Holy Wow! Talk about delicious and a great value! Late on a Sunday night in a VERY small community, a pregnant woman has a craving for chile rellenos. Where are you going to find good Mexican food close by without spending an arm and a leg? Yelp told me Ocho Locos, and boy where they right! We ordered a wide variety of items. Don't be put off by the prices on the ala carte menu, the servings are still huge! We got the Nachos supreme, some chile rellenos, Chicken tacos, a couple quesadillas, sopapillas, and flan since we had a big group to feed. Everything was spot on! It was a take out order, and food was hot and ready exactly when they said it would be, and they even carried it to the car for us. The owner rung up our bill, was courteous and nice. They even threw in free chips and salsa which is rare from other Mexican food places when you make a to-go order. We were impressed with their fresh food, and authentic flavors. The chicken tacos had a fresh mild home made green chile sauce, the rellenos were perfectly fried in a heavenly egg batter and loaded with cheese. The nachos supreme was supreme indeed, the guacamole that came with a few of our items was pure avacado goodness, no lettuce or cheap 'filler' here, just yummy fresh smashed avacado and the perfect amount of seasoning. The desserts were so good as well! The sopapillas should be changed to 'Sopapillas as big as your head' because that's what they were. Like a personal piece of fry bread, they were soft without being too dense, and dusted with the perfect amount of powdered heaven. If I had to say one bad thing about this place, they mixed up my order slightly. I ordered 2 flan, but got 2 tres leches cake instead. I really like tres leche as did everyone else in my party, and their was nothing to scoff at either, except they topped it with whipped topping instead of whipped cream (a personal pet peeve) but really I'm almost nit picking to even point that out since it was still an overall outstanding experience. For a delicious, authentic taste from across the border, make Ocho Locos your next dining experience, and you won't be disappointed!
(5)
Todd H.
Ocho doses of salt, on my Yucatan. This is the saltiest meal I have ever eaten and very same with the cream cheese on the side was so salty that I could not eat it. I love salt but not the whole shaker. Chef is not tasting his/her own food before it leaves the kitchen. They are new and hope they come around. Nice atmosphere but no drink deals after Happy Hour, this is sort of a turn-off for us. Not really willing to go back.
(1)
Melanie C.
Enjoyed dinner here last night. Got the Tio Pancho's Pollo Con Queso, which I've been getting ever since they opened and were "Pinata Nueva." I know they have gone through new management but I am always impressed by the service and food. I have yet to try something there that I didn't enjoy thoroughly. :-)
(5)
Amy H.
Very good Mexican food ( I get the spinach enchiladas) NIce staff, too. Try the cadillac margarita! Missing a star for lack of vegetarian items (including the rice and beans) and not dog friendly despite a patio.
(4)
Terry S.
Muchaco Burrito was so dry I thought we were in the Sahara...Tamale masa dry also. Canned cheese it seems over the enchilada. Taco shell was like leather....definitely was not cooked fresh. Black beans tasted liked regular pinto beans and was sitting in black liquid in a bowl. No spices in them whatsoever. Waitress was just ok. Cost us 35.00 to be running to the bathroom the rest of that night and the next day. I guess people in Phoenix don't know what Mexican food is supposed to taste like. NOt a large waiting area either. Some of the waitesses had such sour puss looks on their faces. We would never ever go there again.
(1)
Linda S.
I'm a native Arizonan who has been eating authentic Mexican food since I was 3 (learned about flour tortillas when I asked my Mom why the man at the next table was eating his napkin.) My husband is Mexican American who learned to cook from his Mother. I think Ocho Locos is trying to be slick when it should just be basic and authentic. That said, we like it and drive from Cave Creek to eat there a couple of times a month. Ocho Locos has many of the same authentic recipes with which La Pinata (19th Ave. and Osborn) has stayed in business since the 70's. Green corn tamales are about the same....yummy. They have tweaked some of the other recipes to adapt to the snowbirds, but most are authentic, but tamed. My husband prefers their Carne Machaca to any in the Phoenix area (for great, go to south 4th in Tucson for Carne Seca, Carne Machaca etc.) The shredded beef tacos had a bit less flavor last visit than usually, but the beans were great as expected. Appetizers are half price at happy hour. They have daily specials at least during the week. I find their prices much better than the Mexican Restaurants in Cave Creek and the food selection better.....of course, the atmosphere at the El Encanto's is better. We have never had service that was exceptionally good or exceptionally bad. Usually the service is about average for area restaurants that are similarly priced.
(4)
Guy P.
Finally had dinner there and I was happy. First order of business, make my wife happy, check. Second make the kids happy, less talk and play means they are actually eating, great. Third, compare food and prices to other Mexican places I've been and ask myself if I would return, definite. Three stars there and now for the fourth. Fourth Star, I took advantage of their Facebook 1/2 off any Margarita, tried the Sangria, I liked it, would have had another, but I drove. Make sure to check their FB for deals. Tried their Tio Pancho, aka Poyo Fundido, and loved it. Would have finished it, but when your 8yr old gives you that "I want it look", of course I have to share. Portions are good. When I was done, I was just right and that is a statement when I'm not interested in desert. Service was friendly, fast, and helpful. I always make it a point to ask what the waiter or waitress preferences are and I was happy with all of Jennifer's suggestions.
(4)
Melissa W.
So the pluses: The manager is great. Very personable. Some of their food is excellent. Their shredded beef enchillada is great. Supreme Nachos fantastic. Minus: It gets really loud when it is packed. It is packed most of the time. Their carne beef tacos are bland.
(3)
Bunny G.
Had lunch there recently and waitress charged & brought out a dinner instead of the lunch special when I was clearly pointing to the lunch tent on the table. Then I was charged $2.50 for Shirley Temple's for the kids but was not aware of the extra charge, assuming it was part of the kids menu drink. Service was super slow and waitress needed to communicate price. Food average. Music TVs too loud. Lunch was almost $40! Ridiculous!
(2)
John O.
Pros: food was excellent at a great price Candles on the table, jazz on the speakers, 6 flat screen tvs, has a happy hour Con: lots of tables in small space, a bit load between music, and normal rest. Noise
(4)
Pity D.
The only time I've ever seen guacamole the Ocho Loco's shade of dark green/brown was once when I left some guac in my fridge for 4-5 days. It doesn't take a CSI lab tech to see that the Ocho Loco served us tasted and looked like it was at least several days old. Which is completely disgusting and 110% unacceptable. Can't say much for the rest of their food... The chicken in their chimi is the most bland, flavor-free anyone in our party has ever had. Anywhere. And the fact that it was dry did not help. I could go on and on about how much everything else we ordered sucked. But I'll spare you. I'll just say that after 4 years and at least 2 dozen different Mexican restaurants in Phoenix, the food at Ocho Locos was the most disappointing. I'd give them 1 star but the service did not warrant it.
(2)
Jennifer S.
Was kind of skeptical after reading the yelp reviews. My fiance and I decided to go in and try dinner there and was extremely surprised. Our hostess and server were amazing and super friendly and on the ball. We had the street tacos and they were delicious!
(5)
Lori F.
SO we have been in Anthem for awhile and have gone to this restaurant many times, even through all the numerous owners. So far we are not thrilled. The food is average and the service is slow. The bar is nice and there is seating outside which is great however not the best mexican food.
(2)
Lisa P.
Tried this place for the first time today! They were pretty slow, no big deal. But with as slow as it was you'd think you'd have lots of attention from your waitress. Not only was our drinks barely refilled. Our waitress was constantly chit chatting with one table in the room who seemed to be her good 'friend'. Customer service I could overlook. The food was ok. Not amazing for the prices charged. My one huge complaint, was that the blonde bartender was standing behind the wall behind me and very loudly was talking about "Fu**ing Mexicans". I was stunned, thought this was a mexican eatery and me being hispanic was incredibly offended. I would rethink the staff at this place and for the pricing probably wouldn't make a return visit.
(1)
Sean W.
Pretty bland and uninspiring! Wife and I ate here one night when we had to be out of the house due to the A/C going out on a very hot day. We thought we would try this place because Mexican food sounded good. It was average. The prices were average, the food was average, the service was below average. I had a combo of a taco and enchilada with machaca (usually a very flavorful meat) - it was pretty blah. My wife had the pollo something - basically a chicken chimi with a cheesey sauce. The chicken was a bit off - she scraped it out and mostly ate the accompanying beans and rice. Given the opportunity, we would probably not go here again. If we want good mexican, we will bite the bullet and leave the Anthem area.
(2)
C H.
The shredded beef and the Machaca beef are flawless; a Mexican restaurant lives or dies by its meat and salsa as I see it. 5 stars for the meat, 3 stars for the salsa, 2 stars for the rice and beans, and 5 stars for the excellent service. There's a full bar here too - bonus! Reasonable prices, free chips & salsa (and free refills), large portions, free soft drink refills, and they have a loyalty program. My husband and I were house hunting in Anthem, AZ and decided to try one of the (few) restaurants in town. Since we have never been able to find decent Mexican food in central CA where we live now (ironic town demo 80% Hispanic), we decided to take a chance on a Phoenix area Mexican restaurant. Ocho Locos served up the best Mexican food meal we've had in 8 years (not counting my home cooking of course). The decor is garish, just as it should be. The host was friendly. The restroom was clean. The salsa could use some doctoring up but we made our way through 2 bowls of the regular salsa and one bowl of spicier salsa (ask for it!) nonetheless. We were served by (I presume) the owner, and we think it is too funny that the proprietor of a Mexican restaurant evidently hails from Boston. We had the Mary Lou as an appetizer and it was so huge that we could have stopped there and felt satisfied. The Mary Lou is a giant flour tortilla that has a bit of cheddar cheese broiled onto it then is stuffed with perfectly tender beef chunks simmered in red chile sauce [in CA we call it Chili Colorado; in AZ they call it Machaca beef.] They fold it over and serve it up quesadilla style. I had a crispy shredded beef taco and it was hands down the best taco I've eaten in my life. The beans were dry and thick and suspiciously orange (canned?); we were eating around 2pm so they probably thickened up over the lunch hour; this is easy to fix and I hope they do. The rice was just fine. My husband had the Machaca beef burrito. It was stuffed to bursting with meat; he loved it. The plates are nicely garnished with hand-shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes. We can't wait to move so we can explore the menu.
(5)
Joan Z.
Yeah!!! Time to celebrate! Pinata Nueva has died and Ocho Locos has risen from the ashes to replace it. This is excellent traditional mexican food with expedient service. Although the chips aren't homemade the salsas are yummy and the mexican pizza is to die for - fresh ingredients and lots of flavor if you choose the shredded beef. Can't wait to go there again.
(4)
Tracy L.
We love mexican food and this place has redeemed itself (from the old "pinatas" restaurant that used to be in this location). The decor and menu are completely different and really good - well priced and the food is tasty. The service was really good, too. Patio looks small - we sat inside. There is a small bar with tv's, if you are looking for that. I would definitely go back - looking forward to it!
(4)
Alan M.
Excellent food and even better service. Our server Mark was outstanding and the manager entertained our kids while we drank our margaritas.
(5)
Gloria P.
If you would like to be treated rudely overcharged and ignored this is the place to go! After we sat down we waited 10 minutes to get anyone to pay attention to us. I flagged down a waiter and asked him for some water. Your server will get that for you he answered in a snarly voice. My friend replied really we been here 10 minutes and haven't seen anyone. I said your server will have to get that for you he snarled. I got up to the bar and asked to speak to the manager who came to the table. When I began to tell her about his treatment she said oh he's only a busboy. I told her I didn't care if he owned the place that was no way to treat a customer. She apologized and asked for a drink order. 10 minutes later my friends Margarita was still not anywhere to be seen. I looked in the bartenders direction with an exasperated look. He pointed at a drink sitting on the bar and pointed back at me I nodded and said yes that would be ours! He brought it over to the table. When the check came we were overcharged by two margaritas. I told I waitress Jennifer who was the only nice thing about the place and she comped my beer. The management did not extend any courtesies no comps and no further apologies for the horrible time we had. Service can make or break a dining experience and this one broke it. Don't hire teenagers with attitudes higher people like Jennifer who go the extra mile and while you're at it at some flavor to your food! You not only lost a few customers tonight I am going to make sure and tell everyone I know about our horrific dining experience! I know I'm not alone since I see many similar comments on Yelp!
(1)
bonne b.
We really enjoy the food here... the only draw back to me is that it is too loud to talk to others in the restaurant. They play old Music Videos on like four TV's and that makes it too loud to talk to anyone beyond those right next to you. But the food is always good and the prices are good!
(4)
Shelly B.
Good Margaritas and nice staff they always make me feel right at home. My favorite plates to order here are the Street Tacos and the Chicken Spinach Enchiladas.
(3)
Jessica P.
Margaritas are awesome! :) Nice and strong. The place is kind of confusing on the atmosphere. I can't tell if they are trying to be trendy, or be Mexican... or both. Food was ok. I cannot have gluten anymore, so when I tried to get the corn tacos, the sauce they use has gluten in it. (fyi for fellow celiacs) The server was helpful regarding this tho in checking with the kitchen. The only thing I could have was a salad, so sadly, I can't rate the food. Hubs had the street tacos... he only got 2 and didn't get any rice and beans with it, thinking that it would come with them automatically. Nope... wrong. This does NOT fill you up... and he was left hungry. He said they were tasty, but wished it came with rice and beans or 3 tacos. FYI... this place will hold funds on your card under a different name... this alarmed me until I realized it was the amount of the bill, less the tip that I added. The final number was labeled under Ochos Locos.
(3)
Andrea B.
Went there the other night, and my husband and I with little one thoroughly enjoyed our visit. Staff was friendly, I can't remember the last time in an Anthem Restaurant a manager stopped by to see if everything was doing well, he seemed genuinely concerned about our enjoyment. A huge plus. I remember the old restaurant and Ocho Locos is leaps and bounds above that one. We will definitely be back. I had the street tacos, yummy. Hubbie had shrimp fajitas, which apparently they only serve on the weekends. (they need this all the time) my only complaint. Daughter has chicken strips and French fries.
(4)
Chad A.
I gotta admit, I'm having trouble with this review. It was a night of averages. We sat down pretty quick, waitress took our drink order fairly quickly (she didn't seem to know their own beer selection). I ordered the Tio's Pollo Con Queso, which was decent, but certainly nothing to rave about. I do have to compliment the pricing, which was very reasonable ($10-$15). I think it's an improvement over the previous place, especially with decor, but it's not somewhere I would go to on a regular basis, but good enough if you live nearby and don't feel like driving.
(3)
Nick R.
My wife and her family love the margaritas here, but only because they are strong. They are but NOT cheap. My chimi was ok. The shrimp fajitas were also just ok. Frozen fairly small shrimp. The options around this area are limited. The chimi (luch portion) 7.99, fajitas 12.99 and two margs each ran $46 bucks. Yikes! If you can, go somewhere else.
(2)
Chris J.
Let me preface this review with the fact that I have never written a restaurant review in my life and I am not a picky eater.... Last night we were staying at a hotel and were just too tired to go out for dinner. So we ordered from Ocho Locos last night through Eat24hours.com (a food delivery service). First of all, there were no forks, knives, or napkins included with the delivery. Second, there was no honey included with the sopapillas and the sopapillas were overcooked to the point that I had to remove the bottom before eating them. The refried beans were so spicy that the bean burrito and extra side of beans never got eaten. And finally the pieces of cake (which were $5.95 for a small/regular size piece of cake...much too expensive) were sloppy soggy messes by the time we got it. The cake never got eaten either. Only one thing was better than a 1 star... the taquitos, which I would give 3 stars. Side note: everything was cold when it arrived; but I don't know if that's the restaurant's fault or the delivery service's fault..so that was not factored into the rating. I spent $65.00 on 2 small taquitos, 1 burrito, 1 cheese crisp, 2 pieces of cake, 1 order of sopapillas, and a small side order of refried beans. If the food had been good, I would have thought, okay, a little expensive, but at lease it was good. But it wasn't even close to good. (FYI, only about $6.00 of the $65.00 was attributed to the delivery service fee).
(1)
John H.
I just had one of the strangest experiences at a restaurant ever. Not busy at all, so we were seated promptly. Christine was our server, and she came over to take our drink order. My daughter asked if she could get a Shirley Temple. Christine didn't hear her, which is fine, but rather than politely asking her to repeat it, she made a grimacing face and said, "Huh!" Ok, not that big a deal right? I would not be writing this or leaving 1 star for that. She took our order and was not exactly pleasant but not terrible. So, about the time we would have expected to get our food, she came over and said she was sorry but she forgot to put our order in and was going to do that right now but forgot what we ordered. (!?) So we ordered again. (Remember, they were not busy.) This entire time, she talked exclusively to my daughter's mom and ignored me. I don't care that much, but it was just weird how she focused so intently on just one person at the table. Our meals came out one at a time (mine last) after several trips. The food: my daughter's mom liked hers fine. But she said no less than 5 times (seriously) that she didn't want any tortillas, and Christine brought them anyway. Again, not a big deal, but WTH. My food was fair at best. Nothing special for sure. Some of my daughter's chicken fingers were so overcooked they were too chewy to eat, and her fries were soggy. To top it off, when Christine brought the check back, she said, "Thanks, have a good night ladies." I looked right at her, and she just said, "sorry again for the delay in your food." I'm a 46 year old guy with very short hair and a goatee. Not easily mistaken for a lady. The mediocre food gets 3 stars, but that server... 1 star at best. Just bizarre - you could even say Loco.
(1)
Alicia S.
Fabulous. We were visiting from out of town and some one recommended this place. I am from Texas, love to cook and pretty particular about my Mexican food. This place was awesome. We caught a late lunch and such around for a happy hour. The food was great....the Margaritas were great..even for a house Margarita, and I usually only drink top shelf. Our service was great as well. Enjoy!!!!
(4)
Alexander G.
This past Sunday, we ordered some items to go: Combination #3 and The Jefe Steak . What a mistake! We nearly ended up at the Hospital, with severe cramps, fever and stomach aches. Really bad! Doubtt it very seriously that we will return.
(1)
Kurt S.
Overpriced, mediocre, Mexican food. Meh... is even being generous. The salsa was from a can/jar. The red sauce beef filling in my wife's quesadilla was VERY bland and my daughter had a $9 bean burrito... Yes, you heard me. A $9 BEAN BURRITO! WTF?! I thought I was sitting in Anthem, not the Strip in Vegas. I had a cheeseburger, thinking that couldn't be done poorly, and they burnt the toasted bun and the burger. In fact, I'm not sure why I was asked how I wanted it, when it became painfully apparent as we smelt it burning from the kitchen, that it was definitely coming out WELL done and not Medium as ordered. Um, Newsflash?! Why didn't you just make another $1 frozen hamburger patty and toast another .50 cent bun for my $10 cheeseburger??? The service meant well, but was not even attentive enough to refill our empty salsa bowl. Also, the TV in the Northwest corner had a serious hue problem since everything was tinted Reddish Orange. For the prices we were being charged, I shouldn't have to watch a crappy TV picture and neither should you. Make sure you face the other way.
(2)
Raquel H.
This place is nice when you walk in and it smells good but the food wasn't as good as I thought it would be. The price for what you get was not worth it. The beans were burnt and had no flavor, the plate was super hot but the rice was just luke warm. The fajitas had a weird taste to them and I am not sure what seasonings were used. The salsa they give you taste like pace which there isn't a problem with pace but I could have gotten that at home. The woman's bathroom is designed for tall people and not very kid friendly. Not somewhere I would come back to. The waitress was very nice and that is the only reason why I am giving it a two instead of 1 star
(2)
Brittany F.
I have been to Ocho a few times. There food is fine, nothing extraordinary. Their salsa is ok, but doesn't taste fresh. Their prices are good if you do the lunch specials, but their regular prices are crazy for the quality or lack there of. A single taco, nothing else (beans or rice) is $5.95. For the taste of the tacos, I would think $4 is pushing it. Without something added to the tacos, they are bland, so you must use the salsa to help the taste. Their beans are fairly tasteless so if you are looking for a protein fix without much flavor, beans are the way to go.
(2)
Cracker E.
Great restaurant! We just moved to the area and this was our 1st experience at a local resturant. The dishes are not authentic mexican but dont let that stop you. Portions were huge and lots of flavor. Homemade quac was a huge hit at our table. The server was extremely helpful and recommended his favorite dishes. Margaritas were so Gooooood we each had 3. Can't wait to go back!
(4)
Art M.
Wow! What a disappointment for this once great place. Food was still acceptable but no football, just really loud, ear splitting music. So loud the customers complaints must not have been heard because it just kept on cranking. The adjacent table left mad.....we left with a headache.
(2)
Robert B.
The food here is disgusting. We had a variety of dishes and none of them were close to being Mexican or American-Mexican cuisine. The service was slow and the tables and floor were dirty. You're better off buying frozen Mexican food at the grocery store or cooking it yourself.
(1)
Lloyd C.
Being so close to Mexico, you'd think Phoenix would have some of the best Mexican food in America. So far I've found much better Mexican food in random places like Denver, Las Vegas and Florida. But I keep searching for some real, authentic Mexican food in my home state. I stumbled upon Ocho Locos thought maybe this is it. Meh. Totally not! Unfortunately this place may be the worst Mexican food on earth. The guacamole at Taco Bell is much better. We've eaten here four times in two years every time thinking we just hit it on a bad day and maybe THIS time it would be better.... Finally decided there is no "better;" it's just as bad every time. From the watery salsa to the guacamole to the overly greasy and salty dishes, I have never had anything (except for their very good frozen margaritas) that is above one star. I've concluded that any rating above one star has got to be from people that think Del Taco and Taco Bell are Mexican food. If this restaurant were in Mexico, Mexican officials would have had it deported years ago.
(1)
Melissa N.
I'm a Mexican food snob, and this place is gooooood! Wonderful green corn tamales and enchiladas. Tacos are shredded beef with homemade shells. Totally recommend!!!
(5)
Carine N.
we've been several times and the food while good-is never consistent. Last night we did have a very nice waitress who saw that in our party of 4 adults we also had a 20 month old-she brought out his food first. Great service. My sister in law and I had the tilapia burritos special-mine was "altered" due to food allergies, but we were both in agreement that it was pretty tasty. the nachos my husband ordered were given w/ a challenge to finish them. don't know how he did it! Our daughter had the taco salad and said it was really good.
(3)
Maryann E.
One star is too many ! This place is horrible Because of the lack of customer service. Never before have I seen such lousy apathetic place. Food is fair at best!!
(1)
Jezibell K.
I can't believe people pay to eat this food. The guacamole actually comes out of a squeeze bag like you buy in the grocery store! Disgusting! After two bites of my salad and my husband taking a couple bites of his burrito, we asked for the manager so we could pay and leave. She said she didn't like the burrito here either! Thankfully she discounted the bill but we will not be going back.
(1)
Laurie B.
I really like the food here, but I'm going to have to rate this place with 1 star due to their kids menu. Their kids taco and cheese enchilada plate are way to spicy for kids. My son is just under 2 and he screamed when he ate the kids cheese enchilada. I tasted the sauce and it was spicy. I asked the waitress for milk. She then had the audacity to tell me that I should order it next time without the sauce. Hey why not a heads up before my kid ate it! So disappointed in this place and the service. Why would you put spicy food on a children's menu?!? And for the record I love spicy food and can't believe that the sauce on my sons enchilada plate was as spicy as it was.
(1)
Jeremiaj G.
We heard about this place from a few people through social media so we decided to give it a try. When we arrived, the place maybe had 8 tables sat. Nothing 3 servers, a busser, and a bartender couldn't handle. We were sat promptly and shortly after the busser brought over some chips and salsa. There was nothing special about the chips, and the salsa was just ok. We waited about 15 minutes for our server to come over to our table. When he finally came over, he asked us for our drink order. After the drinks were delivered, we waited again for our server. This is how our night went with the service. Extremely slow. I'm sure he is a nice guy but he is not a good server. If he was properly trained then he might have a chance. The food was mediocre at best. Nothing special. There could be a lot of potential with this place if it was ran right.
(1)
Ellie D.
We are always pleased w the good and service. Candice , our server was very friendly and attentive. The food is always delish! We keep coming back and never get disappointed. I highly recommend their Chimichanga and fajitas.
(5)
Rob S.
Ally totally rocked tonight! This place is Def worth the stop. Miranda is the best. I'm not a fan of cilantro, so I order the hot sauce. Love it! The ground beef tacos rock! Never have had a bad meal here.
(5)
Gregory B.
Ocho Locos does not participate in Maricopa County Environmental Services Restaurant Ratings -- beware. Do NOT order a martini here. I asked for mine dirty and it arrived filthy! It tasted like 50% olive juice. Disgusting. The spinach enchiladas are truly stuffed with spinach, which is great. Tortillas chips are out of a bag. I've been here three times and service is lackadaisical.
(2)
Scott P.
Hit this spot with my family and dad after visiting the Anthem Farmers Market on Sunday. Either we visited during a perfect alignment of bad luck or it really is systemically flawed on the part of the operators. The place was pretty empty for noon on Sunday. There were 3 covers...the place looks like it seats around 40. Our party of 4 plus my 2-year old were seated immediately. My daughter was given a coloring book page and some well-used crayons in a dirty rubbermaid container. While our family isn't the germaphobe type, communal crayons for toddlers doesn't send a message of sanitation. It took around 15 minutes for our server to take our drink orders and another 10 minutes to return with our waters and ice teas. (The ice tea was slightly tinted tan water with barely enough tea flavor to incite nausea...growing up in Alabama, I'm an ice tea snob.) Our food order was fulfilled in a reasonable amount of time. My entree was a bit spicy for me, but that's pretty subjective. Requisite beans and rice were solid though. Value was pretty low though for what we got. The quality wasn't any better than any other strip mall counter service Mexican joint but prices were about double. After a long wait upon finishing our meals, we were met with an apologetic server who said their computers were down and we could either wait longer or he could write up manual ticket. We were paying cash and I've got to think that's the simplest transaction to process, but he looked supremely at a loss when we opted for the manual ticket option. We finally completed our transaction and left. We were given a 10% off our next visit coupon for our inconvenience. My dad asked rightfully why we couldn't have 10% off this transaction for our current inconvenience...that was met with a vapid stare. Given the benefit of the doubt, it did seem they were shorthanded in the kitchen. We did see another couple walk out because of the long delay. Maybe it was just a bad day or maybe it was a more systemic problem.
