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This No-Frills Spot In Arizona Will Serve You The Best Quesabirria Tacos In The World


Imagine a place where cheese meets meat in a tortilla-wrapped embrace so divine, it’ll make your taste buds do the cha-cha.

Welcome to Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen in Tucson, Arizona.

Amelia's: Where the fiesta starts before you even step inside! This inviting facade promises a flavor explosion that'll make your taste buds do the salsa.Amelia's: Where the fiesta starts before you even step inside! This inviting facade promises a flavor explosion that'll make your taste buds do the salsa.
Amelia’s: Where the fiesta starts before you even step inside! This inviting facade promises a flavor explosion that’ll make your taste buds do the salsa. Photo credit: Nancy P

Tucson, a city where the sun shines brighter than a freshly polished salsa spoon, is home to a culinary gem that’s about to rock your world faster than you can say “más queso, por favor.”

Nestled in the heart of this desert oasis, Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen stands as a beacon of hope for those seeking authentic Mexican flavors without the need for a passport or the ability to dodge cacti.

As you approach this unassuming eatery, you might think you’ve stumbled upon a mirage.

But fear not, hungry traveler, for this is no desert hallucination – it’s the real deal.

The exterior of Amelia’s is as modest as a cactus in a rose garden, but don’t let that fool you.

This place is packing more flavor than a telenovela packs drama.

Step into a kaleidoscope of color and culture! Amelia's interior is like Frida Kahlo's dreams came to life and decided to throw a party.Step into a kaleidoscope of color and culture! Amelia's interior is like Frida Kahlo's dreams came to life and decided to throw a party.
Step into a kaleidoscope of color and culture! Amelia’s interior is like Frida Kahlo’s dreams came to life and decided to throw a party. Photo credit: Tracey E

The sign above the entrance proudly proclaims “OPEN FOR BREAKFAST,” which is music to the ears of anyone who’s ever dreamed of starting their day with a fiesta in their mouth.

Step inside, and you’ll find yourself transported to a world where calories don’t count and flavor reigns supreme.

The interior of Amelia’s is a feast for the eyes, much like its menu is a feast for the stomach.

Vibrant colors dance across the walls, creating a mural that’s part psychedelic dream, part Mexican fiesta.

It’s as if Frida Kahlo and a box of crayons had a wild night out, and this is what they woke up to.

The bar area, with its warm wooden tones, stands in stark contrast to the explosion of color surrounding it.

Menu, menu on the wall, who's the fairest meal of all? Spoiler alert: It's impossible to choose just one at Amelia's Mexican Kitchen!Menu, menu on the wall, who's the fairest meal of all? Spoiler alert: It's impossible to choose just one at Amelia's Mexican Kitchen!
Menu, menu on the wall, who’s the fairest meal of all? Spoiler alert: It’s impossible to choose just one at Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen! Photo credit: Miguel Angel Bello García

It’s like the calm eye in the center of a flavor hurricane – a place where you can catch your breath before diving back into the culinary madness.

But let’s be honest, you didn’t come here for the decor, no matter how Instagram-worthy it might be.

You came for the food, and boy, are you in for a treat.

The menu at Amelia’s is a work of art in itself, a masterpiece of culinary creativity that would make even the most seasoned foodie weep tears of joy.

It’s not just a list of dishes; it’s a roadmap to flavor country, and every route leads to deliciousness.

Let’s start with the star of the show, the dish that’s got tongues wagging and stomachs growling all across Tucson – the quesabirria tacos.

Now, if you’re not familiar with quesabirria, prepare to have your mind blown faster than a tumbleweed in a tornado.

Quesabirria and caldo: A dynamic duo that puts Batman and Robin to shame. Crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-dippable!Quesabirria and caldo: A dynamic duo that puts Batman and Robin to shame. Crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-dippable!
Quesabirria and caldo: A dynamic duo that puts Batman and Robin to shame. Crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-dippable! Photo credit: Angie P.

Imagine the most tender, juicy beef you’ve ever tasted, slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, spicy broth.

Now, stuff that beef into a corn tortilla that’s been crisped up on the griddle until it’s golden brown and crunchy.

But wait, there’s more! Before they fold that tortilla, they add a generous handful of melty, gooey cheese that stretches with each bite like it’s auditioning for a string cheese commercial.

And just when you think it can’t get any better, they serve it with a side of consommé – that’s the fancy French way of saying “the most flavor-packed beef broth you’ll ever dunk a taco into.”

It’s like a French dip sandwich went on vacation to Mexico and came back with a tan and a new attitude.

One bite of these quesabirria tacos, and you’ll be planning your next visit before you’ve even finished chewing.

Taco 'bout a flavor explosion! These quesabirria tacos are so good, you might forget your own name after the first bite.Taco 'bout a flavor explosion! These quesabirria tacos are so good, you might forget your own name after the first bite.
Taco ’bout a flavor explosion! These quesabirria tacos are so good, you might forget your own name after the first bite. Photo credit: John S.

They’re so good, you might find yourself considering a move to Tucson just to be closer to them.

But don’t worry, I won’t judge. In fact, I’ll help you pack.

