When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Aunt Chilada's
Why Aunt Chilada's is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Aunt Chilada's is a beloved family-owned Mexican restaurant located in Phoenix, Arizona, known for providing a warm, inviting environment that makes it an excellent spot for meeting up with friends. Established for over 30 years, the restaurant offers an authentic Southwestern dining experience that combines delicious food, live music, and a rich piece of local history. Guests can enjoy a diverse menu featuring favorites such as enchiladas, fideo, and seafood quesadillas, all crafted with fresh ingredients and generous portions. The atmosphere strikes a balance between casual and festive, with an attractive outdoor patio decorated with natural elements like trees, flowers, and cacti, creating a relaxing ambiance. Aunt Chilada’s is also noted for friendly, attentive service, making guests feel welcomed and valued. Their weekday Happy Hour Specials add to the appeal as a social hub. Whether it's a casual meal with friends or a special occasion, Aunt Chilada's offers a vibrant yet comfortable setting to connect over flavorful Mexican dishes and live entertainment, embodying Arizona’s spirited hospitality.
Here's what people think of Aunt Chilada's
As of recent, Aunt Chilada's holds a 4.4-star rating based on 4504 reviews.
Customer reviews for Aunt Chilada's generally highlight the restaurant’s excellent food quality and generous portions, praising dishes such as the fideo and seafood quesadillas for their authentic Southwestern flavors and seasoning. Many reviewers commend the friendly and attentive service, as well as the lively atmosphere enhanced by live music and a scenic outdoor patio. Positive feedback commonly mentions the fresh, crisp tortilla chips and homemade salsa, adding to the overall enjoyable dining experience. On the negative side, some customers felt that certain locations of Aunt Chilada's might lack authentic Mexican offerings or the vibrant atmosphere expected, noting that the ambiance can sometimes feel more business-oriented than festive. There have also been occasional reports of less satisfactory service experiences. While the business is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau and has a B- rating due to unresolved complaints, the majority of reviews reflect a loyal patron base who appreciate the flavorful food and welcoming environment. Overall, Aunt Chilada's maintains a strong reputation as a go-to Mexican restaurant in Phoenix for both locals and visitors seeking hearty Southwestern cuisine in a social setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Stephanie McWethy
As lovers of Mexican cuisine, we naturally ventured out to Aunt Chiladas during our stay at the Hilton at the Peak. The walk was beautiful, and didn’t take longer than about 5-7 minutes. Very doable, even in the 80 degree weather! Boy was the walk worth it! The restaurant was absolutely gorgeous both inside and outside! Beautiful, vibrant, and colorful flowers adorn the outside of the restaurant, and the brilliant color schemes continue inside the restaurant as well! The decor is fun and whimsical, which is a treat for the eyes before you are seated for your meal! The food itself…delicious! We began our meal with the flor tortilla chips and salsa, as well as the carne asada fries. These were so good, that they could have been a main entree in and of themselves, and you wouldn’t be disappointed! For a main dish, I had the Jalapeño ranch chicken salad, which was divine. So hard to stop eating, even after I was full from our starter fries, chips and salsa. My husband had the Caesar Salad, which uniquely added salsa to the recipe. Something we have definitely decided to make a habit of once we return home! My kids also loved their taquitos and quesadillas! My Mai Tai was also delicious and, had my kids not been with me, I probably would’ve had many more! lol! The food was plated just as beautifully as it was tasty, and I tip my cap off to the chef’s for their attention to details. The service was also spectacular! My family was so impressed with how attentive our server was. She was consistent with refills and making sure we had everything we needed throughout the entire meal! Bottom line, if you have not yet visited Aunt Chiladas, you are missing out! Go make this happen for yourself. You won’t regret it!
Maci Keck
Some friends and I came here for brunch after hiking nearby and had such a great time. The patio is beautiful with colorful umbrellas providing shade over the tables and colorful flowers everywhere. The food was all delicious with giant portions and both the hostess and our server were very friendly and helpful. It also wasn’t overcrowded as a lot of brunch places can get which was a pleasant surprise. This will definitely be a go to for brunch from now on!