(2)
Supperman F.
Food is just ok, usually just luke warm tho. Came with a group of 10 for the last visit, the one child that was in our group didn't get her meal until literally 10 minutes after everyone else. Service was rude and slow, she actually rolled her eyes at one point when a request was made! This place is filled with rookie servers or it's the place burnt out servers who hate their life come to die lol. Probably won't be back, 3 strikes and you're out, lo sientos Ocho!
(2)
Steve C.
My wife and I go to Ocho Locos on a regular basis, mainly because we really like Mexican food and it is the only place open for dinner in Anthem that serves after 5pm. The food is hit or miss. Most nights we like it well enough and other nights it is quite plain. The top shelf margaritas are pretty tasty. We will be back...
(3)
Jeff D.
We arrived on a Saturday afternoon. The place was fairly empty. The atmosphere was nice, but our server seemed like he had better things to do. No eye contact, no smiles. Whatever I guess, onto the food. I had the machaca beef chimichonga, which was really good. My wife has a taco salad. The tortilla bowl it comes in was awesome, but the ground beef was bland, and the lettuce was obviously from one of those bagged salad mixes - you know the kind with dried up shards of carrot and red cabbage. Really? Come on, how hard is it to cut up some fresh lettuce? My daughter had the Carne Asada... not sure what cut of beef that was but it was really tough and had some troubling gristly parts. So all said, our search for really good mexican food in the north valley continues...
(2)
Carlos G.
Mexican not at its best. A Torta is not served on a hamburger bun. You don't make burritos with pita bread. It's the bread that makes it a torta.
(1)
Carrie S.
The guacamole is not fresh/homemade. The rest if the food was pretty good. My hubby got the prime steak fajitas and said it was alright, pretty good. We loved the margaritas we ordered with a small corona bottle in it! Yum. Our waitress was flighty and slow. The atmosphere was fun. The chairs are. It very comfortable. Overall we might be coming back but won't be broke hearted if we don't. Ole!
(3)
Darren W.
Only one good thing is servers are friendly, but not knowledgeable and attentive. All these rest were awful! One of the worst food I have ever had!! They do really need big help from either Restaurant Impossible or Bar Rescue. We wish we be eating next door:(. Yuck!!!!!
(1)
Christie D.
Good food! Tio Panchos Pollo Con Queso is my favorite!!! A little pricey...always get takeout which is ready in 10 min...
(4)
J T.
Live in Anthem and have frequented the place over the past few years. I will not return after the last two visits. Has been a place to sit on the patio after work and unwind with a decent meal. Two visits ago, after having the carne machaca, I felt ill but dismissed it as something other than the meal. After my last visit, I spent the night vomiting up Carne Asada and onions. All night long. Today I'm not able to attend work as I need to have immediate access to sitting on a toilet. It is too bad the place has fallen into this state - not many decent places to grab a meal in Anthem.
(1)
Erin O.
I went with a friend today. We had our girls and thought we would try a small family place instead of the Subway in the same strip mall. Support local businesses right? Mistake. Ordered chicken fingers off kids menu for my little ones to split. Eating too much at 3pm spoils dinner. For $5.95 I got two previously frozen processed chicken finger planks and some crinkle cut fries. Pathetic. Buddy ordered a $4.50 bowl of Kraft Mac and cheese for his kid. Absurd. I ordered a cheeseburger. Cant possibly go wrong with that right? What I got was a previously frozen pattie of tasteless meat that had two slices of barely melted processed cheese on it. Took three bites and sent it back. Waitress seemed offended personally when I said it tasted like garbage. $9.70 for a garbage cheeseburger. Honestly, a Whopper is a better tasting burger. The lettuce was shredded and browned limp iceburg the bun was soggy, etc etc. It was a train-wreck. My friend ordered the chicken fajitas and said they were VERY good. I didn't taste them, but Ill take his word for it. Terrible value. Service was mediocre. (I watched a blonde haired waitress literally twirling her pony tail while she was talking to a table. You cant make this crap up) Their receipts say "Best Mexican food in Anthem." Bullshit. Tighten up your act 8 Crazies. Your food is crap. Your prices are ABSURD. Your reviews here should be a wake up call.
(1)
J D.
We were bar hopping in the area while waiting to pickup our Son from a birthday party...this was our first stop. There's a small bar on the left side of the restaurant where you can saddle up for a few drinks and some grub. I had a couple of glasses of Wine and tried the Chips & Salsa.....not bad. The bar is pretty small, seats about 8-10 people. The restaurant seems cool, woud like to come back and try some food. If we lived closer to Anthem, we would. The bartender was pretty cool....she's from New York and had some great stories to tell. Overall, a pretty cool spot to hangout for a few drinks. Return Factor - 70%
(3)
Dog D.
Great food, friendly staff and cozy outdoor seating! I am a big fan of their combo plates and they always have specials!
(4)
Amanda C.
Having been in Anthem for 7 years and watching this place go through various owners and even before Ocho Locos was here, I've come to the conclusion that this place is cursed. Never have I had a good meal here. My most recent visit involved flies everywhere, and overpriced, mediocre food. I ordered Vegetarian tacos that consisted of a copious amount of guacamole, an equal amount of lettuce, and cheap shredded cheese. (After having to send it back for getting the wrong food.) I took a couple bites and couldn't finish it. I sent my food back and went to Taco Bell.
(1)
Cliff S.
Good Mexican food in Anthem. I love that you get a huge bowl of Salsa, hard to say if hot is better than the original. A little pricey and the Happy Hour leaves a little to be desired... I have not tried the chicken fingers or kids menu, but.... I think adult Mexican food is great. I will be back regularly.
(4)
Ginger O.
WHY does Anthem have such a terrible food scene?! I've been here twice. The first time was alright. Our food took forever. The servers are a "little rough" around the edges, but friendly. The food is overpriced, but the thing I found the most disturbing, was while we're in family friendly Anthem, this place plays rock music which is fine, but it is not censored. I'm sitting there listening to f***k over and over again during multiple songs.
(2)
X Z.
For an Anthem restaurant this place isn't too bad. The food & drinks are good but seemingly a little overpriced. Service is always great. Very loud inside.
(3)
Cheryl L.
Waitress was fabulous. Very friendly and did a good job at her JOB. Which is always a surprise. The food was OK. I dont like shredded chicken. I had a chicken enchilada which was good. The chicken taco I did not like. They deep fry the taco shell and add a TON of shredded iceberg lettuce and cheap shredded cheese. But my 9 year old son liked it. Salsa was very mild...more like tomato sauce. My husband had carnitas and he liked it. Margarita's/cocktails have WAY too much juice/sugar. Price are about $2 too high for what you get. Very loud inside especially for how small it is. We might go back but def wouldn't take out of town gusts there.
(3)
Lisa S.
Service leaves a lot to be desired...margaritas are good...not crazy about the gratuity they add in bill for a party of 6 or more...they get 4 stars for their outrageous, delectable, best I ever had Chile Rellenos. If nothing else try them...oh so good yummy!
(4)
Arlin B.
We went to Ocho Locos in Anthem the other night for dinner. I agree with Holly J on this one. Big improvement over the prior ownership with Pinta Nueva! They are still working out the kinks with their new menu and staff so I'm looking forward to visiting them again soon to see if they deserve a higher rating. They offer a good selection of traditional and American Mexican food. They have a full bar and offer a decent selection of beers on tap. The service was good, not stellar. They redecorated and added some nice HD TV's for sports and concerts. Our meals were good "A-OK" but you can tell they are new, still working out some of the details with delivering excellente Mexican comida or alimento! Will visit again soon. Hope you give them a try next time your in Anthem looking for Mexican.
(3)
Jonathan L.
Went in for a table of three plus a baby. Very helpful weight staff ended up recommending all of our dishes. The Margarita was great. The Mexican food was quite good. I would recommend it as a family friendly, tasty Mexican restaurant.
(5)
Jessica G.
OVERPRICED for what you get on the plate...plus, Mexican food just tastes better when the place plays more "cultural" music is decorated acoordingly
(2)
Terry S.
Muchaco Burrito was so dry I thought we were in the Sahara...Tamale masa dry also. Canned cheese it seems over the enchilada. Taco shell was like leather....definitely was not cooked fresh. Black beans tasted liked regular pinto beans and was sitting in black liquid in a bowl. No spices in them whatsoever. Waitress was just ok. Cost us 35.00 to be running to the bathroom the rest of that night and the next day. I guess people in Phoenix don't know what Mexican food is supposed to taste like. NOt a large waiting area either. Some of the waitesses had such sour puss looks on their faces. We would never ever go there again.
(1)
Alexander G.
This past Sunday, we ordered some items to go: Combination #3 and The Jefe Steak . What a mistake! We nearly ended up at the Hospital, with severe cramps, fever and stomach aches. Really bad! Doubtt it very seriously that we will return.
(1)
Melissa N.
I'm a Mexican food snob, and this place is gooooood! Wonderful green corn tamales and enchiladas. Tacos are shredded beef with homemade shells. Totally recommend!!!
(5)
Supperman F.
Food is just ok, usually just luke warm tho. Came with a group of 10 for the last visit, the one child that was in our group didn't get her meal until literally 10 minutes after everyone else. Service was rude and slow, she actually rolled her eyes at one point when a request was made! This place is filled with rookie servers or it's the place burnt out servers who hate their life come to die lol. Probably won't be back, 3 strikes and you're out, lo sientos Ocho!
(2)
Kurt S.
Overpriced, mediocre, Mexican food. Meh... is even being generous. The salsa was from a can/jar. The red sauce beef filling in my wife's quesadilla was VERY bland and my daughter had a $9 bean burrito... Yes, you heard me. A $9 BEAN BURRITO! WTF?! I thought I was sitting in Anthem, not the Strip in Vegas. I had a cheeseburger, thinking that couldn't be done poorly, and they burnt the toasted bun and the burger. In fact, I'm not sure why I was asked how I wanted it, when it became painfully apparent as we smelt it burning from the kitchen, that it was definitely coming out WELL done and not Medium as ordered. Um, Newsflash?! Why didn't you just make another $1 frozen hamburger patty and toast another .50 cent bun for my $10 cheeseburger??? The service meant well, but was not even attentive enough to refill our empty salsa bowl. Also, the TV in the Northwest corner had a serious hue problem since everything was tinted Reddish Orange. For the prices we were being charged, I shouldn't have to watch a crappy TV picture and neither should you. Make sure you face the other way.
(2)
Raquel H.
This place is nice when you walk in and it smells good but the food wasn't as good as I thought it would be. The price for what you get was not worth it. The beans were burnt and had no flavor, the plate was super hot but the rice was just luke warm. The fajitas had a weird taste to them and I am not sure what seasonings were used. The salsa they give you taste like pace which there isn't a problem with pace but I could have gotten that at home. The woman's bathroom is designed for tall people and not very kid friendly. Not somewhere I would come back to. The waitress was very nice and that is the only reason why I am giving it a two instead of 1 star
(2)
Brittany F.
I have been to Ocho a few times. There food is fine, nothing extraordinary. Their salsa is ok, but doesn't taste fresh. Their prices are good if you do the lunch specials, but their regular prices are crazy for the quality or lack there of. A single taco, nothing else (beans or rice) is $5.95. For the taste of the tacos, I would think $4 is pushing it. Without something added to the tacos, they are bland, so you must use the salsa to help the taste. Their beans are fairly tasteless so if you are looking for a protein fix without much flavor, beans are the way to go.
(2)
Gloria P.
If you would like to be treated rudely overcharged and ignored this is the place to go! After we sat down we waited 10 minutes to get anyone to pay attention to us. I flagged down a waiter and asked him for some water. Your server will get that for you he answered in a snarly voice. My friend replied really we been here 10 minutes and haven't seen anyone. I said your server will have to get that for you he snarled. I got up to the bar and asked to speak to the manager who came to the table. When I began to tell her about his treatment she said oh he's only a busboy. I told her I didn't care if he owned the place that was no way to treat a customer. She apologized and asked for a drink order. 10 minutes later my friends Margarita was still not anywhere to be seen. I looked in the bartenders direction with an exasperated look. He pointed at a drink sitting on the bar and pointed back at me I nodded and said yes that would be ours! He brought it over to the table. When the check came we were overcharged by two margaritas. I told I waitress Jennifer who was the only nice thing about the place and she comped my beer. The management did not extend any courtesies no comps and no further apologies for the horrible time we had. Service can make or break a dining experience and this one broke it. Don't hire teenagers with attitudes higher people like Jennifer who go the extra mile and while you're at it at some flavor to your food! You not only lost a few customers tonight I am going to make sure and tell everyone I know about our horrific dining experience! I know I'm not alone since I see many similar comments on Yelp!
(1)
bonne b.
We really enjoy the food here... the only draw back to me is that it is too loud to talk to others in the restaurant. They play old Music Videos on like four TV's and that makes it too loud to talk to anyone beyond those right next to you. But the food is always good and the prices are good!
(4)
Shelly B.
Good Margaritas and nice staff they always make me feel right at home. My favorite plates to order here are the Street Tacos and the Chicken Spinach Enchiladas.
(3)
Carine N.
we've been several times and the food while good-is never consistent. Last night we did have a very nice waitress who saw that in our party of 4 adults we also had a 20 month old-she brought out his food first. Great service. My sister in law and I had the tilapia burritos special-mine was "altered" due to food allergies, but we were both in agreement that it was pretty tasty. the nachos my husband ordered were given w/ a challenge to finish them. don't know how he did it! Our daughter had the taco salad and said it was really good.
(3)
Maryann E.
One star is too many ! This place is horrible Because of the lack of customer service. Never before have I seen such lousy apathetic place. Food is fair at best!!
(1)
Ginger O.
WHY does Anthem have such a terrible food scene?! I've been here twice. The first time was alright. Our food took forever. The servers are a "little rough" around the edges, but friendly. The food is overpriced, but the thing I found the most disturbing, was while we're in family friendly Anthem, this place plays rock music which is fine, but it is not censored. I'm sitting there listening to f***k over and over again during multiple songs.
(2)
X Z.
For an Anthem restaurant this place isn't too bad. The food & drinks are good but seemingly a little overpriced. Service is always great. Very loud inside.
(3)
John H.
I just had one of the strangest experiences at a restaurant ever. Not busy at all, so we were seated promptly. Christine was our server, and she came over to take our drink order. My daughter asked if she could get a Shirley Temple. Christine didn't hear her, which is fine, but rather than politely asking her to repeat it, she made a grimacing face and said, "Huh!" Ok, not that big a deal right? I would not be writing this or leaving 1 star for that. She took our order and was not exactly pleasant but not terrible. So, about the time we would have expected to get our food, she came over and said she was sorry but she forgot to put our order in and was going to do that right now but forgot what we ordered. (!?) So we ordered again. (Remember, they were not busy.) This entire time, she talked exclusively to my daughter's mom and ignored me. I don't care that much, but it was just weird how she focused so intently on just one person at the table. Our meals came out one at a time (mine last) after several trips. The food: my daughter's mom liked hers fine. But she said no less than 5 times (seriously) that she didn't want any tortillas, and Christine brought them anyway. Again, not a big deal, but WTH. My food was fair at best. Nothing special for sure. Some of my daughter's chicken fingers were so overcooked they were too chewy to eat, and her fries were soggy. To top it off, when Christine brought the check back, she said, "Thanks, have a good night ladies." I looked right at her, and she just said, "sorry again for the delay in your food." I'm a 46 year old guy with very short hair and a goatee. Not easily mistaken for a lady. The mediocre food gets 3 stars, but that server... 1 star at best. Just bizarre - you could even say Loco.
(1)
Alicia S.
Fabulous. We were visiting from out of town and some one recommended this place. I am from Texas, love to cook and pretty particular about my Mexican food. This place was awesome. We caught a late lunch and such around for a happy hour. The food was great....the Margaritas were great..even for a house Margarita, and I usually only drink top shelf. Our service was great as well. Enjoy!!!!
(4)
Lloyd C.
Being so close to Mexico, you'd think Phoenix would have some of the best Mexican food in America. So far I've found much better Mexican food in random places like Denver, Las Vegas and Florida. But I keep searching for some real, authentic Mexican food in my home state. I stumbled upon Ocho Locos thought maybe this is it. Meh. Totally not! Unfortunately this place may be the worst Mexican food on earth. The guacamole at Taco Bell is much better. We've eaten here four times in two years every time thinking we just hit it on a bad day and maybe THIS time it would be better.... Finally decided there is no "better;" it's just as bad every time. From the watery salsa to the guacamole to the overly greasy and salty dishes, I have never had anything (except for their very good frozen margaritas) that is above one star. I've concluded that any rating above one star has got to be from people that think Del Taco and Taco Bell are Mexican food. If this restaurant were in Mexico, Mexican officials would have had it deported years ago.
(1)
Steve C.
My wife and I go to Ocho Locos on a regular basis, mainly because we really like Mexican food and it is the only place open for dinner in Anthem that serves after 5pm. The food is hit or miss. Most nights we like it well enough and other nights it is quite plain. The top shelf margaritas are pretty tasty. We will be back...
(3)
Jeremiaj G.
We heard about this place from a few people through social media so we decided to give it a try. When we arrived, the place maybe had 8 tables sat. Nothing 3 servers, a busser, and a bartender couldn't handle. We were sat promptly and shortly after the busser brought over some chips and salsa. There was nothing special about the chips, and the salsa was just ok. We waited about 15 minutes for our server to come over to our table. When he finally came over, he asked us for our drink order. After the drinks were delivered, we waited again for our server. This is how our night went with the service. Extremely slow. I'm sure he is a nice guy but he is not a good server. If he was properly trained then he might have a chance. The food was mediocre at best. Nothing special. There could be a lot of potential with this place if it was ran right.
(1)
Ellie D.
We are always pleased w the good and service. Candice , our server was very friendly and attentive. The food is always delish! We keep coming back and never get disappointed. I highly recommend their Chimichanga and fajitas.
(5)
Art M.
Wow! What a disappointment for this once great place. Food was still acceptable but no football, just really loud, ear splitting music. So loud the customers complaints must not have been heard because it just kept on cranking. The adjacent table left mad.....we left with a headache.
(2)
Robert B.
The food here is disgusting. We had a variety of dishes and none of them were close to being Mexican or American-Mexican cuisine. The service was slow and the tables and floor were dirty. You're better off buying frozen Mexican food at the grocery store or cooking it yourself.
(1)
Jezibell K.
I can't believe people pay to eat this food. The guacamole actually comes out of a squeeze bag like you buy in the grocery store! Disgusting! After two bites of my salad and my husband taking a couple bites of his burrito, we asked for the manager so we could pay and leave. She said she didn't like the burrito here either! Thankfully she discounted the bill but we will not be going back.
(1)
Laurie B.
I really like the food here, but I'm going to have to rate this place with 1 star due to their kids menu. Their kids taco and cheese enchilada plate are way to spicy for kids. My son is just under 2 and he screamed when he ate the kids cheese enchilada. I tasted the sauce and it was spicy. I asked the waitress for milk. She then had the audacity to tell me that I should order it next time without the sauce. Hey why not a heads up before my kid ate it! So disappointed in this place and the service. Why would you put spicy food on a children's menu?!? And for the record I love spicy food and can't believe that the sauce on my sons enchilada plate was as spicy as it was.
(1)
Rob S.
Ally totally rocked tonight! This place is Def worth the stop. Miranda is the best. I'm not a fan of cilantro, so I order the hot sauce. Love it! The ground beef tacos rock! Never have had a bad meal here.
(5)
Darren W.
Only one good thing is servers are friendly, but not knowledgeable and attentive. All these rest were awful! One of the worst food I have ever had!! They do really need big help from either Restaurant Impossible or Bar Rescue. We wish we be eating next door:(. Yuck!!!!!
(1)
Christie D.
Good food! Tio Panchos Pollo Con Queso is my favorite!!! A little pricey...always get takeout which is ready in 10 min...
(4)
J T.
Live in Anthem and have frequented the place over the past few years. I will not return after the last two visits. Has been a place to sit on the patio after work and unwind with a decent meal. Two visits ago, after having the carne machaca, I felt ill but dismissed it as something other than the meal. After my last visit, I spent the night vomiting up Carne Asada and onions. All night long. Today I'm not able to attend work as I need to have immediate access to sitting on a toilet. It is too bad the place has fallen into this state - not many decent places to grab a meal in Anthem.
(1)
Gregory B.
Ocho Locos does not participate in Maricopa County Environmental Services Restaurant Ratings -- beware. Do NOT order a martini here. I asked for mine dirty and it arrived filthy! It tasted like 50% olive juice. Disgusting. The spinach enchiladas are truly stuffed with spinach, which is great. Tortillas chips are out of a bag. I've been here three times and service is lackadaisical.
(2)
Cracker E.
Great restaurant! We just moved to the area and this was our 1st experience at a local resturant. The dishes are not authentic mexican but dont let that stop you. Portions were huge and lots of flavor. Homemade quac was a huge hit at our table. The server was extremely helpful and recommended his favorite dishes. Margaritas were so Gooooood we each had 3. Can't wait to go back!
(4)
Erin O.
I went with a friend today. We had our girls and thought we would try a small family place instead of the Subway in the same strip mall. Support local businesses right? Mistake. Ordered chicken fingers off kids menu for my little ones to split. Eating too much at 3pm spoils dinner. For $5.95 I got two previously frozen processed chicken finger planks and some crinkle cut fries. Pathetic. Buddy ordered a $4.50 bowl of Kraft Mac and cheese for his kid. Absurd. I ordered a cheeseburger. Cant possibly go wrong with that right? What I got was a previously frozen pattie of tasteless meat that had two slices of barely melted processed cheese on it. Took three bites and sent it back. Waitress seemed offended personally when I said it tasted like garbage. $9.70 for a garbage cheeseburger. Honestly, a Whopper is a better tasting burger. The lettuce was shredded and browned limp iceburg the bun was soggy, etc etc. It was a train-wreck. My friend ordered the chicken fajitas and said they were VERY good. I didn't taste them, but Ill take his word for it. Terrible value. Service was mediocre. (I watched a blonde haired waitress literally twirling her pony tail while she was talking to a table. You cant make this crap up) Their receipts say "Best Mexican food in Anthem." Bullshit. Tighten up your act 8 Crazies. Your food is crap. Your prices are ABSURD. Your reviews here should be a wake up call.
(1)
Jeff D.
We arrived on a Saturday afternoon. The place was fairly empty. The atmosphere was nice, but our server seemed like he had better things to do. No eye contact, no smiles. Whatever I guess, onto the food. I had the machaca beef chimichonga, which was really good. My wife has a taco salad. The tortilla bowl it comes in was awesome, but the ground beef was bland, and the lettuce was obviously from one of those bagged salad mixes - you know the kind with dried up shards of carrot and red cabbage. Really? Come on, how hard is it to cut up some fresh lettuce? My daughter had the Carne Asada... not sure what cut of beef that was but it was really tough and had some troubling gristly parts. So all said, our search for really good mexican food in the north valley continues...
(2)
Carlos G.
Mexican not at its best. A Torta is not served on a hamburger bun. You don't make burritos with pita bread. It's the bread that makes it a torta.
(1)
Carrie S.
The guacamole is not fresh/homemade. The rest if the food was pretty good. My hubby got the prime steak fajitas and said it was alright, pretty good. We loved the margaritas we ordered with a small corona bottle in it! Yum. Our waitress was flighty and slow. The atmosphere was fun. The chairs are. It very comfortable. Overall we might be coming back but won't be broke hearted if we don't. Ole!
(3)
Cheryl L.
Waitress was fabulous. Very friendly and did a good job at her JOB. Which is always a surprise. The food was OK. I dont like shredded chicken. I had a chicken enchilada which was good. The chicken taco I did not like. They deep fry the taco shell and add a TON of shredded iceberg lettuce and cheap shredded cheese. But my 9 year old son liked it. Salsa was very mild...more like tomato sauce. My husband had carnitas and he liked it. Margarita's/cocktails have WAY too much juice/sugar. Price are about $2 too high for what you get. Very loud inside especially for how small it is. We might go back but def wouldn't take out of town gusts there.
(3)
Lisa S.
Service leaves a lot to be desired...margaritas are good...not crazy about the gratuity they add in bill for a party of 6 or more...they get 4 stars for their outrageous, delectable, best I ever had Chile Rellenos. If nothing else try them...oh so good yummy!
(4)
Cliff S.
Good Mexican food in Anthem. I love that you get a huge bowl of Salsa, hard to say if hot is better than the original. A little pricey and the Happy Hour leaves a little to be desired... I have not tried the chicken fingers or kids menu, but.... I think adult Mexican food is great. I will be back regularly.
(4)
Jonathan L.
Went in for a table of three plus a baby. Very helpful weight staff ended up recommending all of our dishes. The Margarita was great. The Mexican food was quite good. I would recommend it as a family friendly, tasty Mexican restaurant.
(5)
Jessica G.
