Rosalita’s Cantina is a favorite spot in downtown Tuscon for classic Mexican dishes and a fun, casual atmosphere. Known for its lively patio and potent margaritas, Rosalita’s is a popular choice for both lunch and dinner.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Rosalita’s menu, highlighting some of the restaurant’s most popular dishes and hidden gems.
From sizzling fajitas and cheesy enchiladas to refreshing salads and decadent desserts, the Rosalita menu has something for everyone. We’ll explore some of the must-try items and offer insights into what makes Rosalita’s a local favorite.
Appetizers and Starters
Whether you’re looking for a little something to get you started or planning to share a few plates with friends, Rosalita’s appetizer menu offers a wide range of tasty options. From classic nachos and quesadillas to unique dips and flavorful starters, there’s something for everyone.
Many of our appetizers are designed for sharing, with generous portions perfect for groups of two to four people. Just ask your server for recommendations based on your group size and preferences.
Featured Appetizers
One of our most popular appetizers is the “Rosalita’s Fiesta Platter,” a vibrant combination of mini chimichangas, chicken flautas, cheese quesadillas, and southwest spring rolls. Served with our signature sour cream and guacamole, it’s a great way to sample a little bit of everything.
Another fan favorite is the “Spicy Shrimp Ceviche,” made with fresh, marinated shrimp, diced avocado, cilantro, and a hint of jalapeño. The zesty flavors and refreshing texture make it the perfect starter for a warm day.
Tacos, Burritos, and Enchiladas
Now, let’s get to the heart of the Rosalita’s experience: the tacos, burritos, and enchiladas that have made us a local favorite.
Tacos
Our tacos are crafted with care, starting with your choice of warm corn or flour tortillas. We offer a variety of fillings to satisfy any craving. Choose from classics like:
- Carne Asada: Grilled steak, cilantro, and onions
- Pollo Asado: Marinated grilled chicken, pico de gallo
- Carnitas: Slow-cooked pork, pickled onions
- Veggie: Grilled seasonal vegetables, black beans, cotija cheese (vegetarian)
Don’t miss our specialty tacos, like the Taco del Jefe, a chef’s creation featuring slow-braised short rib, a spicy chipotle aioli, and crispy fried onions – a flavor explosion in every bite!
Burritos
Looking for something more substantial? Our burritos are generously sized and packed with flavor. Choose your favorite filling and we’ll wrap it up with rice, beans, cheese, and your choice of salsa. For the truly hungry, try our Wet Burrito, smothered in our signature red sauce and melted cheese.
Vegetarian? Our Veggie Burrito is a hearty option filled with grilled vegetables, black beans, rice, guacamole, and pico de gallo.
Enchiladas
Our enchiladas are a cheesy delight! We offer a variety of fillings, all rolled in corn tortillas and smothered in your choice of sauce: red, green, or mole. We use a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese for a rich, melty experience.
For a unique twist, try our Enchiladas Suizas, featuring chicken, a creamy tomatillo sauce, and melted Swiss cheese – a delicious departure from the traditional!
Other Main Courses and Specialties
Beyond tacos and enchiladas, Rosalita’s offers a variety of other south-of-the-border favorites.
Fajitas
Rosalita’s fajitas come sizzling to your table, piled high with your choice of grilled steak, chicken, shrimp, or a combination of fresh seasonal vegetables. (Or, if you can’t decide, mix and match any of the proteins.) Your fajitas are served with warm flour tortillas, sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, and cheese, so you can build your perfect bite.
Salads and Bowls
For a lighter option, consider one of Rosalita’s fresh salads or bowls. The Southwest Chicken Salad features grilled chicken, black beans, corn, avocado, and a creamy cilantro-lime dressing. The Quinoa Bowl is packed with protein and nutrients, featuring quinoa, roasted vegetables, black beans, and a tangy citrus vinaigrette. You can also add grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp to any salad or bowl.
Other Specialty Dishes
Don’t miss Rosalita’s other specialty dishes, like the perfectly grilled carne asada, served with rice, beans, and a side of chimichurri sauce. The chile relleno, a poblano pepper stuffed with cheese and lightly fried, is another popular choice. Seafood lovers will appreciate the grilled salmon with mango salsa, a refreshing and flavorful option.
Sides and Extras
No meal at Rosalita’s is complete without the perfect sides! Of course, we offer the classics: perfectly seasoned Mexican rice and our signature refried beans, slow-cooked with just the right touch of spices. But don’t miss out on our specialty sides! Try the elotes, grilled corn on the cob smothered in creamy mayo, cotija cheese, and chili powder for a burst of flavor. Or, for something a little different, try our fried plantains, sweet and caramelized to perfection.
And what’s a Mexican feast without salsa? We’ve got a variety to suit every palate, from the mild and tangy pico de gallo to our fiery habanero salsa for those who like it hot! Just ask your server for a sample. Want to customize your dish? Add extra guacamole, sour cream, or cheese to any item for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Drinks and Desserts
No meal at Rosalita’s is complete without a celebratory drink and a sweet treat to finish things off.
Drinks Menu
Our bartenders are famous for their creative takes on classic cocktails. Be sure to ask about our signature margaritas, each crafted with fresh fruit and premium tequila. We also offer a selection of imported Mexican beers, as well as a full range of non-alcoholic choices, including sodas, juices, and agua fresca.
Dessert Options
For dessert, indulge in one of our traditional Mexican sweets. Our churros are perfectly crispy and dusted with cinnamon sugar, served with a rich chocolate dipping sauce. The flan is a creamy custard, and the tres leches cake is soaked in three kinds of milk for an unforgettable, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Ask your server about our seasonal dessert specials!
Conclusion
Rosalita’s menu offers a delicious blend of classic and contemporary Mexican dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients and a creative touch. From the sizzling fajitas to the flavorful enchiladas and the unique house specialties, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Rosalita’s is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. The vibrant atmosphere, friendly service, and, most importantly, the incredible food make it a must-try for anyone craving authentic Mexican flavors.
So, what are you waiting for? Take a look at the menu, pick out a few things that sound good, and get ready for a fiesta of flavors at Rosalita’s!