Support Us

Phoenix's independent source of local news and culture

Now Reading: Locations

 

Our Critics' Picks

Join Insiders today!
  • Slideshows
  • Videos
 
MORE
^
Keep New Times Free
Support Us

Carolina's Mexican Food

1202 E. Mohave St.
Phoenix, AZ 85034
Central Phoenix
602-252-1503
Critics' Pick
Best Of
Carolina's Mexican Food +

Lauren Cusimano

Details

  • Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-7:30 p.m., Saturday 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
  • $
  • No Alcohol
  • Catering
  • Sidewalk tables
  • Lot available
  • Not accepted
  • Call restaurant to order/pay, Curbside pickup
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Patio/Sidewalk Dining, Takeout
Mexican
Directions
This south Phoenix staple is a true come-as-you-are restaurant. It is almost shockingly bare bones. There's no decor on the paint-chipped walls, no music. The stark white building's entrance leads straight to the ordering counter just above a scuffed wall. But those shoe-marked baseboards speak to the many over-eager diners running up to place their order. That's because the food here — catalogued on the wall above the register — is exceptional. It's nothing a Mexican food fan hasn't seen before — burros, tacos, enchiladas, tostadas — but all those specimens are basically perfect. Need proof? The parking lot is usually full, and the booths of the cafeteria-style dining area are almost always occupied. More proof? Order the red chile burro, the super-soft beef wrapped with precision in a handmade flour tortilla. Get a tamale, even if it isn't Christmas. Go for the machaca enchilada. Arrive on Saturday for the menudo. And order a bag of tortilla chips just to try the famous, bright-red hot sauce. Carolina's has been around since 1968, when it was opened by Carolina Valenzuela, and it has held on at this location since 1986. There are several Carolina's locations around the Valley, but the Mohave Street spot will always be a Phoenix favorite. New Normal: The O.G. Carolina's is open for dine-in and takeout. The Avondale location offers an online order form.

Related Stories (30)

Load More Articles
View All

More Mexican Restaurants in Central Phoenix

View All

More Mexican Restaurants in Phoenix

Use of this website constitutes acceptance of our terms of use, our cookies policy, and our privacy policy

The Phoenix New Times may earn a portion of sales from products & services purchased through links on our site from our affiliate partners.

©2021 Phoenix New Times, LLC. All rights reserved.

CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS: California Privacy Policy | California Collection Notice | Do Not Sell My Info

We use cookies to collect and analyze information on site performance and usage, and to enhance and customize content and advertisements. By clicking 'X' or continuing to use the site, you agree to allow cookies to be placed. To find out more, visit our cookies policy and our privacy policy.

 

Join the New Times community and help support independent local journalism in Phoenix.

 

Join the New Times community and help support independent local journalism in Phoenix.