OVERPRICED for what you get on the plate...plus, Mexican food just tastes better when the place plays more "cultural" music is decorated acoordingly
(2)
Nick R.
My wife and her family love the margaritas here, but only because they are strong. They are but NOT cheap. My chimi was ok. The shrimp fajitas were also just ok. Frozen fairly small shrimp. The options around this area are limited. The chimi (luch portion) 7.99, fajitas 12.99 and two margs each ran $46 bucks. Yikes! If you can, go somewhere else.
(2)
Jessica P.
Margaritas are awesome! :) Nice and strong. The place is kind of confusing on the atmosphere. I can't tell if they are trying to be trendy, or be Mexican... or both. Food was ok. I cannot have gluten anymore, so when I tried to get the corn tacos, the sauce they use has gluten in it. (fyi for fellow celiacs) The server was helpful regarding this tho in checking with the kitchen. The only thing I could have was a salad, so sadly, I can't rate the food. Hubs had the street tacos... he only got 2 and didn't get any rice and beans with it, thinking that it would come with them automatically. Nope... wrong. This does NOT fill you up... and he was left hungry. He said they were tasty, but wished it came with rice and beans or 3 tacos. FYI... this place will hold funds on your card under a different name... this alarmed me until I realized it was the amount of the bill, less the tip that I added. The final number was labeled under Ochos Locos.
(3)
Linda S.
I'm a native Arizonan who has been eating authentic Mexican food since I was 3 (learned about flour tortillas when I asked my Mom why the man at the next table was eating his napkin.) My husband is Mexican American who learned to cook from his Mother. I think Ocho Locos is trying to be slick when it should just be basic and authentic. That said, we like it and drive from Cave Creek to eat there a couple of times a month. Ocho Locos has many of the same authentic recipes with which La Pinata (19th Ave. and Osborn) has stayed in business since the 70's. Green corn tamales are about the same....yummy. They have tweaked some of the other recipes to adapt to the snowbirds, but most are authentic, but tamed. My husband prefers their Carne Machaca to any in the Phoenix area (for great, go to south 4th in Tucson for Carne Seca, Carne Machaca etc.) The shredded beef tacos had a bit less flavor last visit than usually, but the beans were great as expected. Appetizers are half price at happy hour. They have daily specials at least during the week. I find their prices much better than the Mexican Restaurants in Cave Creek and the food selection better.....of course, the atmosphere at the El Encanto's is better. We have never had service that was exceptionally good or exceptionally bad. Usually the service is about average for area restaurants that are similarly priced.
(4)
John O.
Pros: food was excellent at a great price Candles on the table, jazz on the speakers, 6 flat screen tvs, has a happy hour Con: lots of tables in small space, a bit load between music, and normal rest. Noise
(4)
Lisa P.
Tried this place for the first time today! They were pretty slow, no big deal. But with as slow as it was you'd think you'd have lots of attention from your waitress. Not only was our drinks barely refilled. Our waitress was constantly chit chatting with one table in the room who seemed to be her good 'friend'. Customer service I could overlook. The food was ok. Not amazing for the prices charged. My one huge complaint, was that the blonde bartender was standing behind the wall behind me and very loudly was talking about "Fu**ing Mexicans". I was stunned, thought this was a mexican eatery and me being hispanic was incredibly offended. I would rethink the staff at this place and for the pricing probably wouldn't make a return visit.
(1)
Sean W.
Pretty bland and uninspiring! Wife and I ate here one night when we had to be out of the house due to the A/C going out on a very hot day. We thought we would try this place because Mexican food sounded good. It was average. The prices were average, the food was average, the service was below average. I had a combo of a taco and enchilada with machaca (usually a very flavorful meat) - it was pretty blah. My wife had the pollo something - basically a chicken chimi with a cheesey sauce. The chicken was a bit off - she scraped it out and mostly ate the accompanying beans and rice. Given the opportunity, we would probably not go here again. If we want good mexican, we will bite the bullet and leave the Anthem area.
(2)
Chris J.
Let me preface this review with the fact that I have never written a restaurant review in my life and I am not a picky eater.... Last night we were staying at a hotel and were just too tired to go out for dinner. So we ordered from Ocho Locos last night through Eat24hours.com (a food delivery service). First of all, there were no forks, knives, or napkins included with the delivery. Second, there was no honey included with the sopapillas and the sopapillas were overcooked to the point that I had to remove the bottom before eating them. The refried beans were so spicy that the bean burrito and extra side of beans never got eaten. And finally the pieces of cake (which were $5.95 for a small/regular size piece of cake...much too expensive) were sloppy soggy messes by the time we got it. The cake never got eaten either. Only one thing was better than a 1 star... the taquitos, which I would give 3 stars. Side note: everything was cold when it arrived; but I don't know if that's the restaurant's fault or the delivery service's fault..so that was not factored into the rating. I spent $65.00 on 2 small taquitos, 1 burrito, 1 cheese crisp, 2 pieces of cake, 1 order of sopapillas, and a small side order of refried beans. If the food had been good, I would have thought, okay, a little expensive, but at lease it was good. But it wasn't even close to good. (FYI, only about $6.00 of the $65.00 was attributed to the delivery service fee).
(1)
Guy P.
Finally had dinner there and I was happy. First order of business, make my wife happy, check. Second make the kids happy, less talk and play means they are actually eating, great. Third, compare food and prices to other Mexican places I've been and ask myself if I would return, definite. Three stars there and now for the fourth. Fourth Star, I took advantage of their Facebook 1/2 off any Margarita, tried the Sangria, I liked it, would have had another, but I drove. Make sure to check their FB for deals. Tried their Tio Pancho, aka Poyo Fundido, and loved it. Would have finished it, but when your 8yr old gives you that "I want it look", of course I have to share. Portions are good. When I was done, I was just right and that is a statement when I'm not interested in desert. Service was friendly, fast, and helpful. I always make it a point to ask what the waiter or waitress preferences are and I was happy with all of Jennifer's suggestions.
(4)
Melissa W.
So the pluses: The manager is great. Very personable. Some of their food is excellent. Their shredded beef enchillada is great. Supreme Nachos fantastic. Minus: It gets really loud when it is packed. It is packed most of the time. Their carne beef tacos are bland.
(3)
Bunny G.
Had lunch there recently and waitress charged & brought out a dinner instead of the lunch special when I was clearly pointing to the lunch tent on the table. Then I was charged $2.50 for Shirley Temple's for the kids but was not aware of the extra charge, assuming it was part of the kids menu drink. Service was super slow and waitress needed to communicate price. Food average. Music TVs too loud. Lunch was almost $40! Ridiculous!
(2)
Pity D.
The only time I've ever seen guacamole the Ocho Loco's shade of dark green/brown was once when I left some guac in my fridge for 4-5 days. It doesn't take a CSI lab tech to see that the Ocho Loco served us tasted and looked like it was at least several days old. Which is completely disgusting and 110% unacceptable. Can't say much for the rest of their food... The chicken in their chimi is the most bland, flavor-free anyone in our party has ever had. Anywhere. And the fact that it was dry did not help. I could go on and on about how much everything else we ordered sucked. But I'll spare you. I'll just say that after 4 years and at least 2 dozen different Mexican restaurants in Phoenix, the food at Ocho Locos was the most disappointing. I'd give them 1 star but the service did not warrant it.
(2)
Jennifer S.
Was kind of skeptical after reading the yelp reviews. My fiance and I decided to go in and try dinner there and was extremely surprised. Our hostess and server were amazing and super friendly and on the ball. We had the street tacos and they were delicious!
(5)
Lori F.
SO we have been in Anthem for awhile and have gone to this restaurant many times, even through all the numerous owners. So far we are not thrilled. The food is average and the service is slow. The bar is nice and there is seating outside which is great however not the best mexican food.
(2)
C H.
The shredded beef and the Machaca beef are flawless; a Mexican restaurant lives or dies by its meat and salsa as I see it. 5 stars for the meat, 3 stars for the salsa, 2 stars for the rice and beans, and 5 stars for the excellent service. There's a full bar here too - bonus! Reasonable prices, free chips & salsa (and free refills), large portions, free soft drink refills, and they have a loyalty program. My husband and I were house hunting in Anthem, AZ and decided to try one of the (few) restaurants in town. Since we have never been able to find decent Mexican food in central CA where we live now (ironic town demo 80% Hispanic), we decided to take a chance on a Phoenix area Mexican restaurant. Ocho Locos served up the best Mexican food meal we've had in 8 years (not counting my home cooking of course). The decor is garish, just as it should be. The host was friendly. The restroom was clean. The salsa could use some doctoring up but we made our way through 2 bowls of the regular salsa and one bowl of spicier salsa (ask for it!) nonetheless. We were served by (I presume) the owner, and we think it is too funny that the proprietor of a Mexican restaurant evidently hails from Boston. We had the Mary Lou as an appetizer and it was so huge that we could have stopped there and felt satisfied. The Mary Lou is a giant flour tortilla that has a bit of cheddar cheese broiled onto it then is stuffed with perfectly tender beef chunks simmered in red chile sauce [in CA we call it Chili Colorado; in AZ they call it Machaca beef.] They fold it over and serve it up quesadilla style. I had a crispy shredded beef taco and it was hands down the best taco I've eaten in my life. The beans were dry and thick and suspiciously orange (canned?); we were eating around 2pm so they probably thickened up over the lunch hour; this is easy to fix and I hope they do. The rice was just fine. My husband had the Machaca beef burrito. It was stuffed to bursting with meat; he loved it. The plates are nicely garnished with hand-shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes. We can't wait to move so we can explore the menu.
(5)
Joan Z.
Yeah!!! Time to celebrate! Pinata Nueva has died and Ocho Locos has risen from the ashes to replace it. This is excellent traditional mexican food with expedient service. Although the chips aren't homemade the salsas are yummy and the mexican pizza is to die for - fresh ingredients and lots of flavor if you choose the shredded beef. Can't wait to go there again.
(4)
Tracy L.
We love mexican food and this place has redeemed itself (from the old "pinatas" restaurant that used to be in this location). The decor and menu are completely different and really good - well priced and the food is tasty. The service was really good, too. Patio looks small - we sat inside. There is a small bar with tv's, if you are looking for that. I would definitely go back - looking forward to it!
(4)
Alan M.
Excellent food and even better service. Our server Mark was outstanding and the manager entertained our kids while we drank our margaritas.
(5)
Amy M.
Holy Wow! Talk about delicious and a great value! Late on a Sunday night in a VERY small community, a pregnant woman has a craving for chile rellenos. Where are you going to find good Mexican food close by without spending an arm and a leg? Yelp told me Ocho Locos, and boy where they right! We ordered a wide variety of items. Don't be put off by the prices on the ala carte menu, the servings are still huge! We got the Nachos supreme, some chile rellenos, Chicken tacos, a couple quesadillas, sopapillas, and flan since we had a big group to feed. Everything was spot on! It was a take out order, and food was hot and ready exactly when they said it would be, and they even carried it to the car for us. The owner rung up our bill, was courteous and nice. They even threw in free chips and salsa which is rare from other Mexican food places when you make a to-go order. We were impressed with their fresh food, and authentic flavors. The chicken tacos had a fresh mild home made green chile sauce, the rellenos were perfectly fried in a heavenly egg batter and loaded with cheese. The nachos supreme was supreme indeed, the guacamole that came with a few of our items was pure avacado goodness, no lettuce or cheap 'filler' here, just yummy fresh smashed avacado and the perfect amount of seasoning. The desserts were so good as well! The sopapillas should be changed to 'Sopapillas as big as your head' because that's what they were. Like a personal piece of fry bread, they were soft without being too dense, and dusted with the perfect amount of powdered heaven. If I had to say one bad thing about this place, they mixed up my order slightly. I ordered 2 flan, but got 2 tres leches cake instead. I really like tres leche as did everyone else in my party, and their was nothing to scoff at either, except they topped it with whipped topping instead of whipped cream (a personal pet peeve) but really I'm almost nit picking to even point that out since it was still an overall outstanding experience. For a delicious, authentic taste from across the border, make Ocho Locos your next dining experience, and you won't be disappointed!
(5)
Todd H.
Ocho doses of salt, on my Yucatan. This is the saltiest meal I have ever eaten and very same with the cream cheese on the side was so salty that I could not eat it. I love salt but not the whole shaker. Chef is not tasting his/her own food before it leaves the kitchen. They are new and hope they come around. Nice atmosphere but no drink deals after Happy Hour, this is sort of a turn-off for us. Not really willing to go back.
(1)
Melanie C.
Enjoyed dinner here last night. Got the Tio Pancho's Pollo Con Queso, which I've been getting ever since they opened and were "Pinata Nueva." I know they have gone through new management but I am always impressed by the service and food. I have yet to try something there that I didn't enjoy thoroughly. :-)
(5)
Amy H.
Very good Mexican food ( I get the spinach enchiladas) NIce staff, too. Try the cadillac margarita! Missing a star for lack of vegetarian items (including the rice and beans) and not dog friendly despite a patio.
(4)
Andrea B.
Went there the other night, and my husband and I with little one thoroughly enjoyed our visit. Staff was friendly, I can't remember the last time in an Anthem Restaurant a manager stopped by to see if everything was doing well, he seemed genuinely concerned about our enjoyment. A huge plus. I remember the old restaurant and Ocho Locos is leaps and bounds above that one. We will definitely be back. I had the street tacos, yummy. Hubbie had shrimp fajitas, which apparently they only serve on the weekends. (they need this all the time) my only complaint. Daughter has chicken strips and French fries.
(4)
Chad A.
I gotta admit, I'm having trouble with this review. It was a night of averages. We sat down pretty quick, waitress took our drink order fairly quickly (she didn't seem to know their own beer selection). I ordered the Tio's Pollo Con Queso, which was decent, but certainly nothing to rave about. I do have to compliment the pricing, which was very reasonable ($10-$15). I think it's an improvement over the previous place, especially with decor, but it's not somewhere I would go to on a regular basis, but good enough if you live nearby and don't feel like driving.
(3)
Scott P.
Hit this spot with my family and dad after visiting the Anthem Farmers Market on Sunday. Either we visited during a perfect alignment of bad luck or it really is systemically flawed on the part of the operators. The place was pretty empty for noon on Sunday. There were 3 covers...the place looks like it seats around 40. Our party of 4 plus my 2-year old were seated immediately. My daughter was given a coloring book page and some well-used crayons in a dirty rubbermaid container. While our family isn't the germaphobe type, communal crayons for toddlers doesn't send a message of sanitation. It took around 15 minutes for our server to take our drink orders and another 10 minutes to return with our waters and ice teas. (The ice tea was slightly tinted tan water with barely enough tea flavor to incite nausea...growing up in Alabama, I'm an ice tea snob.) Our food order was fulfilled in a reasonable amount of time. My entree was a bit spicy for me, but that's pretty subjective. Requisite beans and rice were solid though. Value was pretty low though for what we got. The quality wasn't any better than any other strip mall counter service Mexican joint but prices were about double. After a long wait upon finishing our meals, we were met with an apologetic server who said their computers were down and we could either wait longer or he could write up manual ticket. We were paying cash and I've got to think that's the simplest transaction to process, but he looked supremely at a loss when we opted for the manual ticket option. We finally completed our transaction and left. We were given a 10% off our next visit coupon for our inconvenience. My dad asked rightfully why we couldn't have 10% off this transaction for our current inconvenience...that was met with a vapid stare. Given the benefit of the doubt, it did seem they were shorthanded in the kitchen. We did see another couple walk out because of the long delay. Maybe it was just a bad day or maybe it was a more systemic problem.
(2)
J D.
We were bar hopping in the area while waiting to pickup our Son from a birthday party...this was our first stop. There's a small bar on the left side of the restaurant where you can saddle up for a few drinks and some grub. I had a couple of glasses of Wine and tried the Chips & Salsa.....not bad. The bar is pretty small, seats about 8-10 people. The restaurant seems cool, woud like to come back and try some food. If we lived closer to Anthem, we would. The bartender was pretty cool....she's from New York and had some great stories to tell. Overall, a pretty cool spot to hangout for a few drinks. Return Factor - 70%
(3)
Dog D.
Great food, friendly staff and cozy outdoor seating! I am a big fan of their combo plates and they always have specials!
(4)
Arlin B.
We went to Ocho Locos in Anthem the other night for dinner. I agree with Holly J on this one. Big improvement over the prior ownership with Pinta Nueva! They are still working out the kinks with their new menu and staff so I'm looking forward to visiting them again soon to see if they deserve a higher rating. They offer a good selection of traditional and American Mexican food. They have a full bar and offer a decent selection of beers on tap. The service was good, not stellar. They redecorated and added some nice HD TV's for sports and concerts. Our meals were good "A-OK" but you can tell they are new, still working out some of the details with delivering excellente Mexican comida or alimento! Will visit again soon. Hope you give them a try next time your in Anthem looking for Mexican.
(3)
Amanda C.
Having been in Anthem for 7 years and watching this place go through various owners and even before Ocho Locos was here, I've come to the conclusion that this place is cursed. Never have I had a good meal here. My most recent visit involved flies everywhere, and overpriced, mediocre food. I ordered Vegetarian tacos that consisted of a copious amount of guacamole, an equal amount of lettuce, and cheap shredded cheese. (After having to send it back for getting the wrong food.) I took a couple bites and couldn't finish it. I sent my food back and went to Taco Bell.
(1)
Carine N.
we've been several times and the food while good-is never consistent. Last night we did have a very nice waitress who saw that in our party of 4 adults we also had a 20 month old-she brought out his food first. Great service. My sister in law and I had the tilapia burritos special-mine was "altered" due to food allergies, but we were both in agreement that it was pretty tasty. the nachos my husband ordered were given w/ a challenge to finish them. don't know how he did it! Our daughter had the taco salad and said it was really good.
(3)
Maryann E.
One star is too many ! This place is horrible Because of the lack of customer service. Never before have I seen such lousy apathetic place. Food is fair at best!!
(1)
Alexander G.
This past Sunday, we ordered some items to go: Combination #3 and The Jefe Steak . What a mistake! We nearly ended up at the Hospital, with severe cramps, fever and stomach aches. Really bad! Doubtt it very seriously that we will return.
(1)
Raquel H.
This place is nice when you walk in and it smells good but the food wasn't as good as I thought it would be. The price for what you get was not worth it. The beans were burnt and had no flavor, the plate was super hot but the rice was just luke warm. The fajitas had a weird taste to them and I am not sure what seasonings were used. The salsa they give you taste like pace which there isn't a problem with pace but I could have gotten that at home. The woman's bathroom is designed for tall people and not very kid friendly. Not somewhere I would come back to. The waitress was very nice and that is the only reason why I am giving it a two instead of 1 star
(2)
John H.
I just had one of the strangest experiences at a restaurant ever. Not busy at all, so we were seated promptly. Christine was our server, and she came over to take our drink order. My daughter asked if she could get a Shirley Temple. Christine didn't hear her, which is fine, but rather than politely asking her to repeat it, she made a grimacing face and said, "Huh!" Ok, not that big a deal right? I would not be writing this or leaving 1 star for that. She took our order and was not exactly pleasant but not terrible. So, about the time we would have expected to get our food, she came over and said she was sorry but she forgot to put our order in and was going to do that right now but forgot what we ordered. (!?) So we ordered again. (Remember, they were not busy.) This entire time, she talked exclusively to my daughter's mom and ignored me. I don't care that much, but it was just weird how she focused so intently on just one person at the table. Our meals came out one at a time (mine last) after several trips. The food: my daughter's mom liked hers fine. But she said no less than 5 times (seriously) that she didn't want any tortillas, and Christine brought them anyway. Again, not a big deal, but WTH. My food was fair at best. Nothing special for sure. Some of my daughter's chicken fingers were so overcooked they were too chewy to eat, and her fries were soggy. To top it off, when Christine brought the check back, she said, "Thanks, have a good night ladies." I looked right at her, and she just said, "sorry again for the delay in your food." I'm a 46 year old guy with very short hair and a goatee. Not easily mistaken for a lady. The mediocre food gets 3 stars, but that server... 1 star at best. Just bizarre - you could even say Loco.
(1)
Alicia S.
Fabulous. We were visiting from out of town and some one recommended this place. I am from Texas, love to cook and pretty particular about my Mexican food. This place was awesome. We caught a late lunch and such around for a happy hour. The food was great....the Margaritas were great..even for a house Margarita, and I usually only drink top shelf. Our service was great as well. Enjoy!!!!
(4)
Steve C.
My wife and I go to Ocho Locos on a regular basis, mainly because we really like Mexican food and it is the only place open for dinner in Anthem that serves after 5pm. The food is hit or miss. Most nights we like it well enough and other nights it is quite plain. The top shelf margaritas are pretty tasty. We will be back...
(3)
J T.
Live in Anthem and have frequented the place over the past few years. I will not return after the last two visits. Has been a place to sit on the patio after work and unwind with a decent meal. Two visits ago, after having the carne machaca, I felt ill but dismissed it as something other than the meal. After my last visit, I spent the night vomiting up Carne Asada and onions. All night long. Today I'm not able to attend work as I need to have immediate access to sitting on a toilet. It is too bad the place has fallen into this state - not many decent places to grab a meal in Anthem.
(1)
Kurt S.
Overpriced, mediocre, Mexican food. Meh... is even being generous. The salsa was from a can/jar. The red sauce beef filling in my wife's quesadilla was VERY bland and my daughter had a $9 bean burrito... Yes, you heard me. A $9 BEAN BURRITO! WTF?! I thought I was sitting in Anthem, not the Strip in Vegas. I had a cheeseburger, thinking that couldn't be done poorly, and they burnt the toasted bun and the burger. In fact, I'm not sure why I was asked how I wanted it, when it became painfully apparent as we smelt it burning from the kitchen, that it was definitely coming out WELL done and not Medium as ordered. Um, Newsflash?! Why didn't you just make another $1 frozen hamburger patty and toast another .50 cent bun for my $10 cheeseburger??? The service meant well, but was not even attentive enough to refill our empty salsa bowl. Also, the TV in the Northwest corner had a serious hue problem since everything was tinted Reddish Orange. For the prices we were being charged, I shouldn't have to watch a crappy TV picture and neither should you. Make sure you face the other way.
(2)
Brittany F.
I have been to Ocho a few times. There food is fine, nothing extraordinary. Their salsa is ok, but doesn't taste fresh. Their prices are good if you do the lunch specials, but their regular prices are crazy for the quality or lack there of. A single taco, nothing else (beans or rice) is $5.95. For the taste of the tacos, I would think $4 is pushing it. Without something added to the tacos, they are bland, so you must use the salsa to help the taste. Their beans are fairly tasteless so if you are looking for a protein fix without much flavor, beans are the way to go.
(2)
Lloyd C.
Being so close to Mexico, you'd think Phoenix would have some of the best Mexican food in America. So far I've found much better Mexican food in random places like Denver, Las Vegas and Florida. But I keep searching for some real, authentic Mexican food in my home state. I stumbled upon Ocho Locos thought maybe this is it. Meh. Totally not! Unfortunately this place may be the worst Mexican food on earth. The guacamole at Taco Bell is much better. We've eaten here four times in two years every time thinking we just hit it on a bad day and maybe THIS time it would be better.... Finally decided there is no "better;" it's just as bad every time. From the watery salsa to the guacamole to the overly greasy and salty dishes, I have never had anything (except for their very good frozen margaritas) that is above one star. I've concluded that any rating above one star has got to be from people that think Del Taco and Taco Bell are Mexican food. If this restaurant were in Mexico, Mexican officials would have had it deported years ago.
(1)
Melissa N.
I'm a Mexican food snob, and this place is gooooood! Wonderful green corn tamales and enchiladas. Tacos are shredded beef with homemade shells. Totally recommend!!!
(5)
Supperman F.
Food is just ok, usually just luke warm tho. Came with a group of 10 for the last visit, the one child that was in our group didn't get her meal until literally 10 minutes after everyone else. Service was rude and slow, she actually rolled her eyes at one point when a request was made! This place is filled with rookie servers or it's the place burnt out servers who hate their life come to die lol. Probably won't be back, 3 strikes and you're out, lo sientos Ocho!
(2)
Terry S.
Muchaco Burrito was so dry I thought we were in the Sahara...Tamale masa dry also. Canned cheese it seems over the enchilada. Taco shell was like leather....definitely was not cooked fresh. Black beans tasted liked regular pinto beans and was sitting in black liquid in a bowl. No spices in them whatsoever. Waitress was just ok. Cost us 35.00 to be running to the bathroom the rest of that night and the next day. I guess people in Phoenix don't know what Mexican food is supposed to taste like. NOt a large waiting area either. Some of the waitesses had such sour puss looks on their faces. We would never ever go there again.
(1)
Melanie C.
Enjoyed dinner here last night. Got the Tio Pancho's Pollo Con Queso, which I've been getting ever since they opened and were "Pinata Nueva." I know they have gone through new management but I am always impressed by the service and food. I have yet to try something there that I didn't enjoy thoroughly. :-)
(5)
Amy H.
Very good Mexican food ( I get the spinach enchiladas) NIce staff, too. Try the cadillac margarita! Missing a star for lack of vegetarian items (including the rice and beans) and not dog friendly despite a patio.
(4)
Andrea B.
Went there the other night, and my husband and I with little one thoroughly enjoyed our visit. Staff was friendly, I can't remember the last time in an Anthem Restaurant a manager stopped by to see if everything was doing well, he seemed genuinely concerned about our enjoyment. A huge plus. I remember the old restaurant and Ocho Locos is leaps and bounds above that one. We will definitely be back. I had the street tacos, yummy. Hubbie had shrimp fajitas, which apparently they only serve on the weekends. (they need this all the time) my only complaint. Daughter has chicken strips and French fries.
(4)
Chad A.
