We got seated quickly at the bar, and got our food really quick! It was a nice outdoor day by the bar with a quick bite and drink! read more

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Adanari Z.

184

598

3 years ago

Absolutely stellar dinner! This was my favorite meal of the weekend visit to Phoenix. We made reservations for Saturday night as downtown was very busy Friday night and we would have to wait over an hour to be seated (conferences and other events brought a crowd). The restaurant itself is beautifully decorated and gives upscale vibes. Very spacious and hip. Now onto the good part; the food! Everything we ordered was delicious. We got the trio of dips with green, red, and guac accompanied by a huge bowl of chips. We also tried the corn, beet salad (AMAZING!), birria enchiladas, and prime rib. Everything was spectacular! So well cooked and tons of flavor. Our party of 4 had nothing but "mmmm" to say upon every bite. I can't drink right now but the rest of my party ordered cocktails and a mezcal flight that they enjoyed. The plátano mames güey was a favorite of theirs. Our server Taylor was attentive and sweet. Great service! You know the food was good when you fly back home with enchilada leftovers so do yourself a favor and check it out if you're in Phoenix. read more

Chico Malo - Prime rib with birria consomé, chorizo mashed potatoes, and habanero horseradish - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Beet salad. GET THIS! - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Elote (already dug into). So sweet and perfectly roasted. - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Special: Red and green birria enchiladas - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Trio (A Dip Threeway) - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Karina U.

193

1151

1757

2 years ago

Lots of GF options on the menu. We got the guac and salsa trio (very tasty) and I got the duck. Presentation was very cool, as is ambiance and service. read more

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Walter H.

Elite 26 All-Star

223

853

4889

3 years ago

Located near the Cityscape area of downtown Phoenix, Chico Malo is a great place to grab dinner. They have a deceivingly large seating area inside. The servers are great and can be helpful with the menu. The food was delicious! Definitely worth checking out if you're in the area! read more

Chico Malo - Menu as of September 2023 - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Shrimp De Macha - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Maria G.

4 months ago

Decided to come and take my mom out for a happy hour before dinner today. We drove our 30 minutes to get downtown early, we got there for our reservation at 3. We got seated without a happy hour menu and I asked for one once we got our server, and was told since it was Mothers Day, there was no happy hour. I just noted we were disappointed and looking forward to it as a Mother's Day treat - he basically laughed and said we should've called ahead to ask. We got up a left.. won't be back. read more

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Maya K.

101

190

683

3 years ago

My coworkers and I came here after a long day to get some drinks and a nice meal. The atmosphere is dark and trendy and the music is pretty loud. The cocktails were very fun and tasty and the waitperson was friendly and explained all of the specials and popular menu items for us to choose from. I ordered the duck Al pastor, which came on a sizzling hot plate. I added rice and beans to complete the meal and it was very tasty and filling. My coworkers got the carne asada, enchiladas, and brick chicken. The carne asada and enchiladas were a big hit, but they mentioned that something may have been lacking in the seasoning. Overall, we had a wonderful experience and I think this is a nice dinner spot! read more

Chico Malo - Duck Al pastor - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Robin L.

113

246

2 years ago

I loved this place so much !! The food was sooo bomb !!!! We had such a big party and they were so accommodating to us. We even got a free drink for our bride to be ! The vibes were great cause it kinda felt like we were in a club. I cannot wait to come back here with my husband. So many of us ordered the carne asada ! It was the best on their menu !!! read more

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Brittany H.

608

513

702

2 years ago

Came here on a Saturday night. The place is beautiful inside. We sat at the bar. Bar sitting is cool get a view of everything. The dj was great. Our bartender was nice but service was okay. We ordered the guac trio. I love they gave a nice portion of each trio and a lot of chips. I wanted to try the quesadillas/tacos but it's not on the dinner menu. I ordered the brick chicken which is the reason I gave 3 stars. The chicken was just okay no flavor and a lot of fat on the chicken nice presentation though. We also had the Caesar salad with steak and it was okay. Nothing was really great just okay. Nice ambiance though and good location. Overall nice spot for drinks. read more

Chico Malo - Achiote Brick Chicken nice presentation but I don't recommend a lot of fat and no flavor - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Tijuana Caesar - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Rosie B.

239

443

1 year ago

I thought I reviewed this place, came here last Saturday March 29. This review is for the bar area since we didn't dine in. We sat at the bar, there was only one other patron there. We ordered the nacho trio which comes with green and red salsa and guac. I order two margarita and my husband a beer. The chips, guac and salsa were good but 17 dollars is not worth it. I know inflation but this doesn't justify it. Specially since the service was bad. Maybe if we got good service and clean water glass I would look past it. But the bartender was not friendly at all, did not even ask if we wanted another drink, I waved someone else who is not the bar tender to ask for another drink. It was like we were an inconvenience to them which sucks because I really wanted to try their food but now I'm not sure I'll be back. I guess we should've taken the fact that it was not really busy as a sign. So the three stars are for the drinks and the chips which I guess they don't refill??? We had a lot of salsa and guac left no chips, that's another reason why I think 17 dollars is ridiculous when they don't give you more chips. read more

Chico Malo - Margarita, chip trio - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Beer and chips - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Dirty water glass. - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Nicki E.

586

227

830

3 years ago

Always wonderful, fast, friendly service. The ambiance is beautiful -- lots of outdoor room with tables and at the bar, and a hip interior with industrial design. The food is served in huge portions. Totally recommend the guacamole and trio of dips, the enchiladas and the vegan cauliflower. read more

Chico Malo - Virgin pina colada - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - On the patio - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Virgin mule - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Eric B.

921

115

11 months ago

Aahhh.....I've been here before. And I know why. Ambiance is great. Service is good. The food is awesome! Delicious even. Yes and I'll be back again. My choice for Mexican cusine whenever I'm down town. I had the cheese enchilada with beans and rice. ASE is a great server too! Ask for him, you won't be disappointed. read more

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Lori A.

278

344

590

2 years ago

Beautiful restaurant- open, airy and modern with a great patio. This is not traditional Mexican food. All the dishes are very unique. My husband had the enchiladas which he loved. I had the one all vegan dish on the menu, Charred Cabbage. It was really delicious with so much flavor. I ate about 1/4 of it because one can only eat so much cabbage. Lol I think serving half the amount of cabbage and adding a side of beans would be much better. Our server Tyler was great! read more

Chico Malo - Charred Cabbage vegan and gluten free - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Kathleen B.

9 months ago

Food was delish!! Service was amazing. Ambiance, was great. Khloe was our waitress and she was super, friendly, nothing less than amazing. I went with a friend on 12/20/2025 and after sitting they had asked to move our table and of course we said yes. Khloe and (She Manager) helped moved our stuff to get the other party closer to each other. Hard to find good people to work and these employee's were amazing. The ceviche was so good, we ordered it twice! Would not think twice to frequent this place again! read more

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Nicole G.

2 years ago

Our waiter was great! My friend asked for a drink with Mezcal and he brought her something amazing!! All of our food was phenomenal!! Absolutely worth going when in Phoenix!! read more

Chico Malo - Drink - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Shrimp Diablo - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Duck empanadas - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Rysen S.

