If you like moderately priced Mexican food with a very family friendly atmosphere you should check out the Ajo Al’s which has four locations throughout the valley of the sun. “Ajo” in Spanish means garlic and that is what you will taste when eating at any of their restaurants. The salsas are blended with lots of garlic as well as chilies and cilantro.
The atmosphere inside the restaurant is very warm and inviting without being obnoxious. You can choose from a comfy booth or a high top table in the bar area. The chips here are homemade and are very light and not too greasy. If you would like you can also sip on freshly made mango margaritas or choose from a large selection of Mexican beers. If you go to the Ajo Al’s located on 16th Street you even have the option of eating in the outdoor patio.
Once you take your seat you will be greeted by a very friendly waiter or waitress that will treat you with the utmost respect and importance. If you are watching your carb intake the Salad Carbon is a wonderful option and it goes for around $9.00. What makes this salad so tasty is the ranch dressing with a jalapeno zip to it. If you are more in the mood for a spicy soup you would be very happy trying “Miguels Papa Chowder.” The soup is a mix of corn and potato that has been topped off with onions and jalapenos. This soup makes for a wonderful comfort food on those few chilly days we see in Phoenix. If you are really hungry you should try the “ugly enchilada” which features a mole sauce made with black beans and mixed up well with cheese and chicken and then smothered with a red sauce. It is not the prettiest presentation hence the name but the taste is out of this world. If you like coleslaw make sure you try the cilantro slaw which is a must have for those who love cilantro.
The lunch menu has items ranging between $6-$10. They also have a kid’s menu that features many kids’ favorites like fries and burgers. As far as desserts there are not many but the ones they do have are delicious to the last bite. By far the best dessert option is the flan and the price is under $4. Be sure to order your own flan though because you will not want to share this yummy treat. Ajo Al’s also does delicious to-go platters for parties or events.
Locations:
7458 W. Bell Road., Glendale, AZ 85308 (623) 334-9899
5101 N. 16th Street., Phoenix AZ 85016 (602) 222-9902
6990 E Shea Blvd., Scottsdale, AZ 85254 (480-998-1734
9393 N 90th Street., Scottsdale, AZ 85258 (480) 860-2611