Chilte

- 765 Grand Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007

For Arizonans seeking a truly unique and nationally recognized culinary experience, Chilte on Grand Avenue in Phoenix stands out as an essential destination. Far from a typical Mexican eatery, Chilte defines itself as a New-Wave Mexican restaurant, offering an experimental, bold, and modern take on traditional regional flavors. What began as a highly popular farmers market pop-up in 2020 has quickly evolved into an acclaimed brick-and-mortar gem, garnering national attention, including nods from prestigious publications like Bon Appétit and Esquire for being one of the best new restaurants in America.

Chilte is an expression of deep cultural appreciation and culinary creativity, co-owned by Chef Lawrence “LT” Smith, a Black-owned entrepreneur, and Aseret Arroyo, who is Latino-owned and brings her Sinaloan heritage to the menu. Their vision is to challenge the preconceptions of Mexican food by infusing global inspiration, elevated techniques, and complex flavors into every plate. Diners should expect a menu that is daringly creative, utilizing ingredients that range from local Arizona fare to Mexican delicacies like chiltepin peppers, often resulting in dishes that are both deeply comforting and utterly surprising.

The atmosphere perfectly matches the modern cuisine: it is trendy and cozy, offering a vibrant backdrop for a memorable meal. The entire dining experience—from the attentive and knowledgeable staff who can guide you through the inspiration behind each dish, to the perfectly crafted cocktails—is designed to be a culinary journey that engages all the senses. It’s a place that delivers both soul and sophistication, making it a favorite for dinner, date nights, and solo dining adventurers.

Chilte is strategically located within the vibrant Grand Avenue Arts District in Downtown Phoenix, residing inside the retro-chic Egyptian Motor Hotel. This central location places it within a cultural hub, making it easy to pair a dining experience with exploration of the district's local art and unique vibe. The address, 765 Grand Ave, is easily accessible for those driving into the area.

Parking is made convenient with free street parking typically available along Grand Avenue, especially during weeknights. For those concerned with accessibility, the restaurant ensures a comfortable visit for all guests by featuring a wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating.

Chilte provides comprehensive service options, catering to both the dine-in enthusiast and those who prefer to enjoy their acclaimed food at home:

• Dine-in: Enjoy table service for dinner and dessert in the intimate, trendy, and cozy dining room.
• Dinner Reservations Recommended: Due to its national popularity and smaller size, reservations are strongly advised, though counter service is also available.
• Outdoor Seating: A comfortable outdoor bar and patio area allow guests to enjoy their meal and drinks al fresco, perfect for cooler Arizona evenings.
• Takeout and Curbside Pickup: Convenient options for locals and hotel guests who wish to grab and go.
• Delivery: Offering food delivery services for enjoying the 'new-wave' experience at home.
• Catering: Available services for events, bringing the unique Chilte menu to special occasions.
• Late-Night Food: The restaurant offers a menu with late-night food options, often including bar snacks and to-go items.

Chilte's features and highlights are what truly elevate it into a world-class destination, proudly rooted in Arizona:

• Award-Winning New-Wave Mexican Cuisine: The food is known for its bold flavors and innovative execution, exemplified by signature dishes like the Quesa Birria Tacos (often featuring unique tortillas like squid ink-marbled), the complex Mole De La Casa (served with a daily flauta), and seasonal desserts like the acclaimed cheesecake.
• Black-Owned and Latino-Owned Business: Proudly identifying as both a Black-owned and Latino-owned establishment, the restaurant champions cultural pride and creative diversity in the Phoenix food scene.
• Exceptional Cocktail Program: The cocktail bar is a major highlight, with creative, chef-driven drinks like the Anteater Daiquiri and El Verde Peligroso, which often incorporate Mexican spirits and unconventional ingredients. They also feature a curated list of Mexican wines, sake, and local Arizona gin and whiskey (e.g., Suncliffe AZ Gin and Del Bac Whiskey).
• Commitment to Local and Specialty Ingredients: The menu frequently changes to reflect seasonal ingredients and incorporates authentic Mexican delicacies, always striving for high-quality, fresh components.
• Inclusive and Welcoming Environment: Chilte is a family-friendly spot that also identifies as LGBTQ+ friendly and a Transgender safespace, welcoming a diverse crowd including groups and tourists.
• Dining Flexibility: Offerings include small plates perfect for sharing, comfort food, hard liquor, and an emphasis on dietary inclusion with clear Vegan and Vegetarian options, such as the famous vegan birria jamaica tacos.
• Live Music: The venue occasionally hosts live music, adding to its dynamic and vibrant atmosphere.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are allowed in the outdoor seating area.

To experience this culinary destination, you can contact Chilte using the following information:

Address: 765 Grand Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007, USA

Phone: (602) 807-5226

For Arizona food enthusiasts, choosing Chilte is choosing an adventure—one that promises to redefine your expectations of Mexican cuisine. It is worth choosing for the sheer audacity and ambition of its menu. The food is not merely delicious; it's a testament to the chef's vision, telling a story of culture, tradition, and global inspiration. Diners consistently rave about the powerful, unforgettable flavors and the palpable passion behind every plate.

Unlike more traditional Southwestern fare, Chilte's 'New-Wave' approach is sophisticated, often utilizing indigenous Mexican ingredients and innovative techniques like miso-spiked consommé for their birria. Whether you opt for a 'Grande' dish like the Grilled Fish or the house-made Mole De La Casa, or sample from the 'Smalls' like the flavorful Santa Quesadilla, every bite is a wonder. Furthermore, the dedication to a full-sensory experience—from the stylish, cozy setting inside the Egyptian Motor Hotel to the expert-level Cocktails—ensures that your time at Chilte is more than just a meal; it’s a high-caliber social and culinary event that reflects the best of modern Phoenix dining. For a truly memorable and inventive taste of Mexico in the heart of Arizona, Chilte is the place to be.

Chilte

765 Grand Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007, USA