South of the Border Fare

Spice it up with Latin Cuisine

by Morgan Benavidez

Coyoacán Steak House

Sisters Mary Hurtado and Jennie Lagunas teamed up to create Coyoacán Steak House, a restaurant just a stone’s throw from South Mountain that combines warmth and charm with a fusion of contemporary and Latin foods.

Start with one of their signature cocktails such as Sex on South Mountain, a refreshing blend of Bacardi Peach Red rum, pineapple and cranberry juice. Or, try the Coyoacán Sangria, a tasty twist on a classic Latin beverage.

When it’s time to order, indulge in the Queso Fundido, a delectable blend of Monterey cheese baked with plump sautéed mushrooms, onions, garlic and chorizo in a red wine reduction (also available as a vegetarian option). You also won’t be disappointed in the house specialty: Order Mar y Tierra and enjoy a tender, juicy filet mignon paired with fresh, melt-in-your-mouth shrimp al ajo. Save room for Flan topped with plantains, sliced almonds and caramel—a creamy treat that’s worth the extra calories.

As if the delicious cuisine weren’t enough, Coyoacán Steak House almost always has a fun event happening, such as “Trio de Arte”—a cultural event that combines food, paintings and dancers. You can also enjoy live R&B, Old School and Latin Variety music on the weekends, courtesy of Mary’s band, Str8 Up.

Prices from $6 - $28.

9014 S. Central Ave.
602.323.9010
www.coyoacangrill.com

Blanco Tacos Tequila

Nestled in the beautiful Borgata of Scottsdale, Blanco Tacos Tequila is the latest creation to come to the Valley from Fox Restaurant Concepts. Contemporary Mexican cuisine is complemented by the restaurant’s sleek, modern décor.

Start with a refreshing Paloma cocktail—Sam Fox’s personal favorite— made with Don Julio Blanco, fresh grapefruit and soda water. If you’re in the mood for something simple, go for the Clase Azul—a clean, remarkably smooth white tequila garnished with salt and a wedge of lime.

Indulge in the fresh, tangy Crab & Shrimp Ceviche made with cucumber, avocado and radish salad and elegantly presented in a bowl for easy dipping. Next, sample their sumptuous Grilled Fish Tacos with fresh avocado and pico de gallo. Not in the mood for seafood? Then try the Green Chile Pork Enchiladas with poblano pepper and tomatillo, made with tender, succulent pork and served sizzling hot. If you’re seeking fresh, delicious Mexican food in a casual, friendly environment, Blanco Tacos Tequila is the perfect spot.

Prices from $7 - $20.

6166 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale
480.289.5701
www.foxrc.com

The Mission

From the elegant décor to delicious Latin cuisine and hand-pressed cocktails, The Mission Restaurant and Lounge will please even the fussiest diners. Renowned chef Matt Carter combines influences from Spain, Mexico, Central America and South America to create an impressive assortment of mouth-watering dishes.

Capture the ambiance with the Smokehouse Margarita—a spicy, flavorful treat made with Sombra Mezcal tequila, Cointreau, pressed lime, orange juice, cilantro and a demitasse of fantasma chili that will give your taste buds a jolt.

Indulge in their delectable Guacamole, seasoned to taste tableside with a myriad of fresh ingredients including pumpkin seeds, Cojita cheese, onions, cilantro and fantasma chili. For light fare, the Heart of Palm Salad is an excellent choice, made with spinach, date vinaigrette, cumin, bacon and requesón.

Try the decadent Duck Carnitas Empanada, lightly fried and topped with tender foie gras and habanero honey. Or, treat yourself to Crispy Rock Shrimp Tacos—a medley of fresh, plump shrimp, chipotle crema and shaved cabbage wrapped in homemade corn tortillas.

For lunch, the Chicken Arepa with chorizo, corn, queso Oaxaca and aji amarillo will amaze. It’s served on fresh homemade arepa bread with a side of hot and crispy Mission fries. Order your arepa topped with a fried egg for an even better treat!

The Mission boasts a substantial dinner menu and serves brunch from
11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekends. For a hearty Latin meal, The Mission is the place to go.

Prices from $5 - $32.

3815 N. Brown Ave., Scottsdale
480.636.5005
www.themissionaz.com

Maria Maria

Named for Santana’s Grammy winning song, “Maria Maria,” this chic restaurant, created by guitar legend Carlos Santana and chef Roberto Santibañez, deftly integrates live music, delicious food and a vibrant ambiance. Musicians take the stage in the spacious dining room with live entertainment while you enjoy your meal. Decorative lighting, unique artwork and an inviting open-air patio add to the restaurant’s appeal.

Whether dining in a large group or planning a romantic evening for two, Maria Maria won’t disappoint. Start with a smooth, flavorful Maria Maria Margarita. Then dine on the tangy Coconut Ceviche—citrus marinated mahi mahi tossed with diced bell peppers, scallions, cilantro and coconut habanero sauce. The dish is elegantly presented in a hollowed-out coconut shell resting on a bed of greens.

Other flavorful choices are the hot, savory Chicken Enchiladas “Suizas” served on soft corn tortillas filled with shredded chicken, covered with a roasted tomato cream sauce and house cheese blend, and topped with crispy tortillas, crumbled pasilla chile, chopped onion and cilantro. Or go for the equally decadent Grilled Salmon, served with a guajillo-pineapple sauce and pineapple salsa. Maria Maria also benefits Santana’s non-profit organization, The Milagro Foundation, which reaches out to children in the areas of health, education and the arts.

Prices from $7 - $22.

2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe
480.449.3663
www.mariamariarestaurants.com

Morgan Benavidez is an editorial intern with Phoenix Woman magazine.