4 months ago

Food and drinks here are amazing!!! The ambiance is chic and inviting, and the service was great. Smaller margaritas but very good, and the churros are unreal. read more

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Jalen G.

5 months ago

10/10 highly recommended. 4-6 happy hour everyday and it's worth it. Really love the service and the place is an absolute vibe no matter when you go. read more

Business owner information

Peter B.

Love hearing this. Thanks for coming in and for the support. See you…

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Porsche W.

1 year ago

Came here for dinner on a Friday night and the service was great. We tried several appetizers on the menu including the traditional guacamole, red chili chicken flautas, and the dorados de papa, which were all pretty tasty. The potato tacos were probably one of the highlights of the meal for me. For our entrees we got the carne asada and the surf and turf, plus the elote, rice, brussel sprouts, and chorizo mashed potatoes. The sides were pretty good, but i'd probably get a different entree as I didn't really care for the mole used for the surf and turf. Overall, we enjoyed ourselves and the presentation and vibes were spot on. Will definitely be back! read more

Chico Malo - Potato tacos & red chile chicken flautas - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Ryan K.

861

1 year ago

Good cocktails and Mexican food. We visited Chico Malo at about 9:45 on a Friday night. It was initially packed, but then was emptier by 11. House music pumped out of the speakers to complement the dim lighting. Lit candles were placed at the tables along with various plants around the restaurant. I ordered the mojavito to drink and the chipotle cauliflower to eat. The mojavito had an interesting blend of flavors that worked well together. The chipotle cauliflower consisted of a huge portion and had a scrumptious sauce. Overall, I had a lovely experience at Chico Malo and would highly recommend them for dinner in Phoenix. read more

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Jaleebi S.

271

363

2 years ago

It's been a favorite of mine for years. Sure the location is prime and the crowd is fun and cute; plenty of other cool places in the area so people are in a good mood. But for me it's the food, the pork verde, carne asada and eggs are some of the highlights. My girlfriend tried the enchiladas and they might be the best I've ever had. The arroz con leche blew me away! Of course it did, the chefs have a great thought process and it shows in the cuisine. A great spot downtown. read more

Chico Malo - Arrow con leche - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Alfredo G.

1 year ago

Was such a nice experience that we went twice in two days. A great location in downtown Phoenix, this restaurant is surrounded by multiple options for fun and food. I was skeptical at first because of where it was located, but then I found that it was definitely worth it. This is the kind of place where you can have Mexican food that is very different from what you normally get. Take advantage of the interesting flavors, and also pay attention to how much you order. This is one of those places where ordering multiple entrées is better than getting an appetizer and filling yourself up too early. The pork shank looked amazing, for instance, but we just did not have enough space to try it. We ordered the shrimp macha, a crowd, favorite, and enjoyed it so very much. The flavors were interesting, the shrimp was delicious, and all the flavors just combined in a really delightful way. Coupling it with a spicy margarita, it was really excellent. The second time we went, we ordered it again because it was so good. And then we matched it up with an arugula and beet salad. This time, all the coupling was perfect with a light Pilsner beer. One of the nicest parts of the restaurant is the service. Our server, Sam, was the same across both evenings and he really made our meals special. Really appreciate him taking care of us. read more

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Fadjana J.

Elite 25

248

1 year ago

A really fun restaurant for hanging out. Had such a great time with my group. We got a bit lost finding this place due to our GPS but it was nice when we finally came in. We were seated quickly and our waitress was so friendly and attentive. Constantly checking on us to make sure we were alright. We were so hungry we jumped right into the meal. The duck was a little chewy but not bad, presentation was nice. I enjoyed the chips and salsa. The short ribs with tortillas were also good. The Grimm was so strong some in our group couldn't finish it read more

Chico Malo - Duck breast skillet - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Short rib with chip and salsa trio - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Jeremy K.

125

150

2 years ago

The Shrimp De Macha was one of the worst Mexican dishes I've ever had. The Dijon mustard completely overpowered the entire dish. Almost none of the natural flavors of the shrimp or seasonings could survive. I've been to many high end authentic Mexican restaurants & this location unfortunately missed the mark. They certainly charge you for premium Mexican dishes, but they are severely lacking in true authentic Mexican food. Chico Malo is more of an American-Mexican restaurant for tourists. The location & atmosphere downtown are its biggest highlights. Just manage your expectations when you're served their overpriced food. read more

Business owner information

V A.

Hello,…

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Whitney M.

152

226

3 years ago

Our server Eddie was great. The food was delicious but my favorite was the horchata. I had the Chiapas with no additional protein and it was just right. The black beans are vegetarian and though I know a protein would have elevated the flavors even more. There's a steady beat of conversation and music filling the space and other customers are enjoying their food just as much as we did. I watched a Tomahawk streak walk by and it a beautiful sight to behold. The people work hard and chefs love what they do. Try them out. read more

Chico Malo - Menu - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Cocktail menu - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Chico Malo - Horchata - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Andrea J.

No answers yet. Be the first to answer.

2 years ago

I organized a girls meet up on a Friday night with former co-workers who had not seen each other in a while. This place was central to everyone, so I made a reservation. Parking is very tricky downtown, so plan enough time if you go. They do give you about $10 towards the parking fee but you will have to pay the extra. The staff were all very nice and helpful, but it was difficult to tell who was staff and who were patrons, as there is no set uniform or name tags worn. They all wear what you would wear when going out. The restaurant was very busy, and the overhead music was loud. Conversations had to be loud to be heard. But it was very nicely decorated, except the fact that they had candles constantly lit and a large pile of wax underneath. This was in the middle of the reception area. The food was good, but I'm not sure I would go back. It wasn't spectacular. I did enjoy the chips and salsa trio. Wonderful guacamole. The other two salsas were ok. Not the best I've had. Margaritas were delicious! I had the chicken enchiladas with red and green sauce. I liked the green sauce better. The rest of the girls said their meals were ok. Our server was attentive and competent. read more

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Page 3 of 33

50 W Jefferson St
Ste 100
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Directions
(602) 603-9363
Call Now
Visit Website
http://chicomalo.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Chico Malo open?

Chico Malo opens at 11:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday, Friday and Saturday.

What time does Chico Malo close?

Chico Malo closes at 9:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.Chico Malo closes at 12:00 AM (Next day) on Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Thu, Sun 11:00 AM - 9:00 PMFri-Sat 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Next day)

Payment methods

Does Chico Malo take credit cards?

Yes, Chico Malo takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Chico Malo have catering options?

Yes, Chico Malo does have catering options.

Does Chico Malo have a drive thru?

No, Chico Malo does not have a drive thru.

Does Chico Malo have a happy hour?

Yes, Chico Malo has a happy hour.

Does Chico Malo serve alcohol?

Yes, Chico Malo serves alcohol. Full Bar

Indoor Amenities

Does Chico Malo allow dogs?

No, Chico Malo does not allow dogs.

Does Chico Malo have TVs?

Yes, Chico Malo has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Chico Malo have bike parking?

No, Chico Malo does not have bike parking.

Does Chico Malo have outdoor seating?

Yes, Chico Malo has outdoor seating options.

Does Chico Malo have parking?

Yes, Chico Malo has parking options. Garage Parking

Other Amenities

Is Chico Malo wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Chico Malo is wheelchair accessible.

Does Chico Malo have free WiFi?