I gotta admit, I'm having trouble with this review. It was a night of averages. We sat down pretty quick, waitress took our drink order fairly quickly (she didn't seem to know their own beer selection). I ordered the Tio's Pollo Con Queso, which was decent, but certainly nothing to rave about. I do have to compliment the pricing, which was very reasonable ($10-$15). I think it's an improvement over the previous place, especially with decor, but it's not somewhere I would go to on a regular basis, but good enough if you live nearby and don't feel like driving.
(3)
Gloria P.
If you would like to be treated rudely overcharged and ignored this is the place to go! After we sat down we waited 10 minutes to get anyone to pay attention to us. I flagged down a waiter and asked him for some water. Your server will get that for you he answered in a snarly voice. My friend replied really we been here 10 minutes and haven't seen anyone. I said your server will have to get that for you he snarled. I got up to the bar and asked to speak to the manager who came to the table. When I began to tell her about his treatment she said oh he's only a busboy. I told her I didn't care if he owned the place that was no way to treat a customer. She apologized and asked for a drink order. 10 minutes later my friends Margarita was still not anywhere to be seen. I looked in the bartenders direction with an exasperated look. He pointed at a drink sitting on the bar and pointed back at me I nodded and said yes that would be ours! He brought it over to the table. When the check came we were overcharged by two margaritas. I told I waitress Jennifer who was the only nice thing about the place and she comped my beer. The management did not extend any courtesies no comps and no further apologies for the horrible time we had. Service can make or break a dining experience and this one broke it. Don't hire teenagers with attitudes higher people like Jennifer who go the extra mile and while you're at it at some flavor to your food! You not only lost a few customers tonight I am going to make sure and tell everyone I know about our horrific dining experience! I know I'm not alone since I see many similar comments on Yelp!
(1)
bonne b.
We really enjoy the food here... the only draw back to me is that it is too loud to talk to others in the restaurant. They play old Music Videos on like four TV's and that makes it too loud to talk to anyone beyond those right next to you. But the food is always good and the prices are good!
(4)
Shelly B.
Good Margaritas and nice staff they always make me feel right at home. My favorite plates to order here are the Street Tacos and the Chicken Spinach Enchiladas.
(3)
Nick R.
My wife and her family love the margaritas here, but only because they are strong. They are but NOT cheap. My chimi was ok. The shrimp fajitas were also just ok. Frozen fairly small shrimp. The options around this area are limited. The chimi (luch portion) 7.99, fajitas 12.99 and two margs each ran $46 bucks. Yikes! If you can, go somewhere else.
(2)
Jessica P.
Margaritas are awesome! :) Nice and strong. The place is kind of confusing on the atmosphere. I can't tell if they are trying to be trendy, or be Mexican... or both. Food was ok. I cannot have gluten anymore, so when I tried to get the corn tacos, the sauce they use has gluten in it. (fyi for fellow celiacs) The server was helpful regarding this tho in checking with the kitchen. The only thing I could have was a salad, so sadly, I can't rate the food. Hubs had the street tacos... he only got 2 and didn't get any rice and beans with it, thinking that it would come with them automatically. Nope... wrong. This does NOT fill you up... and he was left hungry. He said they were tasty, but wished it came with rice and beans or 3 tacos. FYI... this place will hold funds on your card under a different name... this alarmed me until I realized it was the amount of the bill, less the tip that I added. The final number was labeled under Ochos Locos.
(3)
Linda S.
I'm a native Arizonan who has been eating authentic Mexican food since I was 3 (learned about flour tortillas when I asked my Mom why the man at the next table was eating his napkin.) My husband is Mexican American who learned to cook from his Mother. I think Ocho Locos is trying to be slick when it should just be basic and authentic. That said, we like it and drive from Cave Creek to eat there a couple of times a month. Ocho Locos has many of the same authentic recipes with which La Pinata (19th Ave. and Osborn) has stayed in business since the 70's. Green corn tamales are about the same....yummy. They have tweaked some of the other recipes to adapt to the snowbirds, but most are authentic, but tamed. My husband prefers their Carne Machaca to any in the Phoenix area (for great, go to south 4th in Tucson for Carne Seca, Carne Machaca etc.) The shredded beef tacos had a bit less flavor last visit than usually, but the beans were great as expected. Appetizers are half price at happy hour. They have daily specials at least during the week. I find their prices much better than the Mexican Restaurants in Cave Creek and the food selection better.....of course, the atmosphere at the El Encanto's is better. We have never had service that was exceptionally good or exceptionally bad. Usually the service is about average for area restaurants that are similarly priced.
(4)
Guy P.
Finally had dinner there and I was happy. First order of business, make my wife happy, check. Second make the kids happy, less talk and play means they are actually eating, great. Third, compare food and prices to other Mexican places I've been and ask myself if I would return, definite. Three stars there and now for the fourth. Fourth Star, I took advantage of their Facebook 1/2 off any Margarita, tried the Sangria, I liked it, would have had another, but I drove. Make sure to check their FB for deals. Tried their Tio Pancho, aka Poyo Fundido, and loved it. Would have finished it, but when your 8yr old gives you that "I want it look", of course I have to share. Portions are good. When I was done, I was just right and that is a statement when I'm not interested in desert. Service was friendly, fast, and helpful. I always make it a point to ask what the waiter or waitress preferences are and I was happy with all of Jennifer's suggestions.
(4)
Melissa W.
So the pluses: The manager is great. Very personable. Some of their food is excellent. Their shredded beef enchillada is great. Supreme Nachos fantastic. Minus: It gets really loud when it is packed. It is packed most of the time. Their carne beef tacos are bland.
(3)
Bunny G.
Had lunch there recently and waitress charged & brought out a dinner instead of the lunch special when I was clearly pointing to the lunch tent on the table. Then I was charged $2.50 for Shirley Temple's for the kids but was not aware of the extra charge, assuming it was part of the kids menu drink. Service was super slow and waitress needed to communicate price. Food average. Music TVs too loud. Lunch was almost $40! Ridiculous!
(2)
John O.
Pros: food was excellent at a great price Candles on the table, jazz on the speakers, 6 flat screen tvs, has a happy hour Con: lots of tables in small space, a bit load between music, and normal rest. Noise
(4)
Pity D.
The only time I've ever seen guacamole the Ocho Loco's shade of dark green/brown was once when I left some guac in my fridge for 4-5 days. It doesn't take a CSI lab tech to see that the Ocho Loco served us tasted and looked like it was at least several days old. Which is completely disgusting and 110% unacceptable. Can't say much for the rest of their food... The chicken in their chimi is the most bland, flavor-free anyone in our party has ever had. Anywhere. And the fact that it was dry did not help. I could go on and on about how much everything else we ordered sucked. But I'll spare you. I'll just say that after 4 years and at least 2 dozen different Mexican restaurants in Phoenix, the food at Ocho Locos was the most disappointing. I'd give them 1 star but the service did not warrant it.
(2)
Jennifer S.
Was kind of skeptical after reading the yelp reviews. My fiance and I decided to go in and try dinner there and was extremely surprised. Our hostess and server were amazing and super friendly and on the ball. We had the street tacos and they were delicious!
(5)
Lori F.
SO we have been in Anthem for awhile and have gone to this restaurant many times, even through all the numerous owners. So far we are not thrilled. The food is average and the service is slow. The bar is nice and there is seating outside which is great however not the best mexican food.
(2)
Lisa P.
Tried this place for the first time today! They were pretty slow, no big deal. But with as slow as it was you'd think you'd have lots of attention from your waitress. Not only was our drinks barely refilled. Our waitress was constantly chit chatting with one table in the room who seemed to be her good 'friend'. Customer service I could overlook. The food was ok. Not amazing for the prices charged. My one huge complaint, was that the blonde bartender was standing behind the wall behind me and very loudly was talking about "Fu**ing Mexicans". I was stunned, thought this was a mexican eatery and me being hispanic was incredibly offended. I would rethink the staff at this place and for the pricing probably wouldn't make a return visit.
(1)
Sean W.
Pretty bland and uninspiring! Wife and I ate here one night when we had to be out of the house due to the A/C going out on a very hot day. We thought we would try this place because Mexican food sounded good. It was average. The prices were average, the food was average, the service was below average. I had a combo of a taco and enchilada with machaca (usually a very flavorful meat) - it was pretty blah. My wife had the pollo something - basically a chicken chimi with a cheesey sauce. The chicken was a bit off - she scraped it out and mostly ate the accompanying beans and rice. Given the opportunity, we would probably not go here again. If we want good mexican, we will bite the bullet and leave the Anthem area.
(2)
C H.
The shredded beef and the Machaca beef are flawless; a Mexican restaurant lives or dies by its meat and salsa as I see it. 5 stars for the meat, 3 stars for the salsa, 2 stars for the rice and beans, and 5 stars for the excellent service. There's a full bar here too - bonus! Reasonable prices, free chips & salsa (and free refills), large portions, free soft drink refills, and they have a loyalty program. My husband and I were house hunting in Anthem, AZ and decided to try one of the (few) restaurants in town. Since we have never been able to find decent Mexican food in central CA where we live now (ironic town demo 80% Hispanic), we decided to take a chance on a Phoenix area Mexican restaurant. Ocho Locos served up the best Mexican food meal we've had in 8 years (not counting my home cooking of course). The decor is garish, just as it should be. The host was friendly. The restroom was clean. The salsa could use some doctoring up but we made our way through 2 bowls of the regular salsa and one bowl of spicier salsa (ask for it!) nonetheless. We were served by (I presume) the owner, and we think it is too funny that the proprietor of a Mexican restaurant evidently hails from Boston. We had the Mary Lou as an appetizer and it was so huge that we could have stopped there and felt satisfied. The Mary Lou is a giant flour tortilla that has a bit of cheddar cheese broiled onto it then is stuffed with perfectly tender beef chunks simmered in red chile sauce [in CA we call it Chili Colorado; in AZ they call it Machaca beef.] They fold it over and serve it up quesadilla style. I had a crispy shredded beef taco and it was hands down the best taco I've eaten in my life. The beans were dry and thick and suspiciously orange (canned?); we were eating around 2pm so they probably thickened up over the lunch hour; this is easy to fix and I hope they do. The rice was just fine. My husband had the Machaca beef burrito. It was stuffed to bursting with meat; he loved it. The plates are nicely garnished with hand-shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes. We can't wait to move so we can explore the menu.
(5)
Joan Z.
Yeah!!! Time to celebrate! Pinata Nueva has died and Ocho Locos has risen from the ashes to replace it. This is excellent traditional mexican food with expedient service. Although the chips aren't homemade the salsas are yummy and the mexican pizza is to die for - fresh ingredients and lots of flavor if you choose the shredded beef. Can't wait to go there again.
(4)
Tracy L.
We love mexican food and this place has redeemed itself (from the old "pinatas" restaurant that used to be in this location). The decor and menu are completely different and really good - well priced and the food is tasty. The service was really good, too. Patio looks small - we sat inside. There is a small bar with tv's, if you are looking for that. I would definitely go back - looking forward to it!
(4)
Alan M.
Excellent food and even better service. Our server Mark was outstanding and the manager entertained our kids while we drank our margaritas.
(5)
Amy M.
Holy Wow! Talk about delicious and a great value! Late on a Sunday night in a VERY small community, a pregnant woman has a craving for chile rellenos. Where are you going to find good Mexican food close by without spending an arm and a leg? Yelp told me Ocho Locos, and boy where they right! We ordered a wide variety of items. Don't be put off by the prices on the ala carte menu, the servings are still huge! We got the Nachos supreme, some chile rellenos, Chicken tacos, a couple quesadillas, sopapillas, and flan since we had a big group to feed. Everything was spot on! It was a take out order, and food was hot and ready exactly when they said it would be, and they even carried it to the car for us. The owner rung up our bill, was courteous and nice. They even threw in free chips and salsa which is rare from other Mexican food places when you make a to-go order. We were impressed with their fresh food, and authentic flavors. The chicken tacos had a fresh mild home made green chile sauce, the rellenos were perfectly fried in a heavenly egg batter and loaded with cheese. The nachos supreme was supreme indeed, the guacamole that came with a few of our items was pure avacado goodness, no lettuce or cheap 'filler' here, just yummy fresh smashed avacado and the perfect amount of seasoning. The desserts were so good as well! The sopapillas should be changed to 'Sopapillas as big as your head' because that's what they were. Like a personal piece of fry bread, they were soft without being too dense, and dusted with the perfect amount of powdered heaven. If I had to say one bad thing about this place, they mixed up my order slightly. I ordered 2 flan, but got 2 tres leches cake instead. I really like tres leche as did everyone else in my party, and their was nothing to scoff at either, except they topped it with whipped topping instead of whipped cream (a personal pet peeve) but really I'm almost nit picking to even point that out since it was still an overall outstanding experience. For a delicious, authentic taste from across the border, make Ocho Locos your next dining experience, and you won't be disappointed!
(5)
Todd H.
Ocho doses of salt, on my Yucatan. This is the saltiest meal I have ever eaten and very same with the cream cheese on the side was so salty that I could not eat it. I love salt but not the whole shaker. Chef is not tasting his/her own food before it leaves the kitchen. They are new and hope they come around. Nice atmosphere but no drink deals after Happy Hour, this is sort of a turn-off for us. Not really willing to go back.
(1)
Chris J.
Let me preface this review with the fact that I have never written a restaurant review in my life and I am not a picky eater.... Last night we were staying at a hotel and were just too tired to go out for dinner. So we ordered from Ocho Locos last night through Eat24hours.com (a food delivery service). First of all, there were no forks, knives, or napkins included with the delivery. Second, there was no honey included with the sopapillas and the sopapillas were overcooked to the point that I had to remove the bottom before eating them. The refried beans were so spicy that the bean burrito and extra side of beans never got eaten. And finally the pieces of cake (which were $5.95 for a small/regular size piece of cake...much too expensive) were sloppy soggy messes by the time we got it. The cake never got eaten either. Only one thing was better than a 1 star... the taquitos, which I would give 3 stars. Side note: everything was cold when it arrived; but I don't know if that's the restaurant's fault or the delivery service's fault..so that was not factored into the rating. I spent $65.00 on 2 small taquitos, 1 burrito, 1 cheese crisp, 2 pieces of cake, 1 order of sopapillas, and a small side order of refried beans. If the food had been good, I would have thought, okay, a little expensive, but at lease it was good. But it wasn't even close to good. (FYI, only about $6.00 of the $65.00 was attributed to the delivery service fee).
(1)
Jeremiaj G.
We heard about this place from a few people through social media so we decided to give it a try. When we arrived, the place maybe had 8 tables sat. Nothing 3 servers, a busser, and a bartender couldn't handle. We were sat promptly and shortly after the busser brought over some chips and salsa. There was nothing special about the chips, and the salsa was just ok. We waited about 15 minutes for our server to come over to our table. When he finally came over, he asked us for our drink order. After the drinks were delivered, we waited again for our server. This is how our night went with the service. Extremely slow. I'm sure he is a nice guy but he is not a good server. If he was properly trained then he might have a chance. The food was mediocre at best. Nothing special. There could be a lot of potential with this place if it was ran right.
(1)
Ellie D.
We are always pleased w the good and service. Candice , our server was very friendly and attentive. The food is always delish! We keep coming back and never get disappointed. I highly recommend their Chimichanga and fajitas.
(5)
Art M.
Wow! What a disappointment for this once great place. Food was still acceptable but no football, just really loud, ear splitting music. So loud the customers complaints must not have been heard because it just kept on cranking. The adjacent table left mad.....we left with a headache.
(2)
Robert B.
The food here is disgusting. We had a variety of dishes and none of them were close to being Mexican or American-Mexican cuisine. The service was slow and the tables and floor were dirty. You're better off buying frozen Mexican food at the grocery store or cooking it yourself.
(1)
Jezibell K.
I can't believe people pay to eat this food. The guacamole actually comes out of a squeeze bag like you buy in the grocery store! Disgusting! After two bites of my salad and my husband taking a couple bites of his burrito, we asked for the manager so we could pay and leave. She said she didn't like the burrito here either! Thankfully she discounted the bill but we will not be going back.
(1)
Laurie B.
I really like the food here, but I'm going to have to rate this place with 1 star due to their kids menu. Their kids taco and cheese enchilada plate are way to spicy for kids. My son is just under 2 and he screamed when he ate the kids cheese enchilada. I tasted the sauce and it was spicy. I asked the waitress for milk. She then had the audacity to tell me that I should order it next time without the sauce. Hey why not a heads up before my kid ate it! So disappointed in this place and the service. Why would you put spicy food on a children's menu?!? And for the record I love spicy food and can't believe that the sauce on my sons enchilada plate was as spicy as it was.
(1)
Rob S.
Ally totally rocked tonight! This place is Def worth the stop. Miranda is the best. I'm not a fan of cilantro, so I order the hot sauce. Love it! The ground beef tacos rock! Never have had a bad meal here.
(5)
Erin O.
I went with a friend today. We had our girls and thought we would try a small family place instead of the Subway in the same strip mall. Support local businesses right? Mistake. Ordered chicken fingers off kids menu for my little ones to split. Eating too much at 3pm spoils dinner. For $5.95 I got two previously frozen processed chicken finger planks and some crinkle cut fries. Pathetic. Buddy ordered a $4.50 bowl of Kraft Mac and cheese for his kid. Absurd. I ordered a cheeseburger. Cant possibly go wrong with that right? What I got was a previously frozen pattie of tasteless meat that had two slices of barely melted processed cheese on it. Took three bites and sent it back. Waitress seemed offended personally when I said it tasted like garbage. $9.70 for a garbage cheeseburger. Honestly, a Whopper is a better tasting burger. The lettuce was shredded and browned limp iceburg the bun was soggy, etc etc. It was a train-wreck. My friend ordered the chicken fajitas and said they were VERY good. I didn't taste them, but Ill take his word for it. Terrible value. Service was mediocre. (I watched a blonde haired waitress literally twirling her pony tail while she was talking to a table. You cant make this crap up) Their receipts say "Best Mexican food in Anthem." Bullshit. Tighten up your act 8 Crazies. Your food is crap. Your prices are ABSURD. Your reviews here should be a wake up call.
(1)
Jeff D.
We arrived on a Saturday afternoon. The place was fairly empty. The atmosphere was nice, but our server seemed like he had better things to do. No eye contact, no smiles. Whatever I guess, onto the food. I had the machaca beef chimichonga, which was really good. My wife has a taco salad. The tortilla bowl it comes in was awesome, but the ground beef was bland, and the lettuce was obviously from one of those bagged salad mixes - you know the kind with dried up shards of carrot and red cabbage. Really? Come on, how hard is it to cut up some fresh lettuce? My daughter had the Carne Asada... not sure what cut of beef that was but it was really tough and had some troubling gristly parts. So all said, our search for really good mexican food in the north valley continues...
(2)
Carlos G.
Mexican not at its best. A Torta is not served on a hamburger bun. You don't make burritos with pita bread. It's the bread that makes it a torta.
(1)
Carrie S.
The guacamole is not fresh/homemade. The rest if the food was pretty good. My hubby got the prime steak fajitas and said it was alright, pretty good. We loved the margaritas we ordered with a small corona bottle in it! Yum. Our waitress was flighty and slow. The atmosphere was fun. The chairs are. It very comfortable. Overall we might be coming back but won't be broke hearted if we don't. Ole!
(3)
Darren W.
Only one good thing is servers are friendly, but not knowledgeable and attentive. All these rest were awful! One of the worst food I have ever had!! They do really need big help from either Restaurant Impossible or Bar Rescue. We wish we be eating next door:(. Yuck!!!!!
(1)
Christie D.
Good food! Tio Panchos Pollo Con Queso is my favorite!!! A little pricey...always get takeout which is ready in 10 min...
(4)
Gregory B.
Ocho Locos does not participate in Maricopa County Environmental Services Restaurant Ratings -- beware. Do NOT order a martini here. I asked for mine dirty and it arrived filthy! It tasted like 50% olive juice. Disgusting. The spinach enchiladas are truly stuffed with spinach, which is great. Tortillas chips are out of a bag. I've been here three times and service is lackadaisical.
(2)
Scott P.
Hit this spot with my family and dad after visiting the Anthem Farmers Market on Sunday. Either we visited during a perfect alignment of bad luck or it really is systemically flawed on the part of the operators. The place was pretty empty for noon on Sunday. There were 3 covers...the place looks like it seats around 40. Our party of 4 plus my 2-year old were seated immediately. My daughter was given a coloring book page and some well-used crayons in a dirty rubbermaid container. While our family isn't the germaphobe type, communal crayons for toddlers doesn't send a message of sanitation. It took around 15 minutes for our server to take our drink orders and another 10 minutes to return with our waters and ice teas. (The ice tea was slightly tinted tan water with barely enough tea flavor to incite nausea...growing up in Alabama, I'm an ice tea snob.) Our food order was fulfilled in a reasonable amount of time. My entree was a bit spicy for me, but that's pretty subjective. Requisite beans and rice were solid though. Value was pretty low though for what we got. The quality wasn't any better than any other strip mall counter service Mexican joint but prices were about double. After a long wait upon finishing our meals, we were met with an apologetic server who said their computers were down and we could either wait longer or he could write up manual ticket. We were paying cash and I've got to think that's the simplest transaction to process, but he looked supremely at a loss when we opted for the manual ticket option. We finally completed our transaction and left. We were given a 10% off our next visit coupon for our inconvenience. My dad asked rightfully why we couldn't have 10% off this transaction for our current inconvenience...that was met with a vapid stare. Given the benefit of the doubt, it did seem they were shorthanded in the kitchen. We did see another couple walk out because of the long delay. Maybe it was just a bad day or maybe it was a more systemic problem.
(2)
J D.
We were bar hopping in the area while waiting to pickup our Son from a birthday party...this was our first stop. There's a small bar on the left side of the restaurant where you can saddle up for a few drinks and some grub. I had a couple of glasses of Wine and tried the Chips & Salsa.....not bad. The bar is pretty small, seats about 8-10 people. The restaurant seems cool, woud like to come back and try some food. If we lived closer to Anthem, we would. The bartender was pretty cool....she's from New York and had some great stories to tell. Overall, a pretty cool spot to hangout for a few drinks. Return Factor - 70%
(3)
Dog D.
Great food, friendly staff and cozy outdoor seating! I am a big fan of their combo plates and they always have specials!
(4)
Cracker E.
Great restaurant! We just moved to the area and this was our 1st experience at a local resturant. The dishes are not authentic mexican but dont let that stop you. Portions were huge and lots of flavor. Homemade quac was a huge hit at our table. The server was extremely helpful and recommended his favorite dishes. Margaritas were so Gooooood we each had 3. Can't wait to go back!
(4)
Ginger O.
WHY does Anthem have such a terrible food scene?! I've been here twice. The first time was alright. Our food took forever. The servers are a "little rough" around the edges, but friendly. The food is overpriced, but the thing I found the most disturbing, was while we're in family friendly Anthem, this place plays rock music which is fine, but it is not censored. I'm sitting there listening to f***k over and over again during multiple songs.
(2)
X Z.
For an Anthem restaurant this place isn't too bad. The food & drinks are good but seemingly a little overpriced. Service is always great. Very loud inside.
(3)
Cheryl L.
Waitress was fabulous. Very friendly and did a good job at her JOB. Which is always a surprise. The food was OK. I dont like shredded chicken. I had a chicken enchilada which was good. The chicken taco I did not like. They deep fry the taco shell and add a TON of shredded iceberg lettuce and cheap shredded cheese. But my 9 year old son liked it. Salsa was very mild...more like tomato sauce. My husband had carnitas and he liked it. Margarita's/cocktails have WAY too much juice/sugar. Price are about $2 too high for what you get. Very loud inside especially for how small it is. We might go back but def wouldn't take out of town gusts there.
(3)
Lisa S.
Service leaves a lot to be desired...margaritas are good...not crazy about the gratuity they add in bill for a party of 6 or more...they get 4 stars for their outrageous, delectable, best I ever had Chile Rellenos. If nothing else try them...oh so good yummy!
(4)
Arlin B.
We went to Ocho Locos in Anthem the other night for dinner. I agree with Holly J on this one. Big improvement over the prior ownership with Pinta Nueva! They are still working out the kinks with their new menu and staff so I'm looking forward to visiting them again soon to see if they deserve a higher rating. They offer a good selection of traditional and American Mexican food. They have a full bar and offer a decent selection of beers on tap. The service was good, not stellar. They redecorated and added some nice HD TV's for sports and concerts. Our meals were good "A-OK" but you can tell they are new, still working out some of the details with delivering excellente Mexican comida or alimento! Will visit again soon. Hope you give them a try next time your in Anthem looking for Mexican.
(3)
Amanda C.
Having been in Anthem for 7 years and watching this place go through various owners and even before Ocho Locos was here, I've come to the conclusion that this place is cursed. Never have I had a good meal here. My most recent visit involved flies everywhere, and overpriced, mediocre food. I ordered Vegetarian tacos that consisted of a copious amount of guacamole, an equal amount of lettuce, and cheap shredded cheese. (After having to send it back for getting the wrong food.) I took a couple bites and couldn't finish it. I sent my food back and went to Taco Bell.
(1)
Cliff S.
Good Mexican food in Anthem. I love that you get a huge bowl of Salsa, hard to say if hot is better than the original. A little pricey and the Happy Hour leaves a little to be desired... I have not tried the chicken fingers or kids menu, but.... I think adult Mexican food is great. I will be back regularly.
(4)
Jonathan L.
Went in for a table of three plus a baby. Very helpful weight staff ended up recommending all of our dishes. The Margarita was great. The Mexican food was quite good. I would recommend it as a family friendly, tasty Mexican restaurant.
