Chino Bandido

About Chino Bandido

A Unique Blend of Mexican, Asian, and Jamaican Flavors

Since its inception in November 1990, Chino Bandido Takee-Outee has captivated food lovers in the Valley and across the country. Founded by Frank and Eve Collins, both native Arizonans, Chino Bandido brings together the best of Mexican and Asian cuisines, blending traditional flavors with a hint of Jamaican flair. The combination of Eve’s Chinese heritage and the couple’s love for local Mexican dishes created a fusion that became an instant hit.

A Humble Beginning and Rapid Growth

When Chino Bandido first opened its doors, it was a modest 1,000-square-foot restaurant with only 16 seats. The husband-and-wife team had a vision for a “hole-in-the-wall” dining experience, offering something unique that would attract food enthusiasts. Over time, the demand grew so much that the restaurant expanded, eventually taking up over 6,000 square feet and offering seating for 150 guests.

As the restaurant became a cult favorite among locals, its quirky fusion of flavors won over many devoted fans, and the need for a larger space was undeniable.

A New Chapter: Relocation and Evolution

In early 2021, Chino Bandido announced the closure of its original location after more than 30 years. This was followed by the opening of a new location at 310 West Bell Road, where Chino Bandido’s iconic dishes would continue to be handmade from scratch using the same time-honored recipes. The new location spans 6,000 square feet, with much of that dedicated to an expansive kitchen to prepare the restaurant’s signature dishes.

While Frank sadly passed away in 2013, Eve continues to carry on the restaurant’s legacy, bringing her vision to life with a renewed energy and a passion for serving delicious food to loyal customers.

Iconic Dishes and a National Following

Chino Bandido is known for its signature dishes, including Jade Red Chicken, Chinese BBQ Pork, and their famous snickerdoodles. These dishes, along with the unique fusion of flavors, have earned the restaurant a devoted cult following. It has been recognized by local and national media, earning awards such as Phoenix New Times’ “Best of Phoenix Local Eatery We Wish Were a Chain” and AOL’s “Best of Phoenix Cheap Eats.”

Additionally, Chino Bandido gained even more recognition when Food Network star Guy Fieri visited the restaurant during three episodes of his show “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” cementing its status as a must-try spot for foodies.

A Food Truck to Bridge the Gap

During the transition to the new location, Chino Bandido operated a food truck at the site of the upcoming restaurant. The food truck offered a modified version of the restaurant’s menu, allowing fans to get their fix of their favorite dishes while they eagerly awaited the completion of the new restaurant.

Continuing the Legacy

Now, with its new location up and running, Chino Bandido continues to serve the community with the same passion for flavor and quality that made it a local legend. The restaurant’s cult following continues to grow, and with Eve at the helm, Chino Bandido is poised to remain a beloved fixture in the Phoenix culinary scene for many years to come.