Dining Guide - Phoenix Valley Guide

Greater Phoenix is a big place, and the food options are seemingly endless. While we couldn’t possibly include all of them, Valley Guide’s editors have compiled a curated collection here, showcasing a variety of cuisine styles and dining experiences, from fast-casual to more formal. With diversity such as this, the hardest part is selecting just a few to savor.

CENTRAL

AIELLO’S EAST COAST ITALIAN

Italian
Phoenix
602-547-3354
From spaghetti with the acclaimed Joe’s Famous Meatballs to the delicious gnocchi pesto, the authentic fare at Aiello’s will please any Italian-food aficionado. Bookend your experience with a pre-dinner glass of Italian wine and cannoli as a sweet finale.
aiellositalianrestaurant.com

BABBO ITALIAN EATERY

Italian
Scottsdale, Mesa, Surprise, Tempe, plus 4 additional area locations
480-291-5050, 480-354-2322, 623-825-1919, 480-785-5700
The slick, stylish interior of Babbo teases at the modern takes on traditional Italian fare. Find staples like pizza and pasta alongside salads, sandwiches, and calzones. Grab a thin-crust meaty Sicilian pizza with Italian sausage, spicy capicola ham, salami, and a melty mixture of mozzarella and Provolone cheeses atop housemade marinara sauce—you can even make it gluten-free with a cauliflower crust.
babboitalian.com

BARRIO CAFE

Mexican
Phoenix
602-636-0240
Savor sophisticated dishes influenced by central and southern Mexico. This quaint yet upscale restaurant serves a delectable selection of modern Mexican entrées as well as fish and vegetarian dishes. Be sure to sample the cochinita pibíl—slow-roasted pork that’s been marinated in achiote and orange.
barriocafe.com

B:FAST

Café
Phoenix
602-413-6629
Create the ultimate breakfast when you mix and match 25 cereal options with more than 20 toppings and 11 kinds of milk. Concoct your own or partake in a favorite like the colorful b:4—Lucky Charms and Froot Loops topped with marshmallows, rainbow sprinkles, whipped cream, and strawberry syrup.
bfastacerealbar.com

BLANCO TACOS + TEQUILA

Mexican
Phoenix, Scottsdale
602-429-8000, 480-305-6692
With a contemporary twist on traditional favorites, Blanco celebrates the spirit of Mexico with an inventive variety of tacos and more than 50 premium tequilas. Try the grilled salmon with roasted Yukon hash, chayote squash, sweet peppers, and spinach alongside a fresh-fruit sangria or margarita.
foxrc.com/restaurants/blanco-tacos-tequila

CHARR: AN AMERICAN BURGER BAR

American
Phoenix
602-993-2427
This “burger bar” has nearly 20 burgers on the menu, plus a tasty roundup of sandwiches, salads, and appetizers. Burger choices include the 2 AM Burger (cheddar, hash browns, bacon, egg), and the Mac ’n’ Cheese ’n’ Bacon Burger. Next door, check out Charr Cade, where you can enjoy pool, darts, giant Jenga, and 60 craft beers.
charrburgerbar.com

THE CORONADO

Vegetarian/Vegan
Phoenix
602-252-1322
With a menu of yummy vegetarian and vegan dishes plus a full bar, this tiny restaurant packs a big punch. The setting is quaint, the patio is dog-friendly, and the pastries are baked fresh daily. Hit up The Coronado for breakfast, then return in the evening for cocktails.
thecoronadophx.com

ELLY’S BRUNCH AND CAFE

Café
Phoenix
602-603-9600
Only locally sourced ingredients come to play at Elly’s, a warm and open breakfast café that makes its menu from scratch. Treasures that might catch your fancy include the German pancakes and the Provence Benedict—a tempting medley of avocado, tomato, wild mushrooms, and hollandaise sauce over a butter croissant.
ellysrestaurants.com

GRASSROOTS KITCHEN + TAP

American
Phoenix, Scottsdale
602-368-8766, 480-699-0699
Get your greens here. Salads, sandwiches, and seafood dishes feature fresh ingredients, such as crunchy apples, juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, zingy red onions, and crisp lettuce. There’s plenty of protein, too, such as brisket cooked low and slow and topped with barbecue sauce.
grassrootsaz.com

