While visiting a friend in Phoenix for a long weekend, we happened to come across La Piñata and decided to give it a try. We drove by around 4:30 p.m. on a Saturday, and the parking lot was packed, which seemed like a good sign. It is located along a stretch of restaurants on N. 7th Street. When we arrived, we found that it is a much larger restaurant than it appears from the outside. There is a spacious bar, several televisions, and plenty of seating. We ordered two Casa Margaritas ($9 each), and started with the complimentary chips and salsa. The salsa was excellent, very fresh and flavorful. We ordered the Bean Dip ($9.50) and the Mary Lou ($16.50), thinking these would be appetizers, but we realized we had ordered enough food for a full meal (plus leftovers). The bean dip was topped with melted cheese, had just the right amount of spice, and was served with crispy flour tortilla chips. The Mary Lou, described on the menu as "an Arizona favorite," came with half green and half red chiles, so we were able to try both. Everything was delicious, but the portions were very big. We each ate just one piece each, and happily took the rest to go. Our total bill was less than $50 before tip, making this a great value for the amount and quality of food we received. If you are looking for authentic, delicious, and affordable Mexican food in Phoenix, La Piñata is well worth a visit. I will definitely be back the next time I am in town to explore more of the menu. read more

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This was my first time dining here, and I really enjoyed it. I ordered the sampler platter, which was a great way to try a little bit of everything, and every item was delicious. The guacamole was one of my favorites, and the salsa was excellent as well. The restaurant was clean, the décor was fun and inviting, and the service was outstanding. Our waitresses were attentive and made sure we had everything we needed throughout the meal. I noticed they have a nice outdoor patio with misters, and I'd love to try that on a future visit. Overall, it was a great experience, and I'm looking forward to coming back again. read more

PARKING: Good number of parking stalls available. Does fill quickly! INTERIOR/AMBIANCE: Large space with many tables and a bar area. Noisy, fun and very homey feeling. FOOD: Excellent. We ordered the chimichanga with Machaca beef and combination plate with chicken enchilada and chicken taco. Generous portions and just delicious. SERVICE: Excellent. OVERALL: Great spot with delicious Mexican food in a classic, sit down setting. read more

Stop what you're doing and get into this downtown staples! I have drove past this place way to many times just thinking it was a quick stop Mexican restaurant, well i couldn't have been more off never judge a book by the cover! Step into a super clean and sophisticated dinning experience. The decor in here is beautiful and you can tell the employees love what they do! I can honestly say i don't know when I'll go visit my mom next because the albondigas here match her flavor and style (i have to say match if she ever reads this she will lose it.) the salsa has the right amount of bite to keep you wanting another bite and the spicey marg... insane! Come visit Maggie at the bar and have some fun! read more

La Pinata - Albondigas - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I was in the mood for enchiladas and search online, decided on, La Pinata. I ordered their spinach enchiladas, I must say I was surprised with the large portions they serve, love that almost every part of the plate was covered in melted cheese. They do give complementary chips and salsa. We sat inside, however they do have outside seating. Our table waitress was fast and checked on us regularly. read more

La Pinata - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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First time at La Piñata. We arrived at 12:30 on a Saturday afternoon and it was hopping. We were seated right away at one of the few available tables. We were quickly greeted by our server, given chips and pico, water and menus and we were offered drinks. My wife got a margarita to go with her Carnitas plate while I got an iced tea to go with my Yucatán plate. In all it came to $54.75 plus tip for two huge plates of food, which arrived in about 15 mins. I didn't try the carnitas but my meal was just incredible. The burro, stuffed with beautifully seasoned Machaca beef, was enveloped with a cheesy, gooey spinach concoction. It was truly delectable. The rice and beans were well done too. The table chips and pico were not great but we didn't go there for that. We will definitely be returning to La Piñata, even though it's a half-hour drive. read more

Another five star review for La Pinata. We walked in at 8:55 not knowing the kitchen closes at 9. They sat us and happily and efficiently served us! This is the kind of restaurant that takes care of its customers! read more

La Pinata - Taco Tuesday! $2.50 for ground beef, shredded chicken or shredded beef - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Came here for lunch after shopping in the area. Since it was just opening, I was immediately sat and greeted by a gentleman providing chips and salsa. I immediately requested their spicier salsa, which has a nice elevated heat level. My waitress (Marisela) then followed up asking if I wanted anything to drink. I requested iced tea, after she delivered the drink, she was ready to take my lunch order (Taco Salad w/Machaca beef). It was prepared and delivered very quickly. The machaca beef was seasoned well and there was plenty for leftovers to take home for my dinner tonight. This place has been here for years and it appears they have established a steady clientele. The service was really good. The place is a medium to large space with ample seating and offers patio seating. read more

