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Carne Asada Tacos at The Quesadillas (Photo by Jackie Tran)

Foodie 15: Best Carne Asada in Tucson

Updated March 7, 2024

Carne Asada: one of the sizzling stars of Tucson’s culinary scene. Marinated in flavorful spices and grilled to perfection, this iconic dish embodies the bold flavors and vibrant spirit of the Southwest, making it a must-try for any foodie on the hunt for authentic Mexican cuisine.

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This Guide is part of a series that honors Tucson as the home of America’s Best Mexican Food. 

(Photo courtesy of Amelia's Mexican Kitchen)

Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen – Oracle Road

Whether you’re in the mood for nachos, tacos, or burritos, Amelia’s has you covered on the carne asada front. This is the family’s second Tucson location — the original is on Grant Road near Craycroft Road. 

a picture of a burrito
Carne Asada Burrito at Aqui Con El Nene (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Aqui Con El Nene Restaurant

Aqui Con El Nene knows how to work their mesquite grill for some mighty fine carne asada. Add in the massive salsa bar and friendly service, and you’ve got the recipe for a local favorite fit for the masses.

BK Carne Asada & Hot Dogs (photo Credit: Jackie Tran)

BK Carne Asada & Hot Dogs – South 12th Ave

Your go-to spot for a taste of Sonora right in Tucson. Famous for its Sonoran-style Hot Dogs and Carne Asada Tacos, this place has been a local favorite since ’94.

Carne Asada Tacos (Photo courtesy of Casa Valencia)

Casa Valencia

Casa Valencia brings a splash of seafood to Mexican and Latin flavors. The Carne Asada Tacos are a hit, and dishes like Camaron Culichi are on point. Vegetarians, fret not — they’ve got options for you, too!

Carne Asada Tacos (Photo courtesy of Charro Steak)

Charro Steak & Del Rey

If you’re in the mood for some locally-sourced carne asada, Charro Steak is serving it up. Sided with housemade salsa and tortillas plus guacamole made tableside, a quality experience is waiting to be had.

Tacos at El Taco Rustico (Photo by Anna Smirnova)

El Taco Rustico

The menu selection here is just as extensive as you’d find at any local taqueria in town, and that carne asada tacos and burros are tried and true crowd favorites.

Carne Asada on a Chile Rellon at Guillermo's Double L (Photo by Bryan W. on Yelp)

Guillermo’s Double L

From quesadillas and burros to their chimichangas, you can bank on getting your carne asada fix at Guillermo’s. We dig exploring their massive list of combos, but the carne asada nachos never disappoint.

(Photo courtesy of Jalisco Restaurante)

Jalisco Restaurante

Early bird or not, Jalisco Restaurante has got your Mexican breakfast and brunch cravings covered. Their carne asada burros are a crowd favorite, and we suggest you grab some fresh cookies or tortillas on the way out.

Carne Asada Taco at Karamelo King (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Karamelo King

“Everything is glued together with the cheese. Everything is hot and fresh. It’s one of the most beautiful things ever. These caramelos are a work of art!” -Mark Wiens, Travel for Food

The taco stand at 3752 E. Grant Rd. earned its late-night following with its exceptional tacos, Sonoran hot dogs, and of course, quesadillas and caramelos.

(Photo by Jackie Tran)

Karichimaka Restaurant

Sometimes, the variation of menu items at the many Mexican restaurants in and around Tucson is so subtle, it can be easy to forget which burrito or enchilada you had where. This is not the case at Karichimaka, one of the oldest, and according to fans the most underrated, Sonoran dining establishments in Tucson. Their carne asada anything is a must-try.

(Photo courtesy of Martin's Comida Chingona on Facebook)

Martin’s Comida Chingona

Grilled to perfection and bursting bold with flavor, Martin’s carne asada promises a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine that you can count on. The caramelos and tortas take the cake.

Carne Asada Tacos at The Quesadillas (Photo by Jackie Tran)

The Quesadillas

The namesake quesadillas are noteworthy, but it’s the juicy and tender carne asada with its seared edges and mesquite flavor that keep us raving about The Quesadillas.

(Photo courtesy of Rancho Rustico)

Rancho Rustico

“Authentic Mexican flavors come to life in every bite of our tacos at Rancho Rústico.” We agree, especially when it comes to their carne asada. They take it to the next level with their breakfast menu, available Friday through Sunday.

Carne Asada Burrito at Sonoran Delights (Photo credit: Jackie Tran)

Sonoran Delights

The carne asada at Sonoran Delights is grilled and finished with a warm spicy tomato sauce, which helps keep it nice and juicy. Each tender slice of carne asada bursts with smoky flavor, making it a true delight for your taste buds.

Carne Asada at Tacos Apson (Photo by Jackie Tran)

Tacos Apson – S. 12th Ave

Everything comes from the grill and is especially focused on the carne asada. They’re also famous for their tortillas so, regardless of how you order your carne asada — they have a large menu that includes tacos, burritos, caramelos, and much more — you can’t go wrong.

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