Yes, Chico Malo has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Inspired largely by Mexican street food, Chico Malo's offerings showcase techniques and tastes from all over South America, giving diners a unique opportunity to opt for something traditional and comfortable or entirely fresh and new. An equally impressive beverage program is designed to raise spirits, and it spotlights signature mixed drinks, many of which feature tequila and mescal, and a broad range of Mexican beers and margaritas. From bold, buzzworthy plates to ice-cold beverage options, Chico Malo has everything you need to sample and sip your way south of the border.

History

Established in 2017.

Chico Malo is a locally owned, independent restaurant and the debut concept for Culture Shock Hospitality.

Meet the Manager: Teddy M.

Culture Shock Hospitality is a forward thinking restaurant company driven by passion for food, drinks and amazing environments.

More Info

Health Score

Chico Malo Reviews in Other Languages

Spanish
2 Reviews

Ask the Community - Chico Malo

Does the patio have misters?

Yes

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Do you have a contact email? Looking to make a donation request for a non-profit fundraiser.

How can I make a reservation for a large party? I've called and left a message but haven't heard anything.

Hello, all large party reservations go through this platform:…

Does Chico Malo have gluten free options? If so, is there risk for contamination, like do they change gloves and prepare gluten free dishes in a gluten free area and have a dedicated fryer?

Yes we have a number of gluten free options and are able to provide a safe dining experience. For things like chips our chef team will fry fresh in a separate pot or bake to ensure no cross contamination. Hope that helps!

Are they still doing happy hour post Covid?

Yes! 3-6pm every day (3-4pm on major event days) and we have bottomless margaritas, mimosas and draft beer from 11am-3pm Saturday and Sunday mornings during brunch.

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Is Chico Malo only 21+ or are families able to go as well?

Yes. Families can go for sure!

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Are they still serving tacos for dinner? Don't see them on the online menu.

Hi Angel! Our menu hosts a number of great entrees - like the Niman Ranch Pork Verde or the Mesquite Smoked Carne Asada - that come with hour house made tortillas. If gives our guests an opportunity to see the proteins as they are prepared and the…

Do they serve tacos at dinner?

Yep, go and eat tacos! They were awesome.

Do you have a breakfast menu on the weekend from 11-3?

Yes! We serve brunch from 10am until 3pm on Saturdays and Sudays.

Do they have Happy Hour? If so, what are the times and menu items?

3-6pm everyday! $4 draft beer, $5 wine and house pours, $6 Margaritas and Paloma with fresh…

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The Mexicano

4.4(3.1k reviews)

11.7 mi

Locally owned & operated

Happy hour specials

Had a really great experience here! The food was amazing and everything I had was really good…read more Jessica was awesome and took great care of me the entire time. She was super friendly, attentive, and made sure I had everything I needed without me even having to ask. It's hard to find genuinely good service sometimes, but Jessica definitely made the experience that much better. I'll absolutely be back and definitely recommend asking for her!

Came here on a whim, while in Phoenix for work. They have a pretty decent happy hour and the bar…read morewas packed for a Wednesday evening. There's plenty of parking and the restaurant is pretty large, so it's to get in, except at the bar. Really nice restaurant as well! I ordered a salmon taco plate and the house margarita. The salmon tacos were just okay. The salmon was a little overcooked and a very small portion. BUT the beans, rice and the corn tamale thing were all amazing! I'll be back to try something else and get a larger portion of beans and rice! The bartenders are great and have amazing personalities! I'll definitely give them another try when I'm back in town!

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La Santisima

4.2(2.7k reviews)

3.6 mi

Was out in Phoenix and my friend bet their life on how great La Santisima was...so we had to go…read more Not gonna lie, it was pretty fantastic! The decor and art in the place was amazing, loved it! They were fairly busy when we stopped in so it was a little slow in getting our food but nothing extreme. There's inside seating and a small patio outside. The food was amazing! I had a shark taco and bean and cheese burrito and loved both. Scale of 1 to 10, I'll go back again for sure!

Wow such a great spot - been wanting to try this place forever now and finally caved this…read moreafternoon. Everything from the atmosphere service and food was perfect. Planning on coming back once a week moving forward. Had the shark, Mahi and the pork Asada toco on the specialty / gourmet tacos section of the menu. Wish I got the servers name but she was extremely friendly! (Younger dark haired Mexican girl). Mahi taco was my favorite, arguably my favorite taco of all time. Rice that it came with was amazing too not a big fan of refried beans but they were alright... marg was good and they have Pacifico which is my favorite so I was a happy customer overall. 3 tacos one marg and a large Pacifico for 36 bucks... can't find that in Scottsdale! Highly recommend

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Jalapeños Sonora Grill

4.8(211 reviews)

13.8 mi

Great hole in the wall spot! The smell was amazing walking in and the food tasted amazing! Came in…read morefor a quick lunch before heading for my second job and it didn't disappoint! The food came out quick and was gone even quicker (hence why there is no food picture ) definitely would come back!

If you haven't had Sonora style tacos, then you're missing out. There are lots of options in AZ but…read morethis is it! Yelp top 100 for a reason. Campechano is a mixed meat taco with asada, tripa, and cheese and it is fantastic. I love corn tortillas as much as the next guy but gotta try flour with Sonoran tacos too. Definitely earned a spot on the list!

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Ample space with plenty of seating

Corazon De Agave

4.5(375 reviews)

14.1 mi

Very clean place. We were checked on regularly during the meal by the owner to make sure our…read moredining experience was top notch. And it was. We started out with an off menu appetizer consisting of healthy sized octopus tentacles served with potatoes in a delicious sauce. Everything was tender and delicious. Then we had enchiladas with a generous amount of sauce served with beans and rice. We finished with cheesecake. The owner clearly had a sense of humor as you can tell from the picture of my serving. All in all it was a very enjoyable experience and I highly recommend!

Like many others, we saw this place on IG and wanted to try it. We drove out of our way, about…read more45min+ from our house. The place inside was cute. I was happy about the little purse hooks on the table (iykyk). The outside area, not so much. It's on the corner of a strip mall, there was some etched graffiti on the outside windows, which made you aware of the area you were in. (That's the reason for the 1 star deduction.) The place is very small! So yes, you WILL want to make a reservation. We went around 3:30 on a Friday and I would say 3/4 of the tables had reserved signs on them starting at 5pm on up. The receptionist was constantly back and forth looking at them and moving them around to make space for walk-ins. I would skip bringing your kids here. I didn't use the restroom so idk if that was nice or not. The food was fantastic! And the portions were big. The price matched the portions and quality in our opinion. It's hard to find quality food that's worth the cost lately. We enjoyed the chips and salsa. And hubby ordered a Mexican coke, and the server brought him a frosty glass for it. Everyone around us looked like they were enjoying their food. Our server was great. He chatted with us for a while when we told him about seeing the place on IG. He was grateful for the customers. But admitted, it's caused an influx of people and the 'regulars' have become annoyed. Which is understandable. We'd definitely come back if we're in the area but probably not drive that far out of our way again.

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Chicharron Ribeye is AMAZING! Cooked to perfection with a crazy good guacamole.