Brian Leschke
I ordered the seafood quesadilla ($19) and the classic margarita ( $11). Other members of the group got guacamole for the table which was delicious. The table was given salsa and chips on arrival. Both were good. Chips were warm and homemade. The seafood quesadilla was delicious and came with sauce on the side and lettuce. It was cooked perfectly. Overall: food was good and staff were friendly. The owner, Michelle stopped by and said hello and told us the history of the building and the restaurant. Would recommend.
Arielle Cox
An amazing atmosphere! You’re surrounded by flowers and such a nice outdoor vibe. The food was delicious and we really enjoyed the raspberry margarita. Highly recommend this place. Plenty of parking and a great location. Our waitress was very friendly as well.
Efren Ramirez
Found this place on Google close to my resort, we stopped by the food was really good, my wife ordered steak fajitas, i tried the shrimp omelet, the chips and salsa were delicious 😋 all of our food was really good. Service was great atmosphere 👌.
How to reach Aunt Chilada's
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Why Aunt Chilada's may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Aunt Chilada’s with your friends? Aunt Chilada’s offers more than just a meal — it’s a vibrant, welcoming gathering place perfect for reconnecting with your favorite people. Nestled in the scenic shadow of Piestewa Peak, this iconic family-owned Mexican restaurant combines warm southwestern charm with a lively atmosphere that invites guests to relax and enjoy quality time together. The historic setting, constructed from desert stone and once a supply depot in the 1890s, adds a unique character that makes every visit memorable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting a casual meetup, or just craving a flavorful meal paired with excellent margaritas, Aunt Chilada’s provides a festive environment that encourages laughter, stories, and bonding. The blend of authentic southwestern cuisine, friendly service, and a scenic patio space creates a comforting yet fun ambiance where groups can feel right at home. Plus, with a solid 4.4-star rating from over 4,500 reviews, it’s clear that many have made Aunt Chilada’s their go-to spot to rally and rejoice. This is the kind of place where friendships deepen over shared plates and margaritas poured with a smile.
What activities make Aunt Chilada’s ideal for a group meetup?
Aunt Chilada’s is designed with groups in mind, offering a diversity of activities that turn any gathering into a lively event. First, the expansive indoor and outdoor seating accommodates groups both large and small, with cozy patios perfect for enjoying Arizona’s beautiful weather. The Cantina Patio, for example, is an inviting space where friends can sip margaritas and enjoy appetizers while soaking up a festive atmosphere. Happy hour from 3 PM to 6 PM on weekdays makes it economical and appealing to linger over drinks and light bites together. Weekend brunch starting at 10 AM provides a fantastic opportunity for daytime gatherings, letting groups ease into their get-togethers with delicious breakfasts and refreshing beverages. For evening meetups, the kitchen serves up an extensive menu featuring staples like chicken avocado salad, pan-seared tilapia with pineapple salsa, and traditional Mexican delights, ensuring there’s something for every palate in your group.
Beyond dining, Aunt Chilada’s doubles as an event venue with private dining spaces and separate rooms for larger parties, making it perfect for everything from family celebrations to corporate lunches. The restaurant is also known for its vibrant ambiance and friendly service, which add to the playful, relaxed vibe ideal for socializing. Music and themed event nights further spice up the experience, giving groups more ways to connect beyond just eating and drinking.
How does Aunt Chilada’s support special occasions and group events?
Aunt Chilada’s goes beyond being just a restaurant; it’s a trusted venue for private and special events, offering tailored experiences to meet your group’s unique needs. The venue famously hosts weddings, quinceañeras, anniversaries, and corporate meetings, providing intimate indoor spaces as well as charming outdoor patios that can be customized for your event. Their professional team assists in crafting personalized menus that range from large event catering to “Happy Hour Event” selections packed with crowd-pleasing snacks and drinks. This flexibility means your occasion feels personal and seamless, whether you want a formal dinner or a casual celebration.
