Backyard Taco

3.7 (310 reviews)

InexpensiveMexican, Desserts

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Backyard Taco - Two pastor. Far left. Two asada on the right. Their red spicy salsa was fire. Actually had a kick. - Mexican Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

Backyard Taco - Salsa bar - Mexican Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

Backyard Taco - Birria tostada - Mexican Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

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Backyard Taco - Outside - Mexican Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

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Moderate noise

Good for kids

Outdoor seating

Good for groups

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Bueno Bowl - Carne Asada with sour cream and guacamole.

Donovan B.

We decided to do a family lunch today and we came here. The place is amazing great selection and you can tell it's freshly made food. I got a bowl of it carne asada and mom and other half got the carne Asada quesadilla. Service is always great here from ordering to the pickup. I love that they have a salsa bar or toppings. The patio is was nice even tho it was hot today it's shaded and a nice breeze.

Jon H.

Checked out Backyard Taco with some friends over the weekend. I've heard mixed reviews of the place and wanted to vet it out myself. It's not bad, solid 3.5 stars. This spot is in a somewhat of a high traffic area, but the place was clean and tidy. The staff were all smiles and friendly. Loved all that! I opted for the bean and cheese burrito and a carne asada taco. The bean and cheese was good, I'd hit it again. The taco was good as well, but it's more of a street taco and for myself, while I love street tacos, I have to buy like 10 of them to fill me up and I'm not about to drop $30 on just tacos :) On a scale of 1 - 10, I'd go back if that was the consensus of the people I'm with, no complaints, but it wouldn't be my first option. The food is good though.

brittini a.

I love mexi food, so when I find a good taco place I'm there! Walk in nice spacious seating area open drink fountains, order at the front sit down and they'll call your number shortly after, then which you'll walk up to the counter and grab your food, I ordered carne asada tacos as well as my bf, got my kids a ninos meal- which is pretty simple but have option of a taco and I think quesadilla comes with side of rice OR beans. Chips and salsa were ok, salsa was good chips coulda been better, I like when they make em fresh these tasted fresh outta a bag maybe.. they have a condiment table set up for any additions the usual stuff for tacos salsas pickles onions which I love I'll just eat those hahah, cucumber radish sort stuff. Service we were treating right when we walked in and she made it clear she was ready when we were. So carne tacos were a definite hit!

Hiilei W.

Went on a Friday at 11:30am and there was no line. First time trying this place and I was pleasantly surprised. The burrito hit the spot and I love the condiments bar. Service was extremely nice telling us how the place worked and if we needed anything else to let her know. Food was delicious and filling, cheese and sour cream is extra cost. A bit cold in there, place is clean. I will be coming back!

Vernee D.

I've been here a few times during the pandemic, but I haven't really been back since more taco spots opened around me. I stopped by today for a work lunch treat and was pleasantly surprised that everything was still good! I ordered a 6 for the office, and there were some issues during the pick-up, but the service was very helpful! I had never been inside. We had always ordered delivery or drive-thru, but it was so spacious inside and really well decorated. We ordered tacos and quesadillas! The salsas were all so good and had the flavor. My birria quesadilla was exceptionally delicious, and I can't wait to come back for more office lunches..

Edward O.

Food was good, service is good. Place is very clean. Both times we been inside it's never been too busy.

Steak tacos, rice and beans with Chips and Salsa

Laura O.

I'm gave them a four because there is nothing different from other street tacos. Chips and salsa were fresh. Rice and beans were ok

Two pastor. Far left. Two asada on the right. Their red spicy salsa was fire. Actually had a kick.

Jesus V.

Open and ample elbow room. My 400lbs frame fit in here like a Sailor and a butthole. LDL and HBP were meh, satisfied.

Derek Y.