Presidio Cocina Mexicana

4.6(1.3k reviews)

1.6 mi

Food is fantastic. Ordered chilaquiles with birria as my protein and the meat is tender and…read moreflavorful. My girlfriend ordered aqua chilies they had a nice kick and good portion. We also ordered two cocktails: mezcalita and st.hibiscus both perfect ratios. You can taste the alcohol and not overpowering with artificial mixers, like most restaurants, cocktails. Worth it. Service very good. With great classic Mexican music not the overplayed playlist you hear at every other spot. I might be proposing to my girlfriend here because we loved it so much.

I sniffed this place out as a possible eatery at which to grab a Mexican breakfast, which is not a…read moretypical choice for me. But I wanted something hearty after donating blood the day before at Phoenix Fan Fusion. I felt like I didn't eat enough to replenish all of the corpuscles I shed, so a hearty late breakfast was in order. I was pleasantly thrilled with my choice of Presidio Cocina Mexicana, as the late breakfast I ordered did not disappoint! I ordered the Chilaquiles, which are essentially breakfast nachos, and you have a choice of protein to add. I chose the birria beef which was perfectly slow-cooked and complemented the corn tortilla chips, cheese, and eggs superbly. I opted for both the red chile and green chile sauce which coated the chips along with a generous layer of tangy cotija cheese. I asked for the eggs scrambled and they cooked them just how I like them... fairly dry and in a thin griddled layer. Add to this mound of well-seasoned goodness a decent dolloping of Tapatio hot sauce (and salt and pepper on the eggs) and I had endless perfect bites of spicy, meaty brekkie goodness that brought delighted yummy sounds from my grateful gullet! This was quality food and the couple at the bar next to me raved about the Menudo, so it has all the hallmarks of authentic Mexican fare. It restored me from borderline anemic to my usual strutting rugged caballero self. "¡Arriba, arriba! ¡Ándale, ándale!"

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Casa Corazon Restaurant

4.4(951 reviews)

2.5 mi

I think I just found my new favorite Mexican restaurant!…read more The ambience here is charming. It's located in what looks like an old house, painted on the outside in a dark red paint. There are roses hanging from the ceiling, exposed brick, and colored lighting (would you notice more as the sun goes down). The wood ceilings really make this place special. There is a small bar in the corner. Don't forget to look up because there is a little door above with the guardian angel and children painted on it, and a couple of stained glass windows. From the minute we walked in, we were meeting with smiling faces. When you first walk in, you are inside the kitchen or at least right next to it. We started with a couple of drinks - a Corona and a Diablito, a sotol cocktail with lots of pureed mango. A basket of chips and a bowl of Green dip or brought to the table, and we were directed to the salsa bar back near the entrance. The salsa bar is fantastic, with several different kinds of salsa. We grabbed what tasted like a creamy tomatillo salsa, a pineapple salsa, a pico de gallo, and a creamy Serrano salsa. They were all so good that we couldn't say which was our favorite. I know that pineapple salsa just sent me over the moon! For an entree, hubby ordered a Sonoran burrito. He said the burrito was delicious, and kept pointing out how good the guacamole and side was. It wasn't especially big or small. I ordered the fajitas (steak and chicken combo) and the minute they came to the table sizzling, both my husband and I were surprised at how large this portion was. It was served with tortillas (you get your choice of corn or flour), black beans, and rice. The black beans were good - - I suppose they just tasted like black beans. I was surprised at how delicious the rice was because it's white and I expected it just to taste like white rice. But there was a creaminess to it and a flavor that I couldn't put my finger on but that I know was really yummy (butter, maybe? Cheese, maybe?? Idk). Good meat in my fajitas was super tender and the veggies were grilled just right. This was a really common really delicious meal. This place had been on my list for a long time and now that I finally been here, I'm kicking myself for not coming here sooner. The food was fantastic, the prices super reasonable, and it's set in a cozy, romantic setting. This place is going to be on a regular rotation for us!

If you are looking for upmarket Mexican food, with a great drink on the side, my favorite go to…read morespot in downtown Phx is casa corazon... they have a good menu and fo everything well, from grey Baja tacos, in true Baja style to chili rellenos, fajitas and oh my god the salsa bar!! To die for. Chips are gratuit. Service is prompt and knowledgeable. The entrance is via the kitchen as this was once a home, now converted into a great eatery. So you come in the side door to the dining room . Wait staff all greet you and guide you to the dining room, festooned with roses and talavera tiles. It's not kitschy, just gorgeous. The menu is ample and you can't go wrong with anything. The initial refrito dip, tho yummy, has pork. But they have the best, the absolute best black beans!! Try them just for a change. You'll be converted. The dining area is small but cozy and beautifully done. So enjoy!!

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Aqua de Jamaica

Taco Chelo

4.8(194 reviews)

8.2 mi

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Stephanie made a stressful day much less stressful!!! She is a true gem!!!…read more Fantastic little location. Excellent service. Even more amazing food. Try everything. You'll love it!! Super cute vibes throughout. Bathrooms clean and on site. Cute shopping section. But the customer service is where it's at! We appreciate you Stephanie!!! #ASU #OrlandoFam

Sometimes the best meals happen because your original plan falls through. That was exactly the case…read morehere, and honestly... I'm not even a little mad about it. I ordered the veggie tacos with roasted sweet potatoes (skin on, which was absolutely the right call), pepitas, feta, and all the right toppings. Whoever prepped those sweet potatoes deserves a raise because they were cut into the perfect sized pieces. Every bite had a little sweetness, a little crunch, a little saltiness... it just worked. My dining partner ordered the barbacoa tacos, and I didn't even have to ask if they were good. The involuntary "Mmm..." after the first bite answered that question. Four tacos disappeared in record time, followed by, "I could've eaten two more." That's about as glowing of a review as you're going to get. Now let's talk about these tortillas. Handmade. Corn. Tortillas. Are you kidding me? They're the kind of tortillas that had me question every tortilla I've ever eaten. Soft, fresh, and somehow they manage to steal the spotlight even with everything else on the plate being so good. The chips and guacamole were excellent, too. The chips have to be made in-house and they disappeared at an alarming rate. The salsa that came with them had this smoky, fire-roasted, chipotle flavor that kept me reaching for another chip... and then another... and then suddenly I realized I'd eaten way more chips than I intended. The bottled table salsas deserve their own paragraph because they completely confused me... in the best way. They bring three to the table... a green, a red, and a darker red. I kept tasting them individually thinking, "Okay, these are alright." Then I started mixing them. Game over. On their own, each one was solid. Mixed together? That was the magic. I don't know if that's what they intended or if I accidentally stumbled onto the perfect combination, but from that point on, every taco got the salsa trio treatment. The only tiny hiccup was when we first walked in. We were greeted, asked if we wanted menus, and sat ourselves. We waited for a bit thinking someone would come take our order, only to realize it's actually counter service. Once we figured that out, everything was smooth sailing. Not a big deal at all... just something first-time visitors might want to know. Follow the sign "order here" I also loved the layout. You can actually watch them making the food, which somehow makes the wait even harder because everything smells incredible. Two tacos ended up being the perfect light meal for me. Could I have eaten ten? Absolutely. Those two statements can both be true. Meanwhile, my dining partner polished off four barbacoa tacos and was talking about ordering two more. We only ended up here because another place happened to be closed, and honestly, I'm glad it worked out that way. This ended up being one of those meals we keep talked about on the drive home. Oh and the bathrooms?. I walked in and immediately thought, "Whoa... this is a cool bathroom" The lighting had this pinkish-purple glow that made me feel like I'd accidentally wandered into a trendy lounge instead of a taco shop. I honestly wasn't even sure there was regular lighting in there and I didn't look... because the vibe seemed so intentional. Finally, the music. .. upbeat, dance-worthy, the kind that had me bouncing in my seat while waiting for my food. Between the atmosphere, the lighting, and the music, the whole place had me want to hang out a little longer. Zero regrets. I'll absolutely be back... and next time I'm ordering more tacos.

