Local Travel Tip

No trip to Arizona would be complete without eating some of the best Mexican food in the United States.  Here are some of the restaurants that are a must-try in the Phoenix area.

Carolina’s Mexican Food

What started off as a small family business selling tamales out of the back of a car has become one of the most well-known authentic Mexican restaurants in Arizona.  Try Carolina’s burros and tamales and pick up a few extra tortillas-they are to die for.  http://www.carolinasmexicanfood.com/index.html

Jordan’s Mexican Food

Jordan’s has been popular for decades in downtown Phoenix.  Passed on through generations through the Jordan family it has kept the same delicious and authentic menu.  Their chips and salsa are the best in the state!
6247 N 7th St
Phoenix, AZ 85014-1834
(602) 274-6836

Ajo Al’s Mexican Cafe

With four locations in the valley you are bound to run into an Ajo Al’s.  They have a large menu with a wide variety of delicious choices but don’t miss out on the Pollo con Queso.  As there most famous item, many people never try anything else! http://www.ajoals.com

Chino Bandido

If you are looking for something a little bit different try the Mexican-Chinese fusion of Chino Bandido.  You won’t find anything like this place.  While the ordering system is a little complex you won’t be disappointed with the delicious combination of Mexican and Chinese flavors.  Be sure to try their quesadillas.   http://www.chinobandido.com/

On a trip to Italy no one can resist the allure of their famous gelato. However, Italians know that tourists are suckers for this delicious treat and they line the streets with gelaterias. With so many choices, how do you find the best? Your best bet is to ask the locals, but if your Italian isn’t up to par, here are some tips to finding the best.

1. Steer clear of big tourist spots. There are always plenty of enticing gelaterias around big tourist areas, but they are usually overpriced and not the best quality.
2. Look for a place with a limited number of flavors. While the stores with dozens of flavors look exciting, they are often not the best quality or most authentic.
3. Explore. Often the best gelaterias are found while just exploring through the winding roads of Italy.

While doing my own exploring in Italy I tried dozens of kinds of gelato. Here is what I found: In Rome, the Old Bridge Gelateria just outside of Vatican City is the best in the city. Inexpensive and delicious! If you find yourself in Siena, avoid the Piazza del Campo and take a stroll down Via dei Rossi. You will stumble upon CopaCabana, not only the best gelato in Siena, but the least expensive as well! If you are a chocolate lover, try their Fondente(dark chocolate).

Enjoy your search to find the best gelato and be daring in your selection of different flavors!