The Phoenix location’s historic building—originally constructed in the 1890s—adds rustic charm and rich history, creating a photo-worthy backdrop for special memories. For those who want an extended celebration, sister locations like the one at Arizona Grand Resort & Spa offer discounted guest rooms for groups and additional amenities such as a bride and groom suite and scenic resort grounds. This comprehensive approach to hosting ensures guests can fully immerse themselves in the occasion without worrying about logistics. For groups wanting to combine dining, celebration, and even overnight stays, Aunt Chilada’s event services make it all possible under one roof.
What types of food and drink can groups expect at Aunt Chilada’s?
The culinary offerings at Aunt Chilada’s are a major reason why it’s a favorite spot for groups. The menu thoughtfully balances authentic southwestern and Mexican flavors with modern twists to appeal to a variety of tastes and dietary needs. Signature dishes include fresh chicken avocado salad, a flavorful pan-seared tilapia topped with black bean and pineapple salsa, and classic Mexican comfort foods prepared with care. Whether your group members prefer hearty meals, lighter options, or dishes catering to vegan or gluten-free diets, Aunt Chilada’s inclusive menu has something for everyone.
Beverage options are equally robust, highlighted by the restaurant’s reputation for having some of the best margaritas in town. Their bar is open early for happy hour, where groups can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails at a discount, encouraging longer social gatherings around the bar or patio. Wine lovers and beer enthusiasts also find excellent choices on the drink menu, ensuring a perfect pairing for every dish. Seasonal specials and new menu items frequently rotate, keeping the culinary experience fresh and appealing to returning guests. This combination of quality food and an extensive drink selection supports a vibrant, relaxed atmosphere where friends and family bond over shared plates and clinking glasses.
How accessible and convenient is Aunt Chilada’s for group meetups?
Accessibility and convenience are key to hosting successful group events, and Aunt Chilada’s excels on both fronts. The restaurant’s primary location in Phoenix is situated just minutes from the AZ-51 freeway, off 16th Street between Northern and Glendale avenues, making it easy for guests coming from various parts of the city or suburbs to find. Ample parking is available to accommodate larger parties arriving together. Weekend hours begin at 10 AM, allowing for both brunch and dinner meetups, while weekday happy hours and evening dining provide flexible timing for after-work gatherings or casual outings.
Reservations can be made online, helping groups avoid long waits and guaranteeing seating together. The restaurant also offers catering services, perfect for groups preferring to bring Aunt Chilada’s cuisine to an event space of their choice. For those aiming for a more immersive experience, the sister restaurants and venues within the Arizona Grand Resort provide additional options for location and event scope. Overall, Aunt Chilada’s combines prime location, flexible hours, and user-friendly booking systems to help groups plan their perfect get-together effortlessly.
What makes the atmosphere at Aunt Chilada’s suited for friends and family?
Atmosphere can make or break a group experience, and Aunt Chilada’s succeeds spectacularly at creating a warm, festive vibe that embraces all guests like family. The historical building, constructed with desert stone and railroad ties, provides authentic southwestern character that fosters a sense of place and tradition. Friendly, attentive staff contribute significantly to the welcoming environment, balancing professionalism with a personable, genuine approach that makes every table feel valued.
Whether enjoying a casual lunch patio-side on a sunny weekend or gathering around the bar to celebrate a birthday or reunion, the ambiance is lively without being overwhelming. Music, tasteful southwestern décor, and thoughtfully arranged spaces allow for comfortable conversation and easy movement, accommodating both intimate chats and larger group celebrations. This balance of vibrancy and comfort encourages guests to relax, enjoy, and linger longer—key ingredients for memorable meetups with friends and family.
The variety of seating options also means everyone from energetic kids to elderly relatives can find a comfortable spot, making Aunt Chilada’s a truly inclusive environment that welcomes diverse groups and multigenerational gatherings. This thoughtful atmosphere, combined with excellent food and drink, solidifies Aunt Chilada’s as a beloved location for those looking to connect in a spirited yet homey setting.