907 N 14th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006
Review Highlights
Know Before You Go
Rito’s Mexican Food Review (Garfield)
You will not find the best takeout Mexican food in Phoenix at a busy intersection or shopping district. The unassuming Rito’s Mexican Food sits on the southeast corner of 14th Street and Roosevelt… inside a house!
From the outside, you will not see a building sign, logo, or anything that grabs your attention because the restaurant is located in a residential district among other houses. I suspect that due to zoning restrictions, the city will not let them have a sign.
It is literally a hidden gem!
As I said, Rito’s is a takeout spot. There are no fountain drinks or refills. Instead, bottled beverages are served. There are no dining tables inside the restaurant. However, patio seating is available. There are no public bathrooms.
For years, Rito’s was cash only. But now they accept cards as well. The prices run a little high, but I suppose people will pay a premium for the best.
The restaurant is probably best known for their red chili burritos (hence, “Rito’s). They also make a mean green chili burrito, bean burrito, and taco. Specifically, I like how the garlic flavor comes through really strong in all of the food.
Then there’s the incredible flavor profile that makes them unique. It is difficult to explain why the food is better. I can even taste the difference in their flour tortillas. They are lighter/softer and appear to have less lard than a typical tortilla.
The beans and red chili stew tend to be runnier than most. So, if you purchase a burrito by itself and try to eat it by hand, the sauce will probably end up on your shirt. Also, any kind of red chili sauce (Arbol, Achiote, California, Nevada) will stain your apparel for life.
So, I always get it with rice and beans, and just eat the burrito with a fork and knife. By the way, a food hack to make the burrito less runny is to have rice added to the inside. It works!
The portion sizes I think are just right. If by chance you have to take home leftovers, rest assured, Rito’s Mexican Food tastes just as good reheated.
You’re probably wondering, “But is Rito’s Justin Leonard Approved?” No doubt. The restaurant is also good enough to make the GOAT list where either the food is better or the overall experience is different/memorable. Peace
