Sonoran Mexican Food

I just returned from the Southwest where such states as New Mexico, Southern California and Arizona touch. I was raised in Arizona and when I think of it such images as extreme heat, the Grand Canyon, gun toting citizens, Monument Valley, photo radar, very strict drinking and driving laws, Sedona - with its beautiful red rock, and the delicious rich cheesy Mexican food consume my thoughts. Growing up in Phoenix I can't count how many burritos I have eaten or the gallons of rich tomato and tangy, yet subtle green enchilada sauces I have had drenched my enchiladas and chili rellenos in.
I have to start physically preparing myself about 24 hours before I leave for my trips to AZ. For, I know, that as soon as I get off the plane whomever is picking me up, has to take me directly to Filibertos, Fili B's to the locals. For about 1.99 you can get a bean and cheese burrito with pico de gallo. This luxurious tortilla wrapped refried bean filled monster probably weighs about 1 pound. It's a Phoenix must for those who want a quick meal and don't want to get out of their car, because they have the ever so convenient drive-thru.
One of my favorite Sonoran Mexican restaurants is Via Delosantos located @ 9120 N Central Ave. This restaurant is a must try! The flavors and the freshness of their food is hard to compare. They only use vegetable oil which leaves a bit less greasy taste and a less heavy meal to digest than lard (animal fat). Their chili relleno, which is a mild green chili stuffed with cheese, dipped in a rich egg batter, deep fried then smothered in green or red enchilada sauce. Generally served with a flour tortilla. Is the highlight to their menu.
Literally everywhere you turn in Phoenix you will find a Mexican restaurant in view.
Not all of the Mexican food in AZ is the same. The further south I travel in AZ I find subtle delicious differences in the food. Which is something I will explore deeper in my next trip to AZ during Christmas. Buen provecho!