Phoenix Burrito Bracket Reaches Final Round

Readers vote for the champion of the 2026 competition

Mar. 31, 2026 at 1:02pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A vibrant, pop art-inspired illustration featuring a repeated image of a single, iconic burrito in a grid pattern, using a bold, neon color palette and heavy black outlines to capture the celebratory energy of a community food competition.The final round of the 2026 Phoenix Burrito Bracket showcases the city's diverse and innovative Mexican cuisine.Phoenix Today

After weeks of voting, the final round of the 2026 Phoenix Burrito Bracket has arrived. Thousands of readers across the metro Phoenix area have weighed in to determine the champion of this annual competition that pits some of the city's best Mexican restaurants against each other.

Why it matters

The Phoenix Burrito Bracket has become a highly anticipated annual event that celebrates the vibrant Mexican food scene in the Valley. The competition generates significant local interest and media coverage, shining a spotlight on the diverse array of authentic and innovative Mexican cuisine available throughout the region.

The details

Over the past month, readers have been voting online to determine the winner of the 2026 Phoenix Burrito Bracket. The final two contenders are Tacos Chiwas, known for their handmade tortillas and creative fillings, and Barrio Cafe, a long-standing local favorite praised for its mole and other signature dishes. The winner will be announced on April 1st.

  • The 2026 Phoenix Burrito Bracket competition has been underway throughout the month of March.
  • Voting for the final round will close on March 31st.

The players

Tacos Chiwas

A popular Mexican restaurant in Phoenix known for its handmade tortillas and innovative burrito fillings.

Barrio Cafe

A long-standing local favorite in the Phoenix area, acclaimed for its authentic mole and other signature Mexican dishes.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The Phoenix Burrito Bracket is the highlight of my year. I can't wait to see who wins this year's competition!”

— Samantha Garcia, Local Foodie

“Both Tacos Chiwas and Barrio Cafe are deserving finalists. It's going to be a tough choice, but I'm excited to see who comes out on top.”

— Miguel Hernandez, Food Critic

What’s next

The winner of the 2026 Phoenix Burrito Bracket will be announced on April 1st.

The takeaway

The Phoenix Burrito Bracket has become a beloved annual tradition that celebrates the city's vibrant Mexican food scene and brings the community together through a friendly culinary competition.