Rito's Mexican Food

- 907 N 14th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006

For decades, Rito's Mexican Food has been an iconic landmark and a culinary cornerstone in Phoenix, Arizona. Established in 1977, this local gem has grown from a humble neighborhood convenience store that started selling its family recipes to a beloved, award-winning destination for authentic Mexican cuisine. Rito's is celebrated throughout the Valley of the Sun for its time-honored dishes, committing to fresh ingredients and friendly service passed down through generations of the Salinas family.

The essence of Rito's lies in its dedication to genuine, comforting Mexican flavors. It is a place that feels historic and cozy, embodying a casual, no-frills atmosphere that focuses squarely on the food. Locals often describe the experience as enjoying homemade recipes, likening the dishes to those lovingly prepared by a Mexican grandmother. This commitment to tradition and quality has cemented Rito's status as a true Arizona staple, highly popular for both quick lunches and satisfying dinners.

The reputation of Rito's extends well beyond Phoenix, attracting visitors and groups looking for an authentic taste of the region's culinary heritage. The restaurant prides itself on being a destination that serves local specialties, drawing crowds that frequently cause a wait—a testament to the food's popularity. Its menu is intentionally focused, featuring regional favorites like burritos, chimichangas, tacos, enchiladas, and tostadas, ensuring every bite delivers a punch of traditional flavor.

When in the Phoenix area, particularly the downtown vicinities, Rito's is a must-try for any resident or tourist seeking a truly authentic, no-nonsense Mexican dining experience that has been refined over nearly five decades.

The original and widely celebrated location of Rito's Mexican Food is nestled in the heart of Phoenix's historic Garfield District. This site operates with a specific service model that emphasizes convenience and tradition, making it a unique stop for local patrons.

Location and Accessibility

The Garfield location operates primarily as a to-go and counter-service establishment, reflecting its deep roots in the community as a neighborhood favorite. While indoor seating may be limited or non-existent, the location offers a charming outdoor seating area for those who wish to enjoy their meal immediately.

• Address: 907 N 14th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006, USA
• Atmosphere: Casual, Cozy, and Historic, often drawing a crowd of local groups and tourists.
• Parking: Customers benefit from a free parking lot and free street parking, easing the stress of picking up orders.
• Accessibility: The restaurant is committed to serving all members of the community, featuring a wheelchair accessible entrance, a wheelchair accessible parking lot, and wheelchair accessible seating in the outdoor areas.

The focus on takeout service at this location means it is streamlined for speed and efficiency, living up to its reputation for 'Fast service,' even during busy periods when a short wait can be expected due to high demand.

Services Offered

Rito's Mexican Food offers several services designed to accommodate the needs of its diverse clientele, from solo diners seeking a quick bite to large parties requiring full-service meals.

• Takeout: The core service, providing a quick and easy way to enjoy authentic Mexican food at home or on the go.
• Dine-in: Limited seating is available, specifically outdoor seating, for patrons who wish to eat on the premises.
• Catering: A full range of catering options is available, perfect for office events, family gatherings, or large parties, making it easy to share the Rito's experience.
• Counter Service: Efficient order-taking and food delivery at the counter.
• Lunch and Dinner: Serving traditional Mexican fare for both midday and evening meals.

Features / Highlights

The experience at Rito's is defined by a few key characteristics that have contributed to its long-standing success in the competitive Phoenix food scene.

• Award-Winning Green Chili Burrito: This dish is the undisputed star, often cited by customers and critics alike as one of the best in the city. It is a local specialty that exemplifies the restaurant's authentic flavors.
• Enchilada Style Burritos and Chimichangas: A signature preparation method where burritos or deep-fried chimichangas are smothered in rich sauce—either Red Chili or Green Chili—and topped with melted cheese, creating a truly decadent, satisfying meal. The menu allows for a "Mixed" option combining both red and green chili for those who want a taste of both.
• Authentic and Homemade Flavor: The food is known for its deep, authentic taste, suggesting a adherence to traditional, old-school family recipes. Meats like the beef for the Green and Red Chili dishes are carefully cooked in their respective savory sauces.
• Comprehensive Menu: Beyond the famous burritos, the menu includes a robust selection of Mexican classics like Cheese, Beef, and Chicken Enchiladas; Beef and Chicken Tacos; and a variety of Tostadas, including the Guacamole Tostada and Green/Red Chili Tostadas.
• Casual, Friendly Vibe: The atmosphere is noted as casual and cozy, offering a welcoming environment suitable for groups, families with children ('Good for kids'), and solo diners.
• Quick Bite Offerings: Ideal for a satisfying, fast meal, the restaurant is highlighted for its quick service and offerings like beer, which is a nice option with your meal.
• Dogs Allowed: A pet-friendly policy allows dogs in the outdoor seating area.

Contact Information

For placing an order, inquiring about catering, or checking current hours and wait times, customers can use the provided contact details for the 907 N 14th St location.

• Address: 907 N 14th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006, USA
• Phone: (602) 262-9842 (or +1 602-262-9842)

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Rito's Mexican Food is about embracing a piece of Phoenix's culinary history and tradition. This is more than just a quick Mexican restaurant; it's a neighborhood legend committed to quality and authentic flavor. The food here is often described as “old-school Mexican food cooking,” reminiscent of cherished family recipes. Customers frequently praise the depth of flavor in the signature items, suggesting a dedication to preparation that goes beyond standard fast food.

For first-time visitors or loyal patrons, the Green Chili Burrito Enchilada Style is the essential choice. This meal, which can be ordered with a side of Spanish Rice and Refried Beans for a classic combo, takes the highly-rated, slow-cooked green chili beef and smothers it in rich sauce and melted cheese. For those who enjoy variety, the Three Way Burrito or Red & Green Chili Mixed Burrito offers a balanced profile of both chili flavors. The ability to make almost any burrito into a deep-fried Chimichanga or an Enchilada Style dish provides flexibility for a truly customizable and hearty meal. For lighter fare, the Guacamole Tostada is a refreshing and popular alternative.

While the business has expanded to other locations in the Valley, the Garfield location remains the original, maintaining the authentic, small-kitchen feel that launched its success. By choosing Rito's, you are choosing to support a long-standing, family-owned Arizona institution that has perfected its craft over many years.

Rito's Mexican Food

907 N 14th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006, USA