Phoenix Restaurant Guide

My wife and I were looking for something different in Mexican food. We tried Arriba's and are hooked. They are consistent. The Carne Adobada with a side of Hatch Chiles is one of my favorites and I cannot figure out the ingredients though I've tried. My usual choice though when I have a severe hot chile craving with great flavor combinations too is Hatch Chicken Especial. Chicken stewed with hatch chiles is served in a boat shaped dish covered with chile laced cream cheese and a scoop of sour cream. Fresh tortillas always as well. My wife likes the Riudoso Burrito and the fish tacos. All entrees are fresh tasting and of generous proportion. Three types of dip are served with the chips which are always served hot and are included with the meal at no extra charge. Bean chile dip which is hearty and great for those with growling stomachs to get started with and two tomato based salsas... one hot with a nice trace of cumin and another milder and more chunky salsa . All are great. Margaritas are the best ranging from the house drink to the many special drinks with a choice from numerous tequila brands. Diners can determine the degree of heat in their menu choice by using the number of chiles pictured beside a menu item. You may choose anywhere from 0 Chiles for you folks who don't like any heat on through to 4 chile designation which is quite a bit hot......it is always my choice..or I'll order chiles on the side to kick it up from a 3 or 4 to a 5 or 6 maybe..Lot's of choice, with friendly, attentive and communicative staff.. plus the management is always walking the floor and asking how things are without being intrusive. Deserts are unique too with fried, flour tortilla chips coated in cinnamon and sugar, served with fresh strawberrys, vanilla ice cream and whipped cream. Fried ice cream balls coated with cornflakes,and flan too! They are reasonably priced with dinners.. most all well below $10.00. They also have a frequent diner punch card that will get you a free meal after about five or six dinners and daily specials of food and drink.

Just not as impressed as I used to be. The portions seem to be smaller - and food was cold. Children's meals have definitely gotten smaller - better for 3-5 yr. olds. Our waitress didn't speak English well - difficult to communicate with. Our utensils were dirty. Unfortunately, it's just not at the top of our list for dining anymore.