(5)
Jessica G.
OVERPRICED for what you get on the plate...plus, Mexican food just tastes better when the place plays more "cultural" music is decorated acoordingly
(2)
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Address :3655 W Anthem Way,Ste D105
Anthem, AZ, 85086
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Loud Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Dogs Allowed : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
Amy M.
Holy Wow! Talk about delicious and a great value! Late on a Sunday night in a VERY small community, a pregnant woman has a craving for chile rellenos. Where are you going to find good Mexican food close by without spending an arm and a leg? Yelp told me Ocho Locos, and boy where they right! We ordered a wide variety of items. Don't be put off by the prices on the ala carte menu, the servings are still huge! We got the Nachos supreme, some chile rellenos, Chicken tacos, a couple quesadillas, sopapillas, and flan since we had a big group to feed. Everything was spot on! It was a take out order, and food was hot and ready exactly when they said it would be, and they even carried it to the car for us. The owner rung up our bill, was courteous and nice. They even threw in free chips and salsa which is rare from other Mexican food places when you make a to-go order. We were impressed with their fresh food, and authentic flavors. The chicken tacos had a fresh mild home made green chile sauce, the rellenos were perfectly fried in a heavenly egg batter and loaded with cheese. The nachos supreme was supreme indeed, the guacamole that came with a few of our items was pure avacado goodness, no lettuce or cheap 'filler' here, just yummy fresh smashed avacado and the perfect amount of seasoning. The desserts were so good as well! The sopapillas should be changed to 'Sopapillas as big as your head' because that's what they were. Like a personal piece of fry bread, they were soft without being too dense, and dusted with the perfect amount of powdered heaven. If I had to say one bad thing about this place, they mixed up my order slightly. I ordered 2 flan, but got 2 tres leches cake instead. I really like tres leche as did everyone else in my party, and their was nothing to scoff at either, except they topped it with whipped topping instead of whipped cream (a personal pet peeve) but really I'm almost nit picking to even point that out since it was still an overall outstanding experience. For a delicious, authentic taste from across the border, make Ocho Locos your next dining experience, and you won't be disappointed!
(5)Todd H.
Ocho doses of salt, on my Yucatan. This is the saltiest meal I have ever eaten and very same with the cream cheese on the side was so salty that I could not eat it. I love salt but not the whole shaker. Chef is not tasting his/her own food before it leaves the kitchen. They are new and hope they come around. Nice atmosphere but no drink deals after Happy Hour, this is sort of a turn-off for us. Not really willing to go back.
(1)Melanie C.
Enjoyed dinner here last night. Got the Tio Pancho's Pollo Con Queso, which I've been getting ever since they opened and were "Pinata Nueva." I know they have gone through new management but I am always impressed by the service and food. I have yet to try something there that I didn't enjoy thoroughly. :-)
(5)Amy H.
Very good Mexican food ( I get the spinach enchiladas) NIce staff, too. Try the cadillac margarita! Missing a star for lack of vegetarian items (including the rice and beans) and not dog friendly despite a patio.
(4)Terry S.
Muchaco Burrito was so dry I thought we were in the Sahara...Tamale masa dry also. Canned cheese it seems over the enchilada. Taco shell was like leather....definitely was not cooked fresh. Black beans tasted liked regular pinto beans and was sitting in black liquid in a bowl. No spices in them whatsoever. Waitress was just ok. Cost us 35.00 to be running to the bathroom the rest of that night and the next day. I guess people in Phoenix don't know what Mexican food is supposed to taste like. NOt a large waiting area either. Some of the waitesses had such sour puss looks on their faces. We would never ever go there again.
(1)Linda S.
I'm a native Arizonan who has been eating authentic Mexican food since I was 3 (learned about flour tortillas when I asked my Mom why the man at the next table was eating his napkin.) My husband is Mexican American who learned to cook from his Mother. I think Ocho Locos is trying to be slick when it should just be basic and authentic. That said, we like it and drive from Cave Creek to eat there a couple of times a month. Ocho Locos has many of the same authentic recipes with which La Pinata (19th Ave. and Osborn) has stayed in business since the 70's. Green corn tamales are about the same....yummy. They have tweaked some of the other recipes to adapt to the snowbirds, but most are authentic, but tamed. My husband prefers their Carne Machaca to any in the Phoenix area (for great, go to south 4th in Tucson for Carne Seca, Carne Machaca etc.) The shredded beef tacos had a bit less flavor last visit than usually, but the beans were great as expected. Appetizers are half price at happy hour. They have daily specials at least during the week. I find their prices much better than the Mexican Restaurants in Cave Creek and the food selection better.....of course, the atmosphere at the El Encanto's is better. We have never had service that was exceptionally good or exceptionally bad. Usually the service is about average for area restaurants that are similarly priced.
(4)Guy P.
Finally had dinner there and I was happy. First order of business, make my wife happy, check. Second make the kids happy, less talk and play means they are actually eating, great. Third, compare food and prices to other Mexican places I've been and ask myself if I would return, definite. Three stars there and now for the fourth. Fourth Star, I took advantage of their Facebook 1/2 off any Margarita, tried the Sangria, I liked it, would have had another, but I drove. Make sure to check their FB for deals. Tried their Tio Pancho, aka Poyo Fundido, and loved it. Would have finished it, but when your 8yr old gives you that "I want it look", of course I have to share. Portions are good. When I was done, I was just right and that is a statement when I'm not interested in desert. Service was friendly, fast, and helpful. I always make it a point to ask what the waiter or waitress preferences are and I was happy with all of Jennifer's suggestions.
(4)Melissa W.
So the pluses: The manager is great. Very personable. Some of their food is excellent. Their shredded beef enchillada is great. Supreme Nachos fantastic. Minus: It gets really loud when it is packed. It is packed most of the time. Their carne beef tacos are bland.
(3)Bunny G.
Had lunch there recently and waitress charged & brought out a dinner instead of the lunch special when I was clearly pointing to the lunch tent on the table. Then I was charged $2.50 for Shirley Temple's for the kids but was not aware of the extra charge, assuming it was part of the kids menu drink. Service was super slow and waitress needed to communicate price. Food average. Music TVs too loud. Lunch was almost $40! Ridiculous!
(2)John O.
Pros: food was excellent at a great price Candles on the table, jazz on the speakers, 6 flat screen tvs, has a happy hour Con: lots of tables in small space, a bit load between music, and normal rest. Noise
(4)Pity D.
The only time I've ever seen guacamole the Ocho Loco's shade of dark green/brown was once when I left some guac in my fridge for 4-5 days. It doesn't take a CSI lab tech to see that the Ocho Loco served us tasted and looked like it was at least several days old. Which is completely disgusting and 110% unacceptable. Can't say much for the rest of their food... The chicken in their chimi is the most bland, flavor-free anyone in our party has ever had. Anywhere. And the fact that it was dry did not help. I could go on and on about how much everything else we ordered sucked. But I'll spare you. I'll just say that after 4 years and at least 2 dozen different Mexican restaurants in Phoenix, the food at Ocho Locos was the most disappointing. I'd give them 1 star but the service did not warrant it.
(2)Jennifer S.
Was kind of skeptical after reading the yelp reviews. My fiance and I decided to go in and try dinner there and was extremely surprised. Our hostess and server were amazing and super friendly and on the ball. We had the street tacos and they were delicious!
(5)Lori F.
SO we have been in Anthem for awhile and have gone to this restaurant many times, even through all the numerous owners. So far we are not thrilled. The food is average and the service is slow. The bar is nice and there is seating outside which is great however not the best mexican food.
(2)Lisa P.
Tried this place for the first time today! They were pretty slow, no big deal. But with as slow as it was you'd think you'd have lots of attention from your waitress. Not only was our drinks barely refilled. Our waitress was constantly chit chatting with one table in the room who seemed to be her good 'friend'. Customer service I could overlook. The food was ok. Not amazing for the prices charged. My one huge complaint, was that the blonde bartender was standing behind the wall behind me and very loudly was talking about "Fu**ing Mexicans". I was stunned, thought this was a mexican eatery and me being hispanic was incredibly offended. I would rethink the staff at this place and for the pricing probably wouldn't make a return visit.
(1)Sean W.
Pretty bland and uninspiring! Wife and I ate here one night when we had to be out of the house due to the A/C going out on a very hot day. We thought we would try this place because Mexican food sounded good. It was average. The prices were average, the food was average, the service was below average. I had a combo of a taco and enchilada with machaca (usually a very flavorful meat) - it was pretty blah. My wife had the pollo something - basically a chicken chimi with a cheesey sauce. The chicken was a bit off - she scraped it out and mostly ate the accompanying beans and rice. Given the opportunity, we would probably not go here again. If we want good mexican, we will bite the bullet and leave the Anthem area.
(2)C H.
The shredded beef and the Machaca beef are flawless; a Mexican restaurant lives or dies by its meat and salsa as I see it. 5 stars for the meat, 3 stars for the salsa, 2 stars for the rice and beans, and 5 stars for the excellent service. There's a full bar here too - bonus! Reasonable prices, free chips & salsa (and free refills), large portions, free soft drink refills, and they have a loyalty program. My husband and I were house hunting in Anthem, AZ and decided to try one of the (few) restaurants in town. Since we have never been able to find decent Mexican food in central CA where we live now (ironic town demo 80% Hispanic), we decided to take a chance on a Phoenix area Mexican restaurant. Ocho Locos served up the best Mexican food meal we've had in 8 years (not counting my home cooking of course). The decor is garish, just as it should be. The host was friendly. The restroom was clean. The salsa could use some doctoring up but we made our way through 2 bowls of the regular salsa and one bowl of spicier salsa (ask for it!) nonetheless. We were served by (I presume) the owner, and we think it is too funny that the proprietor of a Mexican restaurant evidently hails from Boston. We had the Mary Lou as an appetizer and it was so huge that we could have stopped there and felt satisfied. The Mary Lou is a giant flour tortilla that has a bit of cheddar cheese broiled onto it then is stuffed with perfectly tender beef chunks simmered in red chile sauce [in CA we call it Chili Colorado; in AZ they call it Machaca beef.] They fold it over and serve it up quesadilla style. I had a crispy shredded beef taco and it was hands down the best taco I've eaten in my life. The beans were dry and thick and suspiciously orange (canned?); we were eating around 2pm so they probably thickened up over the lunch hour; this is easy to fix and I hope they do. The rice was just fine. My husband had the Machaca beef burrito. It was stuffed to bursting with meat; he loved it. The plates are nicely garnished with hand-shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes. We can't wait to move so we can explore the menu.
(5)Joan Z.
Yeah!!! Time to celebrate! Pinata Nueva has died and Ocho Locos has risen from the ashes to replace it. This is excellent traditional mexican food with expedient service. Although the chips aren't homemade the salsas are yummy and the mexican pizza is to die for - fresh ingredients and lots of flavor if you choose the shredded beef. Can't wait to go there again.
(4)Tracy L.
We love mexican food and this place has redeemed itself (from the old "pinatas" restaurant that used to be in this location). The decor and menu are completely different and really good - well priced and the food is tasty. The service was really good, too. Patio looks small - we sat inside. There is a small bar with tv's, if you are looking for that. I would definitely go back - looking forward to it!
(4)Alan M.
Excellent food and even better service. Our server Mark was outstanding and the manager entertained our kids while we drank our margaritas.
(5)Gloria P.
If you would like to be treated rudely overcharged and ignored this is the place to go! After we sat down we waited 10 minutes to get anyone to pay attention to us. I flagged down a waiter and asked him for some water. Your server will get that for you he answered in a snarly voice. My friend replied really we been here 10 minutes and haven't seen anyone. I said your server will have to get that for you he snarled. I got up to the bar and asked to speak to the manager who came to the table. When I began to tell her about his treatment she said oh he's only a busboy. I told her I didn't care if he owned the place that was no way to treat a customer. She apologized and asked for a drink order. 10 minutes later my friends Margarita was still not anywhere to be seen. I looked in the bartenders direction with an exasperated look. He pointed at a drink sitting on the bar and pointed back at me I nodded and said yes that would be ours! He brought it over to the table. When the check came we were overcharged by two margaritas. I told I waitress Jennifer who was the only nice thing about the place and she comped my beer. The management did not extend any courtesies no comps and no further apologies for the horrible time we had. Service can make or break a dining experience and this one broke it. Don't hire teenagers with attitudes higher people like Jennifer who go the extra mile and while you're at it at some flavor to your food! You not only lost a few customers tonight I am going to make sure and tell everyone I know about our horrific dining experience! I know I'm not alone since I see many similar comments on Yelp!
(1)bonne b.
We really enjoy the food here... the only draw back to me is that it is too loud to talk to others in the restaurant. They play old Music Videos on like four TV's and that makes it too loud to talk to anyone beyond those right next to you. But the food is always good and the prices are good!
(4)Shelly B.
Good Margaritas and nice staff they always make me feel right at home. My favorite plates to order here are the Street Tacos and the Chicken Spinach Enchiladas.
(3)Jessica P.
Margaritas are awesome! :) Nice and strong. The place is kind of confusing on the atmosphere. I can't tell if they are trying to be trendy, or be Mexican... or both. Food was ok. I cannot have gluten anymore, so when I tried to get the corn tacos, the sauce they use has gluten in it. (fyi for fellow celiacs) The server was helpful regarding this tho in checking with the kitchen. The only thing I could have was a salad, so sadly, I can't rate the food. Hubs had the street tacos... he only got 2 and didn't get any rice and beans with it, thinking that it would come with them automatically. Nope... wrong. This does NOT fill you up... and he was left hungry. He said they were tasty, but wished it came with rice and beans or 3 tacos. FYI... this place will hold funds on your card under a different name... this alarmed me until I realized it was the amount of the bill, less the tip that I added. The final number was labeled under Ochos Locos.
(3)Andrea B.
Went there the other night, and my husband and I with little one thoroughly enjoyed our visit. Staff was friendly, I can't remember the last time in an Anthem Restaurant a manager stopped by to see if everything was doing well, he seemed genuinely concerned about our enjoyment. A huge plus. I remember the old restaurant and Ocho Locos is leaps and bounds above that one. We will definitely be back. I had the street tacos, yummy. Hubbie had shrimp fajitas, which apparently they only serve on the weekends. (they need this all the time) my only complaint. Daughter has chicken strips and French fries.
(4)Chad A.
I gotta admit, I'm having trouble with this review. It was a night of averages. We sat down pretty quick, waitress took our drink order fairly quickly (she didn't seem to know their own beer selection). I ordered the Tio's Pollo Con Queso, which was decent, but certainly nothing to rave about. I do have to compliment the pricing, which was very reasonable ($10-$15). I think it's an improvement over the previous place, especially with decor, but it's not somewhere I would go to on a regular basis, but good enough if you live nearby and don't feel like driving.
(3)Nick R.
My wife and her family love the margaritas here, but only because they are strong. They are but NOT cheap. My chimi was ok. The shrimp fajitas were also just ok. Frozen fairly small shrimp. The options around this area are limited. The chimi (luch portion) 7.99, fajitas 12.99 and two margs each ran $46 bucks. Yikes! If you can, go somewhere else.
(2)Chris J.
Let me preface this review with the fact that I have never written a restaurant review in my life and I am not a picky eater.... Last night we were staying at a hotel and were just too tired to go out for dinner. So we ordered from Ocho Locos last night through Eat24hours.com (a food delivery service). First of all, there were no forks, knives, or napkins included with the delivery. Second, there was no honey included with the sopapillas and the sopapillas were overcooked to the point that I had to remove the bottom before eating them. The refried beans were so spicy that the bean burrito and extra side of beans never got eaten. And finally the pieces of cake (which were $5.95 for a small/regular size piece of cake...much too expensive) were sloppy soggy messes by the time we got it. The cake never got eaten either. Only one thing was better than a 1 star... the taquitos, which I would give 3 stars. Side note: everything was cold when it arrived; but I don't know if that's the restaurant's fault or the delivery service's fault..so that was not factored into the rating. I spent $65.00 on 2 small taquitos, 1 burrito, 1 cheese crisp, 2 pieces of cake, 1 order of sopapillas, and a small side order of refried beans. If the food had been good, I would have thought, okay, a little expensive, but at lease it was good. But it wasn't even close to good. (FYI, only about $6.00 of the $65.00 was attributed to the delivery service fee).
(1)John H.
I just had one of the strangest experiences at a restaurant ever. Not busy at all, so we were seated promptly. Christine was our server, and she came over to take our drink order. My daughter asked if she could get a Shirley Temple. Christine didn't hear her, which is fine, but rather than politely asking her to repeat it, she made a grimacing face and said, "Huh!" Ok, not that big a deal right? I would not be writing this or leaving 1 star for that. She took our order and was not exactly pleasant but not terrible. So, about the time we would have expected to get our food, she came over and said she was sorry but she forgot to put our order in and was going to do that right now but forgot what we ordered. (!?) So we ordered again. (Remember, they were not busy.) This entire time, she talked exclusively to my daughter's mom and ignored me. I don't care that much, but it was just weird how she focused so intently on just one person at the table. Our meals came out one at a time (mine last) after several trips. The food: my daughter's mom liked hers fine. But she said no less than 5 times (seriously) that she didn't want any tortillas, and Christine brought them anyway. Again, not a big deal, but WTH. My food was fair at best. Nothing special for sure. Some of my daughter's chicken fingers were so overcooked they were too chewy to eat, and her fries were soggy. To top it off, when Christine brought the check back, she said, "Thanks, have a good night ladies." I looked right at her, and she just said, "sorry again for the delay in your food." I'm a 46 year old guy with very short hair and a goatee. Not easily mistaken for a lady. The mediocre food gets 3 stars, but that server... 1 star at best. Just bizarre - you could even say Loco.
(1)Alicia S.
Fabulous. We were visiting from out of town and some one recommended this place. I am from Texas, love to cook and pretty particular about my Mexican food. This place was awesome. We caught a late lunch and such around for a happy hour. The food was great....the Margaritas were great..even for a house Margarita, and I usually only drink top shelf. Our service was great as well. Enjoy!!!!
(4)Alexander G.
This past Sunday, we ordered some items to go: Combination #3 and The Jefe Steak . What a mistake! We nearly ended up at the Hospital, with severe cramps, fever and stomach aches. Really bad! Doubtt it very seriously that we will return.
(1)Kurt S.
Overpriced, mediocre, Mexican food. Meh... is even being generous. The salsa was from a can/jar. The red sauce beef filling in my wife's quesadilla was VERY bland and my daughter had a $9 bean burrito... Yes, you heard me. A $9 BEAN BURRITO! WTF?! I thought I was sitting in Anthem, not the Strip in Vegas. I had a cheeseburger, thinking that couldn't be done poorly, and they burnt the toasted bun and the burger. In fact, I'm not sure why I was asked how I wanted it, when it became painfully apparent as we smelt it burning from the kitchen, that it was definitely coming out WELL done and not Medium as ordered. Um, Newsflash?! Why didn't you just make another $1 frozen hamburger patty and toast another .50 cent bun for my $10 cheeseburger??? The service meant well, but was not even attentive enough to refill our empty salsa bowl. Also, the TV in the Northwest corner had a serious hue problem since everything was tinted Reddish Orange. For the prices we were being charged, I shouldn't have to watch a crappy TV picture and neither should you. Make sure you face the other way.
(2)Raquel H.
This place is nice when you walk in and it smells good but the food wasn't as good as I thought it would be. The price for what you get was not worth it. The beans were burnt and had no flavor, the plate was super hot but the rice was just luke warm. The fajitas had a weird taste to them and I am not sure what seasonings were used. The salsa they give you taste like pace which there isn't a problem with pace but I could have gotten that at home. The woman's bathroom is designed for tall people and not very kid friendly. Not somewhere I would come back to. The waitress was very nice and that is the only reason why I am giving it a two instead of 1 star
(2)Brittany F.
I have been to Ocho a few times. There food is fine, nothing extraordinary. Their salsa is ok, but doesn't taste fresh. Their prices are good if you do the lunch specials, but their regular prices are crazy for the quality or lack there of. A single taco, nothing else (beans or rice) is $5.95. For the taste of the tacos, I would think $4 is pushing it. Without something added to the tacos, they are bland, so you must use the salsa to help the taste. Their beans are fairly tasteless so if you are looking for a protein fix without much flavor, beans are the way to go.
(2)Cracker E.
Great restaurant! We just moved to the area and this was our 1st experience at a local resturant. The dishes are not authentic mexican but dont let that stop you. Portions were huge and lots of flavor. Homemade quac was a huge hit at our table. The server was extremely helpful and recommended his favorite dishes. Margaritas were so Gooooood we each had 3. Can't wait to go back!
(4)Art M.
Wow! What a disappointment for this once great place. Food was still acceptable but no football, just really loud, ear splitting music. So loud the customers complaints must not have been heard because it just kept on cranking. The adjacent table left mad.....we left with a headache.
(2)Robert B.
The food here is disgusting. We had a variety of dishes and none of them were close to being Mexican or American-Mexican cuisine. The service was slow and the tables and floor were dirty. You're better off buying frozen Mexican food at the grocery store or cooking it yourself.
(1)Lloyd C.
Being so close to Mexico, you'd think Phoenix would have some of the best Mexican food in America. So far I've found much better Mexican food in random places like Denver, Las Vegas and Florida. But I keep searching for some real, authentic Mexican food in my home state. I stumbled upon Ocho Locos thought maybe this is it. Meh. Totally not! Unfortunately this place may be the worst Mexican food on earth. The guacamole at Taco Bell is much better. We've eaten here four times in two years every time thinking we just hit it on a bad day and maybe THIS time it would be better.... Finally decided there is no "better;" it's just as bad every time. From the watery salsa to the guacamole to the overly greasy and salty dishes, I have never had anything (except for their very good frozen margaritas) that is above one star. I've concluded that any rating above one star has got to be from people that think Del Taco and Taco Bell are Mexican food. If this restaurant were in Mexico, Mexican officials would have had it deported years ago.
(1)Melissa N.
I'm a Mexican food snob, and this place is gooooood! Wonderful green corn tamales and enchiladas. Tacos are shredded beef with homemade shells. Totally recommend!!!
(5)Carine N.
we've been several times and the food while good-is never consistent. Last night we did have a very nice waitress who saw that in our party of 4 adults we also had a 20 month old-she brought out his food first. Great service. My sister in law and I had the tilapia burritos special-mine was "altered" due to food allergies, but we were both in agreement that it was pretty tasty. the nachos my husband ordered were given w/ a challenge to finish them. don't know how he did it! Our daughter had the taco salad and said it was really good.
(3)Maryann E.
One star is too many ! This place is horrible Because of the lack of customer service. Never before have I seen such lousy apathetic place. Food is fair at best!!
(1)Jezibell K.
I can't believe people pay to eat this food. The guacamole actually comes out of a squeeze bag like you buy in the grocery store! Disgusting! After two bites of my salad and my husband taking a couple bites of his burrito, we asked for the manager so we could pay and leave. She said she didn't like the burrito here either! Thankfully she discounted the bill but we will not be going back.
(1)Laurie B.
I really like the food here, but I'm going to have to rate this place with 1 star due to their kids menu. Their kids taco and cheese enchilada plate are way to spicy for kids. My son is just under 2 and he screamed when he ate the kids cheese enchilada. I tasted the sauce and it was spicy. I asked the waitress for milk. She then had the audacity to tell me that I should order it next time without the sauce. Hey why not a heads up before my kid ate it! So disappointed in this place and the service. Why would you put spicy food on a children's menu?!? And for the record I love spicy food and can't believe that the sauce on my sons enchilada plate was as spicy as it was.
(1)Jeremiaj G.
We heard about this place from a few people through social media so we decided to give it a try. When we arrived, the place maybe had 8 tables sat. Nothing 3 servers, a busser, and a bartender couldn't handle. We were sat promptly and shortly after the busser brought over some chips and salsa. There was nothing special about the chips, and the salsa was just ok. We waited about 15 minutes for our server to come over to our table. When he finally came over, he asked us for our drink order. After the drinks were delivered, we waited again for our server. This is how our night went with the service. Extremely slow. I'm sure he is a nice guy but he is not a good server. If he was properly trained then he might have a chance. The food was mediocre at best. Nothing special. There could be a lot of potential with this place if it was ran right.
(1)Ellie D.
We are always pleased w the good and service. Candice , our server was very friendly and attentive. The food is always delish! We keep coming back and never get disappointed. I highly recommend their Chimichanga and fajitas.
(5)Rob S.
Ally totally rocked tonight! This place is Def worth the stop. Miranda is the best. I'm not a fan of cilantro, so I order the hot sauce. Love it! The ground beef tacos rock! Never have had a bad meal here.
(5)Gregory B.
Ocho Locos does not participate in Maricopa County Environmental Services Restaurant Ratings -- beware. Do NOT order a martini here. I asked for mine dirty and it arrived filthy! It tasted like 50% olive juice. Disgusting. The spinach enchiladas are truly stuffed with spinach, which is great. Tortillas chips are out of a bag. I've been here three times and service is lackadaisical.
(2)Scott P.