GREEKFEST

Greek
Phoenix
602-265-2990
Chef/owner Tony Makridis puts heart and soul into tasty standards such as moussaka, pastitsio, and souvlaki and exotic entrées including exohiko (lamb wrapped in phyllo) and garithes microlimano (shrimp sautéed with feta in a tomato, herb, and wine sauce). Also enjoy the handcrafted European pastries.
thegreekfest.com

LOU MALNATI’S PIZZERIA

Italian
Phoenix
602-892-9998
This family-owned restaurant has transported its famous Chicago deep-dish pizza to Arizona. Malnati’s pizza is made from scratch and uses ripe California tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and an exclusive sausage blend. Grab a fork and a knife for “Lou’s” pizza—crowned with spinach, mushrooms, sliced Roma tomatoes, mozzarella, and Romano. Yum!
loumalnatis.com

MACALPINE’S DINER & SODA FOUNTAIN

American
Phoenix
602-262-5545
Step back in time at MacAlpine’s Diner, which serves up a 1950s-inspired atmosphere and classic ice cream sodas. Choose from nearly 40 different flavors, such as the German Chocolate Cake or the Hubba Bubba, a bubble gum soda mixed with strawberry ice cream. To complete the meal, pair it with a sandwich or burger and top it off with a sundae.
macalpines.com

PIZZERIA BIANCO

Italian
Phoenix
602-258-8300, 602-368-3273
This small pizzeria in historic Heritage Square has a lot going for it. First, owner Chris Bianco comes from Brooklyn. Second, he makes his own mozzarella. And third, the specialty pies are baked in a wood-fired oven imported from Italy. Enough said?
pizzeriabianco.com

PORK ON A FORK

Barbecue
Deer Valley, Phoenix
877-224-2271
Get ready to pig out at Pork on a Fork, where you can eat pork on a fork as well as between bread, in a burrito, or on a salad. Start by choosing your meat, with options including hand-pulled pork and smoked sausage, and then pick your style and delicious Southern-style sides. If the whole family is hungry, check out the family feasts that feed up to 10 people.
porkonafork.com

ROKERIJ

New Mexican
Phoenix
602-287-8900
With a Netherlands-inspired design, this candlelit restaurant draws diners with prime-grade meats and fresh seafood. Begin with chipotle ribs, then move on to the Pasta Heidi—green chile linguine with chicken and chipotle cream sauce.
richardsonsnm.com/rokerij

SANTAN BREWING COMPANY

Microbrewery
Chandler, Phoenix
480-917-8700, 602-595-7390
Pair your craft beer with some craft food at this relaxed local brewery. Savor a freshly made burger with ale-battered fries, or come in for brunch fare paired with a Whiskey for Breakfast, made with Sacred Stave Single Malt Whiskey, cold-brew coffee, and maple syrup.
santanbrewing.com

SOUTHERN RAIL

Southern
Phoenix
602-200-0085
Some might balk at the mere suggestion of giving Southern food an upscale flair, but this warm and rustic eatery proves good ol’ Southern cooking can be delicious with an elegant twist. We think you’ll be convinced after just one bite of cider-brined pork loin or smoked chicken and grilled andouille gumbo ya ya.
southernrailaz.com

THAI LAHNA

Thai
Phoenix
602-955-4658
For more than 20 years, Thai Lahna has been serving classic Thai dishes, such as Tohm Khah Kai, a hot and sour soup with chicken and vegetables in coconut milk; Phaht Thai, stir-fried noodles; and Gang Ka-ree Kai, a yellow curry dish with chicken and vegetables in coconut milk.
thailahna.com

WELCOME DINER

American
Phoenix
602-495-1111
Welcome Diner, housed in a retro trailer with outdoor seating, offers an old-school vibe with a contemporary menu. Instead of traditional diner burgers and milkshakes, the menu has items such as the PB&B Burger (crunchy peanut butter, bread and butter pickles, bacon, and cheddar) and fried chicken sandwiches. Pair your entrée with a hurricane—2 kinds of rum, house grenadine, and orange, lime, and pineapple juices.
welcomediner.net

ZINBURGER

American
Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert
602-424-9500, 480-285-0690, 480-387-5000
There’s really no combo like a milkshake and a juicy burger. Zinburger embraces this pathos with a delightful menu of creative burgers with surprising toppings and a long list of shakes and floats. For something on the lighter side, order a salad with organic greens and veggies.
zinburgeraz.com

