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Restaurant offering Mexican favorites in a festive space filled with whimsical folk art.
Address and Contact Information
Address: 5101 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Phone: (602) 222-9902
Website: http://www.ajoals.com/
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Our Menu | Ajo Al’s Mexican Cuisine
RESTAURANT INFO: FIND YOUR LOCATION | FOR CATERING INFO, CALL: (480)498 … Phoenix, AZ 85034. Mesa/Gilbert 602-922-9685 2336 E Baseline Rd. Mesa, AZ …
Ajo Al’s Mexican Restaurant | Ajo Al’s Mexican Cuisine
Originality never tasted so good! About Ajo Al’s Ajo Al’s is a family owned and operated restaurant business serving Sonoran-style Mexican food si …
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Ajo Al’s Mexican Cafe. 5161 likes · 1937 talking about this · 125 were here. Arizona’s Original Mexican Cafe. Family owned & operated since 1986….
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Reviews
Hector Roman
I recently visited Ajo Al’s Mexican Cafe on 16th Street in Phoenix and came away impressed with both the quality and the heart behind the food. This family-owned restaurant, a local staple since 1986, delivers Sonoran-style Mexican cuisine that feels rooted in tradition yet consistently fresh and flavorful.
From the moment you sit down, the welcoming atmosphere and attentive service set the tone for a memorable meal. The chips and salsa served at the table are addictive, with a tangy kick that primes the palate for what’s to come. I especially enjoyed the chili con queso dip and the pollo con queso — rich, savory, and perfectly seasoned. The street tacos were another highlight, offering well-balanced flavors and fresh ingredients with each bite.
Ajo Al’s Mexican Restaurant
Portions are generous, which makes Ajo Al’s ideal for both casual lunches and family dinners. The margaritas and cold beers round out the experience nicely if you’re looking to unwind after a long day. While the menu covers a wide range of traditional favorites, it’s the combination of tasty food, warm service, and local authenticity that keeps regulars coming back.
… moreFrom the moment you sit down, the welcoming atmosphere and attentive service set the tone for a memorable meal. The chips and salsa served at the table are addictive, with a tangy kick that primes the palate for what’s to come. I especially enjoyed the chili con queso dip and the pollo con queso — rich, savory, and perfectly seasoned. The street tacos were another highlight, offering well-balanced flavors and fresh ingredients with each bite.
Ajo Al’s Mexican Restaurant
Portions are generous, which makes Ajo Al’s ideal for both casual lunches and family dinners. The margaritas and cold beers round out the experience nicely if you’re looking to unwind after a long day. While the menu covers a wide range of traditional favorites, it’s the combination of tasty food, warm service, and local authenticity that keeps regulars coming back.
The Hungry Hunter
UPDATE:
I recently returned for another meal and wanted to share some honest feedback. I did notice an improvement with the chips — they were served warm this time, which was a nice touch and definitely appreciated.
Unfortunately, both salsas were very bland and lacked depth of flavor. They both seemed to have a similar chipotle or mole-style taste, and even the chimichanga I ordered had that same heavy chipotle/mole flavor. Not every dish needs to taste like it was built around chipotle peppers, and it took away from what should have been more traditional Mexican flavors.
My friend ordered the chicken rice soup, and while he said the broth itself was flavorful, he mentioned at the end of the meal that there was actually no rice in the soup. I brought this to the bartender’s attention so they’d be aware.
I also want to say this with respect: many customers never speak up when something isn’t right — they just don’t come back. I prefer to share feedback so restaurants have a chance to improve. The place was fairly busy for lunch, and it’s clear they have a loyal customer base. I hope this feedback helps them fine-tune the details, because the foundation for a good experience is there.
⭐ The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly at Ajo Al’s Mexican Cafe – 16th & Camelback, Phoenix ⭐
The Good:
Once I made it to the bar area, things turned around quickly. Kamilia, the bartender, was excellent — polite, friendly, and professional. I was immediately served water, chips, and salsa, which made for a great start. The restaurant itself was clean, well-organized, and had a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere.
The Blood Orange Margarita is a standout — flavorful, balanced, with a hint of cinnamon and a tajín rim that ties it all together. My friend ordered the green chili tamale, and I had the beef tamale from the “Al”-A-Carte section. Both were flavorful, nicely seasoned, and though small, they were filling — just right for a light bite at the bar.
The Bad:
My visit started with a small misunderstanding at the door. A guest walked in just ahead of me, and the host mistakenly assumed we were together, walking away before I could clarify. It wasn’t a major issue, but as a first-time guest, it was a little awkward. A quick “Are you together or separate?” would’ve solved that easily.
The chips also seemed like they might’ve been from the previous day — not terrible, but freshly made chips would really elevate the first impression.
The Ugly:
Honestly, not much ugly to report — just those two small hiccups.
Bonus Points:
I mentioned the entry mix-up to the manager, Slade, who handled it very well — professional, tactful, and genuinely understanding. That kind of management response goes a long way.
Final Thoughts:
Every restaurant has its small stumbles, but how they handle them makes all the difference — and Ajo Al’s did great in that regard. Between Kamilia’s excellent service, Slade’s professionalism, and the quality of the drinks and food, I’ll definitely be back.
