Savor the flavors of Mexico in the Grand Canyon State

Mexican cuisine holds a special place in many a foodie’s heart and among the top dishes to chow down on is the chimichanga. The deep-fried burrito preparation presents just the right amount of outer crisp in an otherwise soft dish of smooth texture.

1. Serrano’s Mexican Restaurants
141 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler (plus five other locations statewide)
(408) 899-3318
serranosaz.com

Just about a 30-minute drive out of Phoenix, Serrano’s Mexican Restaurants in Chandler is a veteran eatery in the community having just celebrated its 100th anniversary in September. With a century of experience in Mexican cuisine, diners can bet recipes are of true authenticity passed down through generations of Serranos. One of the customer go-to orders is the Machaca Chimichanga served with a side of guacamole and seasoned sour cream in mini tortilla bowls. Other chimichanga fillings include beans and cheese, red or green chile beef, seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken or pork. Serrano’s meats are prepared with spices and seasoning resulting in great tenderness.

Chimichangas come with fillings of cheese along with a protein, bean or both. It is traditionally served with accompaniments of guacamole, sour cream, lettuce, tomato and/ or salsa. To find some of the best of the best when on a trip, Dining Out takes you to the Southwest — Phoenix, Arizona.

PHOTO COURTESY SERRANO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANTS

2. La Pinata Mexican Food & Cocktails
551 N. 7th Ave., Phoenix (602)
279-1763
lapinatarestaurantaz.com

La Pinata Mexican Food & Cocktails prides itself in offering mouthwatering authentic Sonoran-style Mexican cuisine. The restaurant has been a favorite staple in the community for 49 years. La Pinata revamped its look with a new location and an upgraded dining area and bar in recent years. As a result, it continues to draw in regulars as well as catch the eye of newcomers. The chimichanga here is a truly colorful presentation and is packed with fresh, crisp flavors. Customers can choose between their filling of choice — bean, green chile, red chile, beef, chicken or machaca — and enjoy it with a side of sour cream, guacamole, tomatoes and green onion.

PHOTO COURTESY LA PINATA MEXICAN FOOD & COCKTAILS