ZIPPS SPORTS GRILL

American
Scottsdale, Scottsdale, Tempe, Gilbert, plus 8 additional area locations
480-970-9507, 480-948-5544, 480-782-8877, 480-539-1600
Looking for a sports bar with panache? Check out Zipps, where you’ll find meaty, inspired bar fare (award-winning wings, chicken focaccia with sweet jalapeño dressing) along with some terrific extras—think shuffleboard, Golden Tee golf, and killer happy hour specials. Grab a bite, salt down the alley, and relax.
zippssportsgrills.com

DOWNTOWN

BE COFFEE + FOOD + STUFF

Café
Phoenix
602-777-0763
Munch on brunch and sip in sophistication at this artsy café in downtown Phoenix. Their “fuel to keep you going” includes carefully selected roasts from all over the country, and to sweeten the deal, experience the housemade syrups. Even if your day starts later, have no fear! Delicious breakfast items are available all day long.
becoffeephx.com

THE BREADFRUIT & RUM BAR

Jamaican
Phoenix
602-267-1266
Get an authentic taste of Jamaican cuisine and culture with fresh and finely spiced fare, reggae music, and premium-aged rum. Start with oven-roasted plantains, then dig into succulent jerk pork over polenta. For something sweet, try the bar’s revamped piña colada.
thebreadfruit.com

CHICO MALO

Mexican/South American
Phoenix
602-603-9363
With a name that translates to “bad boy” and a mural of a tattooed Frida Kahlo, Chico Malo is unapologetic and bold. Heat things up with housemade salsas and Diablo Shrimp Tacos (with a dropper bottle of habanero sauce). Out with friends? Cool things down with the La Calavera, a handcrafted cocktail for four.
chicomalo.com

COMPASS ARIZONA GRILL

Contemporary American
Phoenix
602-440-3166
Special occasion? Try Arizona’s only rooftop revolving restaurant, complete with breathtaking views, fine dining, impeccable service, and a wine list that has garnered Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence. The menu changes seasonally, but you can always count on delicious, contemporary cuisine.
compassarizona.com

COPPER BLUES ROCK PUB & KITCHEN

American
Phoenix
480-719-5005
Food, beer, and rock & roll. That’s Copper Blues. While you don’t have to buy dinner to enjoy the show, you probably don’t want to skip this tasty pub fare. Pair a local craft beer with zesty wings, loaded nachos, or a fresh brick-oven pizza while dancing to live music from local bands every night of the week.
copperblueslive.com

THE DRESSING ROOM

International
Phoenix
602-777-0763
A former drag bar dressing room has entered its second act as a global street-food bar featuring craft cocktails and 2 patios. Menu showstoppers include the All Day Burrito with bacon, hash browns, and avocado, and the Korean Yakitori with peanut sauce and miso slaw. For a big finish, order the Churro Ice Cream Sandy.
conceptuallysocial.com/the-dressing-room

HANNY’S

American
Phoenix
602-252-2285
Housed in a 1940s men’s department store, Hanny’s is now a classic downtown spot for dinner and drinks. In homage to its post-World War II roots, the bar serves throwback cocktails, such as Side Cars and Negronis. Pair your bevvie with one of Hanny’s delicious dishes: The Tuscan Steak and Pork Milanese are popular.
hannys.net

MOTHER BUNCH BREWING

American
Phoenix
602-368-3580
Named after a character from a 17th-century book, this local brewpub is anything but stuffy and old. Bright murals and a hearty list of housemade brews greet guests. Since smoke goes with fire, try to tame the spicy 3 Alarm Burger (featuring hot peppers galore) with the smoky Cherry Popper Porter.
motherbunchbrew.com

NOBUO AT TEETER HOUSE

Japanese
Phoenix
602-254-0600
This bungalow in Heritage Square is the perfect place for a romantic evening or to unwind after a busy day. Socialize over inspired drinks and inventive cuisine, such as yellowtail ceviche or coconut curry grilled lamb. An assortment of exotic teas rounds out the menu.
nobuofukuda.com

PHOENIX PUBLIC MARKET CAFE

American
Phoenix
602-253-2700
Hearty dishes at this downtown restaurant feature seasonal ingredients sourced from the on-site farmers market. Homemade soups, freshly baked bread, green salads, and stacked sandwiches satisfy any food mood, and handcrafted cocktails complete the experience.
phxpublicmarket.com

