Family-Owned Los Dos Molinos Wins Phoenix's Best Burrito Bracket

40-year-old Mexican restaurant's signature adovada burrito claims top spot in local competition

Apr. 11, 2026 at 11:37am

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A bold, vibrant silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeating pattern of a single, iconic burrito in neon colors and heavy black outlines, conceptually representing the signature dish that won Los Dos Molinos the title of best burrito in Phoenix.The signature adovada burrito from Phoenix's beloved family-owned restaurant, Los Dos Molinos, has been crowned the best in the city.Phoenix Today

In a true underdog story, the family-owned Los Dos Molinos restaurant in Phoenix has won the city's prestigious Burrito Bracket competition, cementing its reputation for serving the best burrito in town. The 40-year-old establishment, run by multiple generations of the Chavez-Melton clan, is celebrated for its commitment to authentic New Mexico-style cuisine and unwavering family traditions.

Why it matters

Los Dos Molinos' victory is a testament to the enduring power of family-run restaurants and the appeal of preserving cultural culinary heritage, even in the face of growing corporate chains. The restaurant's success highlights how a dedication to tradition, community, and high-quality ingredients can still captivate diners in an increasingly homogenized food landscape.

The details

The secret to Los Dos Molinos' success lies in its signature dish, the adovada burrito. This fiery creation, served enchilada-style with a choice of red or green chile, showcases the restaurant's commitment to using pure New Mexico ingredients and respecting traditional cooking methods. None of the family members are professionally trained chefs, but their culinary skills were honed through years of hands-on experience in the family kitchen, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the dishes.

  • Los Dos Molinos opened its doors in the 1980s, transforming a former fast-food joint into a beloved Mexican eatery.
  • The restaurant is currently run by Sandra Melton, the daughter of original owners Victoria and Eddie Chavez.
  • The 2026 Phoenix Burrito Bracket competition took place in April 2026.

The players

Los Dos Molinos

A 40-year-old family-run Mexican restaurant in Phoenix, known for its authentic New Mexico-style cuisine and signature adovada burrito.

Victoria and Eddie Chavez

The original owners of Los Dos Molinos, who started the restaurant in the 1980s.

Sandra Melton

The daughter of the original owners, who now carries on the family's culinary legacy as the current operator of Los Dos Molinos.

Roman Vitale

The manager of Los Dos Molinos and Melton's nephew, who emphasizes the restaurant's commitment to keeping the food preparation within the family.

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What they’re saying

“Nobody but family touches the food.”

— Roman Vitale, Manager, Los Dos Molinos

“The secret to Los Dos Molinos' success lies in its signature dish: the adovada burrito. This fiery creation, served enchilada-style with a choice of red or green chile, is not for the faint-hearted.”

— Author

What’s next

The restaurant plans to celebrate its victory with a special anniversary event, inviting the community to enjoy their award-winning burritos and experience the family's hospitality firsthand.

The takeaway

Los Dos Molinos' triumph in the Phoenix Burrito Bracket showcases the enduring power of family-owned businesses that remain true to their cultural roots and culinary traditions. In an era dominated by corporate chains, this story reminds us that authentic, passion-driven establishments can still captivate the hearts and taste buds of local communities.