COVID TACO This place is NOT COVID safe. My BURRITO was utter DISAPPOINTMENT COVID Safety- they do not excercise ANY precautions. You would think they would have more safety measures in the midst of a pandemic especially with the spike in the Delta variant. Salsa bar is self-serve and had the sneeze guard glass over the top but it was so high above the condiments that it doesn't really serve a purpose. But does not shield Kids or anyone under 5' 3". They don't have lids or anything covering. There's NO HAND SANITIZER anywhere. The workers do not wear FACE COVERINGS or GLOVES. NO BARRIERS at the registers. I feel like in food service that is the expectation these days. AL PASTOR BURRITO- The salsa is what must give it flavor because the pork, although seasoned, was pretty bland alone. The worst part was the chunks of pineapple in the burrito! They use CANNED PINEAPPLE CHUNKS, not even fresh pineapple. And the amount of pineapple in the burrito was astonishing. I felt like I was eating a DOLE FRUIT CUP. I understand Al Pastor is cooked with pineapple but to add whole chunks in the burrito was not appetizing. You may argue that pineapple may or may not go on PIZZA, but it sure as hell should not go in a burrito. I rarely say a burrito is gross, but this was gross. I remember them using pre-packed salsa they would hand out upon request earlier this year. Why did they stop? I am really disappointed because this place used to be one of my favorites for tacos as fast casual Mexican, but I won't be coming back.

All that is left of the deliciousness at Backyard Taco-Stapley! Love this place!

If you want the best bean and cheese burrito in town, this is your place. The chips and salsa are also really good. The Stapley Drive (Mesa) location is really nice and big and clean, and the salsa bar is so much better and more accessible than the original location on University. The new location on Stapley also has plenty of indoor seating compared to the minimal seating at the University location. I like the drink bar at the Stapley location too so you don't have to stand in line to wait for a refill. The carne asada is delicious at both places. Once it was pretty fatty, but the last several times it has been much better. Tacos are great--go on Taco Tuesday for the best

Christine D.

I really wanted to love this one, but it just wasn't there for me and I'm not too sure I'll ever return. Here's why: Prices: In one word, overpriced. Just under $50 for my husband and I. You can spend about $25 less at a multiple taco spots within the mile. Sometimes it's worth it spending a little more when splurging on great delicious food, but that's not the case here. Food: The trend seemed to be that the food was unseasoned/bland. The carne asada tacos were full and portioned well, but very tasteless. So, we thought we'd put some salsa on them from the salsa bar... also very bland. Disappointing. We ordered a chicken quesadilla and it came out at an overstuffed chicken taco with no cheese holding it together, and it was cold. We went back to the counter and ordered a cheese quesadilla instead and that came out partially cooked and stuffed with unmelted/cold cheese. Everything from the salsa bar was flavorless, and the veggies were soft and bitter, signaling that they've been sitting out too long. The only thing we enjoyed was the refried beans, chips and salsa (the salsa that isn't at the salsa bar, or comes with the "chips and salsa" order). Overall the service was just okay. We waited about 10 mins when the restaurant only had a handful of people inside including us. The atmosphere is modern and the bathrooms were clean. The big picture: our experience here was overpriced food that we didn't even enjoy.

Carne asada and al pastor tacos! A little smooshed but still darn tasty!

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Lindsay W.

Elite 23

110

7 years ago

First time trying Backyard Taco. Maybe it's something you have to dine-in and eat there. I got tacos to go and felt they lacked flavor and were quite dry. All of my corn tortillas ripped immediately and I felt that most of the meat was dry. We ordered chicken, carne Asada and al pastor tacos on corn tortillas. The al pastor was probably going the most flavorful with the chicken coming in second. I thought personally that the carne Asada was very dry. Also everything in my car and everything at home smells completely of onions. Didn't know onions came on the tacos so we took ours off. And then put them in the garbage, immediately took out the garage and everything still smells of onions. Onion haters ye be warned! read more

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Ralph E.

7 years ago

Steak tacos that are awesome. This place just SCREAMS freshness. Attention to details is evident in every bite. Simply put; best I ever had read more

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Annalyz C.

251

5 years ago

My husband and I love backyard! But tonight Thursday 3.25 at around 7pm the girl in the drive through was super rude. She had black+brown hair in a bun and she didn't give us the spicy salsa & onions we asked for, all she said was "goodnight" and slammed the window.. read more

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Brandon S.

102

6 years ago

Thumbs down! 1 Star. I'm disappointed as I was told to try it. Ordered a taco meal and drink for $21.00 and the taco meal is just enough to fill up a five year old. I wont be going back here. Waste of money. I don't even like Taco Bell and they serve a better meal and serving size than this place. Bummer! read more

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David V.

6 years ago

By no means what I expected from this place BUT this was everything. Will for sure make this a staple in my food circle when I come to town from here on out! Thank you Backyard!!!!! read more

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Revital U.

6 years ago

I tried their carne asada tacos. It was alright the meat tasted dry and didn't have much flavor. I put some salsa on it and it helped but I've been here once before and I didn't have a good experience so I wanted to try it today again but I don't think I will be returning. I wish the meat had the flavor I was looking for. Was really craving some good tacos. read more

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Matthew C.

