Get ready for a spicy showdown! The Phoenix Burrito Bracket 2026 is here, and it's time to crown the ultimate burrito champion. This annual foodie extravaganza, inspired by the thrill of March Madness, is back with a bang. But here's where it gets controversial... we're excluding past winners to give new contenders a fighting chance. So, who will take the crown this year?
The Battle for Burrito Supremacy
The Arizona Republic has carefully curated a list of 16 burrito battlers, but there's a twist! You, the readers, get to decide the final two 'wild card' entries. It's your chance to rally for your favorite local burrito joint and give them the spotlight they deserve.
A Brief History of Burrito Bracket Battles
In 2023, Rito's Mexican Food emerged victorious after a heated battle against The Original Carolina's Mexican Food. But Carolina's fans weren't going down without a fight, and in 2025, they stormed back with a vengeance, snatching the crown for their beloved hole-in-the-wall.
The Contenders for 2026
This year, we've got a mouth-watering lineup. From upscale sirloin asada to Oaxacan-style bean-and-cheese burritos, the diversity of flavors is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Here's a sneak peek at the 14 confirmed contenders:
- Asadero Norte de Sonora, Phoenix: Offering a range of affordable burritos, from carne asada to lengua.
- Beach House, Phoenix: Specializing in baja shrimp and fish burritos with a unique twist.
- Birrieria Obregon, Phoenix: With 10 burrito options, including the famous birria burrito.
- Casa Corazon, Phoenix: Known for their upscale sirloin asada and marinated pork.
- Chula Seafood, Phoenix: Serving up the popular California burrito with a seafood twist.
- Elmer's Tacos, Chandler: Fans rave about their grilled green chili chicken burritos.
- La Casa de Juana, Tempe: Juana's signature burrito comes enchilada style, a true classic.
- Lulaá Oaxacan Street Food, Phoenix: Specializing in Oaxacan-style bean-and-cheese burritos.
- Los Dos Molinos, Phoenix: Known for their super spicy red or green chile burritos.
- Mis Nietos Cocina, Avondale: Serving up Sinaloense-style burritos packed with flavor.
- PHX Burrito House, Phoenix: Their specialty? A shrimp burrito with a unique twist.
- Ta'Carbon, Glendale: Featuring the hazz burrito, a unique blend of flavors.
- Tacos Chiwas, Mesa: Offering red or green shredded beef burritos with a house-made organic tortilla.
- Tacos La K'lera, Tolleson: Giant burritos filled with melted cheese and warm beef birria.
And the Wild Cards?
That's where you come in! Nominate your favorite burrito spots for the two remaining wild card positions. Head over to azcentral.com/things-to-do/food-dining and submit your top picks. Don't forget to include the restaurant's location, your go-to order, and what makes it so special.
Submissions close at 9 p.m. on Sunday, March 8.
So, who will you rally for? And this is the part most people miss... it's not just about the food. It's about the community, the stories, and the memories these burrito joints hold. So, get voting, and let's celebrate the delicious diversity of Phoenix's burrito scene!
P.S. Don't forget to follow @ERFontanez on Instagram for more foodie adventures and to support local journalism by subscribing to azcentral.com.
