These Arizona Taco Trucks Sell Out By 10 PM Every Night
Arizona has a serious love for taco trucks, and once you’ve eaten at a few, it’s easy to understand why. You’ll find them parked near gas stations, construction sites, and busy corners, serving tacos that taste like they’ve been perfected over generations.
Some sell out before the sun even sets, a sign that word travels fast around here. The smell of sizzling meat and fresh tortillas fills the air, and people don’t mind waiting in line.
Arizona’s taco trucks prove that great food doesn’t need a storefront, just a loyal crowd and a grill that never stops working.
1. La Frontera, Phoenix
Authentic carne asada is what keeps people lining up at this Phoenix favorite. The meat gets marinated for hours before hitting the grill, creating that smoky flavor everyone craves.
I’ve watched them sell their last taco by 9:30 PM on a Tuesday, which tells you everything about their reputation. They make their own tortillas fresh throughout the evening.
The salsa verde has just enough kick without overwhelming your taste buds. Lines form early, so plan to get there by 7 PM if you want the full menu.
2. Baja Roots, Phoenix
Fish tacos done the Baja way bring a taste of coastal Mexico to the desert. Crispy battered fish gets topped with cabbage slaw and a creamy sauce that balances everything perfectly.
The truck parks in different spots throughout the week, so you’ll need to follow their social media. Shrimp tacos are another specialty that disappears fast.
What I appreciate most is how they keep prices reasonable despite the quality. By 9 PM, they’re usually packing up because everything’s gone. Get the combo plate if you can’t decide between options.
3. AZ Taco King, Phoenix
Generous portions and bold flavors explain why this truck earns its royal nickname. Their al pastor gets cooked on a vertical spit, just like you’d find in Mexico City.
Pineapple chunks mixed with the pork create that sweet and savory combination people drive across town for. The truck stays busy from opening until they run out.
I once arrived at 9:45 PM and they were already closed, sold out completely. Now I know better and get there before 8 PM. Their horchata is homemade and worth ordering alongside your tacos.
4. El Tacoson, Tucson
Sonoran-style tacos are the specialty here, with mesquite-grilled meats that capture the essence of the region. The carne asada comes with grilled onions and peppers that add extra depth.
Tucson locals know this truck serves some of the best traditional flavors in the city. Their beans are made fresh daily, not from a can like some places.
I tried their cabeza tacos once and was impressed by how tender the meat was. Lines stretch long on Friday and Saturday nights. Show up early if you want choices beyond just one or two meat options.
5. Late Night Tacos, Tucson
The name promises late hours, but even this truck sells out before midnight most nights. Adobada tacos are what people rave about, with the pork marinated in red chile sauce.
They park near the university area, attracting students and locals alike. The truck stays open later than most, but popular items disappear fast.
Quesadillas stuffed with cheese and your choice of meat make a filling meal. I’ve seen them run out of tortillas by 10 PM on busy weekends. Their aguas frescas come in rotating flavors throughout the week.
6. Polo’s Taqueria, Tucson
Simple, honest cooking is what Polo’s does best, without fancy toppings or trendy twists. The asada is seasoned perfectly and grilled to order while you wait.
Regulars know to call ahead because this truck runs out of ingredients consistently. Flour tortillas are made by hand and come out warm from the griddle.
What keeps me coming back is the consistency in quality every single visit. They don’t skimp on portions either, giving you real value. Weeknight dinners are slightly less crowded than weekends, but not by much.
7. Simon’s Angel Tacos, Sedona
Finding authentic Mexican food in Sedona can be challenging, but this truck delivers the real deal. The location near scenic red rocks makes it popular with both tourists and locals.
Chicken tacos marinated in citrus and spices offer a lighter option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. They use fresh ingredients sourced locally when possible.
I’ve stopped here after hiking and found the perfect meal to refuel. The truck closes when they sell out, which happens earlier than you’d expect. Their homemade salsas complement every taco without overpowering the meat.
8. Tacos Fuego, Parker
Spicy options are the main attraction at this Parker spot, where heat levels go from mild to seriously challenging. The lengua tacos surprise people who’ve never tried them before.
Parker doesn’t have many taco trucks, making this one especially popular with river visitors and locals. They offer combination plates that let you sample different meats.
Weekend crowds can be intense during the busy season when tourists flood the area. I recommend the chorizo tacos if you enjoy bold, spicy flavors. Get there by 8 PM to ensure they haven’t run out of your preferred options.
9. Tacos La Familia, Avondale
Multiple generations work together at this family operation, bringing different skills to the table. The grandmother still makes the salsa recipes she learned as a child in Mexico.
Barbacoa tacos on weekends sell out fastest, slow-cooked until the beef becomes incredibly tender. The family atmosphere extends to customers, who often become regulars after one visit.
I’ve watched them handle long lines with patience and genuine smiles every time. Their tamales are available on Fridays and Saturdays only. Arrive before 8:30 PM if you want the full selection of meats and sides.
10. Tacos El Pillo, Phoenix
Marinated pork tacos with pineapple bring people back week after week to this Phoenix staple. The meat gets grilled fresh for each order, ensuring nothing sits under heat lamps.
They’ve built a loyal following through consistent quality and fair prices. Corn tortillas are doubled up to handle the generous portions of meat.
What impressed me most was how they maintain speed without sacrificing attention to detail. The cucumber and lime agua fresca pairs perfectly with spicy tacos. Lines form early on weekends, so weeknight visits offer shorter waits.
11. Tacos El Diablito, Phoenix
The name warns you about the heat level, and they’re not kidding around with their spicy options. Regular customers know to order the diablo salsa on the side unless they enjoy serious spice.
Tripas tacos are done exceptionally well here, crispy on the outside and tender inside. They offer milder options too for those who prefer less heat.
I watched someone try the hottest salsa once and immediately regret it, reaching for the horchata. The truck sells out by 9:30 PM most nights. Their reputation for quality keeps people coming despite the sometimes intense wait times.
12. Tacos El Primo, Tolleson
Traditional preparation methods set this Tolleson truck apart from others trying to modernize everything. The buche tacos might not be for everyone, but they’re done authentically.
Tolleson residents consider this their neighborhood gem, often keeping it a secret from outsiders. Prices remain lower than Phoenix trucks, offering excellent value.
The carne asada gets seasoned simply, letting the quality of the meat shine through. I’ve found their consistency impressive across multiple visits over the years. They close when ingredients run out, typically around 9:45 PM on weekends.