555

5 years ago

Was really disappointed after hearing all the hype. The food was bland at best and the service was poor. I ordered a Carne Asada burrito and it came out stuffed with steak only and nothing else inside. My son ordered a bean burrito and they got the order right but it tasted like they had just tossed water on the beans to make them and my wife ordered two tacos which were okay. I asked for lemonade which is behind the counter and they told me it was an additional $1.60 even though I had already paid for a $2.05 soft drink which I didn't use because I only drink lemonade. Lastly on service I had to repeat my order multiple times and it was still brought out improperly. Overall, I just don't feel like the three of us got a whole lot of bang for buck for a $30 meal that was tremendously underwhelming. read more

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Lane H.

Elite 23

217

142

371

7 years ago

Trying to find a good taco shop in Arizona is like trying to find a car that's overheating in the summertime. Come on. They're EVERYWHERE! Mom, Pop, Sister, Uncle, you name it. Brick walls, mobile kitchen, pop up tent. So why am I writing about Backyard Taco Grill? Well friends. Its. Just. Good. Tacos! This shop is located just off the US 60 in Mesa on Stapley Dr. Look for the AMC Movie theater and you'll be a stones throw from it. Brand new with all the grill flavors of previous Backyard Taco Grills, the Stapley store has plenty of room, the best salsa bar and ice cold Mexican beverages. Ever notice the lack of photos from taquerias? Know why? Cuz we get SO excited about eating tacos and we FORGET to snap photos!! Now, the hard core Yelper will just go back and order some more tacos (Yes. Yes I did!) And at just $2.00 each (taco Tuesday soecial), that's so easy to do. But Damnit! I ate those ones too! Carne Asada, Chicken, Al Pastor. Marinated and grilled to perfection, squeeze a little lime juice, some extra cheese, salsa verde....... Forget about it. I'll just see you there, homie! read more

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J B.

4 years ago

Always consistent delicious tacos and other menu items. Just wish they would open in the NW a alley.

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Farmer T.

226

7 years ago

Stopped in today and was very happy that I did. The tacos and quesadillas were amazing and the service was really friendly. The establishment was really clean as was the restroom. Will totally be going here again. Highly recommended!!! read more

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Alexa Z.

7 years ago

Amazing Food, affordable, beautiful atmosphere!!! I will definitely be back! Mexican sodas are the best! This is the closest ive taste in the valley to real Sonora style carne asada tacos, This is not a place to go if you are expecting the Americanized version of tacos! I have always enjoyed the one on University dr. But this place exceed my expectations. read more

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Tyler D.

6 years ago

If you had thrown a bag over my head, tossed me in the trunk of a car and driven me around for hours only to drop me off at backyard taco, I would have thought I was eating tacos Mexico. The street tacos are generous and delicious and the salsa bar has lots to choose from read more

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Anthony L.

7 years ago

The food & service are always on point. Even when they're busy, they stay organized and keep the place flowing. Highly recommend the shredded beef tacos. read more

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Gary S.

Elite 21

113

7 years ago

Great place for Mexican food. I really like the crazy potato's. My wife and I have been going to the original location for years. Ingredients always seem fresh. read more

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MaryFrances A.

6 years ago

We just moved from CA...Backyard was a pleasant surprise. Fresh ingredients, fully stocked salsa bar, friendly staff...Taco Tuesday deals! We will most definitely be back! read more

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Brenna G.

497

5 years ago

This place is so good. You can taste mesquite while eating many of the meats. It can be a little pricier than hole-in-the-wall street taco spots, but the taco Tuesday deal is pretty good. The location on University has a patio you can sit at. The newer location on Stapley has a drive-through, which is a little slow but convenient. read more

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Terry H.

7 years ago

YUM!! Hubby and I were around the area and decided to try this place. We decided on tacos... and at $2.50 that was a screaming deal! We got beans and chips and salsa also. I loved the salsa bar where I got to pick up a few to try with my tacos... I liked all of them. I however, did not like the salsa that came with the chips I ordered...I think it tasted more like tomato paste than anything else. However, I just used the salsa I had gotten from the bar and was a happy girl. The tacos were all amazing... The Al Pastor being my favorite! We will be back for sure!!! read more

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Alexis N.

