By Gretchen Pahia
Photos courtesy of Pronto by Serrano’s

The Serrano family, which owns and operates four Serrano’s Mexican Restaurant locations in the East Valley, recently opened a new fast-casual concept sure to take Tempe by storm.

Pronto by Serrano’s has a focus on fresh flavors where you can build-your-own combos and dishes. There are a multitude of options at the fast-casual dining spot, giving just about anyone in your party a choice of meals.

The restaurant, located at 6440 S. Rural Rd., in Tempe, features burritos, nachos, bowls, salads, tacos, and more. Guests can build their own specialty dish with protein options such as asada steak, shredded chicken, machaca, tomatillo pork, Al Pastor chicken, birria, cod, and fajita vegetables.

If you would prefer to try out one of their specialty items, already selected, they have a number of options on that end as well. There are several already prepared selections including quesabirria tacos, spicy fish tacos, and chicken tortilla soup. There are also some amazing options including Stephanie’s stacked enchilada with corn tortillas, shredded cheese, a protein of your choice, enchilada sauce, queso fresco, cilantro, and lime. There is also the Sparky burrito which is shredded chicken, mixed with Spanish rice and pinto beans, served with shredded cheese, lettuce, pico de gallo, and crema. The Sparky burrito is a great deal for ASU students who show their school ID – it’s just $5 for those lucky students! Ramen more your style? Then be sure to check out the birria ramen with birria beef, cabbage, green onion, and cilantro in birria consommé.

You can also customize your meals and plates with a variety of toppings and sauces, as well as add side options such as their famous bean dip, chips, and salsa.

Perhaps one of the coolest features you’ll find upon your visit to Pronto is the robot who works alongside the employees, delivering food to tables and guests who opt to dine in the restaurant. The robot is part of the team and is there to help give guests a welcoming and entertaining experience.

The Serrano family has been in the restaurant business for decades and the Pronto name is significant to the family, as it is the name of a food business that Stephanie Serrano operated near St. Louis before she passed away from breast cancer in 2019. Stephanie was one of eight sibling owners of Serrano’s Mexican Restaurants.

For more information on the menu, hours of operation, family story and more, visit prontoaz.com.