Hit this spot with my family and dad after visiting the Anthem Farmers Market on Sunday. Either we visited during a perfect alignment of bad luck or it really is systemically flawed on the part of the operators. The place was pretty empty for noon on Sunday. There were 3 covers...the place looks like it seats around 40. Our party of 4 plus my 2-year old were seated immediately. My daughter was given a coloring book page and some well-used crayons in a dirty rubbermaid container. While our family isn't the germaphobe type, communal crayons for toddlers doesn't send a message of sanitation. It took around 15 minutes for our server to take our drink orders and another 10 minutes to return with our waters and ice teas. (The ice tea was slightly tinted tan water with barely enough tea flavor to incite nausea...growing up in Alabama, I'm an ice tea snob.) Our food order was fulfilled in a reasonable amount of time. My entree was a bit spicy for me, but that's pretty subjective. Requisite beans and rice were solid though. Value was pretty low though for what we got. The quality wasn't any better than any other strip mall counter service Mexican joint but prices were about double. After a long wait upon finishing our meals, we were met with an apologetic server who said their computers were down and we could either wait longer or he could write up manual ticket. We were paying cash and I've got to think that's the simplest transaction to process, but he looked supremely at a loss when we opted for the manual ticket option. We finally completed our transaction and left. We were given a 10% off our next visit coupon for our inconvenience. My dad asked rightfully why we couldn't have 10% off this transaction for our current inconvenience...that was met with a vapid stare. Given the benefit of the doubt, it did seem they were shorthanded in the kitchen. We did see another couple walk out because of the long delay. Maybe it was just a bad day or maybe it was a more systemic problem.
(2)Supperman F.
Food is just ok, usually just luke warm tho. Came with a group of 10 for the last visit, the one child that was in our group didn't get her meal until literally 10 minutes after everyone else. Service was rude and slow, she actually rolled her eyes at one point when a request was made! This place is filled with rookie servers or it's the place burnt out servers who hate their life come to die lol. Probably won't be back, 3 strikes and you're out, lo sientos Ocho!
(2)Steve C.
My wife and I go to Ocho Locos on a regular basis, mainly because we really like Mexican food and it is the only place open for dinner in Anthem that serves after 5pm. The food is hit or miss. Most nights we like it well enough and other nights it is quite plain. The top shelf margaritas are pretty tasty. We will be back...
(3)Jeff D.
We arrived on a Saturday afternoon. The place was fairly empty. The atmosphere was nice, but our server seemed like he had better things to do. No eye contact, no smiles. Whatever I guess, onto the food. I had the machaca beef chimichonga, which was really good. My wife has a taco salad. The tortilla bowl it comes in was awesome, but the ground beef was bland, and the lettuce was obviously from one of those bagged salad mixes - you know the kind with dried up shards of carrot and red cabbage. Really? Come on, how hard is it to cut up some fresh lettuce? My daughter had the Carne Asada... not sure what cut of beef that was but it was really tough and had some troubling gristly parts. So all said, our search for really good mexican food in the north valley continues...
(2)Carlos G.
Mexican not at its best. A Torta is not served on a hamburger bun. You don't make burritos with pita bread. It's the bread that makes it a torta.
(1)Carrie S.
The guacamole is not fresh/homemade. The rest if the food was pretty good. My hubby got the prime steak fajitas and said it was alright, pretty good. We loved the margaritas we ordered with a small corona bottle in it! Yum. Our waitress was flighty and slow. The atmosphere was fun. The chairs are. It very comfortable. Overall we might be coming back but won't be broke hearted if we don't. Ole!
(3)Darren W.
Only one good thing is servers are friendly, but not knowledgeable and attentive. All these rest were awful! One of the worst food I have ever had!! They do really need big help from either Restaurant Impossible or Bar Rescue. We wish we be eating next door:(. Yuck!!!!!
(1)Christie D.
Good food! Tio Panchos Pollo Con Queso is my favorite!!! A little pricey...always get takeout which is ready in 10 min...
(4)J T.
Live in Anthem and have frequented the place over the past few years. I will not return after the last two visits. Has been a place to sit on the patio after work and unwind with a decent meal. Two visits ago, after having the carne machaca, I felt ill but dismissed it as something other than the meal. After my last visit, I spent the night vomiting up Carne Asada and onions. All night long. Today I'm not able to attend work as I need to have immediate access to sitting on a toilet. It is too bad the place has fallen into this state - not many decent places to grab a meal in Anthem.
(1)Erin O.
I went with a friend today. We had our girls and thought we would try a small family place instead of the Subway in the same strip mall. Support local businesses right? Mistake. Ordered chicken fingers off kids menu for my little ones to split. Eating too much at 3pm spoils dinner. For $5.95 I got two previously frozen processed chicken finger planks and some crinkle cut fries. Pathetic. Buddy ordered a $4.50 bowl of Kraft Mac and cheese for his kid. Absurd. I ordered a cheeseburger. Cant possibly go wrong with that right? What I got was a previously frozen pattie of tasteless meat that had two slices of barely melted processed cheese on it. Took three bites and sent it back. Waitress seemed offended personally when I said it tasted like garbage. $9.70 for a garbage cheeseburger. Honestly, a Whopper is a better tasting burger. The lettuce was shredded and browned limp iceburg the bun was soggy, etc etc. It was a train-wreck. My friend ordered the chicken fajitas and said they were VERY good. I didn't taste them, but Ill take his word for it. Terrible value. Service was mediocre. (I watched a blonde haired waitress literally twirling her pony tail while she was talking to a table. You cant make this crap up) Their receipts say "Best Mexican food in Anthem." Bullshit. Tighten up your act 8 Crazies. Your food is crap. Your prices are ABSURD. Your reviews here should be a wake up call.
(1)J D.
We were bar hopping in the area while waiting to pickup our Son from a birthday party...this was our first stop. There's a small bar on the left side of the restaurant where you can saddle up for a few drinks and some grub. I had a couple of glasses of Wine and tried the Chips & Salsa.....not bad. The bar is pretty small, seats about 8-10 people. The restaurant seems cool, woud like to come back and try some food. If we lived closer to Anthem, we would. The bartender was pretty cool....she's from New York and had some great stories to tell. Overall, a pretty cool spot to hangout for a few drinks. Return Factor - 70%
(3)Dog D.
Great food, friendly staff and cozy outdoor seating! I am a big fan of their combo plates and they always have specials!
(4)Amanda C.
Having been in Anthem for 7 years and watching this place go through various owners and even before Ocho Locos was here, I've come to the conclusion that this place is cursed. Never have I had a good meal here. My most recent visit involved flies everywhere, and overpriced, mediocre food. I ordered Vegetarian tacos that consisted of a copious amount of guacamole, an equal amount of lettuce, and cheap shredded cheese. (After having to send it back for getting the wrong food.) I took a couple bites and couldn't finish it. I sent my food back and went to Taco Bell.
(1)Cliff S.
Good Mexican food in Anthem. I love that you get a huge bowl of Salsa, hard to say if hot is better than the original. A little pricey and the Happy Hour leaves a little to be desired... I have not tried the chicken fingers or kids menu, but.... I think adult Mexican food is great. I will be back regularly.
(4)Ginger O.
WHY does Anthem have such a terrible food scene?! I've been here twice. The first time was alright. Our food took forever. The servers are a "little rough" around the edges, but friendly. The food is overpriced, but the thing I found the most disturbing, was while we're in family friendly Anthem, this place plays rock music which is fine, but it is not censored. I'm sitting there listening to f***k over and over again during multiple songs.
(2)X Z.
For an Anthem restaurant this place isn't too bad. The food & drinks are good but seemingly a little overpriced. Service is always great. Very loud inside.
(3)Cheryl L.
Waitress was fabulous. Very friendly and did a good job at her JOB. Which is always a surprise. The food was OK. I dont like shredded chicken. I had a chicken enchilada which was good. The chicken taco I did not like. They deep fry the taco shell and add a TON of shredded iceberg lettuce and cheap shredded cheese. But my 9 year old son liked it. Salsa was very mild...more like tomato sauce. My husband had carnitas and he liked it. Margarita's/cocktails have WAY too much juice/sugar. Price are about $2 too high for what you get. Very loud inside especially for how small it is. We might go back but def wouldn't take out of town gusts there.
(3)Lisa S.
Service leaves a lot to be desired...margaritas are good...not crazy about the gratuity they add in bill for a party of 6 or more...they get 4 stars for their outrageous, delectable, best I ever had Chile Rellenos. If nothing else try them...oh so good yummy!
(4)Arlin B.
We went to Ocho Locos in Anthem the other night for dinner. I agree with Holly J on this one. Big improvement over the prior ownership with Pinta Nueva! They are still working out the kinks with their new menu and staff so I'm looking forward to visiting them again soon to see if they deserve a higher rating. They offer a good selection of traditional and American Mexican food. They have a full bar and offer a decent selection of beers on tap. The service was good, not stellar. They redecorated and added some nice HD TV's for sports and concerts. Our meals were good "A-OK" but you can tell they are new, still working out some of the details with delivering excellente Mexican comida or alimento! Will visit again soon. Hope you give them a try next time your in Anthem looking for Mexican.
(3)Jonathan L.
Went in for a table of three plus a baby. Very helpful weight staff ended up recommending all of our dishes. The Margarita was great. The Mexican food was quite good. I would recommend it as a family friendly, tasty Mexican restaurant.
(5)Jessica G.
OVERPRICED for what you get on the plate...plus, Mexican food just tastes better when the place plays more "cultural" music is decorated acoordingly
(2)Terry S.
Muchaco Burrito was so dry I thought we were in the Sahara...Tamale masa dry also. Canned cheese it seems over the enchilada. Taco shell was like leather....definitely was not cooked fresh. Black beans tasted liked regular pinto beans and was sitting in black liquid in a bowl. No spices in them whatsoever. Waitress was just ok. Cost us 35.00 to be running to the bathroom the rest of that night and the next day. I guess people in Phoenix don't know what Mexican food is supposed to taste like. NOt a large waiting area either. Some of the waitesses had such sour puss looks on their faces. We would never ever go there again.
(1)Alexander G.
This past Sunday, we ordered some items to go: Combination #3 and The Jefe Steak . What a mistake! We nearly ended up at the Hospital, with severe cramps, fever and stomach aches. Really bad! Doubtt it very seriously that we will return.
(1)Melissa N.
I'm a Mexican food snob, and this place is gooooood! Wonderful green corn tamales and enchiladas. Tacos are shredded beef with homemade shells. Totally recommend!!!
(5)Supperman F.
Food is just ok, usually just luke warm tho. Came with a group of 10 for the last visit, the one child that was in our group didn't get her meal until literally 10 minutes after everyone else. Service was rude and slow, she actually rolled her eyes at one point when a request was made! This place is filled with rookie servers or it's the place burnt out servers who hate their life come to die lol. Probably won't be back, 3 strikes and you're out, lo sientos Ocho!
(2)Kurt S.
Overpriced, mediocre, Mexican food. Meh... is even being generous. The salsa was from a can/jar. The red sauce beef filling in my wife's quesadilla was VERY bland and my daughter had a $9 bean burrito... Yes, you heard me. A $9 BEAN BURRITO! WTF?! I thought I was sitting in Anthem, not the Strip in Vegas. I had a cheeseburger, thinking that couldn't be done poorly, and they burnt the toasted bun and the burger. In fact, I'm not sure why I was asked how I wanted it, when it became painfully apparent as we smelt it burning from the kitchen, that it was definitely coming out WELL done and not Medium as ordered. Um, Newsflash?! Why didn't you just make another $1 frozen hamburger patty and toast another .50 cent bun for my $10 cheeseburger??? The service meant well, but was not even attentive enough to refill our empty salsa bowl. Also, the TV in the Northwest corner had a serious hue problem since everything was tinted Reddish Orange. For the prices we were being charged, I shouldn't have to watch a crappy TV picture and neither should you. Make sure you face the other way.
(2)Raquel H.
This place is nice when you walk in and it smells good but the food wasn't as good as I thought it would be. The price for what you get was not worth it. The beans were burnt and had no flavor, the plate was super hot but the rice was just luke warm. The fajitas had a weird taste to them and I am not sure what seasonings were used. The salsa they give you taste like pace which there isn't a problem with pace but I could have gotten that at home. The woman's bathroom is designed for tall people and not very kid friendly. Not somewhere I would come back to. The waitress was very nice and that is the only reason why I am giving it a two instead of 1 star
(2)Brittany F.
I have been to Ocho a few times. There food is fine, nothing extraordinary. Their salsa is ok, but doesn't taste fresh. Their prices are good if you do the lunch specials, but their regular prices are crazy for the quality or lack there of. A single taco, nothing else (beans or rice) is $5.95. For the taste of the tacos, I would think $4 is pushing it. Without something added to the tacos, they are bland, so you must use the salsa to help the taste. Their beans are fairly tasteless so if you are looking for a protein fix without much flavor, beans are the way to go.
(2)Gloria P.
If you would like to be treated rudely overcharged and ignored this is the place to go! After we sat down we waited 10 minutes to get anyone to pay attention to us. I flagged down a waiter and asked him for some water. Your server will get that for you he answered in a snarly voice. My friend replied really we been here 10 minutes and haven't seen anyone. I said your server will have to get that for you he snarled. I got up to the bar and asked to speak to the manager who came to the table. When I began to tell her about his treatment she said oh he's only a busboy. I told her I didn't care if he owned the place that was no way to treat a customer. She apologized and asked for a drink order. 10 minutes later my friends Margarita was still not anywhere to be seen. I looked in the bartenders direction with an exasperated look. He pointed at a drink sitting on the bar and pointed back at me I nodded and said yes that would be ours! He brought it over to the table. When the check came we were overcharged by two margaritas. I told I waitress Jennifer who was the only nice thing about the place and she comped my beer. The management did not extend any courtesies no comps and no further apologies for the horrible time we had. Service can make or break a dining experience and this one broke it. Don't hire teenagers with attitudes higher people like Jennifer who go the extra mile and while you're at it at some flavor to your food! You not only lost a few customers tonight I am going to make sure and tell everyone I know about our horrific dining experience! I know I'm not alone since I see many similar comments on Yelp!
(1)bonne b.
We really enjoy the food here... the only draw back to me is that it is too loud to talk to others in the restaurant. They play old Music Videos on like four TV's and that makes it too loud to talk to anyone beyond those right next to you. But the food is always good and the prices are good!
(4)Shelly B.
Good Margaritas and nice staff they always make me feel right at home. My favorite plates to order here are the Street Tacos and the Chicken Spinach Enchiladas.
(3)Carine N.
we've been several times and the food while good-is never consistent. Last night we did have a very nice waitress who saw that in our party of 4 adults we also had a 20 month old-she brought out his food first. Great service. My sister in law and I had the tilapia burritos special-mine was "altered" due to food allergies, but we were both in agreement that it was pretty tasty. the nachos my husband ordered were given w/ a challenge to finish them. don't know how he did it! Our daughter had the taco salad and said it was really good.
(3)Maryann E.
One star is too many ! This place is horrible Because of the lack of customer service. Never before have I seen such lousy apathetic place. Food is fair at best!!
(1)Ginger O.
WHY does Anthem have such a terrible food scene?! I've been here twice. The first time was alright. Our food took forever. The servers are a "little rough" around the edges, but friendly. The food is overpriced, but the thing I found the most disturbing, was while we're in family friendly Anthem, this place plays rock music which is fine, but it is not censored. I'm sitting there listening to f***k over and over again during multiple songs.
(2)X Z.
For an Anthem restaurant this place isn't too bad. The food & drinks are good but seemingly a little overpriced. Service is always great. Very loud inside.
(3)John H.
I just had one of the strangest experiences at a restaurant ever. Not busy at all, so we were seated promptly. Christine was our server, and she came over to take our drink order. My daughter asked if she could get a Shirley Temple. Christine didn't hear her, which is fine, but rather than politely asking her to repeat it, she made a grimacing face and said, "Huh!" Ok, not that big a deal right? I would not be writing this or leaving 1 star for that. She took our order and was not exactly pleasant but not terrible. So, about the time we would have expected to get our food, she came over and said she was sorry but she forgot to put our order in and was going to do that right now but forgot what we ordered. (!?) So we ordered again. (Remember, they were not busy.) This entire time, she talked exclusively to my daughter's mom and ignored me. I don't care that much, but it was just weird how she focused so intently on just one person at the table. Our meals came out one at a time (mine last) after several trips. The food: my daughter's mom liked hers fine. But she said no less than 5 times (seriously) that she didn't want any tortillas, and Christine brought them anyway. Again, not a big deal, but WTH. My food was fair at best. Nothing special for sure. Some of my daughter's chicken fingers were so overcooked they were too chewy to eat, and her fries were soggy. To top it off, when Christine brought the check back, she said, "Thanks, have a good night ladies." I looked right at her, and she just said, "sorry again for the delay in your food." I'm a 46 year old guy with very short hair and a goatee. Not easily mistaken for a lady. The mediocre food gets 3 stars, but that server... 1 star at best. Just bizarre - you could even say Loco.
(1)Alicia S.
Fabulous. We were visiting from out of town and some one recommended this place. I am from Texas, love to cook and pretty particular about my Mexican food. This place was awesome. We caught a late lunch and such around for a happy hour. The food was great....the Margaritas were great..even for a house Margarita, and I usually only drink top shelf. Our service was great as well. Enjoy!!!!
(4)Lloyd C.
Being so close to Mexico, you'd think Phoenix would have some of the best Mexican food in America. So far I've found much better Mexican food in random places like Denver, Las Vegas and Florida. But I keep searching for some real, authentic Mexican food in my home state. I stumbled upon Ocho Locos thought maybe this is it. Meh. Totally not! Unfortunately this place may be the worst Mexican food on earth. The guacamole at Taco Bell is much better. We've eaten here four times in two years every time thinking we just hit it on a bad day and maybe THIS time it would be better.... Finally decided there is no "better;" it's just as bad every time. From the watery salsa to the guacamole to the overly greasy and salty dishes, I have never had anything (except for their very good frozen margaritas) that is above one star. I've concluded that any rating above one star has got to be from people that think Del Taco and Taco Bell are Mexican food. If this restaurant were in Mexico, Mexican officials would have had it deported years ago.
(1)Steve C.
My wife and I go to Ocho Locos on a regular basis, mainly because we really like Mexican food and it is the only place open for dinner in Anthem that serves after 5pm. The food is hit or miss. Most nights we like it well enough and other nights it is quite plain. The top shelf margaritas are pretty tasty. We will be back...
(3)Jeremiaj G.
We heard about this place from a few people through social media so we decided to give it a try. When we arrived, the place maybe had 8 tables sat. Nothing 3 servers, a busser, and a bartender couldn't handle. We were sat promptly and shortly after the busser brought over some chips and salsa. There was nothing special about the chips, and the salsa was just ok. We waited about 15 minutes for our server to come over to our table. When he finally came over, he asked us for our drink order. After the drinks were delivered, we waited again for our server. This is how our night went with the service. Extremely slow. I'm sure he is a nice guy but he is not a good server. If he was properly trained then he might have a chance. The food was mediocre at best. Nothing special. There could be a lot of potential with this place if it was ran right.
(1)Ellie D.
We are always pleased w the good and service. Candice , our server was very friendly and attentive. The food is always delish! We keep coming back and never get disappointed. I highly recommend their Chimichanga and fajitas.
(5)Art M.
Wow! What a disappointment for this once great place. Food was still acceptable but no football, just really loud, ear splitting music. So loud the customers complaints must not have been heard because it just kept on cranking. The adjacent table left mad.....we left with a headache.
(2)Robert B.
The food here is disgusting. We had a variety of dishes and none of them were close to being Mexican or American-Mexican cuisine. The service was slow and the tables and floor were dirty. You're better off buying frozen Mexican food at the grocery store or cooking it yourself.
(1)Jezibell K.
I can't believe people pay to eat this food. The guacamole actually comes out of a squeeze bag like you buy in the grocery store! Disgusting! After two bites of my salad and my husband taking a couple bites of his burrito, we asked for the manager so we could pay and leave. She said she didn't like the burrito here either! Thankfully she discounted the bill but we will not be going back.
(1)Laurie B.
I really like the food here, but I'm going to have to rate this place with 1 star due to their kids menu. Their kids taco and cheese enchilada plate are way to spicy for kids. My son is just under 2 and he screamed when he ate the kids cheese enchilada. I tasted the sauce and it was spicy. I asked the waitress for milk. She then had the audacity to tell me that I should order it next time without the sauce. Hey why not a heads up before my kid ate it! So disappointed in this place and the service. Why would you put spicy food on a children's menu?!? And for the record I love spicy food and can't believe that the sauce on my sons enchilada plate was as spicy as it was.
(1)Rob S.
Ally totally rocked tonight! This place is Def worth the stop. Miranda is the best. I'm not a fan of cilantro, so I order the hot sauce. Love it! The ground beef tacos rock! Never have had a bad meal here.
(5)Darren W.
Only one good thing is servers are friendly, but not knowledgeable and attentive. All these rest were awful! One of the worst food I have ever had!! They do really need big help from either Restaurant Impossible or Bar Rescue. We wish we be eating next door:(. Yuck!!!!!
(1)Christie D.
Good food! Tio Panchos Pollo Con Queso is my favorite!!! A little pricey...always get takeout which is ready in 10 min...
(4)J T.
Live in Anthem and have frequented the place over the past few years. I will not return after the last two visits. Has been a place to sit on the patio after work and unwind with a decent meal. Two visits ago, after having the carne machaca, I felt ill but dismissed it as something other than the meal. After my last visit, I spent the night vomiting up Carne Asada and onions. All night long. Today I'm not able to attend work as I need to have immediate access to sitting on a toilet. It is too bad the place has fallen into this state - not many decent places to grab a meal in Anthem.
(1)Gregory B.
Ocho Locos does not participate in Maricopa County Environmental Services Restaurant Ratings -- beware. Do NOT order a martini here. I asked for mine dirty and it arrived filthy! It tasted like 50% olive juice. Disgusting. The spinach enchiladas are truly stuffed with spinach, which is great. Tortillas chips are out of a bag. I've been here three times and service is lackadaisical.
(2)Cracker E.
Great restaurant! We just moved to the area and this was our 1st experience at a local resturant. The dishes are not authentic mexican but dont let that stop you. Portions were huge and lots of flavor. Homemade quac was a huge hit at our table. The server was extremely helpful and recommended his favorite dishes. Margaritas were so Gooooood we each had 3. Can't wait to go back!
(4)Erin O.
I went with a friend today. We had our girls and thought we would try a small family place instead of the Subway in the same strip mall. Support local businesses right? Mistake. Ordered chicken fingers off kids menu for my little ones to split. Eating too much at 3pm spoils dinner. For $5.95 I got two previously frozen processed chicken finger planks and some crinkle cut fries. Pathetic. Buddy ordered a $4.50 bowl of Kraft Mac and cheese for his kid. Absurd. I ordered a cheeseburger. Cant possibly go wrong with that right? What I got was a previously frozen pattie of tasteless meat that had two slices of barely melted processed cheese on it. Took three bites and sent it back. Waitress seemed offended personally when I said it tasted like garbage. $9.70 for a garbage cheeseburger. Honestly, a Whopper is a better tasting burger. The lettuce was shredded and browned limp iceburg the bun was soggy, etc etc. It was a train-wreck. My friend ordered the chicken fajitas and said they were VERY good. I didn't taste them, but Ill take his word for it. Terrible value. Service was mediocre. (I watched a blonde haired waitress literally twirling her pony tail while she was talking to a table. You cant make this crap up) Their receipts say "Best Mexican food in Anthem." Bullshit. Tighten up your act 8 Crazies. Your food is crap. Your prices are ABSURD. Your reviews here should be a wake up call.
(1)Jeff D.
We arrived on a Saturday afternoon. The place was fairly empty. The atmosphere was nice, but our server seemed like he had better things to do. No eye contact, no smiles. Whatever I guess, onto the food. I had the machaca beef chimichonga, which was really good. My wife has a taco salad. The tortilla bowl it comes in was awesome, but the ground beef was bland, and the lettuce was obviously from one of those bagged salad mixes - you know the kind with dried up shards of carrot and red cabbage. Really? Come on, how hard is it to cut up some fresh lettuce? My daughter had the Carne Asada... not sure what cut of beef that was but it was really tough and had some troubling gristly parts. So all said, our search for really good mexican food in the north valley continues...
(2)Carlos G.
Mexican not at its best. A Torta is not served on a hamburger bun. You don't make burritos with pita bread. It's the bread that makes it a torta.
(1)Carrie S.
The guacamole is not fresh/homemade. The rest if the food was pretty good. My hubby got the prime steak fajitas and said it was alright, pretty good. We loved the margaritas we ordered with a small corona bottle in it! Yum. Our waitress was flighty and slow. The atmosphere was fun. The chairs are. It very comfortable. Overall we might be coming back but won't be broke hearted if we don't. Ole!
(3)Cheryl L.
Waitress was fabulous. Very friendly and did a good job at her JOB. Which is always a surprise. The food was OK. I dont like shredded chicken. I had a chicken enchilada which was good. The chicken taco I did not like. They deep fry the taco shell and add a TON of shredded iceberg lettuce and cheap shredded cheese. But my 9 year old son liked it. Salsa was very mild...more like tomato sauce. My husband had carnitas and he liked it. Margarita's/cocktails have WAY too much juice/sugar. Price are about $2 too high for what you get. Very loud inside especially for how small it is. We might go back but def wouldn't take out of town gusts there.
(3)Lisa S.
Service leaves a lot to be desired...margaritas are good...not crazy about the gratuity they add in bill for a party of 6 or more...they get 4 stars for their outrageous, delectable, best I ever had Chile Rellenos. If nothing else try them...oh so good yummy!
(4)Cliff S.
Good Mexican food in Anthem. I love that you get a huge bowl of Salsa, hard to say if hot is better than the original. A little pricey and the Happy Hour leaves a little to be desired... I have not tried the chicken fingers or kids menu, but.... I think adult Mexican food is great. I will be back regularly.
(4)Jonathan L.
Went in for a table of three plus a baby. Very helpful weight staff ended up recommending all of our dishes. The Margarita was great. The Mexican food was quite good. I would recommend it as a family friendly, tasty Mexican restaurant.
(5)Jessica G.