Now, as tempting as it is to order a plate of quesabirria tacos and call it a day, that would be doing yourself a disservice.

Amelia’s menu is like a treasure map, and every X marks a spot of culinary gold.

Take the burritos, for example.

These aren’t your average, run-of-the-mill, could-be-used-as-a-dumbbell burritos.

No, these are works of art wrapped in a tortilla.

Birria ramen: Where Mexico and Japan collide in a bowl of pure, slurp-tastic joy. It's like a flavor fiesta in your mouth!Birria ramen: Where Mexico and Japan collide in a bowl of pure, slurp-tastic joy. It's like a flavor fiesta in your mouth!
Birria ramen: Where Mexico and Japan collide in a bowl of pure, slurp-tastic joy. It’s like a flavor fiesta in your mouth! Photo credit: Kim L.

The carne asada burrito is packed with so much perfectly grilled beef, you’ll wonder if they’ve got a whole cow hidden in the kitchen.

And don’t even get me started on the chile relleno burrito.

It’s like they took everything good about a chile relleno, multiplied it by awesome, and then wrapped it in a tortilla for good measure.

If burritos aren’t your thing (and if they’re not, we need to have a serious talk), fear not.

Amelia’s has got you covered with their selection of street tacos that’ll make you feel like you’re wandering the bustling streets of Mexico City, minus the need for a passport or the ability to dodge traffic.

From the classic carne asada to the mouth-watering al pastor, each taco is a tiny flavor explosion waiting to happen.

Houston, we have a problem – this birria ramen is out of this world! Prepare for a taste bud launch in 3... 2... 1...Houston, we have a problem – this birria ramen is out of this world! Prepare for a taste bud launch in 3... 2... 1...
Houston, we have a problem – this birria ramen is out of this world! Prepare for a taste bud launch in 3… 2… 1… Photo credit: Kim L.

And let’s not forget about the fish tacos.

These babies are so fresh, you’ll swear you can hear the ocean waves crashing in the distance.

Which is pretty impressive, considering Tucson is landlocked.

But wait, there’s more! (I feel like I’m turning into a late-night infomercial host, but I swear, it’s just the excitement talking.)

Amelia’s doesn’t just stop at tacos and burritos.

Oh no, they’ve got a whole section of the menu dedicated to “Fresas Ingredients.”

Frozen mango margarita: Sunshine in a glass! It's like a beach vacation for your mouth, minus the sand in uncomfortable places.Frozen mango margarita: Sunshine in a glass! It's like a beach vacation for your mouth, minus the sand in uncomfortable places.
Frozen mango margarita: Sunshine in a glass! It’s like a beach vacation for your mouth, minus the sand in uncomfortable places. Photo credit: Mark S.

Now, I know what you’re thinking.

“Fresas? Isn’t that Spanish for strawberries?”

And you’d be right, but in this case, it’s more like “fresh” with a side of “fancy.”

This section of the menu is where Amelia’s really flexes its culinary muscles.

We’re talking nachos that are piled so high with toppings, they should come with their own climbing gear.

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And the chiles rellenos? They’re stuffed fuller than a piñata at a kid’s birthday party, only instead of candy, they’re packed with gooey cheese and your choice of meat.

But the real showstopper in this section has to be the ceviche.

Now, I know what you’re thinking.

“Ceviche? In the desert?”

But trust me, this isn’t just any ceviche.

Tres leches cake: So moist, it should come with a lifeguard on duty. Dive in and prepare for a sweet, creamy adventure!Tres leches cake: So moist, it should come with a lifeguard on duty. Dive in and prepare for a sweet, creamy adventure!
Tres leches cake: So moist, it should come with a lifeguard on duty. Dive in and prepare for a sweet, creamy adventure! Photo credit: Robert C.

This is the kind of ceviche that makes you forget you’re surrounded by cacti and not palm trees.

The shrimp is so fresh, you’ll wonder if Amelia’s has a secret underground tunnel to the Pacific Ocean.

And the blend of citrus, cilantro, and just the right amount of heat?

It’s like a beach vacation for your mouth.

Now, let’s talk about breakfast because remember, Amelia’s is “OPEN FOR BREAKFAST.”

And let me tell you, they take their morning meals as seriously as a mariachi band takes its sombreros.

Mini chimis: Proof that good things come in small packages. These crispy bundles of joy are like edible firecrackers for your taste buds!Mini chimis: Proof that good things come in small packages. These crispy bundles of joy are like edible firecrackers for your taste buds!
Mini chimis: Proof that good things come in small packages. These crispy bundles of joy are like edible firecrackers for your taste buds! Photo credit: Richard H

Their breakfast menu is like a greatest hits album of morning delights, with a distinctly Mexican twist.

Take their chilaquiles, for example.

If you’ve never had chilaquiles for breakfast, you’ve been doing mornings wrong your entire life.

Picture this: crispy tortilla chips simmered in a spicy salsa until they’re just the right amount of soft, topped with eggs cooked to your liking, and finished with a sprinkle of queso fresco.

It’s like nachos and breakfast had a baby, and that baby grew up to be a superhero.

