If you’re looking for a spot that perfectly captures that "Arizona-style" Mexican food we all grew up with, Carlos O’Brien’s Mexican Restaurant at 7000 E Mayo Blvd Building #21 is a North Phoenix staple. Located right near the 101 and Scottsdale Road in the Mayo Marketplace, it’s been a local favorite for decades. It’s got a great mix of a lively cantina and a comfortable family dining room, making it just as good for a rowdy happy hour with coworkers as it is for a Sunday dinner with the grandkids.
The menu is huge, but if you ask any regular, they’ll tell you the Pollo Fundido is the absolute star of the show. It’s a deep-fried chicken chimichanga smothered in their famous jalapeño cream cheese and melted cheddar, and honestly, it’s worth the trip alone. They’re also known for their "Irish-Mexican" heritage—a nod to the founder's roots—so you’ll find some unique twists alongside classics like sizzling fajitas and thick, hand-pressed tortillas. Their salsa has just the right amount of kick, and the portions are generous enough that you’ll almost always be taking a box home.
One of the best features of this location is the outdoor patio. It’s shaded and spacious, which is perfect for enjoying one of their signature margaritas or a cold Irish beer during those beautiful Arizona evenings. If you’re looking to save a few bucks, their Happy Hour (typically 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM) is legendary around here for discounted appetizers like the Mini Sampler and great deals on drinks. It’s a low-stress, friendly environment where the servers actually remember your name if you come in often enough.
They keep consistent hours so you can get your Mexican food fix all week long. They are open Sunday through Thursday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and they stay open a little later on Friday and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Whether you're stopping in for a quick lunch special or settling in for a long dinner, Carlos O’Brien’s delivers that consistent, home-cooked quality that keeps the parking lot full year after year.
4.0
