Piñatas Latin Kitchen & Lounge

For a supercasual lunch—and break from your typical fast food forays—give Scottsdale’s Piñatas Latin Kitchen & Lounge a go. On a recent lunchtime stop, I was impressed by Piñatas’ fresh, colorful décor—especially the fun, eye-popping chairs. The restaurant also offers a patio area for alfresco dining, if the weather’s right.
I dug into the grilled mahi mahi tacos that spotlighted delish mahi, jicama-napa cabbage slaw and tomatillo-avocado salsa. Though the dish would have been even better with a side of rice or beans, I was more than full thanks to the trio of complimentary salsas and warm tortilla chips.
My colleague opted for the taco salad with chicken (you can also get beef machaca), tomatoes, onions, cheese and greens, topped with crema and guacamole. Though not over-the-top inventive, the dish was tasty and of dinner-sized proportions.
If you’re planning a weekday trip to Piñatas, may we suggest hitting up the 7 for $7 lunch specials (Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.). Basically, as the name suggests, diners can choose from seven menu items—each ringing in at a wallet-friendly $7. I think my next trips calls for Piñatas’ chicken-tortilla soup or enchilada. 20343 N. Hayden Rd. Ste. 120, Scottsdale. 480.585.9477, www.pinatasaz.com.