7 years ago

Worst food I've ever had. Taco Bell is better!!! When your food is ready they call out your number is Spanish. Sorry, I speak English and have no idea when my order is ready!!! read more

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Daniela Z.

7 years ago

Let me start by saying that I visited this restaurant since they were selling tacos at the backyard on their house, never a problem till tonight, we were very excited to go back and eat their delicious tacos, we walked in and ordered and 2 minutes later the food was ready!!! Like really? We were barely on our way to the table and obviously the food was cold!! I sent it back and at that time I ordered a quesadilla that my husband wanted it, came back to get the quesadilla and it was cold as well!! The part that really upset me though that when I went back for the "remake" food one of the cooks started arguing with me telling me that if the food was cold was because she called to get picked up 4 times and nobody went to get it and that's a lie!!! but ultimately she has no place to be arguing with a customer!! She was so disrespectful and that ruined my whole experience. I will think twice before going to eat here! Very disappointed.. read more

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Kwang V.

135

7 years ago

Foods amazing, service is great. Please consider using something other than styrofoam. It's environmentally toxic.

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Jen V.

189

6 years ago

Always good food & quick service. Love supporting local eateries and enjoy seeing this specific business grow! It's authenticity still stands regardless. read more

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Shannon B.

Elite 21

164

330

227

7 years ago

This new location is big! Tons of seating, cool atmosphere, clean, friendly staff! I want to work here it's so nice haha! This place is great for taco Tuesday! I like how they have the salsa bar with yummy stuff! read more

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Yackeline N.

6 years ago

I love the tacos and the people and just the environment . They play some nice music ,so you're eating good food and jamming out to the songs !!! read more

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Rooftek Roofing W.

6 years ago

$$$ A little pricey but good and fresh authentic Mexican style food. The Crazy Potato is a perfect belly warmer on a rainy day (a baked potato with cabbage meat and red sauce topping). The rest of the menu is pretty standard. Very filling! read more

Backyard Taco - Mexican Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

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Tony W.

6 years ago

First timer! Was looking forward to some tasty tacos with a convenient drive though. The tacos were, in fact, delicious! Much smaller than I thought they would be, though. Knowing that now, we would have ordered three for each of us instead of two. We also ordered a carne asada quesadilla. We thought it would be cheesy and "stuffed" with carne asada. What we got was thirsty meat, weird cabbage that was the texture of rice, and almost no cheese. Thing was just dry as a bone. Like a sad, unstructured burrito. This is not like any quesadilla I've ever eaten and it was pretty disappointing. Sorry! But the tacos are yum! Four stars for the tacos, 1 for the frightful quesadilla. tl;dr play it safe, stick with tacos read more

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Austin A.

7 years ago

My wife and I come here every Tuesday and we are never disappointed! The location is clean, the food is amazing and always comes out quick!

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Kevin S.

7 years ago

It doesn't get any better than this! Love the Smokey taste of their chicken tacos. Every time we visit we're impressed with the friendliness of the staf & how quickly our food is ready. read more

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Angelina S.

4 years ago

Sol was a very rude employee. We ordered asking for certain sides to be left off due to allergies. This did not happen and when asking Sol to remake what we ordered she gave a very snobby attitude and had us wait over 10 minutes for our food as she laughed with her coworkers as they purposely made us wait for our food. I've never had an experience with someone who felt the need to make this much harder than what it had to be as it was a simple request considering this is what we paid for. Very unpleased with this. She did not apologize as she saw us witness how she acted and had her coworkers apologize for her. read more

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Garrett H.

4 years ago

Really good food highly recommended coming to sit and meet your friends for some good food!!!

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Dylan M.

243

6 years ago

The food is good and cheap! We brought the whole family out and the restaurant was able to accommodate. For a chain-like atmosphere, I was surprised to see how good the Mexican food really was. They have an excellent salsa bar and fantastic tacos. read more

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Sandra F.

7 years ago

I really wanted to like this place. The food is good and the drive thru is convenient. The only problem is that they constantly forget to pack items on my carryout orders. The first time I called back and got a refund on my credit card. The second time I went back to get the order of beans they forgot to pack. Today, it happened again. I explained that this has been an ongoing issue and I was not driving back to pick up a flan that I had paid for and they forgot to pack. The manager told me she couldn't give me a refund and my only option was to get the flan on my next order. Needless to say I do not plan to go back. I like the food but not enough to put up with the hassle. read more

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Autumn H.