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Mariscos Playa Hermosa

4.4(1.3k reviews)

1.7 mi

Late lunch 3pm normally a slower pace for a restaurant. Host…read moresat us quickly and server was very friendly and when I asked for recommendations she provided us with some great choices. My friend ordered a burrito and I wanted some lite, I picked the mini seafood tower, with all sauces and avocado on the side. Server brought out complementary seafood tostadas. Food quality, service, ambience, all top-notch, highly recommend!

We were invited to hangout with some friends and enjoy the Mexico World Cup match. Not knowing…read morewhere we were going till last minute we ate at home and had just decided to do drinks and dessert wherever we ended up with our friends. Insert the most fire drinks we've scene in a while and they all can be made NonAlcoholic! Needless to say we had no clue what we were getting ourselves into and we were glad cus the prices were high but the drinks were large and delicious! All of my three daughters and my wife felt so cool with their drinks and loved every sip. Our friends said their food was good and one of which got the coolest pineapple drinks we'd ever scene! Along with amazing chips and salsa we are very excited to come back and get some food as this is a stellar top notch seafood place with amazing drinks people and an all around experience

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Our Molcajete Frio is a cold seafood platter with so many of your favorites! Oyster. Crab legs. Ceviche. Shrimp. Delicious!

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I had an amazing birthday dinner at Alma and my fried Red Snapper was the best I have ever eaten…read more Please bring it back!!!

This review is for the totality of the experience…read more I made an advance reservation at Alma Scottsdale for a mid-sized group of 7 to celebrate a special occasion. Our party arrived right on time for our reservation, but we were not seated until 15 min later because our table was not ready. It took about an additional 15 min to get tap water for the table (there was not enough provided anyways), and to place our orders too another ~20 min. The food did not arrive until 30 min later. For context, we eventually learned that the restaurant was short staffed and the bartender was also operating as our waiter. When the food finally arrived, there was a mix-up on what was delivered. We had checked with the staff who delivered one of the dishes: we ordered the "wild mushroom" side, but what we received did not look quite like it. We asked clarifying questions x2, but were assured, "no, it is the wild mushroom." Turned out, it was the mushroom empanada that was delivered to our table, which we originally did not order. The management did rectify the situation upon the conclusion of the event when we were paying the bill, but to us, it felt a bit accusatory as if we intentionally wanted to cause a huge fuss about the final total, which was absolutely not the case. The food in general was delicious. If this was a more standard dining experience, it would have been 4-5 stars just for the food. The service was very subpar, and really colored the entire experience negatively, therefore the two star review. I understand that staffing shortages happen -- fine. My family has worked in food service as wait staff for 25+ YEARS, so I am empathetic. But for management to ring up our bill and then come confront us in an inflammatory manner, making us feel like we were wrong, on an occasion to celebrate something special, was extremely disappointing.

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Bruselas Quesadillas

Ta'Carbon Mexican Grill

4.5(641 reviews)

7.8 mi

•$

Their condiments and salsa bar are so good, and their meat is fresh. The restaurant itself is…read morepretty bare but very roomy and clean. The counter people are very nice as well and friendly.

Saw some good reviews so wanted to try it out. The meat was okay, not the best quality in my…read moreopinion. Asada had a decent amount of fat and the lack of topping options wasn't great. Was a very simple taco. The bean burrito had the potential to be great, but the beans had a weird taste to them. Not necessarily bad, but it wasn't a flavor I loved. The tortillas really saved the day and are why it got this rating. Service was great! Really nice workers but wasn't the cleanest taco stand around. Not somewhere I would necessarily go out of my way for but not terrible

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Isaias S.

Elite 18

9 years ago

Made a reservation for opening night, as it's been a highly anticipated restaurant to open in the downtown Phoenix scene. The décor and environment compliments the artistic scene of downtown Phoenix, yet they stand apart from other Mexican restaurants in the valley. I went with a large group of friends, so we can all taste the different variety of options. Drink selection was okay. I was expecting more. To start, we ordered the guacamole, and it did not really have any flavor. We even added chicharones and bananas, but there was something missing that we couldn't pin-point. It just tasted like an avocado-banana smoothie. The guac came with three salsas (that needed salt) and the hottest salsa was not spicy. I ordered the Baja Fish tacos, which I do recommend. Also, I ordered the shrimp ceviche which lacked flavor of traditional shrimp ceviche. The avocado underneath took away from the other unique fruits and veggies that were added. I want to say there was more avocado then ceviche.) We also ordered Chicken Tinga, Pastor, Carne Asada, and Duck tacos. The most popular ones among the group were the Duck and Carne asada tacos. Overall, the customer service experience was phenomenal, but the food did not cut it. It was honestly disappointing, because I was expecting more. I know this was the grand opening, so I will give Chico Malo a second chance :) read more

Ivan R.

Elite 23

105

2 years ago

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Chico Malo in Phoenix, Arizona and I must say, I was blown away by the experience. From start to finish, everything was top-notch. First off, the food was absolutely delicious. We tried the agua chiles, chilaquiles,carne asada fries, which were bursting with flavor, and the Torta Pibil, which was perfectly cooked and seasoned. The bottomless margaritas were a hit with our group, and we couldn't get enough of the Gansito Americano for dessert. And let's not forget about the arroz con leche - it was the perfect way to end our meal. But what really made our visit stand out was our waiter, Jesus. He was attentive, friendly, and made sure that we had everything we needed throughout our meal. His recommendations were spot-on and he truly went above and beyond to make sure we had a great dining experience. Overall, I can't recommend Chico Malo enough. The food, the drinks, atmosphere and the service - everything was fantastic. If you find yourself in Phoenix, do yourself a favor and make a reservation at Chico Malo. You won't be disappointed. read more

Liz L.

9 years ago

Went to Chico Malo the other night with some girlfriends to celebrate an engagement. The place is amazing! The decor is fantastic and when our waitress told us that the walls were HAND PAINTED and the story behind the theme to the restaurant it upped it's coolness factor even more for me! I had the red sangria - which was delicious! My one girlfriend had a margarita which she said was strong but not over powering and my other friend had a Tecate. We ordered the tableside guacamole which was great because I don't like very spicy food but my friends do so we were able to "build our own" guacamole so that it was just the right amount of spice for all of us. For dinner I ordered 3 tacos - the Al Pastor which was pork, Chicken Tinga and Short Rib they were all FANTASTIC! Lots of flavor! What I like most about Chico Malo is that it's not your typical boring Mexican restaurant with the same menu items as the next one. If you are looking for a new modern spin on Mexican food I highly recommend checking out Chico Malo! I will definitely be back! read more

Phil G.