PIZZERIA BIANCO

QUIESSENCE AT THE FARM

American/Italian
Phoenix
602-276-0601
Nestled in a real working farm, this restaurant exudes all the charm you’d expect from such a quaint locale. But there’s nothing kitschy about the cuisine. The menu changes nightly, offering such delectables as braised lamb with farm greens and onions or pan-seared scallops.
qatthefarm.com

SQUID INK SUSHI

Japanese
Peoria, Phoenix
623-561-7747, 602-258-0510
Check out how this place rolls. In addition to classic sushi like avocado, California, or cucumber rolls, Squid Ink serves original rolls like the Dirty Rockstar (spicy and bigeye tunas, habanero, avocado, jalapeños, sweet chili sauce, and spicy aioli) and the Pokémon (spicy crab, avocado, asparagus, salmon, lemon, marinated Spanish onion, and jalapeños). Try the rice bowls and noodles, too.
squidinksushi.com

STATE 48 BREWERY

American
Surprise, Glendale, Phoenix, Scottsdale,
623-584-1095, 623-877-4448, 602-254-4848, 480-659-0048
Named after the great state of Arizona, State 48 pairs its craft brews with a seasonal menu. Order a best-selling Lost Dutchman Golden Ale with the signature fish and chips, or opt for one (or more!) of the appetizers made with beer like Totchos (Tater-Tot nachos), Disco Fries, or beer-battered pickles.
state48brewery.com

EAST

BABBO ITALIAN EATERY

BLANCO TACOS + TEQUILA

BLUE COYTE CANTINA

Southwestern
Scottsdale
480-850-7777
Settle in to this chic, upscale restaurant just steps away from the gaming action at Talking Stick Resort. Begin with the Tostaditas—three mini tostadas—then savor regional dishes like the pork torta or Yucatan shrimp tacos, Live music and a broad selection of tequilas elevate the experience to a fiesta. Olé!
talkingstickresort.com

CHEZ VOUS

French
Scottsdale
480-443-2575
This bistro re-creates a charming European atmosphere that offers a taste of France. Whether it is a savory crepe with ham and Swiss or a sweet crepe of coconut, chocolate, and bananas, Chez Vous has something for everyone. Finish off your lunch with a decadent macaron.
chezvous.restaurant

DEFALCO’S ITALIAN EATERY

Italian
Scottsdale
480-990-8660
Come in for an Italian sandwich or entrée, leave with freshly sliced cured meats and cheeses—and perhaps a carryout slice of tiramisu. Not only is DeFalco’s a restaurant where you can grab an authentic Italian classic, it’s also a full Italian grocer and deli counter so you can try to replicate the recipes at home.
defalcosdeli.com

DICKEY’S BARBECUE PIT

Barbecue
Phoenix, Mesa, Scottsdale, Peoria, plus 14 additional area locations
602-795-7307, 480-361-8053, 480-685-4979, 623-412-2954
Tender meats of the smoked variety rule at this fast-casual eatery. Pick from tender brisket, pulled pork, ribs, sausage, turkey, and more. Pair that with Southern-style sides such as smoky baked potato casserole or cooling cole slaw. Add on a sweet, refreshing lemonade or tea, and you’re set for a lip-smacking meal.
dickeys.com

EL CHORRO

Southwestern
Paradise Valley
480-948-5170
A fashionable girls’ school more than 70 years ago, this quaint adobe lodge nestled between Camelback and Mummy Mountains offers old-style Southwestern charm. The menu delights with trout amandine and flash-fried lobster tail. Enjoy casual dining and cocktails by glowing fireplaces on the patios.
elchorro.com

ELEMENTS

American
Paradise Valley
855-245-2051
Head to Camelback Mountain for a sleek and seductive dining experience. Enjoy the view from the patio or take a seat at the convivial community table. Menu highlights include bacon-wrapped filet of beef with trumpet mushrooms.
sanctuaryoncamelback.com

GEORDIE’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

American
Phoenix
602-955-4079
Completed in 1931, The Wrigley Mansion is all about the 30s. And it’s clear from the moment you walk in the door of the Mansion’s restaurant, you’re in for a treat of historic proportions. Dine on Black River caviar and braised lamb shank in the dining room with its swingin’ jazz flavor.
wrigleymansionclub.com

GRASSROOTS KITCHEN + TAP

J&G STEAKHOUSE

Steakhouse
Scottsdale
480-214-8000
Grab your significant other and head for this elegant, romantic restaurant. Enjoy dramatic sunsets and city views while you savor a menu filled with premium meats, fresh fish, and a variety of mouthwatering dishes complemented by local ingredients and worldly spices.
jgsteakhousescottsdale.com