119

7 years ago

Are you kidding me. We waited in line to order. As soon as we get up to the counter they inform us they are only taking cash. It was our first time. Who Carrie's cash anymore. Absolutely ridiculous. The last time we tried to go to Backyard Taco was when they opened the first one on University in Mesa. Same thing happened then. You will not get my business. This restaurant has been open for a month. I am very frustrated. read more

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Wyatt H.

7 years ago

By far the best tacos in the Valley. Went there last night for taco Tuesday (tacos are like $1.95) and had the best carne asada street style tacos. The salsa/hot sauce bar gives it a really authentic feel and the bottled cokes from Mexico are a great touch. Would definitely recommend to anyone and going back next Tuesday for more! read more

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Aaron F.

Elite 13

123

219

8 years ago

I just don't get it. I've never written this about a restaurant, but the reviews feel like fake news. My experience wasn't terrible, but it was no different than any other Mexican fast food restaurant I've visited. read more

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Jessica B.

7 years ago

My favorite burrito place! Great service every time, fair prices, awesome local owners with a great story. Heard of this place years ago from a friend who said he used to go to their backyard for tacos all the time. Great salsa bar with fresh salsa, guacamole sauce and cucumbers are my favorite. Other good options as well. Tortillas are to die for. read more

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Jenni-lee L.

7 years ago

I did not really care for how expensive this restaurant was and how little food you got. The tacos where really small and they didn't have a lot of wiggle room for changes. read more

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Jarrod C.

121

7 years ago

Great food and great atmosphere. Oscar and Norma were super nice. I'll be back for sure :-)

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Chuck I.

8 years ago

Food is absurdly expensive for midget sized portions. They told me they were big portions. I paid 12 dollars for a quesadilla and a drink. This so called quesadilla was made out of A TACO SHELL!?!? Are you kidding me!? My dad hates pork and ordered a chicken burrito and he got pork. He just refused to eat as he didn't want to talk to these people who just lied through their teeth. I miss the place this restaurant took over. Their chicken was amazing. Wednesdays was all you can eat chicken. Mmmm. I gotta find a new place. read more

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Elle B.

177

7 years ago

Chile... if you don't get that tacos you're missing out on life! And that red sauce is everything I go through the drive-through just to get the red saucen, I'll be like look y'all didn't give me any red sauce in my last order and I didn't even order anyting! read more

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Blanca A.

7 years ago

Food was OK I was expecting more flavor on the birria and carne asada, condiment bar was good due to having options on salsas, atmosphere was nice, and the Aguas were cold and good also. I wouldn't be choosing this place as a fave taco spot though. read more

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Page 5 of 8

1633 S Stapley Dr
Mesa, AZ 85204
Directions
(480) 378-2095
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
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Visit Website
https://backyardtaco.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Backyard Taco open?

Backyard Taco opens at 10:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

What time does Backyard Taco close?

Backyard Taco closes at 10:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.Backyard Taco closes at 11:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.Backyard Taco is closed on Sunday.

Mon-Thu 10:00 AM - 10:00 PMFri-Sat 10:00 AM - 11:00 PMSun Closed

Payment methods

Does Backyard Taco take Bitcoin?

No, Backyard Taco does not take Bitcoin.

Does Backyard Taco take credit cards?

Yes, Backyard Taco takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Backyard Taco have catering options?

Yes, Backyard Taco does have catering options.

Does Backyard Taco have a drive thru?

Yes, Backyard Taco has a drive thru.

Does Backyard Taco have a happy hour?

No, Backyard Taco does not have a happy hour.

Does Backyard Taco serve alcohol?

No, Backyard Taco does not serve alcohol.

Indoor Amenities

Does Backyard Taco allow dogs?

No, Backyard Taco does not allow dogs.

Does Backyard Taco have TVs?

No, Backyard Taco does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Backyard Taco have bike parking?

Yes, Backyard Taco has bike parking.

Does Backyard Taco have outdoor seating?

Yes, Backyard Taco has outdoor seating options.

Does Backyard Taco have parking?

Yes, Backyard Taco has parking options. Street Parking, Validated Parking

Other Amenities

Is Backyard Taco wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Backyard Taco is wheelchair accessible.

Does Backyard Taco have free WiFi?

Yes, Backyard Taco has free WiFi.