La Pinata - Chips & salsa (regular chunky & hot salsa) - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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I think the food is better if you dine in. The chicken stack wasn't as good in the to go container with all the flavors and sauces pushed together. Also way too many beans in this order. read more

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Some of the best Sonoran Mexican Food anywhere! We have been enjoying their food for several decades, they never let us down. From their Carnitas to their Machaca, it's outstanding. The service is friendly and efficient, and don't miss their Margaritas. Their shredded beef tacos are also excellent. The decor is modern and contemporary, and, they have a large patio. You won't be disappointed with any of their entrees! read more

I got food for pick up and I didn't even bring my phone with me! There are so many things that you can take pictures of, like donkey pinatas. This place has been around for a long time, according to my friend that recommended we get our lunch there. The place has got a great vibe to it! The food was delicious and filling. My friend that recommended the place is vegetarian, so they clearly have that option covered. I was not sure what I wanted, first times at places I tend to get something safe. I didn't see anything that was much safer than mini chimichangas with some jalapeno cream cheese and salsa. read more

La Pinata - Mini chimis with jalapeño cream cheese and salsa to dip. - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

If you're in area definitely cruise by,great spot nice and cozy,music was chill,my Girl got invited to this place and let me tell you they didn't disappoint. Excellent service top notch waitress was very attentive. Food was a definitely on point,real deal flavors. Hidden gem i say,so if you want a taste of some real good Mexican food,cruise on by. read more

Amazing food and service. Do not sleep on their Machacadilla; you wont regret sharing this with your table. Their cheese enchiladas and taco combo is to die for. We do not live close by, but its worth the drive. read more

Great food and service. Always enjoy going there. I know what to expect. I wish they took reservations but I get it, very busy place

Friends, Stopped into La Piñata for a quick lunch!!! I had the taco and enchilada combination. The food was piping hot, and delicious. Super fast service. My server Maggie was amazing, very attentive and provided great food recommendation. The enchilada sauce is like homemade, just perfect. The chips come out hot, with 2 large sides of salsa. Grade: A+ read more

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I'm convinced that ALL the servers here are excellent. We had the pleasure of having Veronica at our table this past week, so the trend of outstanding servers continues! read more

Best Mexican food in central PHX! Everyone who works here is beyond kind. The owner is an amazing host and treats everyone like family. The bartenders are amazing as well. Food is delicious and different items on the menu keep me coming back. Truly a great experience all around! read more

this restaurant is my favorite. I'd rather eat here than going over to Morton's or steak 4 oceans 44 or whatever those places are called. It's relaxed up-to-date margaritas are really superior. They got a new changed up the which are and the food is always hot and is probably the best and the price is cheap. My favorite is the sampler because I'll have food for the next three days the best experience I have been going here for eight years and it's my favorite. read more

I am hesitant about writing this review as this is an amazing gem I'd like to keep to myself. I was in the area while visiting my son and he suggested this place for lunch. I was hesitant when we arrived as I'm very picky. However, as soon as we walked in I was excited to try the food as the ambiance is amazing and the food looked and smelled equally amazing! We were promptly seated and were provided chips and salsa. This salsa was not like any other I had before but full of flavor. I ordered the Tia Carlotta as our server said it was her favorite when I asked about it. Be warned this plate is huge! The flavor of the tamale with the chicken and cheeses on top were to die for! I'm already looking forward to our next time in the area so I can have this again! read more

La Pinata - Tia Carlotta - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Friendly service. Clean place. I got the beef chimi lunch special and it was a huge plate! They provide you with chips and salsa. I asked for the spicy salsa, which I mixed with the regular salsa and it was delicious. My friend got the salad carbon (lots of steak) and it was huge as well! The steak was perfectly cooked, it melted in your mouth. Definitely a nice place to have lunch. read more

La Pinata - Salad Carbon - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Drinks and service were excellent. The pricing and hooch selection at the bar provided some good value. The bartender was quick and friendly. The food missed no matter what we ordered. The green chile beef tasted good, but the meat in it was overcooked and a bit dry. My wife got a chicken salad because it came with a jalapeño ranch. After it came, they told us they were out of all ranch dressing. Is it not made in-house? Anyway, the chicken was overcooked and dry. She disliked the salad. I ordered steak fajitas, and they came coated in some sort of sweet brown sauce. The meat was overcooked and dry on these, too. The barkeep comped the chicken, but it is unlikely that we will return. read more