OVERPRICED for what you get on the plate...plus, Mexican food just tastes better when the place plays more "cultural" music is decorated acoordingly
(2)Nick R.
My wife and her family love the margaritas here, but only because they are strong. They are but NOT cheap. My chimi was ok. The shrimp fajitas were also just ok. Frozen fairly small shrimp. The options around this area are limited. The chimi (luch portion) 7.99, fajitas 12.99 and two margs each ran $46 bucks. Yikes! If you can, go somewhere else.
(2)Jessica P.
Margaritas are awesome! :) Nice and strong. The place is kind of confusing on the atmosphere. I can't tell if they are trying to be trendy, or be Mexican... or both. Food was ok. I cannot have gluten anymore, so when I tried to get the corn tacos, the sauce they use has gluten in it. (fyi for fellow celiacs) The server was helpful regarding this tho in checking with the kitchen. The only thing I could have was a salad, so sadly, I can't rate the food. Hubs had the street tacos... he only got 2 and didn't get any rice and beans with it, thinking that it would come with them automatically. Nope... wrong. This does NOT fill you up... and he was left hungry. He said they were tasty, but wished it came with rice and beans or 3 tacos. FYI... this place will hold funds on your card under a different name... this alarmed me until I realized it was the amount of the bill, less the tip that I added. The final number was labeled under Ochos Locos.
(3)Linda S.
I'm a native Arizonan who has been eating authentic Mexican food since I was 3 (learned about flour tortillas when I asked my Mom why the man at the next table was eating his napkin.) My husband is Mexican American who learned to cook from his Mother. I think Ocho Locos is trying to be slick when it should just be basic and authentic. That said, we like it and drive from Cave Creek to eat there a couple of times a month. Ocho Locos has many of the same authentic recipes with which La Pinata (19th Ave. and Osborn) has stayed in business since the 70's. Green corn tamales are about the same....yummy. They have tweaked some of the other recipes to adapt to the snowbirds, but most are authentic, but tamed. My husband prefers their Carne Machaca to any in the Phoenix area (for great, go to south 4th in Tucson for Carne Seca, Carne Machaca etc.) The shredded beef tacos had a bit less flavor last visit than usually, but the beans were great as expected. Appetizers are half price at happy hour. They have daily specials at least during the week. I find their prices much better than the Mexican Restaurants in Cave Creek and the food selection better.....of course, the atmosphere at the El Encanto's is better. We have never had service that was exceptionally good or exceptionally bad. Usually the service is about average for area restaurants that are similarly priced.
(4)John O.
Pros: food was excellent at a great price Candles on the table, jazz on the speakers, 6 flat screen tvs, has a happy hour Con: lots of tables in small space, a bit load between music, and normal rest. Noise
(4)Lisa P.
Tried this place for the first time today! They were pretty slow, no big deal. But with as slow as it was you'd think you'd have lots of attention from your waitress. Not only was our drinks barely refilled. Our waitress was constantly chit chatting with one table in the room who seemed to be her good 'friend'. Customer service I could overlook. The food was ok. Not amazing for the prices charged. My one huge complaint, was that the blonde bartender was standing behind the wall behind me and very loudly was talking about "Fu**ing Mexicans". I was stunned, thought this was a mexican eatery and me being hispanic was incredibly offended. I would rethink the staff at this place and for the pricing probably wouldn't make a return visit.
(1)Sean W.
Pretty bland and uninspiring! Wife and I ate here one night when we had to be out of the house due to the A/C going out on a very hot day. We thought we would try this place because Mexican food sounded good. It was average. The prices were average, the food was average, the service was below average. I had a combo of a taco and enchilada with machaca (usually a very flavorful meat) - it was pretty blah. My wife had the pollo something - basically a chicken chimi with a cheesey sauce. The chicken was a bit off - she scraped it out and mostly ate the accompanying beans and rice. Given the opportunity, we would probably not go here again. If we want good mexican, we will bite the bullet and leave the Anthem area.
(2)Chris J.
Let me preface this review with the fact that I have never written a restaurant review in my life and I am not a picky eater.... Last night we were staying at a hotel and were just too tired to go out for dinner. So we ordered from Ocho Locos last night through Eat24hours.com (a food delivery service). First of all, there were no forks, knives, or napkins included with the delivery. Second, there was no honey included with the sopapillas and the sopapillas were overcooked to the point that I had to remove the bottom before eating them. The refried beans were so spicy that the bean burrito and extra side of beans never got eaten. And finally the pieces of cake (which were $5.95 for a small/regular size piece of cake...much too expensive) were sloppy soggy messes by the time we got it. The cake never got eaten either. Only one thing was better than a 1 star... the taquitos, which I would give 3 stars. Side note: everything was cold when it arrived; but I don't know if that's the restaurant's fault or the delivery service's fault..so that was not factored into the rating. I spent $65.00 on 2 small taquitos, 1 burrito, 1 cheese crisp, 2 pieces of cake, 1 order of sopapillas, and a small side order of refried beans. If the food had been good, I would have thought, okay, a little expensive, but at lease it was good. But it wasn't even close to good. (FYI, only about $6.00 of the $65.00 was attributed to the delivery service fee).
(1)Guy P.
Finally had dinner there and I was happy. First order of business, make my wife happy, check. Second make the kids happy, less talk and play means they are actually eating, great. Third, compare food and prices to other Mexican places I've been and ask myself if I would return, definite. Three stars there and now for the fourth. Fourth Star, I took advantage of their Facebook 1/2 off any Margarita, tried the Sangria, I liked it, would have had another, but I drove. Make sure to check their FB for deals. Tried their Tio Pancho, aka Poyo Fundido, and loved it. Would have finished it, but when your 8yr old gives you that "I want it look", of course I have to share. Portions are good. When I was done, I was just right and that is a statement when I'm not interested in desert. Service was friendly, fast, and helpful. I always make it a point to ask what the waiter or waitress preferences are and I was happy with all of Jennifer's suggestions.
(4)Melissa W.
So the pluses: The manager is great. Very personable. Some of their food is excellent. Their shredded beef enchillada is great. Supreme Nachos fantastic. Minus: It gets really loud when it is packed. It is packed most of the time. Their carne beef tacos are bland.
(3)Bunny G.
Had lunch there recently and waitress charged & brought out a dinner instead of the lunch special when I was clearly pointing to the lunch tent on the table. Then I was charged $2.50 for Shirley Temple's for the kids but was not aware of the extra charge, assuming it was part of the kids menu drink. Service was super slow and waitress needed to communicate price. Food average. Music TVs too loud. Lunch was almost $40! Ridiculous!
(2)Pity D.
The only time I've ever seen guacamole the Ocho Loco's shade of dark green/brown was once when I left some guac in my fridge for 4-5 days. It doesn't take a CSI lab tech to see that the Ocho Loco served us tasted and looked like it was at least several days old. Which is completely disgusting and 110% unacceptable. Can't say much for the rest of their food... The chicken in their chimi is the most bland, flavor-free anyone in our party has ever had. Anywhere. And the fact that it was dry did not help. I could go on and on about how much everything else we ordered sucked. But I'll spare you. I'll just say that after 4 years and at least 2 dozen different Mexican restaurants in Phoenix, the food at Ocho Locos was the most disappointing. I'd give them 1 star but the service did not warrant it.
(2)Jennifer S.
Was kind of skeptical after reading the yelp reviews. My fiance and I decided to go in and try dinner there and was extremely surprised. Our hostess and server were amazing and super friendly and on the ball. We had the street tacos and they were delicious!
(5)Lori F.
SO we have been in Anthem for awhile and have gone to this restaurant many times, even through all the numerous owners. So far we are not thrilled. The food is average and the service is slow. The bar is nice and there is seating outside which is great however not the best mexican food.
(2)C H.
The shredded beef and the Machaca beef are flawless; a Mexican restaurant lives or dies by its meat and salsa as I see it. 5 stars for the meat, 3 stars for the salsa, 2 stars for the rice and beans, and 5 stars for the excellent service. There's a full bar here too - bonus! Reasonable prices, free chips & salsa (and free refills), large portions, free soft drink refills, and they have a loyalty program. My husband and I were house hunting in Anthem, AZ and decided to try one of the (few) restaurants in town. Since we have never been able to find decent Mexican food in central CA where we live now (ironic town demo 80% Hispanic), we decided to take a chance on a Phoenix area Mexican restaurant. Ocho Locos served up the best Mexican food meal we've had in 8 years (not counting my home cooking of course). The decor is garish, just as it should be. The host was friendly. The restroom was clean. The salsa could use some doctoring up but we made our way through 2 bowls of the regular salsa and one bowl of spicier salsa (ask for it!) nonetheless. We were served by (I presume) the owner, and we think it is too funny that the proprietor of a Mexican restaurant evidently hails from Boston. We had the Mary Lou as an appetizer and it was so huge that we could have stopped there and felt satisfied. The Mary Lou is a giant flour tortilla that has a bit of cheddar cheese broiled onto it then is stuffed with perfectly tender beef chunks simmered in red chile sauce [in CA we call it Chili Colorado; in AZ they call it Machaca beef.] They fold it over and serve it up quesadilla style. I had a crispy shredded beef taco and it was hands down the best taco I've eaten in my life. The beans were dry and thick and suspiciously orange (canned?); we were eating around 2pm so they probably thickened up over the lunch hour; this is easy to fix and I hope they do. The rice was just fine. My husband had the Machaca beef burrito. It was stuffed to bursting with meat; he loved it. The plates are nicely garnished with hand-shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes. We can't wait to move so we can explore the menu.
(5)Joan Z.
Yeah!!! Time to celebrate! Pinata Nueva has died and Ocho Locos has risen from the ashes to replace it. This is excellent traditional mexican food with expedient service. Although the chips aren't homemade the salsas are yummy and the mexican pizza is to die for - fresh ingredients and lots of flavor if you choose the shredded beef. Can't wait to go there again.
(4)Tracy L.
We love mexican food and this place has redeemed itself (from the old "pinatas" restaurant that used to be in this location). The decor and menu are completely different and really good - well priced and the food is tasty. The service was really good, too. Patio looks small - we sat inside. There is a small bar with tv's, if you are looking for that. I would definitely go back - looking forward to it!
(4)Alan M.
Excellent food and even better service. Our server Mark was outstanding and the manager entertained our kids while we drank our margaritas.
(5)Amy M.
Holy Wow! Talk about delicious and a great value! Late on a Sunday night in a VERY small community, a pregnant woman has a craving for chile rellenos. Where are you going to find good Mexican food close by without spending an arm and a leg? Yelp told me Ocho Locos, and boy where they right! We ordered a wide variety of items. Don't be put off by the prices on the ala carte menu, the servings are still huge! We got the Nachos supreme, some chile rellenos, Chicken tacos, a couple quesadillas, sopapillas, and flan since we had a big group to feed. Everything was spot on! It was a take out order, and food was hot and ready exactly when they said it would be, and they even carried it to the car for us. The owner rung up our bill, was courteous and nice. They even threw in free chips and salsa which is rare from other Mexican food places when you make a to-go order. We were impressed with their fresh food, and authentic flavors. The chicken tacos had a fresh mild home made green chile sauce, the rellenos were perfectly fried in a heavenly egg batter and loaded with cheese. The nachos supreme was supreme indeed, the guacamole that came with a few of our items was pure avacado goodness, no lettuce or cheap 'filler' here, just yummy fresh smashed avacado and the perfect amount of seasoning. The desserts were so good as well! The sopapillas should be changed to 'Sopapillas as big as your head' because that's what they were. Like a personal piece of fry bread, they were soft without being too dense, and dusted with the perfect amount of powdered heaven. If I had to say one bad thing about this place, they mixed up my order slightly. I ordered 2 flan, but got 2 tres leches cake instead. I really like tres leche as did everyone else in my party, and their was nothing to scoff at either, except they topped it with whipped topping instead of whipped cream (a personal pet peeve) but really I'm almost nit picking to even point that out since it was still an overall outstanding experience. For a delicious, authentic taste from across the border, make Ocho Locos your next dining experience, and you won't be disappointed!
(5)Todd H.
Ocho doses of salt, on my Yucatan. This is the saltiest meal I have ever eaten and very same with the cream cheese on the side was so salty that I could not eat it. I love salt but not the whole shaker. Chef is not tasting his/her own food before it leaves the kitchen. They are new and hope they come around. Nice atmosphere but no drink deals after Happy Hour, this is sort of a turn-off for us. Not really willing to go back.
(1)Melanie C.
Enjoyed dinner here last night. Got the Tio Pancho's Pollo Con Queso, which I've been getting ever since they opened and were "Pinata Nueva." I know they have gone through new management but I am always impressed by the service and food. I have yet to try something there that I didn't enjoy thoroughly. :-)
(5)Amy H.
Very good Mexican food ( I get the spinach enchiladas) NIce staff, too. Try the cadillac margarita! Missing a star for lack of vegetarian items (including the rice and beans) and not dog friendly despite a patio.
(4)Andrea B.
Went there the other night, and my husband and I with little one thoroughly enjoyed our visit. Staff was friendly, I can't remember the last time in an Anthem Restaurant a manager stopped by to see if everything was doing well, he seemed genuinely concerned about our enjoyment. A huge plus. I remember the old restaurant and Ocho Locos is leaps and bounds above that one. We will definitely be back. I had the street tacos, yummy. Hubbie had shrimp fajitas, which apparently they only serve on the weekends. (they need this all the time) my only complaint. Daughter has chicken strips and French fries.
(4)Chad A.
I gotta admit, I'm having trouble with this review. It was a night of averages. We sat down pretty quick, waitress took our drink order fairly quickly (she didn't seem to know their own beer selection). I ordered the Tio's Pollo Con Queso, which was decent, but certainly nothing to rave about. I do have to compliment the pricing, which was very reasonable ($10-$15). I think it's an improvement over the previous place, especially with decor, but it's not somewhere I would go to on a regular basis, but good enough if you live nearby and don't feel like driving.
(3)Scott P.
Hit this spot with my family and dad after visiting the Anthem Farmers Market on Sunday. Either we visited during a perfect alignment of bad luck or it really is systemically flawed on the part of the operators. The place was pretty empty for noon on Sunday. There were 3 covers...the place looks like it seats around 40. Our party of 4 plus my 2-year old were seated immediately. My daughter was given a coloring book page and some well-used crayons in a dirty rubbermaid container. While our family isn't the germaphobe type, communal crayons for toddlers doesn't send a message of sanitation. It took around 15 minutes for our server to take our drink orders and another 10 minutes to return with our waters and ice teas. (The ice tea was slightly tinted tan water with barely enough tea flavor to incite nausea...growing up in Alabama, I'm an ice tea snob.) Our food order was fulfilled in a reasonable amount of time. My entree was a bit spicy for me, but that's pretty subjective. Requisite beans and rice were solid though. Value was pretty low though for what we got. The quality wasn't any better than any other strip mall counter service Mexican joint but prices were about double. After a long wait upon finishing our meals, we were met with an apologetic server who said their computers were down and we could either wait longer or he could write up manual ticket. We were paying cash and I've got to think that's the simplest transaction to process, but he looked supremely at a loss when we opted for the manual ticket option. We finally completed our transaction and left. We were given a 10% off our next visit coupon for our inconvenience. My dad asked rightfully why we couldn't have 10% off this transaction for our current inconvenience...that was met with a vapid stare. Given the benefit of the doubt, it did seem they were shorthanded in the kitchen. We did see another couple walk out because of the long delay. Maybe it was just a bad day or maybe it was a more systemic problem.
(2)J D.
We were bar hopping in the area while waiting to pickup our Son from a birthday party...this was our first stop. There's a small bar on the left side of the restaurant where you can saddle up for a few drinks and some grub. I had a couple of glasses of Wine and tried the Chips & Salsa.....not bad. The bar is pretty small, seats about 8-10 people. The restaurant seems cool, woud like to come back and try some food. If we lived closer to Anthem, we would. The bartender was pretty cool....she's from New York and had some great stories to tell. Overall, a pretty cool spot to hangout for a few drinks. Return Factor - 70%
(3)Dog D.
Great food, friendly staff and cozy outdoor seating! I am a big fan of their combo plates and they always have specials!
(4)Arlin B.
We went to Ocho Locos in Anthem the other night for dinner. I agree with Holly J on this one. Big improvement over the prior ownership with Pinta Nueva! They are still working out the kinks with their new menu and staff so I'm looking forward to visiting them again soon to see if they deserve a higher rating. They offer a good selection of traditional and American Mexican food. They have a full bar and offer a decent selection of beers on tap. The service was good, not stellar. They redecorated and added some nice HD TV's for sports and concerts. Our meals were good "A-OK" but you can tell they are new, still working out some of the details with delivering excellente Mexican comida or alimento! Will visit again soon. Hope you give them a try next time your in Anthem looking for Mexican.
(3)Amanda C.
Having been in Anthem for 7 years and watching this place go through various owners and even before Ocho Locos was here, I've come to the conclusion that this place is cursed. Never have I had a good meal here. My most recent visit involved flies everywhere, and overpriced, mediocre food. I ordered Vegetarian tacos that consisted of a copious amount of guacamole, an equal amount of lettuce, and cheap shredded cheese. (After having to send it back for getting the wrong food.) I took a couple bites and couldn't finish it. I sent my food back and went to Taco Bell.
(1)Carine N.
we've been several times and the food while good-is never consistent. Last night we did have a very nice waitress who saw that in our party of 4 adults we also had a 20 month old-she brought out his food first. Great service. My sister in law and I had the tilapia burritos special-mine was "altered" due to food allergies, but we were both in agreement that it was pretty tasty. the nachos my husband ordered were given w/ a challenge to finish them. don't know how he did it! Our daughter had the taco salad and said it was really good.
(3)Maryann E.
One star is too many ! This place is horrible Because of the lack of customer service. Never before have I seen such lousy apathetic place. Food is fair at best!!
(1)Alexander G.
This past Sunday, we ordered some items to go: Combination #3 and The Jefe Steak . What a mistake! We nearly ended up at the Hospital, with severe cramps, fever and stomach aches. Really bad! Doubtt it very seriously that we will return.
(1)Raquel H.
This place is nice when you walk in and it smells good but the food wasn't as good as I thought it would be. The price for what you get was not worth it. The beans were burnt and had no flavor, the plate was super hot but the rice was just luke warm. The fajitas had a weird taste to them and I am not sure what seasonings were used. The salsa they give you taste like pace which there isn't a problem with pace but I could have gotten that at home. The woman's bathroom is designed for tall people and not very kid friendly. Not somewhere I would come back to. The waitress was very nice and that is the only reason why I am giving it a two instead of 1 star
(2)John H.
I just had one of the strangest experiences at a restaurant ever. Not busy at all, so we were seated promptly. Christine was our server, and she came over to take our drink order. My daughter asked if she could get a Shirley Temple. Christine didn't hear her, which is fine, but rather than politely asking her to repeat it, she made a grimacing face and said, "Huh!" Ok, not that big a deal right? I would not be writing this or leaving 1 star for that. She took our order and was not exactly pleasant but not terrible. So, about the time we would have expected to get our food, she came over and said she was sorry but she forgot to put our order in and was going to do that right now but forgot what we ordered. (!?) So we ordered again. (Remember, they were not busy.) This entire time, she talked exclusively to my daughter's mom and ignored me. I don't care that much, but it was just weird how she focused so intently on just one person at the table. Our meals came out one at a time (mine last) after several trips. The food: my daughter's mom liked hers fine. But she said no less than 5 times (seriously) that she didn't want any tortillas, and Christine brought them anyway. Again, not a big deal, but WTH. My food was fair at best. Nothing special for sure. Some of my daughter's chicken fingers were so overcooked they were too chewy to eat, and her fries were soggy. To top it off, when Christine brought the check back, she said, "Thanks, have a good night ladies." I looked right at her, and she just said, "sorry again for the delay in your food." I'm a 46 year old guy with very short hair and a goatee. Not easily mistaken for a lady. The mediocre food gets 3 stars, but that server... 1 star at best. Just bizarre - you could even say Loco.
(1)Alicia S.
Fabulous. We were visiting from out of town and some one recommended this place. I am from Texas, love to cook and pretty particular about my Mexican food. This place was awesome. We caught a late lunch and such around for a happy hour. The food was great....the Margaritas were great..even for a house Margarita, and I usually only drink top shelf. Our service was great as well. Enjoy!!!!
(4)Steve C.
My wife and I go to Ocho Locos on a regular basis, mainly because we really like Mexican food and it is the only place open for dinner in Anthem that serves after 5pm. The food is hit or miss. Most nights we like it well enough and other nights it is quite plain. The top shelf margaritas are pretty tasty. We will be back...
(3)J T.
Live in Anthem and have frequented the place over the past few years. I will not return after the last two visits. Has been a place to sit on the patio after work and unwind with a decent meal. Two visits ago, after having the carne machaca, I felt ill but dismissed it as something other than the meal. After my last visit, I spent the night vomiting up Carne Asada and onions. All night long. Today I'm not able to attend work as I need to have immediate access to sitting on a toilet. It is too bad the place has fallen into this state - not many decent places to grab a meal in Anthem.
(1)Kurt S.
Overpriced, mediocre, Mexican food. Meh... is even being generous. The salsa was from a can/jar. The red sauce beef filling in my wife's quesadilla was VERY bland and my daughter had a $9 bean burrito... Yes, you heard me. A $9 BEAN BURRITO! WTF?! I thought I was sitting in Anthem, not the Strip in Vegas. I had a cheeseburger, thinking that couldn't be done poorly, and they burnt the toasted bun and the burger. In fact, I'm not sure why I was asked how I wanted it, when it became painfully apparent as we smelt it burning from the kitchen, that it was definitely coming out WELL done and not Medium as ordered. Um, Newsflash?! Why didn't you just make another $1 frozen hamburger patty and toast another .50 cent bun for my $10 cheeseburger??? The service meant well, but was not even attentive enough to refill our empty salsa bowl. Also, the TV in the Northwest corner had a serious hue problem since everything was tinted Reddish Orange. For the prices we were being charged, I shouldn't have to watch a crappy TV picture and neither should you. Make sure you face the other way.
(2)Brittany F.
I have been to Ocho a few times. There food is fine, nothing extraordinary. Their salsa is ok, but doesn't taste fresh. Their prices are good if you do the lunch specials, but their regular prices are crazy for the quality or lack there of. A single taco, nothing else (beans or rice) is $5.95. For the taste of the tacos, I would think $4 is pushing it. Without something added to the tacos, they are bland, so you must use the salsa to help the taste. Their beans are fairly tasteless so if you are looking for a protein fix without much flavor, beans are the way to go.
(2)Lloyd C.
Being so close to Mexico, you'd think Phoenix would have some of the best Mexican food in America. So far I've found much better Mexican food in random places like Denver, Las Vegas and Florida. But I keep searching for some real, authentic Mexican food in my home state. I stumbled upon Ocho Locos thought maybe this is it. Meh. Totally not! Unfortunately this place may be the worst Mexican food on earth. The guacamole at Taco Bell is much better. We've eaten here four times in two years every time thinking we just hit it on a bad day and maybe THIS time it would be better.... Finally decided there is no "better;" it's just as bad every time. From the watery salsa to the guacamole to the overly greasy and salty dishes, I have never had anything (except for their very good frozen margaritas) that is above one star. I've concluded that any rating above one star has got to be from people that think Del Taco and Taco Bell are Mexican food. If this restaurant were in Mexico, Mexican officials would have had it deported years ago.
(1)Melissa N.
I'm a Mexican food snob, and this place is gooooood! Wonderful green corn tamales and enchiladas. Tacos are shredded beef with homemade shells. Totally recommend!!!
(5)Supperman F.
Food is just ok, usually just luke warm tho. Came with a group of 10 for the last visit, the one child that was in our group didn't get her meal until literally 10 minutes after everyone else. Service was rude and slow, she actually rolled her eyes at one point when a request was made! This place is filled with rookie servers or it's the place burnt out servers who hate their life come to die lol. Probably won't be back, 3 strikes and you're out, lo sientos Ocho!
(2)Terry S.
Muchaco Burrito was so dry I thought we were in the Sahara...Tamale masa dry also. Canned cheese it seems over the enchilada. Taco shell was like leather....definitely was not cooked fresh. Black beans tasted liked regular pinto beans and was sitting in black liquid in a bowl. No spices in them whatsoever. Waitress was just ok. Cost us 35.00 to be running to the bathroom the rest of that night and the next day. I guess people in Phoenix don't know what Mexican food is supposed to taste like. NOt a large waiting area either. Some of the waitesses had such sour puss looks on their faces. We would never ever go there again.
(1)Melanie C.
Enjoyed dinner here last night. Got the Tio Pancho's Pollo Con Queso, which I've been getting ever since they opened and were "Pinata Nueva." I know they have gone through new management but I am always impressed by the service and food. I have yet to try something there that I didn't enjoy thoroughly. :-)
(5)Amy H.
Very good Mexican food ( I get the spinach enchiladas) NIce staff, too. Try the cadillac margarita! Missing a star for lack of vegetarian items (including the rice and beans) and not dog friendly despite a patio.
(4)Andrea B.
Went there the other night, and my husband and I with little one thoroughly enjoyed our visit. Staff was friendly, I can't remember the last time in an Anthem Restaurant a manager stopped by to see if everything was doing well, he seemed genuinely concerned about our enjoyment. A huge plus. I remember the old restaurant and Ocho Locos is leaps and bounds above that one. We will definitely be back. I had the street tacos, yummy. Hubbie had shrimp fajitas, which apparently they only serve on the weekends. (they need this all the time) my only complaint. Daughter has chicken strips and French fries.
(4)Chad A.