More Info

Health Score

Backyard Taco Reviews in Other Languages

Spanish
2 Reviews

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•$$

I was looking for a quick lunch spot on my way out of the valley to golf in Gold Canyon and saw…read morethis place on Yelp with the great reviews. Authentic Mexican food sounded perfect and I knew good things were in store when I arrived at 11:30am on a Friday and all of inside and outside tables were full. The inside is quaint but has quite a few tables. They also have tables out front in the shade (to call it patio seating may be a stretch, just simple tables and chairs on the exterior of the entrance). You order your food at the counter and I didn't study the menu ahead of time but the ladies taking my order were patient with me. I ordered a shredded beef taco and a cheese enchilada with rice and beans. Nothing fancy for my first time as it's hard to golf on a full stomach! I found the only open table and then hit up the salsa bar. They have 4 or 5 different salsas/hot sauces and a few other goodies. I got a small cup of each sauce and all of them were quite good. My food was colorful, flavorful and just the right away to give me some energy without being lethargic. I could go on about a few other nice things but it seems most of East Mesa already knows about this place given the high scores on Yelp from a lot of reviewers. Nothing to prevent me from giving a 5* review at this time. I look forward to trying some more dishes in the future.

My wife and I came - was on our list of places to try. I'd say "we will be back", but we've already…read morebeen twice this week! Loves it! Not a huge place - I can see how it can get busy. Order at the counter, and they'll bring out to you. I saw a lot of things I want to try, but started with the nachos, pictured. Also had the asada fajitas the next day. Their meat is near perfect. Nice cuts, tender and not dry at all. Definitely a fan. Enjoyed both the nachos and the fajitas. Good serving sizes. Also, loved the staff! They were super friendly and welcoming. They offered to take my empty plate as I was about to. They also bud farewell to guests as they left. Felt like a really warm family place. Well lit, fun decor, clean. Very enjoyable - will be back!

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Order counter, Continual flow of patrons. Even the patio tables were full.

Street Taco Plate.

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Pollo Especial.

Taquitos Jalisco

4.3(814 reviews)

3.3 mi

•$$

Been coming here for over a year and this spot never misses! Great portion sizes with the burritos,…read moreespecially love the à la jalisco burrito with grilled jalapeños in it. Their plates are also huge, i've gotten the breakfast steak and eggs before and it comes with hot, generous portions. They make great tacos as well, the shrimp tacos are a must try. Workers are always friendly, it's got a super cute interior with the painted mural, and it's always clean and fresh. Highly recommend for a quick bite!

First authentic mexican we tried since we moved to AZ and it didn't disappoint! Big portions and…read moreaffordable We got steak burrito, jalisco burrito and cheese quesadilla. Burrito was huge but it got a little dry at the end. Cheese quesadilla was okay, might be better if we got not just plain cheese. I enjoyed it with the pico de gallo and the green sauce. Wish there was more pico de gallo though. They also have sauce station and pickled onions which my husband really liked. Service was quick! There was a line when we got there but the food came so fast a little after we got a table. They have drive thru too. Ambiance was great. Seats are limited and they have outdoor options. They played Mexican music which adds to the authenticity. Saw reviews that parking is limited but we got lucky, they're were still a few open spots when we came. Overall, would recommend and will come back

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Order at the counter and they bring the food to you

#33 Daily Special

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Los Sombreros

4.3(394 reviews)

4.0 mi

•$$

My dad, my boyfriend, and I went to dinner at Los Sombreros tonight and it was fantastic. Our…read moreserver said they were the only one working tonight and that they'd take care of us, and they sure did. The parking lot outside was parking so we thought we may have to wait, but inside was not busy yet and we were seated immediately. I ordered the smoked chicken enchilada as I saw it was a Yelp favorite and it was delicious. I ended up taking half of it home since we all filled up on chips and salsa before our meal. This restaurant is decorated so cutely. I love how there is a Baja influence with all the surf boards but also southwest appeal. There is plenty of seating and tables for big groups. Even with other people yapping around us, the noise level was perfect to enjoy company. 10/10 would recommend.

This restaurant is MUST visit! We enjoyed some delicious drinks, entrees, and an app! We were…read moreseated immediately upon arriving in their super cute space; there was both indoor and outdoor options on a Sunday evening! There were heaters available if we needed them, as we sat outside. Our amazing and friendly server offered to turn the heaters on for us, but we didn't need them. I enjoyed a Oaxacan Old Fashioned (on the sweeter side, but that's what I like), we had the Elote (BEST I'VE EVER HAD), and I also had the Carne A La Tampiquena. Everything tasted amazing and was served fresh and in a timely manner. We will most certainly be back (and you should visit, too!)!

