Get ready for a culinary showdown that’s as heated as March Madness itself—the Phoenix Burrito Bracket 2026 is here, and your vote could crown the next burrito champion! But here’s where it gets controversial: with 14 contenders already in the ring, two 'wild card' spots are up for grabs, and your favorite spot might just be the underdog that steals the show. Will it be your go-to hole-in-the-wall joint or that hidden gem only locals know about? The power is in your hands—but only until 9 p.m. on March 8.
The Arizona Republic is back with its third annual Burrito Bracket, a mouthwatering competition inspired by the frenzy of March Madness. Past winners like Rito's Mexican Food (2023) and The Original Carolina's Mexican Food (2025) have battled fiercely for the title, but this year, we’ve shaken things up. Former champions are no longer eligible, giving fresh faces a chance to shine. And this is the part most people miss: 14 of the 16 contenders are handpicked from The Republic’s prestigious list of 100 essential restaurants for 2026, while the remaining two spots are entirely up to you.
Here’s how it works: if your beloved burrito spot isn’t already on the list, head to azcentral.com/things-to-do/food-dining and nominate it. Tell us why it’s special—is it the secret sauce, the perfectly grilled carne asada, or the way it reminds you of home? Don’t forget to include the location and your go-to order. Your nomination could be the game-changer.
Let’s meet the 14 contenders already in the running. From the affordable, mouthwatering burros at Asadero Norte de Sonora to the upscale sirloin asada at Casa Corazon, this lineup is a foodie’s dream. Craving seafood? Chula Seafood’s California burrito with crispy fries and Baja sauce is a crowd favorite. Or maybe you’re team Birrieria Obregon, where the birria burrito (beef or goat) is the talk of the town. Each spot brings something unique to the table—literally.
But here’s the burning question: Who deserves the wild card spots? Is it a family-owned gem that’s been flying under the radar, or a trendy newcomer with a burrito that’s breaking the mold? We want to hear from you. Submit your pick, and let’s spark a debate. Are traditional burritos the way to go, or should we crown a fusion experiment? Let us know in the comments—this is your chance to shape the bracket and maybe even discover your new favorite spot.
Meet the 14 Contenders:
1. Asadero Norte de Sonora (Phoenix) – Affordable carne asada, barbacoa, and more.
2. Beach House (Phoenix) – Baja shrimp and fish burritos with cabbage slaw.
3. Birrieria Obregon (Phoenix) – Famous birria burrito with beef or goat.
4. Casa Corazon (Phoenix) – Upscale sirloin asada and marinated pork.
5. Chula Seafood (Phoenix) – California burrito with grilled fish, fries, and Baja sauce.
6. Elmer's Tacos (Chandler) – Spicy grilled green chili chicken burritos.
7. La Casa de Juana (Tempe) – Enchilada-style burrito with creamy jalapeño option.
8. Lulaá Oaxacan Street Food (Phoenix) – Oaxacan-style bean-and-cheese burros.
9. Los Dos Molinos (Phoenix) – Super spicy red or green chile burros.
10. Mis Nietos Cocina (Avondale) – Burritos Sinaloense with bacon, beans, and cheese.
11. PHX Burrito House (Phoenix) – Shrimp burrito with avocado and pico de gallo.
12. Ta'Carbon (Glendale) – Hazz burrito with carne asada and grilled chilies.
13. Tacos Chiwas (Mesa) – Shredded beef burritos in organic flour tortillas.
14. Tacos La K'lera (Tolleson) – Giant burritos with birria, fries, and Monterey Jack cheese.
Wild Card 1: You tell us!
Wild Card 2: Who did we miss?
Got thoughts? Reach out to reporter Eddie Fontanez at eddie.fontanez@azcentral.com or follow @ERFontanez on Instagram. And while you’re at it, support local journalism by subscribing to azcentral.com today. Let’s make this bracket one for the books!