9 years ago

This place is just what CityScape needed! Went here last night for the first time with some friends and it was in a word - AWESOME. Great service, great food, awesome atmosphere! If you are looking for quesadillas and chimichangas this ain't the place for you! Chico Malo is a more upscale, modern take on Mexican food. We got the Niche Nachos to start and tableside guacamole. Loved that you could custom make your guacamole. So many times I've gone to restaurants where the guac was either too spicy or not spicy enough. Being able to have your guacamole made in front of you - 1) you know its fresh and 2) you can make it how YOU like it. Awesome concept. For my entree I got a short rib, pollo tinga and baja fish taco. Tacos are $5 a pop but worth it. Lots of great flavor! Didn't do dessert but the table next to us got tres leches rice pudding and it looked really good. All in all a great place and I will definitely be back! Just mad I didn't save my visit for tonight - Cinco de Mayo style! LOL read more

Clara T.

1 year ago

A Hidden Gem for Romance! If you're searching for the perfect spot for a first date or a cozy date night, look no further! This charming restaurant exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like Cupid himself is playing matchmaker in the background. The food is not just good; it's a delightful experience without breaking the bank! I indulged in the creamy guacamole, while my friend savored the delicious enchiladas--both dishes were a hit! On top of that, the service was top-notch, making us feel right at home. Plus, its prime location near entertainment venues makes it an ideal choice if you're planning to grab a bite before catching a show at the Comedy Show or the Orpheum Theatre. No photos this time because I was on a date (lol), but trust me, this place is a must-visit! Highly recommend! read more

Giovann G.

4 years ago

This place was amazing from start to finish. First they have a parking garage right below their restaurant so it makes it super easy to get to. They also validate parking for 2 hours so it was free for us. We came on a date night and this place was so cute. The music was fantastic and the ambiance was perfect, dimmed lighting, it made a real intimate setting for us. The server was really fun and knew a good amount about the tequila selection. We did a Mijenta flight which was so delicious. The rest of our food and drinks came out beautifully presented and deliciously tasting. This is our new downtown spot and it seems like everyone's already caught on. read more

C M.

9 years ago

An amazing new restaurant in downtown Phoenix! Fresh tacos, perfect margaritas, an outstanding selection of Mexican beer, tortillas made in their in-house tortilleria while you watch, a table side cart where they make custom guacamole, AND original eclectic artwork. Who could ask for more? The elote street corn to start, chips and amazing salsa, custom guacamole, original tacos, and the pork verde (steak). And the desserts..... Wonderful greeting at the door, attentive service, and a reminder to validate on the way out. Just a great experience all the way around. Highly recommend!!! read more

Ashton H.

9 years ago

Modern Mexican style and atmosphere. The menu had many classics but also lots of creative dishes. I had their carne asada. The steak was more like a T-bone instead of skirt steak but was flavorful and tender. It came with some pickled beets, thinly sliced onion and tomato, guacamole, home-made tortillas, and a fantastic chimichurri sauce. The sauce really enhanced the steak and gave it an Argentinian touch. Service was good, and I left very content with my meal. If I'm back in the area, I would love to try some other items on their very original menu. Highly recommend Chico Malo. read more

Monica D.

1 year ago

Chico Malo was an awesome experience! Despite it being a busy time, the hostess was fantastic and managed to find a table for our group of 8 with a short wait--huge plus! The ambiance was on point, with a great vibe that made the whole experience even better. Food and drinks were absolutely amazing--every dish was flavorful and well-prepared. A special shoutout to our waiter, Ace, who was attentive, friendly, and made sure we had everything we needed. Excellent service all around. Highly recommend Chico Malo--definitely a spot we'll be coming back to! read more

Josh V.

5 years ago

My wife and I went to go eat there for game 6 of the suns vs clippers. We sat at the bar and our bartender was very nice and when I asked him to make me a signature drink of his, he came out with something I had never tried before and I decided to drink about 4 of those cocktails as I also munched on the this trio dip that was very tasty, i don't know what the guacamole dip tasted like because my wife and I only focused on the hummus and salsa dips. As a SUNS fan, you best believe I'll be back to watch more games and drink on those cocktails read more

T N.

8 years ago

What a glorious space! Feels fresh and inviting. Food was creative and a pure delight to my tastebuds. If you're looking for a "basic"Mexican food experience - this is not your restaurant. You won't find enchiladas or Tex-mex fajitas. Instead it's traditional plates that have been jazzed up. Definitely try the margs. They aren't drowned in sweet and sour. If you have some time - get the story about the art from one of the visually appealing management staff. If you're on a date - this place seals the deal every time. read more

Eric D.

3 years ago

Came here before a concert since it was close. Last experience wasn't good but they took walk ins at the bar. Things were much better than our previous visit. Drinks were great and service was friendly. The restaurant was very busy before the show but service and food were both great. They were playing country music but I think it was for the show that night. Last time I remember there being a dj, maybe only on the weekends? Chico Malo definitely made up for the poor experience last time. Good job and see you again read more

Rachel S.

2 years ago

I was in Phoenix for the weekend and was pleasantly surprised by this incredible restaurant. The decor of this place is stunning. There are beautiful candelabras everywhere and the vibe is just immaculate. Our server, Lexi, was super attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. She recommended lots of different dishes, and I went with the relleno. It was such a fantastic vegetarian option. Overall, all the dishes and drinks we tried were fantastic. I will absolutely be back to this place next time I'm in Phoenix. read more

Brandon C.

322

6 years ago

The ambiance was certainly pleasant enough with adequate space between tables to have a private conversation. The waitstaff members were friendly, efficient, and professional. There were items that are not often found on a menu, yet many of the mainstays were also available. The food was good and there is something for everyone. With all the great reviews, this should have been better. Our waiter thought was wonderful, service attentive and friendly. Certainly, a busy and well-attended restaurant. Check it out. read more

MortalFirst M.

5 years ago

I never got around to updating my review. The owner reached out shortly after my first review and offered a meal to my wife and I. We did not end up taking him up on this offer, but it was greatly appreciated that they believed in their product enough to offer this. For what I felt was lacking in taste, it was only one meal, and only my opinion. The humble reply, and of course the great environment here definitely made it a place we would come back to again, and we definitely will! read more

Cameron C.

5 years ago

The music was very loud, to the point where I couldn't hear the server talking, I'm grateful that they were able to turn it down for me (which is my only reason for 2 stars rather than 1). I ordered a chimichanga and it was TOUGH and I could only taste tomatoes. I hated my meal. I tried my partners meal which included "shredded" beef but it consisted of clumps of beef rather than shreds. I made a mess trying to rip the beef in half. The servers were nice but the food was inedible. read more

Maricopa R.

9 years ago

Tried out this new place in downtown Phoenix before a DBacks game. What a great location! The food was interesting and very good, a different take on tacos and south of the border food. The Duck carnitas were a hit with our group along with the Elote street corn. They even have a table side guacamole cart where you can create your own guacamole. Along with the $5 margaritas who could go wrong. Definitely one of the new must-see spots in downtown....great service too! read more

Maya K.