LON’S AT THE HERMOSA INN

American
Paradise Valley
602-955-7878
Enjoy an elegant evening in this intimate 1930s adobe, once the home of cowboy artist Lon Megargee. The kitchen serves up savory dishes such as roasted halibut and Jidori chicken with basil mashed potatoes.
hermosainn.com

MARIGOLD MAISON

Indian
Paradise Valley
602-795-0020
Without having to travel to New Delhi, you can eat authentic Indian food, such as chicken tikka, saag paneer, and samosa. Bright sauces and decorative flowers garnish each colorful, delicious-looking entrée. Finish with kala jamun—warm cakes covered in rose-honey syrup.
marigoldmaison.com

MOWRY & COTTON

Regional American
Scottsdale
480-423-2530
The casual and laid-back atmosphere at Mowry & Cotton puts diners at ease as they peruse the seasonal menu. Savor regionally inspired American dishes, such as grilled black cod, lamb tacos, or one of the many vegetarian options. Sweet tooth? Be sure to order the warm s’mores pie.
mowryandcotton.com

OLD TOWN TORTILLA FACTORY

Regional Southwestern
Scottsdale
480-945-4567
A tree-covered patio, Southwestern-accented interior, and Margarita’s Tequilarilla (read: “lounge” stocking more than 120 tequilas) make the Factory a local favorite. The menu includes specialties like Shawnee sea bass and red chile pork chops.
oldtowntortillafactory.com

ORANGE SKY

Contemporary American
Scottsdale
480-850-8606
Pair a glass of world-class wine with pan-roasted swordfish or grilled elk loin while you enjoy panoramic views of the McDowell Mountains. Other menu standouts: spice-rubbed lamb chops, mesquite-rubbed chicken, and shrimp and scallop steaks.
talkingstickresort.com

PORK ON A FORK

ROKA AKOR

Japanese
Scottsdale
480-306-8800
This elegant Japanese restaurant situates diners in full view of the robata grill to watch as chefs chop, toss, and grill. Order a sushi roll or grilled sweet corn skewers, and see your meal handcrafted right before your eyes. After dinner, enjoy housemade ice cream, or make your way to the shochu lounge for a cocktail.
rokaakor.com

RENEGADE COFFEE COMPANY

Café
Scottsdale
480-372-5623
Get that caffeine buzz going with Renegade’s classic house blend coffee and avocado toast, or take your taste buds on a trip to the tropics with a kiwi-strawberry green tea. If you’re feeling wild, there are Red Bull infusions and Monster Burritos. Or practice self care with on-tap kombucha and an açaí bowl.
coffeeshopscottsdale.com

STATE 48 BREWERY

T. COOK’S

Mediterranean
Phoenix
602-808-0766
The elegant atmosphere of this Royal Palms Resort and Spa standout invites diners to relax and stay awhile as they enjoy a carnival of flavors. Sample bold dishes like fried frog legs, diver scallops, Spanish octopus, or roasted loin of venison.
tcooksphoenix.com

TORO LATIN RESTAURANT & RUM BAR

Central American
Scottsdale
480-585-2694
Bring a friend to Toro—here, the plates (octopus tostadas, for one) are meant to be shared. Live music and 150 rums on offer make the atmosphere at Toro comparable to a lively Panama City hangout—the perfect spot to transition from dinner to full-on shindig.
scottsdaleprincess.com

VIRTÙ

Mediterranean
Scottsdale
480-946-3477
Tucked inside the intimate Bespoke Inn, Virtù offers a rotating menu of Mediterranean flavors. Settle into a seat at the lantern-lit community table and share rustic housemade pastas and fresh seafood dishes. Tempting options include smoked duck with caramelized peaches.
virtuscottsdale.com

ZINBURGER

ZIPPS SPORTS GRILL

ZUZU

American
Scottsdale
855-441-2423
This classy, modern restaurant at the hip Hotel Valley Ho offers seasonal comfort food built from ingredients from the on-site herb garden and local farms. Enjoy mussels with drawn butter and grilled lemon or the Farmer’s Plate, featuring the best of the season. Finish with a spiked “Show Stopper” Shake large enough to share—if you wish.
hotelvalleyho.com/zuzu

