Get ready for the ultimate foodie battle! The Phoenix Burrito Bracket 2026 is here, and it's time to crown the city's burrito champion. But here's the twist: we're leaving the fate of two wildcard spots in your hands!
The Arizona Republic, inspired by the madness of March, is hosting its third annual Burrito Bracket competition. This year, we've selected 14 out of 16 contenders, including some of the city's most beloved restaurants and a few returning warriors seeking redemption.
But here's where it gets controversial... former Burrito Bracket winners are now ineligible, giving new restaurants a chance to shine. It's a bold move, and we want to hear your thoughts on this rule change!
The first Burrito Bracket winner, Rito's Mexican Food, took the crown in 2023 after a heated battle against The Original Carolina's Mexican Food. In 2025, Carolina's fans fought back with a vengeance, securing the title for their beloved hole-in-the-wall.
This year, we're mixing things up. Many of the first 14 contenders are on The Republic's list of 100 essential restaurants for 2026, but we also want to give some love to the underdogs. That's why we're asking you, the readers, to nominate your favorite burrito spots for the two remaining wildcard positions.
So, if your go-to burrito joint isn't already on the list, it's time to speak up! Head over to azcentral.com/things-to-do/food-dining and submit your nomination. Be sure to include the restaurant's location, your favorite order, and why it deserves a spot in the bracket.
Submissions close at 9 p.m. on Sunday, March 8, so don't delay!
Meet the 14 Burrito Bracket Contenders:
- Asadero Norte de Sonora, Phoenix: Offering affordable burritos with a variety of fillings, including carne asada, barbacoa, and lengua.
- Beach House, Phoenix: Known for their Baja-style shrimp and fish burritos, packed with flavor.
- Birrieria Obregon, Phoenix: Specializing in 10 different types of burritos, with the birria burrito taking center stage.
- Casa Corazon, Phoenix: Upscale burritos featuring sirloin asada and marinated pork.
- Chula Seafood, Phoenix: Serving up the popular California burrito, a seafood lover's dream.
- Elmer's Tacos, Chandler: Fans rave about their grilled green chili chicken burritos with a kick.
- La Casa de Juana, Tempe: Juana's signature burrito comes enchilada-style, a comforting classic.
- Lulaá Oaxacan Street Food, Phoenix: Oaxacan-style bean-and-cheese burritos with a unique twist.
- Los Dos Molinos, Phoenix: Known for their super spicy red or green chile burritos, not for the faint-hearted.
- Mis Nietos Cocina, Avondale: Burritos Sinaloense packed with flavorful fillings, a true comfort food.
- PHX Burrito House, Phoenix: Specializing in shrimp burritos, a seafood delight.
- Ta'Carbon, Glendale: The Hazz burrito, a unique blend of tender carne asada, cheese, and grilled chilies.
- Tacos Chiwas, Mesa: Red or green shredded beef burritos wrapped in organic flour tortillas.
- Tacos La K'lera, Tolleson: Giant burritos filled with melted cheese, fries, and warm beef birria, a true feast.
And now, the wildcard spots are up for grabs! Who will you nominate?
Wild Card 1: Your Pick!
Wild Card 2: Who Did We Miss?
Get involved, share your thoughts, and let's celebrate the diverse and delicious burrito scene in Phoenix!
Reach the reporter at eddie.fontanez@azcentral.com. Follow @ERFontanez on Instagram for more foodie adventures.
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