Chino Bandido Takee-Outee was founded in November 1990 by Frank and Eve Collins, husband and wife. The blend of Mexican and Asian cooking styles and flavors came about from Eve’s Chinese background and both Frank and Eve being native Arizonans. The original store was only 1000 square feet, seated 16, and was modeled after those “hole-in-the-wall” restaurants that Frank and Eve love. As soon as they realized that people wanted to stay in to eat, as opposed to taking it out, they expanded the restaurant year by year, until the restaurant grew to over 5,000 square feet, seating about 150.

In June 2005, we finally opened the Chandler location. It is tucked into the corner of San Marcos Square (behind the Walgreen’s) on the southeast corner of Dobson and Chandler Blvd. With 6,000 square feet and an outside patio, we have tried to create a spacious, comfortable dining area. Most of the parking is on the east side of the building, so be sure to drive around back for the closest entrance!

In the fall of 2005, New Times awarded Chino’s Best of Phoenix for “Local Eatery We Wish Were a Chain.” On January 29, 2007, AOL users voted Chino’s in First Place for Best of Phoenix “Cheap Eats” category.

Chino’s is also one of few restaurants that gives you a tutorial in how to place an order. Mark your calendar now. (I’ll wait.)