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Tacos y Huaraches El Gordo

4.4(64 reviews)

5.0 mi

The restaurant is very small, just a few tables, but it's usually clean. Service is good, portions…read moreare a good size. Prices aren't great, but not quite high enough to scare you off. No free chips here, but two kinds of salsa, both very good. The food is amazingly tasty. Everything they make is hot and fresh. I want their carne asada recipe! The carne asada burrito is my favorite menu item. It really stands out from other restaurants. Try it!

First things first, the mural inside is so fun. Secondly, the ramen birria was DELICIOUS, with just…read morethe right amount of spice. The noodles were the best kind of ramen noodles- chewy and bouncy. The buffalo ranch fries were a big hit with my husband, who practically inhaled them. The few fries I was able to snag were really tasty! The strawberry gelatin dessert was the right choice- it was a great complement to the heavier food. Everyone was really friendly and prompt, and we're excited to go back!

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40. Chicken Buffalo Ranch Fries

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My lips turned orange after I finished the soup. FYI..

Birrieria Don Jose

4.1(40 reviews)

6.7 mi

Family-owned & operated

Women-owned & operated

First off. The restaurant is very clean. The girl behind the counter greeted me in Spanish. But…read moreshe also spoke good English. She was very nice. I ordered an asada burrito and a large Pina agua fresca. The burrito was HUGE. It must have weighed a pound or more. Carne asada, rice, beans, pico, and guacamole. There was some of everything in every bite. My only complaint is that the tortilla was a little dry and crunchy. It was extremely filling and flavorful. I'm going to come back and try the birria.

Want to support a woman owned taco joint! Come here! Picked…read moreup some dinner for my husband and I. I got the birria tacos which came with delicious grilled onions, sarono pepper, and consume. The tacos were packed with a generous serving of beef. I appreciate that! The flavors were great. My husband got the Burris burrito and his was also generous with ingredients. The drive thru staff were super nice! I'll be back to try some menudo!

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Rito's Mexican Food - Mesa

3.9(187 reviews)

5.0 mi

•$$

Family-owned & operated

Happy hour specials

A coworker recommended this place. Never heard of it but…read moreapparently they have four locations through out the valley. You get chips and salsa when you sit down. We went during happy hour. We tried the mini tacos and a quesadilla. The mini tacos were good, pretty tasty, and cute. The place has a modern look. Nice. Looks like they have an upstairs with a few tables up there. Our server was Jaden (I think that was her name) she was very nice. But honestly we felt rushed. I would try this place again. I really enjoyed their horchata!! It was really good!!

I stopped at Ritos in Mesa Riverview after work today. I work in McCormick Ranch and live in South…read moreScottsdale. I'm posting this review for two reasons - The first being because the manager passed the restaurant phone over to the supposed "owner" after I called within five minutes of getting home to tell them the chips and taco shells tasted like they were fried in old, rancid oil. The manager told me she could offer a credit and when I said I would prefer the refund to my card is when she went to get the "owner". I'm fairly sure I wasn't an asshole to her. I was pretty peeved at this point because we're talking about almost $16 of the $49.11 which was the cost of the food I ordered before tax and tip. I work in the service industry/for tips too so I get it. I'm well aware of the price increase of everything everywhere!!! Before going to Ritos I waited in a line of 10 cars at Sam's Club for gas and gas was $49.65. So there's that. The "owner" also reiterated that a refund would only be given if I brought the food back. I'm sorry, but, I live 15 minutes away from Mesa Riverview. My employer was 30 minutes from the restaurant. I sure as f*ck wasn't going to get my ass back in my car and drive back to Ritos to give them shitty tacos and chips. They told me they would offer a credit for next time for chips and 2 tacos - and I guess that's acceptable but my question is - how are you going to provide that when you don't have my number or an email address for me? And aren't chips typically complimentary at a Mexican food restaurant when you dine in? The manager had the audacity to say that the oil was changed, the chips and tacos are cooked in different vats, the cost of meat has gone up and "everyone is feeling it." That's quite the level of audacity. I'm to the point where I don't give a about your credit and if I want Ritos I'll drive even more out of my way to the Garfield or 7th Street location. I'm more pissed off about the "owner's" attitude than I am about the $2.55 chips I threw in the trash. And the taco shells didn't taste too rancid drowning the inside in salsa. My mother was in her bedroom in the back of the house (I was in the kitchen) and just told me she could hear the owner yelling at me and what a sh*tty way to do business. Keep your credit, I won't be back to your locatiom to dine in OR take food to go. PS - Change your raunchy ass oil. As you said, consumers pay *way too much* to get home with a To Go order to have to throw it away because oil isn't changed frequently enough.