NORTHEAST

BREAKFAST KITCHEN BAR

Café
Scottsdale
480-361-6698
Breakfast Kitchen Bar is not your average café. Kick back with a cocktail on the patio, or reimagine breakfast and lunch with an irresistible menu selection—almond croissant French toast, waffle fries breakfast nachos, a shrimp scampi spinach quinoa bowl, and more. The Keto-friendly menu items ensure there’s something for everyone.
breakfastkitchenbar.com

BRYAN’S BLACK MOUNTAIN BARBECUE

American
Cave Creek
480-575-7155
The Old West meets St. Louis at Bryan’s. Delight in inventive takes on classic barbecue with selections like the pulled-squash sandwich and the beef brisket served with olive coleslaw. Choose from an extensive selection of microbrews, or indulge in a sarsaparilla float before saddling up.
bryansbarbecue.com

PORK ON A FORK

TIKKA SHACK

Indian
Phoenix
602-354-8800
You pick: Chicken, veggies, shrimp, lamb, or paneer on your tikka masala? Tikka Shack serves traditional Indian dishes but gives you the power to build your own versions. Of course, there are plenty of delicious, pre-prepared options, too. Also try the samosas, aloo saag, or Shack Naan.
tikkashack.com

TOCAYA ORGANICA

Mexican
Scottsdale
480-676-3469
Armed with a mission to promote better, healthier eating with sustainable ingredients, this traditional Mexican restaurant is dishing out social-media-worthy fare. Indulge in the highest quality bowls, salads, tacos, burritos, and more while staying naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan (or not!). Finish off with the perfect margarita and a basket of churro waffle bites.
tocayaorganica.com

SOUTHEAST

ARIZONA WILDERNESS BREWING CO.

Microbrewery
Gilbert
480-497-2739
This award-winning brewery is home to craft beers influenced by the owners’ passion for exploration in Arizona’s disparate land. Enjoy an Arizona Dreamsicle Beer—made with local citrus and Madagascar vanilla bean—as you sink your teeth into bar bites like the Beer-B-Q Chicken Quesadilla.
azwbeer.com

BABBO ITALIAN EATERY

EL ZOCALO MEXICAN GRILLE

Mexican
Chandler
480-722-0303
Viva Mexico! This lively restaurant boasts some of the best patio dining around. Secure a table fountain-side, surrounded by fruit trees, rose bushes, and flickering candlelight. The camaron frito—fried shrimp served with a zesty raspberry sauce—is a must, as is the big-as-your-head margarita. Enjoy live entertainment in the restaurant and on the patio.
elzocalo.com

GOGI

Korean, Japanese
Chandler
480-812-2751
Can’t decide between your favorite Asian dishes? Try Gogi Korean and Sushi, where Korean staples and Japanese sushi get equal footing. With specialties like hot stone bibimbap and Korean fried chicken, as well as several sushi platters, Gogi has options for everyone. Complete the experience with a cool Asian beer or cup of sake.
gogichandler.com

GRUBSTAK

American
Chandler
480-454-3299
Build it your way morning, noon, or night at this bowl-based dining concept. For a signature “Stak,” pick a base—say, quinoa, mac ‘n’ cheese, or waffle fries—then pile on the proteins, such as roasted chicken or parmesan-crusted squash. Finally, top your creation with cheese, sauce, or dressing.
grubstak.com

HOUSE OF TRICKS

Regional American
Tempe
480-968-1114
Inside this turn-of-the-century cottage, diners can savor dishes like lamb with lemon-honey risotto and spiced yogurt or seared ahi tuna with pineapple-Togarashi rice. Visitors to Tricks also love the tree-shaded patio.
houseoftricks.com

NUNTHAPORN THAI CUISINE

Thai
Mesa
480-649-6140
Warm tones, cozy banquette seating, and exotic aromas welcome diners to this authentic Thai restaurant in downtown Mesa. Pick your heat level—mild, medium, spicy, or Thai spicy—for fresh and flavorful takes on such classics as green curry and Pad Thai. Round out the experience with Thai tea and fried banana with gelato for dessert.
nunthapornthai.com

RANCHO DE TIA ROSA

Mexican
Gilbert
480-396-8787
Enter this authentic Mexican restaurant and be swayed by a colorful array of steaks, soups, and enchiladas. Also try out the daily specials, from a glazed shrimp cocktail to the Nuevo chile relleno stuffed with cheese, sour cream, and roasted bell pepper sauce.
tiarosarestaurant.com

