For those in search of a no-reservation-needed spot with some acclaimed Sonoran flavors, Huarachis Taqueria might just be the ticket. The sister restaurant to the much-raved-about Bacanora, owned by Chef Rene Andrade, Huarachis opened its doors in downtown Phoenix in the space formerly occupied by Rodiberto's Mexican Food, as reported by the Phoenix New Times.

Andrade, who is a James Beard Award nominee, has curated a vibe at Huarachis that's a distinct departure from the upscale Bacanora, with a casual, walk-in ambiance that's less primed for those clutching reservations. The menu might be short, but don't let that fool you—it's packed with variety, including starters, tacos, and succulent platters designed for sharing. A special shoutout was given to their tacos offerings, featuring carne asada, tripe, and the fried mushroom that would satisfy any foodie's palate.

However, it's not just the food that's drawing crowds. Jesse Knox, the bar manager who used to spin his shaker at other local hotspots, is now the mastermind behind Huarachis' exceptional cocktail menu. In a recent revamp, the beverage offerings have grown to include signature drinks crafted primarily with tequila, rum, and mezcal, concocted to complement Andrade's Sonoran cuisine. Jesse Knox noted his intent for customers to "come here and get drinks and then be like, ‘Oh, I'm hungry. Let's get a taco,’" he told the Phoenix New Times.

Clearly, the star of the show might be the Horchata Punch, a unique twist on a classic milk punch, and La Mariposa, Knox's take on the paloma which has won Andrade's stamp of approval. "The drink is simple, but the way he puts it together sets it apart," Andrade admitted, according to the Phoenix New Times. With cocktail names that sound straight out of a garden spot, and flavors to match, locals are lining up – not just for the aguacate on crisp tostadas or pork platter meant for groups, but for those sips of Day Dreams and other cocktail dreams come true.

While the pairing of tacos and tequila might not seem revolutionary, Huarachis seems to be carving its own niche in Phoenix by creating a unique dining and sipping experience that evokes nostalgia and tantalizes taste buds. For a city that's known for its variety of Mexican eateries, Huarachis and Bacanora are making a statement in the downtown scene—one perfectly mixed cocktail and taco platter at a time.