These 10 Restaurants Serve The Best Chimichangas In Arizona

Crunchy, juicy, savory and just the right amount of heat---how else would you describe the perfect chimichanga? Today, we’re going to look at some restaurants that are well-regarded for their version of this Arizona favorite. Check out which restaurants hit the mark each time!

1. Carolina’s Mexican Food, Phoenix

The chimis are simple here: order one with either beef or chicken and opt for no toppings or a combination of guacamole and sour cream. Location: 1202 East Mohave Street, Phoenix

2. El Charro Cafe, Tucson

One of the many Arizona restaurants that claims it invented the chimichanga, El Charro Cafe has quite a few options when it comes to the dish, including vegetarian options and mini sizes as an appetizer. Location: 311 North Court Avenue, Tucson

3. La Piñata Mexican Restaurant, Phoenix

This restaurant recently moved from their 19th Avenue location to the building that Mary Coyle’s once occupied. They pride themselves in serving deliciously perfect chimichangas, so give them a try! 5521 North 7th Avenue, Phoenix

4. Macayo’s Mexican Restaurant, Phoenix

Another restaurant that claims to have invented the chimi, Macayo’s has been a Phoenix favorite for decades. The chimi options depends on which location you visit but for the most part they offer a wide selection, including dessert variations. Location: Macayo’s is found in the Phoenix area but we recommend visiting the central Phoenix location at 4001 North Central Avenue.

5. Mangos Mexican Cafe, Mesa

This East Valley favorite has a menu chock full of delicious items and you won’t want to miss their chimis! Location: 44 West Main Street, Mesa

6. Mi Casa Restaurant, Benson

Paying a visit to Kartchner Caverns soon? You’ll want to make sure to stop at this restaurant on your way out where the chimis are large and delicious. You can get yours Christmas-style, the chimichanga topped with a combination of red and green sauce. Location: 723 West 4th Avenue, Benson

7. Mi Nidito Cafe, Tucson

Although famous for their Presidential platter (the same enormous meal President Clinton ate when he visited in 1999), their enchilada-style chimichangas are also ridiculously good. I will admit this isn’t the best photo of their meal, but when the food is good and you’re hungry, it can be difficult to snap a decent pic of your food. Location: 1813 South 4th Avenue, Tucson

8. Poco & Mom’s, Tucson

Their chimis arrive piping hot and smothered in a delicious combination of cheese and sauce (red, green, or both). What more could you ask for? Location: 1060 South Kolb Road, Tucson

9. Salazar Brothers Mexican Food, Tempe

Craving a chimichanga that is tasty but humble? Try the carne asada chimi at Salazar Brothers, yum! Location: 926 East Guadalupe Road, Tempe

10. Tacos Los Altos, Flagstaff

If you need a meal that is quick, tasty, and not a famous taco chain, Tacos Los Altos is a good place to visit. Get the chimi enchilada style or, if you’re craving something a little more simple, with sour cream and cheese as pictured above. Location: 3650 Historic Route 66, Flagstaff

Have you eaten a chimi at any of these restaurants? What other eateries would you recommend getting this favorite dish? Share your recommendations in the comments section below or on our Facebook page!