REPÚBLICA EMPANADA

Caribbean/Latin American
Mesa
480-969-1343
As the name suggests, the oh-so-portable-and-delicious empanada is the star of this pan-Latin bistro. From spicy (jalapeño popper empanada) to savory (the pork Pernil) to sweet (Dizzy Fig or Plantain & Cheese), you’ll want to try all 2 dozen varieties on the menu. Good thing they wrap up nicely for easy carryout, too.
republicaempanada.com

RÚLA BÚLA IRISH PUB & RESTAURANT

Irish
Tempe
480-929-9500
This pub reflects authentic Irish design—from the low lighting to the solid oak bar. Toast your friends with Guinness pints at a cozy table, or enjoy the lush patio. Culinary delights include Gaelic chicken with whiskey sauce, bangers and mash, and roasted peppercorn salmon.
rulabula.com

SANTAN BREWING COMPANY

SLICES ON MILL

Pizza
Tempe
480-590-0511
Savor some freshly made East Coast-style slices—or the whole pie. Whether you want to keep it classic with cheese or satisfy your wilder cravings with a loaded potato, mac ’n‘ cheese, or salad pizza, you won’t be disappointed. Delight your creative side by substituting any pizza with a gluten-free cauliflower crust or creating your own calzone.
slicesonmill.com

SHULA’S STEAK HOUSE

Steakhouse
Chandler
520-796-1972
The unique and upscale dining experience at Shula’s starts long before entrées arrive—the menus are hand-painted on official NFL game footballs signed by former Miami Dolphins coach Don Shula. Options range from surf—scallops, lobster, shrimp—to turf, including the linebacker-portioned 48-ounce Porterhouse steak. Total touchdown.
playatgila.com

STOCKYARDS RESTAURANT & 1889 SALOON

Steakhouse
Phoenix
602-273-7378
Stockyards is among the best when it comes to authentic steakhouses—think fantastic beef, a wood-trimmed interior, leather booths, and top-notch service. Stick to steaks and you won’t be disappointed, but stray if you must to the excellent pork porterhouse chop or tortilla-crusted trout.
stockyardssteakhouse.com

ZINBURGER

ZIPPS SPORTS GRILL

WEST

AMUSE BOUCHE

French
Surprise
623-322-8881
Get excited about this small-but-mighty restaurant’s chef-driven, seasonal menu. French-inspired dishes include mussels steamed in white wine with shallots and cream, as well as truffled mushroom risotto fritters. This cozy eatery is BYOB, so bring a favorite bottle of wine to enjoy with dinner.
amusebouche.biz

BABBO ITALIAN EATERY

GEORGE LOPEZ’S CHINGON KITCHEN

Mexican
Laveen
800-946-4452
Paying homage to comedian George Lopez’s heritage, this fast-casual, high-energy restaurant serves up Mexican fare made from scratch. Artfully prepared tacos, burritos, bowls, and spit-fired al pastor pair well with the handmade guacamole and vast selection of agave-based spirits from the bar.
playatgila.com

HAUS MURPHY’S

German
Glendale
623-939-2480
Here, savor authentic German foods, such as schnitzel, bratwurst, and Oktoberfest pretzels. The biergarten provides a relaxing atmosphere, fine beers and wines, and live entertainment on Fri. and Sat. evenings.
hausmurphys.com

LITCHFIELD’S

American
Litchfield Park
623-935-3811
The restaurant’s farm-to-table approach ensures local ingredients shine, from fresh vegetable sides to hearty soups. Large plates include brick-roasted chicken or Cedar River Arizona rib eye. Even the cocktails give top billing to local fruits and spirits.
wigwamarizona.com

THE LOLA COCKTAIL LAB & EATERY

American
Glendale
623-877-5225
Whether you prefer brunch or late-night happy hour, prepare to dine in style at this classy cocktail lab. Start with an appetizer like the Crispy Bites—pieces of tempura-style cauliflower, asparagus, and green beans—and then move on to perfectly priced sandwiches, entrées, and gourmet toasts.
thelolaaz.com

SQUID INK SUSHI

STATE 48 BREWERY

VOGUE BISTRO

French-American
Surprise
623-544-9109
The decor, atmosphere, and creative dishes make this restaurant the place to be. Start with the foie gras or escargots to share, then dive into duck confit or the meatloaf in a rich sherry sauce. Still can’t decide? There’s always the quiche of the day.
voguebistro.com