Verdict: A few easy fixes away from perfect. Great atmosphere, great people, and great flavors — worth the visit!
… moreI recently returned for another meal and wanted to share some honest feedback. I did notice an improvement with the chips — they were served warm this time, which was a nice touch and definitely appreciated.
Unfortunately, both salsas were very bland and lacked depth of flavor. They both seemed to have a similar chipotle or mole-style taste, and even the chimichanga I ordered had that same heavy chipotle/mole flavor. Not every dish needs to taste like it was built around chipotle peppers, and it took away from what should have been more traditional Mexican flavors.
My friend ordered the chicken rice soup, and while he said the broth itself was flavorful, he mentioned at the end of the meal that there was actually no rice in the soup. I brought this to the bartender’s attention so they’d be aware.
I also want to say this with respect: many customers never speak up when something isn’t right — they just don’t come back. I prefer to share feedback so restaurants have a chance to improve. The place was fairly busy for lunch, and it’s clear they have a loyal customer base. I hope this feedback helps them fine-tune the details, because the foundation for a good experience is there.
⭐ The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly at Ajo Al’s Mexican Cafe – 16th & Camelback, Phoenix ⭐
The Good:
Once I made it to the bar area, things turned around quickly. Kamilia, the bartender, was excellent — polite, friendly, and professional. I was immediately served water, chips, and salsa, which made for a great start. The restaurant itself was clean, well-organized, and had a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere.
The Blood Orange Margarita is a standout — flavorful, balanced, with a hint of cinnamon and a tajín rim that ties it all together. My friend ordered the green chili tamale, and I had the beef tamale from the “Al”-A-Carte section. Both were flavorful, nicely seasoned, and though small, they were filling — just right for a light bite at the bar.
The Bad:
My visit started with a small misunderstanding at the door. A guest walked in just ahead of me, and the host mistakenly assumed we were together, walking away before I could clarify. It wasn’t a major issue, but as a first-time guest, it was a little awkward. A quick “Are you together or separate?” would’ve solved that easily.
The chips also seemed like they might’ve been from the previous day — not terrible, but freshly made chips would really elevate the first impression.
The Ugly:
Honestly, not much ugly to report — just those two small hiccups.
Bonus Points:
I mentioned the entry mix-up to the manager, Slade, who handled it very well — professional, tactful, and genuinely understanding. That kind of management response goes a long way.
Final Thoughts:
Every restaurant has its small stumbles, but how they handle them makes all the difference — and Ajo Al’s did great in that regard. Between Kamilia’s excellent service, Slade’s professionalism, and the quality of the drinks and food, I’ll definitely be back.
Verdict: A few easy fixes away from perfect. Great atmosphere, great people, and great flavors — worth the visit!
S LOVELL
We came here for the Agave & Art Dinner, Christina was a wonderful host. She went above and beyond to make sure all of us had a great time. He has a welcoming presence and was very attentive. We had a great time. We hope there will be more events like this coming in the near future.
… moreWandering in Paradise
Yummy Mexican food at Ajo Al’s Mexican Cafe in the Biltmore neighborhood of Phoenix! Great vibe, with a spacious, dog friendly outdoor patio. We enjoyed the chimichanga with grilled steak and chicken and mole. The frosted cherry margarita was a lot of fun. Friendly and accommodating service. Recommend!
… moreJulie Strouss
The bartender was SO busy and tried her best to keep us and everyone at the bar happy. Loved our mango margaritas! Someone has changed the recipe on the hot sauce, though, and not for the better. We bought takeout for Super Bowl and I had the same reaction. It used to be so good. It’s much hotter now and has a bitter aftertaste. No bueno!!
… moreLINA MEDINA
Food was delicious, I ordered Al’s famous pollo con queso. OMG yummy yummy!!! And my husband ordered Pizza Norteña, and he said it tastes the same as 30 years ago!…. Delicioso !!!!
… and Daniel was very efficient and kind!!!
We will be back
… more… and Daniel was very efficient and kind!!!
We will be back
Tim Busekrus
Drinks and service were great. Really enjoyed the chips, salsa and queso. However, the tacos were not great…the beef tacos were okay but very bland; the chicken taco was not edible…not sure if the cooks had an off night but it was extremely overcooked and rubbery even though it was shredded. The restaurant was very warm as well…seemed like the ac was malfunctioning.
Would come back and try a different entree, but would definitely ask them to crank the ac higher.
… moreWould come back and try a different entree, but would definitely ask them to crank the ac higher.
Melissa Chavez
They are attentive and always smiling. The food has so much flavor and so cozy and comfortable. I love it here. I ordered the Salad Carbon with shrimp and my Husband ordered the lunch special burro enchilada style under $20!!!
… moreAnnette Castillo
Incredible! Visiting the Phoenix area and have to say Ajo Al’s is the place for great tasting food, friendly service, and welcoming ambiance. Spent a week in Phoenix and had to visit this place twice! We couldn’t help ourselves… food is reasonably priced for the quality and quantity you receive. You won’t be disappointed!!
… moreJodi Edwards
Came here while my car was getting tuned up for a drink and the food looks amazing, I will come back to try thr food. The chips and salsa were very good and our drinks were tasty.
… more