Chico Malo

- 50 W Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85003

Nestled in the energetic heart of Downtown Phoenix, Chico Malo stands out as a premier destination for elevated Mexican cuisine and a vibrant Cocktail bar scene. Situated conveniently in the CityScape development, this restaurant seamlessly blends Casual dining with a distinctly Trendy and Upscale atmosphere, offering Arizonans a lively and cozy spot for any occasion, from an impressive business lunch to a late-night dinner.

The name, which playfully translates to “Bad Boy,” belies the sophisticated, ingredient-driven approach to Mexican gastronomy taken by the culinary team. Chico Malo goes beyond the usual fare, focusing on inventive dishes and authentic flavors with a modern twist. The menu structure caters to every part of the dining experience, from shareable starters under Chips and Para La Mesa to substantial Entrées and a variety of freshly prepared Taqueria selections.

Patrons consistently rave about the quality and flavor intensity of the dishes. A standout favorite often highlighted by local diners is the Barbacoa—succulent, slow-cooked meat that is noted for its spectacular value and generous portion size, delivering an "explosion of flavor" with every bite. The culinary innovation also shines through in vegetarian and unique options, such as the praised Chipotle Cauliflower (often a featured entrée) which is described as having a nice, unique presentation and well-balanced flavors, making it a satisfying choice even for sharing with up to three people.

Beyond the food, Chico Malo is equally famous for its exceptional bar program. The designation as a Cocktail bar is well-earned, with the menu featuring classic and inventive concoctions. Favorites include the classic Margarita made with Milagro reposado, and unique creations like the Mango Y Chile cocktail, which perfectly balances heat, sweetness, and the smoky essence of Ancho Reyes Verde. The drink offerings are further complemented by a Great beer selection, a thoughtful wine list, and a variety of creative NA Beverages, including Horchata and the Bad Boy Brew cold brew.

Whether you are visiting for a Solo dining experience or bringing in a large party, Chico Malo's atmosphere is designed to be Lively and welcoming for diverse Crowd types, including Groups, Family-friendly parties, and Tourists.

Chico Malo is conveniently located at a high-profile address in the heart of Downtown Phoenix, making it a central and easy-to-reach spot for anyone in the greater Arizona area seeking a top-tier Mexican dining experience.

Address: 50 W Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85003, USA

This prime location places the restaurant directly within the CityScape area, easily accessible to all the offices, entertainment venues, and major transport links downtown.

Accessibility for all guests is a high priority for Chico Malo:

• The building ensures a fully inclusive experience with a Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot spaces in nearby facilities, a Wheelchair accessible restroom, and appropriate Wheelchair accessible seating throughout the dining rooms and patio.
• Parking in the bustling downtown area is facilitated through nearby Paid parking garage and Paid parking lot options. While the restaurant itself does not have on-site parking, several reputable garages are within a short walking distance, such as the Luhrs Garage, providing convenient parking for diners.
• The restaurant features a popular Outdoor seating patio that overlooks the vibrant CityScape area. This outdoor space is also Dogs allowed outside, accommodating pet owners who wish to dine with their companions.

Chico Malo offers an extensive range of services to accommodate all dining preferences, from casual weekday lunches to major celebratory events.

• Comprehensive Dining Times: The restaurant serves Lunch, Dinner, and a dedicated Brunch service, ensuring you can enjoy their acclaimed cuisine any time of day.
• Bar and Late-Night: As a dedicated Cocktail bar with a Bar onsite, they serve a full range of Alcohol, Hard liquor, Beer, and Wine. They also provide Late-night food options, making it a great destination after downtown events.
• Happy Hour Specials: The establishment features dedicated Happy hour drinks and Happy hour food, perfect for after-work gatherings or pre-event dining in Phoenix.
• Service Styles: Full-service Dine-in with Table service and comfortable Seating is available, alongside convenient Takeout and Delivery options. They also offer full Catering services for off-site events.
• Planning Ahead: Due to its popularity, Accepts reservations is a key feature, with Brunch reservations recommended and Dinner reservations recommended to secure a table, especially on weekends and event nights.
• Family and Payment Amenities: The dining environment is Family-friendly, offering High chairs and a practical Kids' menu with items like Kids Bean And Cheese Burrito and Kids Chicken Tacos. All major forms of payment are accepted, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Chico Malo distinguishes itself from other Mexican restaurant options in the Valley with several unique highlights:

• Ingredient-Driven Gastronomy: The focus on inventive, award-winning dishes and Organic dishes elevates the menu beyond standard Mexican fare. The kitchen expertly utilizes regional ingredients and techniques to create sophisticated flavor profiles.
• Award-Winning and Signature Dishes: The restaurant is celebrated for its Serves local specialty and has garnered acclaim for its Pork Verde dishes. Other can't-miss items include the beloved Smoked Birria, the unique Chipotle Cauliflower entrée, and the exquisite raw bar selections like Ceviche Verde and Shrimp Agua Chile.
• Exceptional Cocktail Program: As a dedicated Cocktail bar, the mixology is a major draw. Diners can enjoy inventive house cocktails like the Mango Y Chile and the classic Gran Jefe Margarita with smoked salt, complementing the rich and flavorful food menu perfectly.
• Atmosphere and Design: The overall ambiance is a highlight, described as a blend of Cozy, Lively, and Upscale aesthetics. The beautiful indoor-outdoor setting makes for a perfect dining experience whether for a special date night or a vibrant meal with a group.
• Diverse Offerings: The menu provides something for everyone, featuring hearty Comfort food, lighter Small plates, and strong Vegetarian options like the Avocado Dorados and the Chipotle Cauliflower entrée, alongside a full dessert menu with items like Churros and Espresso Tres Leches.

For reservations, inquiries about catering, or directions to the Downtown Phoenix location, please use the following contact details:

Address: 50 W Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85003, USA

Phone: (602) 603-9363

Mobile Phone: +1 602-603-9363

Chico Malo is worth choosing for anyone in Arizona seeking a Mexican dining experience that is both modernly chic and deeply rooted in complex, high-quality flavors. It stands apart from typical Mexican restaurants by offering a sophisticated culinary program in a vibrant, upscale setting.

What makes it truly essential is the convergence of its award-winning cuisine and its role as a premier craft cocktail destination. The food, highlighted by specialties like the Smoked Birria, the flavorful Barbacoa, and the highly praised Pork Verde, offers a significant step up in quality and creativity. The positive user reviews attest to both the "delicious meals" and the "top-notch" service, even during busy periods.

For a night out, the combination of a Lively atmosphere, a diverse menu of Small plates like Guacamole Tradicional and Queso Fundido, and a bartender-led cocktail selection makes it the perfect social hub. The convenience of its downtown location, ample Seating, and the option for Dinner reservations recommended remove any friction points for group dining. In a city with many Mexican food options, Chico Malo differentiates itself by offering an all-encompassing experience that satisfies both the craving for authentic, rich flavor and the desire for a fashionable, memorable night in Downtown Phoenix.

Chico Malo

50 W Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85003, USA