Rollies Mexican Patio — Restaurant in Tucson

03/2018: I visited a month ago and had a mediocre eperience, I had all intentions to return within a few weeks however time did not allow until to day...

Today when I drove up the shutters that were down the first time I went were up as the weather today is pretty decent, not too hot and not too chilly for us Tucsonians. It was about 1pm. There appeared to be multiple spaces for parking right out front as well as a variety of seating options.

This time, since I was alone I was gonna eat what I wanted to eat. So I approached the window, ordered a salad with chicken and requested no red onions.

Unfortunately, I was told that the red onions were already in the salad mixed in & could not be removed by them; however, was informed they were big enough for me to pull out. I was happy with that! I also ordered their agua fresca of the day which was something with mango in it and was perfectly sweetened.

I also tried the carb-free rollie which is a cross between a pizza and the fried cheese you get from La Parilla Suiza. It is filled with your choice of meat, topped with cheese and sauce (cheese or red). My choices were the mouthwatering, citrus-flavored pork that was topped with a tasty red sauce, cotija cheese, cabbage and yes, even a little sliced red onion.

I noticed Mateo (the owner) come out from the kitchen area and began greeting and hugging his guests. This is a "norm" for Tucson and one that most patrons appreciate, especially me!

Other than the food and the great hospitality offered by the owner I have to say his bathroom is outstanding, elegant and practical complete with a baby changing station and washroom sink!

#secondchance

02/2018: On Saturday afternoon (about 3:30ish) the hubby and I finally got the opportunity to try out Rollies Mexican Patio. We both had heard an array of reviews (good, bad and indifferent) and saw the wonderful pictures of the colorful menu and food. We tried to go a week ago but it was the evening time and there was quite the wait and no seating available. Below is the breakdown: The parking is limited but there are a few lots on either side of the establishment to park as well as a neighborhood you can park in. The ambiance is unique, even for being on South 12th Avenue. You walk in and review the large menu on the left wall or pick up a few menus and decide what you want (rolled tacos, open faced enchiladas, tortas, salad, beverage, side(s), dessert). You order at one window and than have a seat. The ordering process is simple and clutter free- you can pay in cash or card (credit/debit). They give you a receipt with your order number. There is a window for pick up but someone brought us our food (maybe it was because it was not busy).

I ordered three chicken rolled tacos, topped with green chili and white cheese. The hubby ordered five beef rolled taco, topped with red sauce, cheese, something else (I can't remember). The rolled tacos are normal size, not too big and not too small. I suppose if you order a total of 8 taquitos, it may be more filling. The 5 did nothing for the hubby and the 3 were definitely not that filling either (oink! oink!). Anyhow, the hubby loved the beef taquitos. He mentioned they were flavorful and tender, no sign of toughness and the Rollie sauce was the best with the rolled taquitos. I chose the chicken ones and I can't say the same. They tasted rather bland, nothing spectacular, honestly, had it not been for the mild sauce and some salt, they would have been pretty bland. I will return and try their salad which sounded delicious but I wanted to try the signature Rollie.

The owner is a great, I've known his since we were younger at the neighborhood Boys and Girls Club. He was pleasant, conversed with us and brought us the array of salsas. His positive attitude completes the ambiance. The patio area has a rook with garage door like windows, there is some seating outside, but it is more for...

Delicious birria con queso tacos and Watermelon Rita. Consome served with birria tacos! Soooo good! Beautiful colors and fun decor and great patio seating area. If you’re looking for an unforgettable meal, Rollie's is the place to go! Their birria con queso tacos are absolutely delicious—perfectly crispy on the outside, filled with tender, flavorful birria and cheese and paired with rich, savory consomé for dipping. Every bite is packed with bold, authentic flavors, making it a must-try for any taco lover.

To complement the tacos, the Watermelon Rita is a refreshing delight! It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and boozy, making it an ideal choice for a warm day or just to treat yourself.

Beyond the incredible food and drinks, Rollie's offers a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. The beautiful colors and fun decor create a lively and inviting space, perfect for a casual meal or a night out with friends. The great patio seating area is a huge bonus—spacious, comfortable, and a fantastic spot to enjoy your meal while soaking in the fresh air. All kid friendly!

From the amazing flavors to the stylish ambiance, Rollie's delivers an all-around fantastic dining experience. Whether you’re a birria fan or just looking for a fun and flavorful spot to enjoy great food and drinks, this place won’t disappoint. Can’t wait to come...

Sorry Rollies you failed miserable on the birria!!

Tried a new place and was looking forward to my Birria burrito but was quite disappointed with flavor and burnt tortilla. I love birria and this places was not great. They had one chance and they ruined it. I'm used to birria being made with New Mexico chilli pods, and I think this one was made with Guajillo powder. Flavors just off. Not good birria. It was also too salty, was terrible. Lastly someone burnt both sidesides of the tortilla and I hated the overwhelmingly taste of burntness. If they tried to make it a chimichanga they failed, because they didnt use oil. For 11 dollars this was bottom tear. I'll stick to places that have great birria like Tanias on the southside and Original Burrito Company in Chandler AZ. Rollies needs to try those places and also price them similar. They both are a few dollars cheaper and taste much better. I will not go back to Rollies. Also theyre horchata was overpriced ($4.25) for the tiny cup they give you (12 oz), and the taste was comparible to Circle K's fountain drink horchata. Filabetos has better horchata that taste homemade in much bigger cup for nearly same price.

Dining inside was pleasant. I felt like I was at Mexican taco shop off the beaches in the west coast (like Sancho's Taco Shop) Air conditioned with...