Chino Bandido Takee-Outee has become a cult favorite among foodies in the valley (and around the country!) since its inception in November 1990. Founded by Frank and Eve Collins, who still own and operate the company today, Chino Bandido blends traditional flavors from Mexican and Asian cuisines — based on Eve’s Chinese heritage as well as their local roots as both Frank and Eve are native Arizonans — and some Jamaican flair added in for good measure!
When the husband-and-wife team originally opened their doors, Chino Bandido was just a humble 1,000- square-foot restaurant with seating for just 16 guests modeled after the “hole in the wall” establishments that Frank and Eve love. And the love for Chino Bandido rapidly grew among local diners, which quickly necessitated the restaurant’s growth. As the couple realized most diners wanted to come in and enjoy a sit-down dining experience versus taking out, they expanded year by year until the restaurant encompassed more than 6,000 square feet and provided seating for 150 guests.
In early 2021, Chino Bandido announced the closure of its original location after more than 30 years in favor of a new location at 310 West Bell Road, which is underway. Eve, who carries on the restaurant’s legacy solo since Frank passed in 2013, decided it was time for a change. The new location provides 6,000 square feet, much of which is dedicated to an expansive kitchen where the brand’s favorite dishes will continue to be handmade from scratch using the time-honored recipes and lots of love.
Chino Bandido’s iconic flavors, such as Jade Red Chicken, Chinese BBQ Pork and let’s not forget those scrumptious snickerdoodles, have gone beyond earning the restaurant a true cult following. Chino Bandido has received local and national media attention — including being the recipient of Phoenix New Times’ Best of Phoenix “Local Eatery We Wish Were a Chain” award as well as coming in first place in AOL’s Best of Phoenix “Cheap Eats” category. Chino Bandido also caught the eye of Food Network star Guy Fieri, who visited the restaurant during 3 episodes of his show “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.”
Chino Bandido operated a food truck until June 13, 2021 on the site of the new location featuring a modified version of its menu, allowing fans to get their fix as the restaurant near completion.
I first came to Chino Bandido years ago before they go the now location. This time I brought my wife explaining to her that she just had to try it. She didn't think Mexican-Chinese food would be any good.
We had to stand in a line of about 20 people at lunch time just to order. We ordered and sat down. Our food came to our table about 7-10 mins later. Wow. The food was amazing. Just like I remember. My wife was also wowed.
I keep telling my Arizona friends to come here. I know I'll be back.
My husband had always talked great things about this place for back in the day. We were in the area and decided to stop by.
You order your food and they bring it to your table. The menu can be a bit confusing with the combos make sure you ask questions. Staff was nice.
I ordered the teriyaki chicken and my husband ordered the combo with bbq chicken and jerk chicken and rice.
My food was okay. It had a lot of sauce and it was too syrupy and bland. The rice was okay. My husband did like this food. They say the jade red chicken is their best meal, might want to give that a try. Your meal comes with a cookie as dessert.
I tried Spacy chicken .. which was ok but the rice was not good also portions are small for real lunch !!!
It's just ok, not great. The concept is cool, but is seriously lacking in quality, flavor and selection.
The building is big with plenty of seating but it's not very comfortable.
I like the jade red chicken and snickerdoodles for the most part. I really don't like the emerald chicken or black beans. I ordered the salad and it didn't come with any dressing so I ate it dry.
I have been here twice now and both times the service was good but the food wasn't. Would also be nice if they used more eco friendly food containers.