259

9 years ago

Chico Malo does not disappoint. If you want your traditional made to order plates, it's time for you to elevate your expectations of Mexican food. All three menus ( breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are beautifully composed. You can tell the chef put his heart and soul into everything he created. If you are in the mood to drink, the cocktails are just as amazing! They clearly have an amazing cocktail program, definitely the place to be in Downtown Phoenix read more

Jordan C.

9 years ago

High end ingredients puts this mexican restaurant above your average place. Nice to see a really nice Mexican restaurant in Downtown Phoenix. I loved everything about it from the atmosphere, music, and taste of the food! Owners were sweet, Peter was a great host, Andre was an amazing server, and Chef Ivan has a lot of talent! They made you feel welcome and a lot of places don't really do that!. Amazing atmosphere, superior service, delicious food! read more

Jonathan A.

Elite 23

4 years ago

We recently had the pleasure of hosting our Christmas party at Chico Malo and it was an absolute blast! The food was amazing - it was an elevated Mexican cuisine that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. The atmosphere was lively and the staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating. We had a great time and will definitely be returning soon! Highly recommend Chico Malo for any special occasion or just a night out with friends. read more

Chico Malo - mexican - Updated September 2026

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Gallo Blanco

4.2

(599 reviews)

We met some family there for dinner at their suggestion. This was our first time to eat here. Jorge…read morewas our server. He was phenomenal! Very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable and efficient. Got another "and" in there lol. I had the shrimp and grits. It was delicious! The wife had a dorado taco and she enjoyed it as well. All the staff were friendly and smiled the whole time. Would we go back?? Heck yes especially if Jorge was our server!!

I've had a soft spot for this place for years. Tucked into the Garfield District, Gallo Blanco has…read morethat big-city, slightly self-aware "transcendent hipster" energy that somehow still works (lol). Started with the chips and guacamole, and this is saying something, because I usually avoid guacamole. Too often it tastes like green mayo wearing a sombrero. Not GB's though, it is chunky, spicy, killin'. Then came the tacos. Pork belly and fried fish. Gallo missed the mark this time. The pork belly was chewy when it should've surrendered. The fish had somehow misplaced its fish-ness, and the corn tortilla shells were too dry. But restaurants, like people, aren't defined by a single bad day. A slice of tres leches and a good pour of reposado put the evening back on track. And our bartender, whose name I can't remember was exceptional. I'll keep coming back to Gallo Blanco. They hit it out of the park far more often than they whiff. This is the place that makes you forget you're in Phoenix. No clichés, Just the kind of room you'd expect to find in a great city.

Bacanora

4.2

(427 reviews)

We'd heard so much about this place and all the awards it has won, but we still didn't quite know…read morewhat to expect. It definitely exceeded our expectations! Every dish was memorable. The elote with bone marrow was rich and flavorful; the cactus salad was light and refreshing. I was also surprised by the beef tartare - the beef was incredibly tender. The fish, though, was the highlight of the entire meal. It was super fresh, with perfectly crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. The potatoes underneath soaked up all the flavor, and the taco that came with it was delicious as well. Such a great dining experience from start to finish. If you happen to be in central Phoenix, this place is definitely worth a visit!

Bacanora is small but MIGHTY. We had a 5 PM reservation right when they opened, and this downtown…read morePhoenix corner spot filled up immediately. It's intimate, lively, packed with plants, and the house music gives it such a cool energy. Service was excellent--friendly, attentive, and our water glasses never saw the bottom. The NY strip was the winner. Perfectly cooked, and the kale had this bright acidity that made the whole plate. The elote was a full ear of deliciousness, and of the three salsas, I could've straight-up DRANK the verde. The chicken was great, but somehow the little cheese quesadillas stole the show. HOW is a cheese quesadilla that darn good?! The potatoes needed more flavor, and the borracho beans came topped with raw onions, which immediately eliminated them from consideration. Onion hater. Forever and always. The short rib was sweeter and chewier than I prefer, although everyone else at the table enjoyed it. Three entrées + an appetizer came to about $222, which felt fair for the quality, service, and atmosphere. Small space. Big energy. Seriously good food. I'll absolutely be back.

El Zaguan Bistro

4.6

(166 reviews)

Stumbled across this gem in downtown Phoenix as we were too late for breakfast at our hotel and…read moremaybe a little too early for lunch. Being passionate about Mexican food and having lived in Mexico, I was a little skeptical especially because I live in Texas where most of what we can find is TexMex. To our pleasant surprise the food was very fresh and extremely tasty. I was tempted to go for the lunch chilaquiles but the owner suggested I try the enchiladas covered in poblano sauce. And I had a choice of meet fillings so I went with a birria and a chicken tinga. Both were amazing and the tinga had a great kick to it. My son had the taco plate with 2 pastor and 2 asado. The only negative is that the pastor was not from a rotisserie spit but just cubed meat seasoned well. And to wash it all down we both had the horchata which was a little too sweet for our liking. Service was excellent and the overall atmosphere of this rather small spot was perfect. So if you are downtown and looking for great Mexican food, give this place a go.

Rating: 4.5 Stars I…read morestopped by around 12 PM on a Wednesday lunch time. The restaurant itself was fairly crowded but the line you go through to order and pay at the front was not too bad. I got a taco combo with a horchata. I chose al pastor, birria and asada for my tacos. Out of all of the flavors, I enjoyed the al pastor the most. It was juicy and flavorful. The birria was a little bit dry and the asada was good but not as good as the Al pastor. The beans and rice sides were also a nice accompaniment. The horchata is also a must order. Flavor was delicious and so good! All in all, a great food option near the convention center!

Mi Patio Mexican Food

4.0

(1.1k reviews)

The food was the best Mexican food of my life, and the service was great, especially for how…read morecrowded it was. Ate like 4 bowls of the free chips and salsa because they were also so good

Actually amazing. From the guy that greeted us right as we walked in, to the lady offering to…read morerefill chips/salsa and water, to the server - super chill guy, but always there and very personable. You don't get this attentive of service from most high end restaurants in Phoenix. These people actually care, and offer genuinely feel good service. The manager (young gentleman) was on the floor and involved. You can tell it's family owned, because they run it like it's for the family! Food is great. It's rare to walk into a restaurant in Phoenix these days and actually feel like you're wanted or needed as a guest. They do it! Great job Sunday night crew!!

Marisco Boys

4.3

(97 reviews)

Don't waste your money anywhere else!!! This is the best mariscos! I'm from cali and I eat marisco…read moreby the beach so I KNOW!! The micheladas are out of this world!!!! From the appetizer to the main course you'll be satisfied! Make sure you talk to David he's very great server!

We've always loved Taco Boys, so since it was Good Friday and we couldn't have meat, we decided to…read morefinally try Marisco Boys. Honestly, this place deserves every bit of the 5 stars. Everything we ordered was so good. The calamari was crispy outside, tender inside, and the black sauce was packed with flavor. The swordfish skewers were juicy and cooked perfectly, and the sauce with them was one of my favorite parts of the meal. The Camarones Zarandeados were super fresh, flavorful, and perfectly prepared. You could really taste the quality. We also had the Gobernador taco, Baja Fish Taco, and the Vampiro, and all three were delicious. The Gobernador was cheesy, flavorful, and had great texture. The Baja Fish Taco was fresh, light, and honestly tasted like something you'd get by the beach. The Vampiro was recommended by our waiter and ended up being such a good choice too. We were unsure about the corn flan at first, but it ended up being amazing. It sounded unusual, but it worked so well and was definitely worth trying. Omar took great care of us all night. He had such a great attitude, gave really good recommendations, checked on us often, and made the whole experience even better. The restaurant itself is beautiful and has a more classy sit-down feel compared to Taco Boys, while still feeling comfortable and welcoming. Highly recommend this place. Great food, great service, great atmosphere ,definitely a 10/10.

