Phoenix taco shop beloved by chefs closes down

El Pollo Supremo, a hidden gem in Tempe, has shuttered after years of serving up favorite meals to local culinary stars.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 12:44pm

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A highly stylized, abstract illustration featuring a repeating pattern of a single taco icon in a grid, rendered in a bold, neon color palette with heavy black outlines, conceptually representing the loss of a beloved local eatery.The vibrant, pop art-inspired illustration captures the essence of the now-shuttered El Pollo Supremo, a beloved taco shop that left an indelible mark on Phoenix's culinary landscape.Tempe Today

El Pollo Supremo, a beloved taco shop in Tempe, Arizona, has closed down. The restaurant was a favorite among local chefs like Nadia Holguin and Armando Hernandez, the owners of Tacos Chiwas, who would frequently stop by for one of their go-to meals. The closure of this 'hidden gem' has saddened the local food community.

Why it matters

El Pollo Supremo represented a unique, independent restaurant that had built a loyal following among the Phoenix culinary scene. Its closure is indicative of the challenges small, family-owned eateries face in an increasingly competitive and volatile restaurant industry, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic.

The details

El Pollo Supremo was located at the corner of Camelback Road in Tempe. The taco shop had developed a reputation as a 'hidden gem' among local chefs and food enthusiasts who appreciated its authentic Mexican fare and welcoming atmosphere. However, the restaurant has now shuttered, leaving a void in the local taco landscape.

  • El Pollo Supremo closed down in March 2026.

The players

Nadia Holguin

Co-owner of Tacos Chiwas, a popular Mexican restaurant in Phoenix.

Armando Hernandez

Co-owner of Tacos Chiwas, a popular Mexican restaurant in Phoenix.

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What they’re saying

“El Pollo Supremo was one of our favorite spots to grab a quick, delicious meal. We're really going to miss that place.”

— Nadia Holguin, Co-owner, Tacos Chiwas

The takeaway

The closure of El Pollo Supremo highlights the challenges facing independent restaurants in the current economic climate, as well as the importance of supporting local food businesses that contribute to the unique character and culinary identity of a community.