I gotta admit, I'm having trouble with this review. It was a night of averages. We sat down pretty quick, waitress took our drink order fairly quickly (she didn't seem to know their own beer selection). I ordered the Tio's Pollo Con Queso, which was decent, but certainly nothing to rave about. I do have to compliment the pricing, which was very reasonable ($10-$15). I think it's an improvement over the previous place, especially with decor, but it's not somewhere I would go to on a regular basis, but good enough if you live nearby and don't feel like driving.
(3)Gloria P.
If you would like to be treated rudely overcharged and ignored this is the place to go! After we sat down we waited 10 minutes to get anyone to pay attention to us. I flagged down a waiter and asked him for some water. Your server will get that for you he answered in a snarly voice. My friend replied really we been here 10 minutes and haven't seen anyone. I said your server will have to get that for you he snarled. I got up to the bar and asked to speak to the manager who came to the table. When I began to tell her about his treatment she said oh he's only a busboy. I told her I didn't care if he owned the place that was no way to treat a customer. She apologized and asked for a drink order. 10 minutes later my friends Margarita was still not anywhere to be seen. I looked in the bartenders direction with an exasperated look. He pointed at a drink sitting on the bar and pointed back at me I nodded and said yes that would be ours! He brought it over to the table. When the check came we were overcharged by two margaritas. I told I waitress Jennifer who was the only nice thing about the place and she comped my beer. The management did not extend any courtesies no comps and no further apologies for the horrible time we had. Service can make or break a dining experience and this one broke it. Don't hire teenagers with attitudes higher people like Jennifer who go the extra mile and while you're at it at some flavor to your food! You not only lost a few customers tonight I am going to make sure and tell everyone I know about our horrific dining experience! I know I'm not alone since I see many similar comments on Yelp!
(1)bonne b.
We really enjoy the food here... the only draw back to me is that it is too loud to talk to others in the restaurant. They play old Music Videos on like four TV's and that makes it too loud to talk to anyone beyond those right next to you. But the food is always good and the prices are good!
(4)Shelly B.
Good Margaritas and nice staff they always make me feel right at home. My favorite plates to order here are the Street Tacos and the Chicken Spinach Enchiladas.
(3)Nick R.
My wife and her family love the margaritas here, but only because they are strong. They are but NOT cheap. My chimi was ok. The shrimp fajitas were also just ok. Frozen fairly small shrimp. The options around this area are limited. The chimi (luch portion) 7.99, fajitas 12.99 and two margs each ran $46 bucks. Yikes! If you can, go somewhere else.
(2)Jessica P.
Margaritas are awesome! :) Nice and strong. The place is kind of confusing on the atmosphere. I can't tell if they are trying to be trendy, or be Mexican... or both. Food was ok. I cannot have gluten anymore, so when I tried to get the corn tacos, the sauce they use has gluten in it. (fyi for fellow celiacs) The server was helpful regarding this tho in checking with the kitchen. The only thing I could have was a salad, so sadly, I can't rate the food. Hubs had the street tacos... he only got 2 and didn't get any rice and beans with it, thinking that it would come with them automatically. Nope... wrong. This does NOT fill you up... and he was left hungry. He said they were tasty, but wished it came with rice and beans or 3 tacos. FYI... this place will hold funds on your card under a different name... this alarmed me until I realized it was the amount of the bill, less the tip that I added. The final number was labeled under Ochos Locos.
(3)Linda S.
I'm a native Arizonan who has been eating authentic Mexican food since I was 3 (learned about flour tortillas when I asked my Mom why the man at the next table was eating his napkin.) My husband is Mexican American who learned to cook from his Mother. I think Ocho Locos is trying to be slick when it should just be basic and authentic. That said, we like it and drive from Cave Creek to eat there a couple of times a month. Ocho Locos has many of the same authentic recipes with which La Pinata (19th Ave. and Osborn) has stayed in business since the 70's. Green corn tamales are about the same....yummy. They have tweaked some of the other recipes to adapt to the snowbirds, but most are authentic, but tamed. My husband prefers their Carne Machaca to any in the Phoenix area (for great, go to south 4th in Tucson for Carne Seca, Carne Machaca etc.) The shredded beef tacos had a bit less flavor last visit than usually, but the beans were great as expected. Appetizers are half price at happy hour. They have daily specials at least during the week. I find their prices much better than the Mexican Restaurants in Cave Creek and the food selection better.....of course, the atmosphere at the El Encanto's is better. We have never had service that was exceptionally good or exceptionally bad. Usually the service is about average for area restaurants that are similarly priced.
(4)Guy P.
Finally had dinner there and I was happy. First order of business, make my wife happy, check. Second make the kids happy, less talk and play means they are actually eating, great. Third, compare food and prices to other Mexican places I've been and ask myself if I would return, definite. Three stars there and now for the fourth. Fourth Star, I took advantage of their Facebook 1/2 off any Margarita, tried the Sangria, I liked it, would have had another, but I drove. Make sure to check their FB for deals. Tried their Tio Pancho, aka Poyo Fundido, and loved it. Would have finished it, but when your 8yr old gives you that "I want it look", of course I have to share. Portions are good. When I was done, I was just right and that is a statement when I'm not interested in desert. Service was friendly, fast, and helpful. I always make it a point to ask what the waiter or waitress preferences are and I was happy with all of Jennifer's suggestions.
(4)Melissa W.
So the pluses: The manager is great. Very personable. Some of their food is excellent. Their shredded beef enchillada is great. Supreme Nachos fantastic. Minus: It gets really loud when it is packed. It is packed most of the time. Their carne beef tacos are bland.
(3)Bunny G.
Had lunch there recently and waitress charged & brought out a dinner instead of the lunch special when I was clearly pointing to the lunch tent on the table. Then I was charged $2.50 for Shirley Temple's for the kids but was not aware of the extra charge, assuming it was part of the kids menu drink. Service was super slow and waitress needed to communicate price. Food average. Music TVs too loud. Lunch was almost $40! Ridiculous!
(2)John O.
Pros: food was excellent at a great price Candles on the table, jazz on the speakers, 6 flat screen tvs, has a happy hour Con: lots of tables in small space, a bit load between music, and normal rest. Noise
(4)Pity D.
The only time I've ever seen guacamole the Ocho Loco's shade of dark green/brown was once when I left some guac in my fridge for 4-5 days. It doesn't take a CSI lab tech to see that the Ocho Loco served us tasted and looked like it was at least several days old. Which is completely disgusting and 110% unacceptable. Can't say much for the rest of their food... The chicken in their chimi is the most bland, flavor-free anyone in our party has ever had. Anywhere. And the fact that it was dry did not help. I could go on and on about how much everything else we ordered sucked. But I'll spare you. I'll just say that after 4 years and at least 2 dozen different Mexican restaurants in Phoenix, the food at Ocho Locos was the most disappointing. I'd give them 1 star but the service did not warrant it.
(2)Jennifer S.
Was kind of skeptical after reading the yelp reviews. My fiance and I decided to go in and try dinner there and was extremely surprised. Our hostess and server were amazing and super friendly and on the ball. We had the street tacos and they were delicious!
(5)Lori F.
SO we have been in Anthem for awhile and have gone to this restaurant many times, even through all the numerous owners. So far we are not thrilled. The food is average and the service is slow. The bar is nice and there is seating outside which is great however not the best mexican food.
(2)Lisa P.
Tried this place for the first time today! They were pretty slow, no big deal. But with as slow as it was you'd think you'd have lots of attention from your waitress. Not only was our drinks barely refilled. Our waitress was constantly chit chatting with one table in the room who seemed to be her good 'friend'. Customer service I could overlook. The food was ok. Not amazing for the prices charged. My one huge complaint, was that the blonde bartender was standing behind the wall behind me and very loudly was talking about "Fu**ing Mexicans". I was stunned, thought this was a mexican eatery and me being hispanic was incredibly offended. I would rethink the staff at this place and for the pricing probably wouldn't make a return visit.
(1)Sean W.
Pretty bland and uninspiring! Wife and I ate here one night when we had to be out of the house due to the A/C going out on a very hot day. We thought we would try this place because Mexican food sounded good. It was average. The prices were average, the food was average, the service was below average. I had a combo of a taco and enchilada with machaca (usually a very flavorful meat) - it was pretty blah. My wife had the pollo something - basically a chicken chimi with a cheesey sauce. The chicken was a bit off - she scraped it out and mostly ate the accompanying beans and rice. Given the opportunity, we would probably not go here again. If we want good mexican, we will bite the bullet and leave the Anthem area.
(2)C H.
The shredded beef and the Machaca beef are flawless; a Mexican restaurant lives or dies by its meat and salsa as I see it. 5 stars for the meat, 3 stars for the salsa, 2 stars for the rice and beans, and 5 stars for the excellent service. There's a full bar here too - bonus! Reasonable prices, free chips & salsa (and free refills), large portions, free soft drink refills, and they have a loyalty program. My husband and I were house hunting in Anthem, AZ and decided to try one of the (few) restaurants in town. Since we have never been able to find decent Mexican food in central CA where we live now (ironic town demo 80% Hispanic), we decided to take a chance on a Phoenix area Mexican restaurant. Ocho Locos served up the best Mexican food meal we've had in 8 years (not counting my home cooking of course). The decor is garish, just as it should be. The host was friendly. The restroom was clean. The salsa could use some doctoring up but we made our way through 2 bowls of the regular salsa and one bowl of spicier salsa (ask for it!) nonetheless. We were served by (I presume) the owner, and we think it is too funny that the proprietor of a Mexican restaurant evidently hails from Boston. We had the Mary Lou as an appetizer and it was so huge that we could have stopped there and felt satisfied. The Mary Lou is a giant flour tortilla that has a bit of cheddar cheese broiled onto it then is stuffed with perfectly tender beef chunks simmered in red chile sauce [in CA we call it Chili Colorado; in AZ they call it Machaca beef.] They fold it over and serve it up quesadilla style. I had a crispy shredded beef taco and it was hands down the best taco I've eaten in my life. The beans were dry and thick and suspiciously orange (canned?); we were eating around 2pm so they probably thickened up over the lunch hour; this is easy to fix and I hope they do. The rice was just fine. My husband had the Machaca beef burrito. It was stuffed to bursting with meat; he loved it. The plates are nicely garnished with hand-shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes. We can't wait to move so we can explore the menu.
(5)Joan Z.
Yeah!!! Time to celebrate! Pinata Nueva has died and Ocho Locos has risen from the ashes to replace it. This is excellent traditional mexican food with expedient service. Although the chips aren't homemade the salsas are yummy and the mexican pizza is to die for - fresh ingredients and lots of flavor if you choose the shredded beef. Can't wait to go there again.
(4)Tracy L.
We love mexican food and this place has redeemed itself (from the old "pinatas" restaurant that used to be in this location). The decor and menu are completely different and really good - well priced and the food is tasty. The service was really good, too. Patio looks small - we sat inside. There is a small bar with tv's, if you are looking for that. I would definitely go back - looking forward to it!
(4)Alan M.
Excellent food and even better service. Our server Mark was outstanding and the manager entertained our kids while we drank our margaritas.
(5)Amy M.
Holy Wow! Talk about delicious and a great value! Late on a Sunday night in a VERY small community, a pregnant woman has a craving for chile rellenos. Where are you going to find good Mexican food close by without spending an arm and a leg? Yelp told me Ocho Locos, and boy where they right! We ordered a wide variety of items. Don't be put off by the prices on the ala carte menu, the servings are still huge! We got the Nachos supreme, some chile rellenos, Chicken tacos, a couple quesadillas, sopapillas, and flan since we had a big group to feed. Everything was spot on! It was a take out order, and food was hot and ready exactly when they said it would be, and they even carried it to the car for us. The owner rung up our bill, was courteous and nice. They even threw in free chips and salsa which is rare from other Mexican food places when you make a to-go order. We were impressed with their fresh food, and authentic flavors. The chicken tacos had a fresh mild home made green chile sauce, the rellenos were perfectly fried in a heavenly egg batter and loaded with cheese. The nachos supreme was supreme indeed, the guacamole that came with a few of our items was pure avacado goodness, no lettuce or cheap 'filler' here, just yummy fresh smashed avacado and the perfect amount of seasoning. The desserts were so good as well! The sopapillas should be changed to 'Sopapillas as big as your head' because that's what they were. Like a personal piece of fry bread, they were soft without being too dense, and dusted with the perfect amount of powdered heaven. If I had to say one bad thing about this place, they mixed up my order slightly. I ordered 2 flan, but got 2 tres leches cake instead. I really like tres leche as did everyone else in my party, and their was nothing to scoff at either, except they topped it with whipped topping instead of whipped cream (a personal pet peeve) but really I'm almost nit picking to even point that out since it was still an overall outstanding experience. For a delicious, authentic taste from across the border, make Ocho Locos your next dining experience, and you won't be disappointed!
(5)Todd H.
Ocho doses of salt, on my Yucatan. This is the saltiest meal I have ever eaten and very same with the cream cheese on the side was so salty that I could not eat it. I love salt but not the whole shaker. Chef is not tasting his/her own food before it leaves the kitchen. They are new and hope they come around. Nice atmosphere but no drink deals after Happy Hour, this is sort of a turn-off for us. Not really willing to go back.
(1)Chris J.
Let me preface this review with the fact that I have never written a restaurant review in my life and I am not a picky eater.... Last night we were staying at a hotel and were just too tired to go out for dinner. So we ordered from Ocho Locos last night through Eat24hours.com (a food delivery service). First of all, there were no forks, knives, or napkins included with the delivery. Second, there was no honey included with the sopapillas and the sopapillas were overcooked to the point that I had to remove the bottom before eating them. The refried beans were so spicy that the bean burrito and extra side of beans never got eaten. And finally the pieces of cake (which were $5.95 for a small/regular size piece of cake...much too expensive) were sloppy soggy messes by the time we got it. The cake never got eaten either. Only one thing was better than a 1 star... the taquitos, which I would give 3 stars. Side note: everything was cold when it arrived; but I don't know if that's the restaurant's fault or the delivery service's fault..so that was not factored into the rating. I spent $65.00 on 2 small taquitos, 1 burrito, 1 cheese crisp, 2 pieces of cake, 1 order of sopapillas, and a small side order of refried beans. If the food had been good, I would have thought, okay, a little expensive, but at lease it was good. But it wasn't even close to good. (FYI, only about $6.00 of the $65.00 was attributed to the delivery service fee).
(1)Jeremiaj G.
We heard about this place from a few people through social media so we decided to give it a try. When we arrived, the place maybe had 8 tables sat. Nothing 3 servers, a busser, and a bartender couldn't handle. We were sat promptly and shortly after the busser brought over some chips and salsa. There was nothing special about the chips, and the salsa was just ok. We waited about 15 minutes for our server to come over to our table. When he finally came over, he asked us for our drink order. After the drinks were delivered, we waited again for our server. This is how our night went with the service. Extremely slow. I'm sure he is a nice guy but he is not a good server. If he was properly trained then he might have a chance. The food was mediocre at best. Nothing special. There could be a lot of potential with this place if it was ran right.
(1)Ellie D.
We are always pleased w the good and service. Candice , our server was very friendly and attentive. The food is always delish! We keep coming back and never get disappointed. I highly recommend their Chimichanga and fajitas.
(5)Art M.
Wow! What a disappointment for this once great place. Food was still acceptable but no football, just really loud, ear splitting music. So loud the customers complaints must not have been heard because it just kept on cranking. The adjacent table left mad.....we left with a headache.
(2)Robert B.
The food here is disgusting. We had a variety of dishes and none of them were close to being Mexican or American-Mexican cuisine. The service was slow and the tables and floor were dirty. You're better off buying frozen Mexican food at the grocery store or cooking it yourself.
(1)Jezibell K.
I can't believe people pay to eat this food. The guacamole actually comes out of a squeeze bag like you buy in the grocery store! Disgusting! After two bites of my salad and my husband taking a couple bites of his burrito, we asked for the manager so we could pay and leave. She said she didn't like the burrito here either! Thankfully she discounted the bill but we will not be going back.
(1)Laurie B.
I really like the food here, but I'm going to have to rate this place with 1 star due to their kids menu. Their kids taco and cheese enchilada plate are way to spicy for kids. My son is just under 2 and he screamed when he ate the kids cheese enchilada. I tasted the sauce and it was spicy. I asked the waitress for milk. She then had the audacity to tell me that I should order it next time without the sauce. Hey why not a heads up before my kid ate it! So disappointed in this place and the service. Why would you put spicy food on a children's menu?!? And for the record I love spicy food and can't believe that the sauce on my sons enchilada plate was as spicy as it was.
(1)Rob S.
Ally totally rocked tonight! This place is Def worth the stop. Miranda is the best. I'm not a fan of cilantro, so I order the hot sauce. Love it! The ground beef tacos rock! Never have had a bad meal here.
(5)Erin O.
I went with a friend today. We had our girls and thought we would try a small family place instead of the Subway in the same strip mall. Support local businesses right? Mistake. Ordered chicken fingers off kids menu for my little ones to split. Eating too much at 3pm spoils dinner. For $5.95 I got two previously frozen processed chicken finger planks and some crinkle cut fries. Pathetic. Buddy ordered a $4.50 bowl of Kraft Mac and cheese for his kid. Absurd. I ordered a cheeseburger. Cant possibly go wrong with that right? What I got was a previously frozen pattie of tasteless meat that had two slices of barely melted processed cheese on it. Took three bites and sent it back. Waitress seemed offended personally when I said it tasted like garbage. $9.70 for a garbage cheeseburger. Honestly, a Whopper is a better tasting burger. The lettuce was shredded and browned limp iceburg the bun was soggy, etc etc. It was a train-wreck. My friend ordered the chicken fajitas and said they were VERY good. I didn't taste them, but Ill take his word for it. Terrible value. Service was mediocre. (I watched a blonde haired waitress literally twirling her pony tail while she was talking to a table. You cant make this crap up) Their receipts say "Best Mexican food in Anthem." Bullshit. Tighten up your act 8 Crazies. Your food is crap. Your prices are ABSURD. Your reviews here should be a wake up call.
(1)Jeff D.
We arrived on a Saturday afternoon. The place was fairly empty. The atmosphere was nice, but our server seemed like he had better things to do. No eye contact, no smiles. Whatever I guess, onto the food. I had the machaca beef chimichonga, which was really good. My wife has a taco salad. The tortilla bowl it comes in was awesome, but the ground beef was bland, and the lettuce was obviously from one of those bagged salad mixes - you know the kind with dried up shards of carrot and red cabbage. Really? Come on, how hard is it to cut up some fresh lettuce? My daughter had the Carne Asada... not sure what cut of beef that was but it was really tough and had some troubling gristly parts. So all said, our search for really good mexican food in the north valley continues...
(2)Carlos G.
Mexican not at its best. A Torta is not served on a hamburger bun. You don't make burritos with pita bread. It's the bread that makes it a torta.
(1)Carrie S.
The guacamole is not fresh/homemade. The rest if the food was pretty good. My hubby got the prime steak fajitas and said it was alright, pretty good. We loved the margaritas we ordered with a small corona bottle in it! Yum. Our waitress was flighty and slow. The atmosphere was fun. The chairs are. It very comfortable. Overall we might be coming back but won't be broke hearted if we don't. Ole!
(3)Darren W.
Only one good thing is servers are friendly, but not knowledgeable and attentive. All these rest were awful! One of the worst food I have ever had!! They do really need big help from either Restaurant Impossible or Bar Rescue. We wish we be eating next door:(. Yuck!!!!!
(1)Christie D.
Good food! Tio Panchos Pollo Con Queso is my favorite!!! A little pricey...always get takeout which is ready in 10 min...
(4)Gregory B.
Ocho Locos does not participate in Maricopa County Environmental Services Restaurant Ratings -- beware. Do NOT order a martini here. I asked for mine dirty and it arrived filthy! It tasted like 50% olive juice. Disgusting. The spinach enchiladas are truly stuffed with spinach, which is great. Tortillas chips are out of a bag. I've been here three times and service is lackadaisical.
(2)Scott P.
Hit this spot with my family and dad after visiting the Anthem Farmers Market on Sunday. Either we visited during a perfect alignment of bad luck or it really is systemically flawed on the part of the operators. The place was pretty empty for noon on Sunday. There were 3 covers...the place looks like it seats around 40. Our party of 4 plus my 2-year old were seated immediately. My daughter was given a coloring book page and some well-used crayons in a dirty rubbermaid container. While our family isn't the germaphobe type, communal crayons for toddlers doesn't send a message of sanitation. It took around 15 minutes for our server to take our drink orders and another 10 minutes to return with our waters and ice teas. (The ice tea was slightly tinted tan water with barely enough tea flavor to incite nausea...growing up in Alabama, I'm an ice tea snob.) Our food order was fulfilled in a reasonable amount of time. My entree was a bit spicy for me, but that's pretty subjective. Requisite beans and rice were solid though. Value was pretty low though for what we got. The quality wasn't any better than any other strip mall counter service Mexican joint but prices were about double. After a long wait upon finishing our meals, we were met with an apologetic server who said their computers were down and we could either wait longer or he could write up manual ticket. We were paying cash and I've got to think that's the simplest transaction to process, but he looked supremely at a loss when we opted for the manual ticket option. We finally completed our transaction and left. We were given a 10% off our next visit coupon for our inconvenience. My dad asked rightfully why we couldn't have 10% off this transaction for our current inconvenience...that was met with a vapid stare. Given the benefit of the doubt, it did seem they were shorthanded in the kitchen. We did see another couple walk out because of the long delay. Maybe it was just a bad day or maybe it was a more systemic problem.
(2)J D.
We were bar hopping in the area while waiting to pickup our Son from a birthday party...this was our first stop. There's a small bar on the left side of the restaurant where you can saddle up for a few drinks and some grub. I had a couple of glasses of Wine and tried the Chips & Salsa.....not bad. The bar is pretty small, seats about 8-10 people. The restaurant seems cool, woud like to come back and try some food. If we lived closer to Anthem, we would. The bartender was pretty cool....she's from New York and had some great stories to tell. Overall, a pretty cool spot to hangout for a few drinks. Return Factor - 70%
(3)Dog D.
Great food, friendly staff and cozy outdoor seating! I am a big fan of their combo plates and they always have specials!
(4)Cracker E.
Great restaurant! We just moved to the area and this was our 1st experience at a local resturant. The dishes are not authentic mexican but dont let that stop you. Portions were huge and lots of flavor. Homemade quac was a huge hit at our table. The server was extremely helpful and recommended his favorite dishes. Margaritas were so Gooooood we each had 3. Can't wait to go back!
(4)Ginger O.
WHY does Anthem have such a terrible food scene?! I've been here twice. The first time was alright. Our food took forever. The servers are a "little rough" around the edges, but friendly. The food is overpriced, but the thing I found the most disturbing, was while we're in family friendly Anthem, this place plays rock music which is fine, but it is not censored. I'm sitting there listening to f***k over and over again during multiple songs.
(2)X Z.
For an Anthem restaurant this place isn't too bad. The food & drinks are good but seemingly a little overpriced. Service is always great. Very loud inside.
(3)Cheryl L.
Waitress was fabulous. Very friendly and did a good job at her JOB. Which is always a surprise. The food was OK. I dont like shredded chicken. I had a chicken enchilada which was good. The chicken taco I did not like. They deep fry the taco shell and add a TON of shredded iceberg lettuce and cheap shredded cheese. But my 9 year old son liked it. Salsa was very mild...more like tomato sauce. My husband had carnitas and he liked it. Margarita's/cocktails have WAY too much juice/sugar. Price are about $2 too high for what you get. Very loud inside especially for how small it is. We might go back but def wouldn't take out of town gusts there.
(3)Lisa S.
Service leaves a lot to be desired...margaritas are good...not crazy about the gratuity they add in bill for a party of 6 or more...they get 4 stars for their outrageous, delectable, best I ever had Chile Rellenos. If nothing else try them...oh so good yummy!
(4)Arlin B.
We went to Ocho Locos in Anthem the other night for dinner. I agree with Holly J on this one. Big improvement over the prior ownership with Pinta Nueva! They are still working out the kinks with their new menu and staff so I'm looking forward to visiting them again soon to see if they deserve a higher rating. They offer a good selection of traditional and American Mexican food. They have a full bar and offer a decent selection of beers on tap. The service was good, not stellar. They redecorated and added some nice HD TV's for sports and concerts. Our meals were good "A-OK" but you can tell they are new, still working out some of the details with delivering excellente Mexican comida or alimento! Will visit again soon. Hope you give them a try next time your in Anthem looking for Mexican.
(3)Amanda C.
Having been in Anthem for 7 years and watching this place go through various owners and even before Ocho Locos was here, I've come to the conclusion that this place is cursed. Never have I had a good meal here. My most recent visit involved flies everywhere, and overpriced, mediocre food. I ordered Vegetarian tacos that consisted of a copious amount of guacamole, an equal amount of lettuce, and cheap shredded cheese. (After having to send it back for getting the wrong food.) I took a couple bites and couldn't finish it. I sent my food back and went to Taco Bell.
(1)Cliff S.
Good Mexican food in Anthem. I love that you get a huge bowl of Salsa, hard to say if hot is better than the original. A little pricey and the Happy Hour leaves a little to be desired... I have not tried the chicken fingers or kids menu, but.... I think adult Mexican food is great. I will be back regularly.
(4)Jonathan L.
Went in for a table of three plus a baby. Very helpful weight staff ended up recommending all of our dishes. The Margarita was great. The Mexican food was quite good. I would recommend it as a family friendly, tasty Mexican restaurant.
(5)Jessica G.
OVERPRICED for what you get on the plate...plus, Mexican food just tastes better when the place plays more "cultural" music is decorated acoordingly
(2)