Otro Cafe

4.1

(1.4k reviews)

I finally got a chance to try Otro Cafe, and I can definitely see why it's such a popular breakfast…read morespot in Phoenix. I ordered the Famous Flapjacks with eggs and the linguica sausage, and everything was excellent. The flapjacks absolutely lived up to their name. They were light, fluffy, buttery, and cooked perfectly with just the right amount of sweetness. Honestly, they're some of the best pancakes I've ever had. The linguica sausage was a great surprise. It had a nice smoky flavor with just a little kick, and it paired really well with the eggs and flapjacks. You can tell they use quality ingredients and take pride in what they serve. The atmosphere was relaxed, the staff was friendly, and the service was quick without making us feel rushed. It's the kind of place where you can sit back, enjoy a great breakfast, and actually savor the meal. I'll definitely be back to work my way through more of the menu, but one thing's for sure: the Famous Flapjacks are a must-order. If you're looking for an outstanding breakfast in Phoenix, Otro Cafe is well worth the visit.

We went here on a Sunday around 11:30. It was packed but we were quickly greeted and seated. The…read moreserver was cool but you could tell she was a bit overwhelmed. Overall, the place was clean. Just prepare to be cozy because the space is small. The good reviews and pictures made me have high hopes. Maybe we went on a bad day, idk, but the food lacked flavor. We had to put a lot of salt, pepper, and salsa on it for it to be edible. I got the breakfast torta. It was flavorless. Even the chorizo, which is usually a meat with a ton of flavor. I also got a cajeta flapjack. That was good. My friends got the huevos rancheros, breakfast platter, barbacoa plate, and cajeta flapjack w/side of scrambled eggs. The scrambled eggs were flat and looked more like an omelette. The huevos rancheros was flavorless and needed lots of love. The only good thing besides the flapjack was the barbacoa and the linguica sausage. We opted out of drinks and ordered coffee from the cafe. I got the cajeta latte with half & half. It was delicious! I'd really only recommend coming here for the coffee. The food left much to be desired.

Asi Es La Vida

4.4

(447 reviews)

O Yelpers.... This…read moreis the spot right here. I had a delicious time the other day and let me tell you something... This is it. If you wanted some good Mexican food. Try this establishment. Great seating, entrance is a little different but just make way to the back and someone will seat you accordingly. Yummy guacamole as an appetizer. Then you have an assortment of fine dishes to choose from. Customer service was so very satisfactory. All round. 10 out of 10! A must dine in spot to check out. Thank you ASI Es La Vida!!!! I will be back for sure...

4 stars for overall food, 5 for the salsa. We got…read moreguacamole, sangria, 2 guisados: ropa vieja and Cochinita Pibil. Love the sangria, cochinita pibil was better, not a wow factor tho. I'd def go back for the salsa and try other entrees.

Tom's Watch Bar

4.1

(170 reviews)

This review is only on the nachos and the TVs. Great spot for a game to watch. Anywhere you turn…read moreyour head you have a tv to look at. I'm wondering if the restrooms had TVs too now haha Lots of TVs all over the place and we saw the NBA Finals game where the Knicks won and the energy was electric inside. We just had nachos and they were excellent. Queso was really good and filled with toppings and chips. Service was good considering it was a big busy game day too.

We had a reservation at Blanco, but since we arrived downtown early, our table wasn't ready yet. We…read morewere downtown for a concert at the Mortgage Matchup Center and wanted to stay close by, so we decided to walk around and see if we could find somewhere that could seat our group of six sooner than waiting another half hour for reservation. We walked into Tom's Watch Bar and lucky for us they had a table available and were able to seat us right away! Tom's is a big sports bar with tons of TVs everywhere. We sat in the back just below the large TV. The menu reminded me a lot of Yard House or Thirsty Lion, with a variety of options. One thing I noticed is that they don't have a kids menu. I asked if they had any options for kids, and we were told they could make kids mac & cheese, chicken tenders, or grilled cheese. We actually ran into another group of friends with kids who were also going to the concert, and they were eating there too. They were never told about the kids options and ended up ordering adult-size meals for their kids, which they were disappointed about, can't take left overs into a concert. I'm sure Tom's gets a lot of families dining there before Suns or D-backs games and events, so it might be helpful to have a small paper listing the kids options to hand out with the regular menus. We started with the poke nachos, which were pretty good. They were a little smaller than the portion you get at Yard House, but still tasty. My son ordered the kids mac & cheese with fries, and my daughter got the chicken Caesar salad. Our friends ordered the bacon avocado cheeseburger and a grilled cheese, while I went with the Mediterranean bowl salad. My Mediterranean salad looked absolutely delicious and had so many yummy ingredients, lettuce, quinoa, kale, edamame, tomatoes, artichokes, garbanzo beans, feta, and olives...but unfortunately it was completely saturated with the white balsamic dressing. I definitely should have asked for the dressing on the side because there was SO much on it, it was almost soggy. It was a bummer because I think I would have really enjoyed the salad if it hadn't been so heavily dressed. Hopefully it was just a one off and someone in the kitchen was a little heavy handed that day. My son loved his mac & cheese and ate every bite. I was happy to see they used cavatappi noodles rather than the basic Kraft-style mac & cheese you sometimes get at restaurants. The chicken caesar salad had really good cornbread croutons, but unfortunately, most of the romaine was the yellow bottom part of the stalk. It gave the salad a nice crunch, but my daughter would have preferred a little more green romaine lettuce. The croutons though were an awesome treat and she loved that addition with the chicken. Our food came out quickly, and our server was nice and attentive. The bill was definitely on the pricey side for what we ordered, but I guess that's to be expected for a downtown restaurant so close to the stadium. Overall, Tom's was a convenient find when we needed somewhere to eat before the concert. The quick seating, fast food, huge number of TVs, and sports-bar atmosphere made it a good option with the kids. I'd give it another try, especially to see if my salad was just a one-time dressing mishap!

Asadero Norte De Sonora

4.5

(243 reviews)

Great food, great service. We loved the simple family friendly ambiance and the helpful people…read more We got the half Parrilla with chicken, carne asada and al pastor. It was great for 2 adults and an 8 year old. We had tamarindo and horchata, which were delicious. I forgot I was not in Mexico!

I was looking for the Mexican food while I was in the area, and I'm so happy that I found this…read moreplace. 25 years of experience and service could tell you all, the food is amazing--Wowww , the home sweet home style service will make you feel like you are eating your own home- with a Mexican old school vibes. I ordered half mixed of meat, you can choose 2 or 3 meats whatever you like on the menus, but I would recommend you to ask the service, she knows her family food very well. It's reasonably price, big portions and good for sharing 2-4 people. Come and give it a try , you will love it ! For me, I will come back again soon.

Comedor Guadalajara

4.1

(852 reviews)