There is something comforting about walking into a Mexican bakery, grabbing a metal tray and a pair of tongs, and picking out warm conchas, empanadas, and other pan dulce. Across Arizona, family-run panaderias have been doing this for decades, and many are still busy every morning.
Some are giant grocery bakeries, and others are tiny neighborhood shops where the same recipes get made over and over. This list rounds up eight spots worth knowing whether you live nearby or just passing through.
Grab your tray and get ready to load up on the sweet breads locals have loved for years.
1. La Purisima Bakery, Phoenix
Morning traffic at this Phoenix panaderia moves fast, and the trays empty just as quickly. La Purisima has built a strong following for its wide spread of pan dulce, from classic conchas to cream-filled favorites…