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Outside

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Cheese Crisp with green chiles - delicious!

Nando's Mexican Cafe

3.5(538 reviews)

8.8 mi

•$$

Nando's stole my heart for AZ authentic Mexican food! This was my first time here and it was for a…read moremeeting. I took recommendations before I ordered and I wasn't disappointed! I ordered the enchilada Del Mar which had shrimp and crab inside with a side of rice and beans, it was absolutely Delicious I cleaned my plate! We were a group of about 8 people, and were seated on the patio area on a nice sunny day. Our waitress was friendly and on top of what we needed at any moment. I will definitely be back to Nando's but I will have to try a different location because this location isn't convenient to me, nonetheless Nando's is AZ Authentic Mexican food!!!

1/3/25 After class lunch and first visit to this location…read more Parking 3/5 Entire strip mall was slammed. All business were busy as we arrived about 12:30. Found a parking spot and grabbed our hiking boots to begin our journey towards the restaurant. Atmosphere 5/5 Like the other location (Gilbert?) it is a nice and popular location. Atmosphere is modern Latin good vibes and based on the libations area my guess this place gets pretty slammed on weekends., Service 10/5 We had the pleasure having Lesi as our server. She was prompt, attentive and very polite. Lesi took time to answer questions including some off menu options. We ordered the Hefe fajitas steak chimichangas and the Chipotle Albondiga soup and cheese crisp. Food 5/5 First the cheese crisp was the best we've had. Thin crust browned perfectly and the perfect cheese blend. The soups was very nice as well. The Hefe chimichangas was ginormous with great fajitas steak and stir fried vegetables. Delicious leftovers. Both locations impressed. Thank-you Lesi! $51.18 and $20 cash tip for outstanding service we told your Mgr about. Nando's my friends and if you visit this location ask for Lesi-SYOY!

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Dining room

Spicy shrimp appetizers and Pasta with Steak. Delicious

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Additional dining room and bar area.

Pollos LaChuya

4.6(370 reviews)

3.3 mi

•$$

This place has great pollo nachos! Good salsa. Friendly service. Clean establishment. Easy parking.read more

So sad. Overcooked inedible beef and dry meatless chicken. Flavorless rice, beans and salsas. The…read moreguy working up front looked like he didn't want to be there. Place looked dirty. I don't understand the rave reviews on Yelp. I guess it didn't smell bad. Disappointing.

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Menu as of 1/13/2025

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La Casa del Guajolote

4.5(79 reviews)

2.1 mi

Best Mexican food I've had in Arizona by far. Coming from San Diego, I've had lots of great Mexican…read morefood, with Mexico only 20 minutes away. I liked that there was options here rather than your typical tacos or burritos. I tried the Guajolote and it was a burst of flavor and texture. It is basically a Mexican breakfast sandwich, absolutely phenomenal. The Tlacayo was another great one I tried and it was only $5.50, definitely a nice addition. Service was incredible and personable, the owner told me about how the food comes from his town near Mexico City. 10/10 recommend

The tacos were very greasy and the meat wasn't good. The birria didn't taste like birria and the…read moremeat in the tacos de lengua were cut into big chunky pieces and had no flavor. We didn't like the fact that the soda fountain had all the hoses and soda containers all exposed. The lady at the register wasn't friendly, nice or welcoming. Didn't even bother smiling at us. The restaurant was very plan and looked a little dingy.

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Tlacoyo $3.50

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Colorful and comfortable

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13 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Marcus J.

6 years ago

This place is over rated but still good. Some of the food is over priced. I'd rather go to Carolinas but this place is a lot closer. The salad salsa bar is awesome they let you load up on cucumbers and salsas but since covid it's been shot down. Also don't get the food To go. They pack tostadas in a funny way where all the cheese and beans gets stuck to the top of the container..... also cheese quesadillas rarely have the cheese melted all the way. This is a huge issue for me. I don't like cold cheese. read more

Jace J.

8 years ago

This new location is so amazing! So much space and so beautiful. The tostadas and papa locas are incredible! So happy to have one closer to my house. read more