And don’t even get me started on their huevos rancheros.

These aren’t your average eggs on toast.

Oh no, these are eggs that have gone on a vision quest and come back enlightened.

Birria enchiladas: Wrapped in tortillas and drenched in sauce, these beauties are like a warm, flavorful hug for your stomach.Birria enchiladas: Wrapped in tortillas and drenched in sauce, these beauties are like a warm, flavorful hug for your stomach.
Birria enchiladas: Wrapped in tortillas and drenched in sauce, these beauties are like a warm, flavorful hug for your stomach. Photo credit: Spencer B.

Perfectly fried eggs perched atop crispy tortillas, smothered in a rich ranchero sauce that’ll wake up your taste buds faster than a double shot of espresso.

It’s the kind of breakfast that makes you want to cancel all your plans for the day and just bask in the afterglow of a meal well eaten.

But perhaps the true breakfast hero at Amelia’s is their breakfast burrito.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “A breakfast burrito? How groundbreaking.”

But hear me out.

This isn’t just any breakfast burrito.

This is the breakfast burrito to end all breakfast burritos.

Sizzle, sizzle! This fajita mixto is hotter than a telenovela love triangle and twice as satisfying.Sizzle, sizzle! This fajita mixto is hotter than a telenovela love triangle and twice as satisfying.
Sizzle, sizzle! This fajita mixto is hotter than a telenovela love triangle and twice as satisfying. Photo credit: Emily R.

It’s the kind of burrito that makes other breakfast burritos feel inadequate.

Packed with fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon (or chorizo if you’re feeling spicy), perfectly seasoned potatoes, and enough cheese to make a dairy farmer blush, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla.

It’s like they took everything good about breakfast, rolled it up, and served it with a side of “good morning, sunshine!”

Now, I know we’ve been focusing a lot on the food (because, let’s face it, that’s why we’re all here), but we can’t overlook the drinks at Amelia’s.

Because what’s a great meal without something equally fantastic to wash it down?

First up, we’ve got their horchata.

Outdoor seating at Amelia's: Where the Arizona sun meets Mexican flavor. It's like a mini-vacation, no passport required!Outdoor seating at Amelia's: Where the Arizona sun meets Mexican flavor. It's like a mini-vacation, no passport required!
Outdoor seating at Amelia’s: Where the Arizona sun meets Mexican flavor. It’s like a mini-vacation, no passport required! Photo credit: Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen

If you’ve never had horchata before, imagine if a cinnamon roll and a glass of milk had a love child, and that love child was really, really good at refreshing you on a hot day.

It’s creamy, it’s spicy (in a cinnamon way, not a “my mouth is on fire” way), and it’s the perfect complement to any of Amelia’s spicier dishes.

But if you’re in the mood for something with a little more kick, Amelia’s has got you covered with their selection of aguas frescas.

These aren’t your run-of-the-mill fruit juices, oh no.

These are like drinking a liquid rainbow, only tastier and with less risk of finding a pot of gold at the end.

From the classic jamaica (hibiscus) to the refreshing melon, each sip is like a little fiesta for your taste buds.

And for those who like their drinks with a bit more… spirit, Amelia’s doesn’t disappoint.

Diners lost in food bliss: Welcome to Amelia's, where the only thing louder than the decor is the sound of happy munching.Diners lost in food bliss: Welcome to Amelia's, where the only thing louder than the decor is the sound of happy munching.
Diners lost in food bliss: Welcome to Amelia’s, where the only thing louder than the decor is the sound of happy munching. Photo credit: Sophia Silva Rangel

Their margaritas are the stuff of legend, made with fresh lime juice and tequila that’ll make you want to start your own mariachi band.

Whether you prefer them on the rocks or blended, these margaritas are the perfect way to turn any meal into a celebration.

Just remember, too many margaritas might have you thinking you can actually start a mariachi band.

Trust me, your neighbors will thank you for resisting that urge.

Now, as we wrap up our culinary journey through Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen, I want you to close your eyes for a moment.

Imagine the sizzle of meat on the grill, the aroma of fresh tortillas, the sound of laughter from happy diners.

This is the essence of Amelia’s – a place where good food meets good times, and where every meal feels like a fiesta.

Amelia's by night: Where the party never stops and the flavors keep on rollin'. Time to spice up your evening, amigos!Amelia's by night: Where the party never stops and the flavors keep on rollin'. Time to spice up your evening, amigos!
Amelia’s by night: Where the party never stops and the flavors keep on rollin’. Time to spice up your evening, amigos! Photo credit: Nancy P

So, the next time you find yourself in Tucson, do yourself a favor and make a beeline for Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen.

Your taste buds will thank you, your stomach will thank you, and you might just find yourself planning your next visit before you’ve even paid the bill.

For more information and to stay updated on their latest offerings, be sure to check out Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen’s website and Facebook page.

And when you’re ready to embark on your own quesabirria adventure, use this map to find your way to flavor paradise.

16 amelia's mexican kitchen map16 amelia's mexican kitchen map

Where: 5553 E Grant Rd, Tucson, AZ 85712

Trust me, it’s a journey worth taking. Buen provecho!





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