La Pinata - Chicken Salad - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Amazeballs Mexican food. Most awesome enchiladas and tortilla soup on the planet. Super attentive wait staff lead by Mathew. My highest recommendation. read more

Great food and friendly staff. Many awesome things to enjoy. I've tried many. Restaurant is clean and well run. True pros

If you need ambiance. If you need an upscale chef. If you need a phony server. It's not here... What you will get is a very charming smile and a genuine greeting from this wonderful elder woman. 55 years in the business and it shows why. It's 1:30 on a weekday steady flow of all walks of life simply enjoying the simple pleasures. I live in Orlando, Fl. grew up in So Cal. traveled extensively. I know Mexican food, it's my favorite! For Tex Mex this was everything one can dream of and leave this place wowed. Again nothing fancy, just simple old school culinary execution from family tradition and it shows. I believe this is why the locals gather. Great portions and on point in itself. Just go and try simple as that. read more

La Pinata - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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This place is fantastic! You walk in and the ambiance is the pretty standard local Mexican restaurant vibe/décor, always welcoming and friendly. For the food from the cheese crisp appetizer (they have two ways of serving, soft or crispy, you decide) to a plate of cheese/onion enchiladas with refried beans (they definitely do not skimp on the cheese) or even some red chili con carne. It's all great! Service has never let me or any of my companions down. We rarely have to wait for a table/spot at the bar and even when there is a wait for a table it always seems to move rather quickly. Needless to say this place has been added in to my rotation of local spots. read more

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The restaurant was busy, which was understandable, but the interaction with the hostess was odd from the beginning. We were told the wait would be over an hour, but it also felt like she was trying to discourage us from staying and waiting for a table. After we said we were okay with waiting, she took my name and phone number. We decided to wait in the car instead of standing by the entrance. After waiting about an hour and a half, we never got a call or any kind of update, and we eventually had to leave. This was also our first time trying this restaurant, so the experience was pretty disappointing. read more

This place is usually a good place for food but recently the service was horrible. The manager was very disrespectful and was cussing. He was arguing with the bartender. Just not a good environment for a family. read more

Beef taco, imo, was better than the chicken. Large portions. Hard shell was good. Salsa was just ok, kinda tasted like it came from a jar, and wasn't spicy enough for my preference. 4/5 star for FOOD!!! Would go back. What ever happened to Yelp giving reviews on food? Geesh, all these reviews tell their entire life story. I gave up trying to find what to order via Yelp's bs posters, so I just ordered a basic taco plate. Yelp really needs to eliminate all these dumb reviews. Period. read more

If Heaven had a happy hour, it would be at La Piñata. Let me tell you something right now: if you come here and you don't have Veronica as your server, you're doing it wrong. Like... life choices wrong. Reroute, rethink, reorder -- whatever it takes -- get Veronica. She is the Beyoncé of servers. The LeBron of hospitality. The Da Vinci of enchilada artistry. From the second she greeted us, it was like being wrapped in a warm tortilla of joy. Drinks? Always magically refilled. Chips? Crispy perfection, delivered with a smile that could probably cure seasonal depression. Timing? Impeccable -- like she had a sixth sense for when we were ready to order and when we needed to be left alone to have our food-induced existential moment. And the food. My God, the food. Every bite was a fiesta in my mouth -- and not one of those weak "office birthday party with a store-bought cake" fiestas, but a full-blown mariachi-band, confetti-canon, dancing-on-the-tables situation. Whoever's in that kitchen deserves a medal, a parade, and a nap. But seriously -- the energy, the flavor, the Veronica of it all -- I'd give La Piñata 12 out of 5 stars if I could. If you haven't been, go. If you've been, go again. And if you see Veronica? Tip her like she just saved your soul... because she kinda did. read more

If you hate corn tortillas, and want to see them suffer an agonizing, drowning death, order the stacked enchilada plate. Not only could I not spot the tortillas when the plate was delivered, the presentation made it so I just couldn't stomach it. Two forkful attempts was all I could handle. Having said all that, I will add that the service was very good as were the margaritas. I would only recommend cutting back on the sauce, or asking for it on the side altogether. Presentation speaks a lot about these establishments. read more

