Loaded with marinated and grilled beef, fresh guacamole, sautéed onions and bell peppers, carne asada is a staple in Mexican cuisine. In order to find the spots that boast the best burrito, The Daily Wildcat decided to ask its readers where they go for carne asada. We asked, and you answered. Below is a compilation of just a few of the best places in Tucson to get a carne asada burrito.
El Guero Canelo / $
A list of the best Mexican food wouldn’t be complete without El Guero Canelo, a Tucson mainstay. Its tortillas are crisp and flaky, just soft enough to hold the contents together. Inside, the burrito is packed with flavors of fresh beef and cabbage with a slight hint of lime. Be sure to add salsa and guacamole on this burrito, as it comes pretty basic, though it’s large.
Aqui Con El Nene / $
If it’s possible to have a food truck that’s a hole-in-the-wall kind of place, Aqui Con El Nene is it. The Yelp page says it all, with more than 60 reviews telling you to believe the hype — because this place is the real deal. Although not a burrito, the carne asada papancha is El Nene’s own creation and is a frenzy of beef, cheese, onions and mushrooms stacked on a baked potato. Located at Wetmore and Flowing Wells roads, El Nene is another staple among the food trucks of Tucson.
Nico’s Taco Shop / $
While the California burrito is arguably one of the best items on the menu, the carne asada burrito is also unbeatable. Unlike at most places, the ingredients of the carne asada are evenly dispersed, ensuring that each bite will be packed with guacamole and beef. The burrito is perfectly and tightly rolled to maximize the beef-to-tortilla ratio. Be sure to order Nico’s special green sauce as well; the combination of parsley and jalapeño enhances the flavors of the carne asada.
BK Carne Asada & Hot Dogs / $
With the words directly in the restaurant’s title, it’s no wonder BK has arguably some of the best carne asada burros in Tucson. At first bite, it’s evident that the beef is marinated to perfection, with flavors of pepper and mesquite coming through. The fire-roasted tortilla blends well with the smokiness of the beef. The guacamole has plenty of avocado and fresh onions. Should you decide to dine in, be sure to dress up your burro at the salsa bar, which includes homemade tomatillo sauce, fresh lime and salsa that packs a punch.
Taqueria Jason / $
Food trucks are as much a part of Tucson as its street vendors. Taqueria Jason is located off 22nd Street and Wilmot Road, and patrons say it rivals BK and El Guero Canelo. Don’t let the thought of ordering from a food truck deter you; the service is quick and personable. Add more kick to your burrito with the extensive salsa bar.
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