La Pinata - Mexican Short Stack House Special - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Had to really think about leaving a review, i usually dont leave anything under a 4, this was borderline. Was at Wineburger and some random told me about this place being the actual restaurant i loved that used to be across the street many yrs ago, he said they moved across the road (he lied) they had the top 3 best salsas in town.( anyone remember the name?) Well i read the menu and reviews so i decided to atleast try it, after all it was happy hr. Was very impressed by the place upon entering in, after a very short wait, place was packed long line, but as a single was able to be seated by the owners daughter at the bar. Very polite, cute and bubbly. Very lively scene with modern decor, the inside definitely doesn't match the exterior. Drink was amazing bartender friendly and attentive . Then things got a little sideways betwen a server and a cook almost came to fisticuffs, plates were crashing got chaotic for about a minute. Felt like a scene at a Waffle House in the South lol you see on social media. I had just recently returned back from a 50 day stay in Puerto Vallarta where the food was sensational , was disappointed in my tacos selection here, the texture of the taco i ordered was like cat food. Maybe i didnt order the right things. so i lovedd those i came in contact with but can't not say anything about my experience. Willing to give it another shot, just have to ask how the food comes out i guess. read more

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Holy mackerel! Had not eaten there since 1979! on 19th Ave. moved around in the meantime. Live in Mesa. Yesterday had lunch at the current location! Terrific. Had a chimichanga, Albondigas soup and cheese crisp. All excellent! Great service. I can't believe it has been 47 years since my last visit. Look forward to returning! read more

This is a double dose review, as we ate at La Piñata TWICE during our recent Phoenix vacation. This almost never happens, as we go into a trip with a long list of places to try. But we ate at La Piñata the first night and loved it so much we returned on the last. And we'll return when we visit next time, probably twice as well! The space is nice, but nothing fancy. It's a step above any Mexican restaurants we have at home, but only marginally when it comes to ambiance. It's not a fancy 'small portion high price' place but rather a great local option with hearty portions, nice clean restaurant, and good service all for the right price. The chips and salsa are included (hate when they add those to the appetizer menu) and the salsa was very good. We also added a 'crisp' which is basically a 12" tortilla covered in cheese. It was good - kind of like Mexican pizza. They were obviously popular because pretty much every table had one and they were being carried out nonstop by the delivery/doordash types. Both trips I had the same thing - Machaca Chimichanga. It's a specialty of theirs, and it was amazing. Perfect level of crispness, great shredded beef at the appropriate spice level. Beans were amazing, and rice was rice. I tried to switch it up on the second night but it was so good on N1 that I had to just get it again. Wife did the flautas on the first night (loved them) and the Chicken Suiza on the second. She preferred the flautas and honestly I can't remember what the second night was like other than she enjoyed it and said she'd get it again. Son was delighted on night one with his chicken quesadilla - loved it, and that's for a guy who isn't always happy when we get Mexican food. He thinks we go to too many Mexican restaurants. He isn't wrong, but I'm never changing. On night two he had the chorizo egg burro and liked it but said it was a bit spicy for him. He wouldn't order it again, and didn't finish it. He really wishes he had done the Quesadilla again or ordered another type of burro. Over our seven day visit, La Piñata earned 'favorite restaurant' honors from everyone for this vacation in the dinner category. It's a sure thing for anyone who enjoys Mexican food. read more

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La Pinata, Phoenix Institution, was a welcome oasis for out Phoenix Cane and Walker Society Friday gathering. Temps outdoors punched near 100. Inside it was long pants and shirts weather. The mist-cooled, shaded, vegetated, patio would be dining comfort, especially with teps headed for the scorchies. The chips are good, salsa pleasant. We split an enchilada style (red) bean Burro (burrito), beverage ice tea. Ww don't need much for the rest of the day. read more

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Went here for the first time yesterday after only hearing great reviews. I have to say the food has been prob the best I've had since moving out here. That said, pretty sure my boyfriend and I got mild food poisoning from here. We shared a shredded beef taco plate with beans and rice we both had 1 house margarita. We were both sick that evening. Both ends lol. Now, even with that I think I'll try them again but they might need to tighten up on food storage. Rice goes bad extremely quickly fyi. We sat at the bar and that was great. Speedy service. Dark ambiance if you're into that. A little too dark for me. Will prob order to go next time. read more

Friendly service, extensive menu, delicious dinner, fair prices. Casual dining in a pleasant atmosphere.

Excellent food! Service was awesome! Ambiance great! I had menudo, daughter had asada tacos.

Stopped by again and it was just as amazing as last time. The service was great and fast. Food came out really quickly as well! Everything was very flavorful and yummy. read more

La Pinata - Mexican Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Haven't been to the new location wine they moved from 19th Ave. Pleasantly surprised. The place is super clean, food was served hot and delicious. I'm only giving four stars, because my service was quite awful. I will be coming back. read more

Great food!!! Amazing!!! Great service well worth the wait! We ate outdoors next to the fire. So nice