If you’re heading to Phoenix, there’s plenty to do and see. Whether you’re spending the day touring the several museums, heading North towards Grand Canyon national park, or checking out the food scene, you’ll need to grab a bite at some point. There are some of the best resorts in the desert of Arizona, right near Phoenix, that offer you lovely places to stay, as well as some delicious restaurants on their property.
As the state’s capital, Phoenix has one of the most diverse food scenes in Arizona. There’s everything from your favorite Tex-Mex, Italian, American, Native American, and everything in between. Choosing a restaurant can be challenging when you’re in a bind and can’t think about anything but food. Instead of filtering through hundreds of pages of restaurants, I’ve narrowed down where to find some of the best restaurants Phoenix has to offer.
Pizzeria Bianco
Multiple Locations
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Pizzeria Bianco didn’t get its start like many other restaurants did. This popular Phoenix pizza joint has its beginnings in the back of a local Phoenix grocery store. Pizzeria Bianco has two locations in Phoenix, making it easy to enjoy some fantastic pizza regardless of where you are in town. They have all your favorite classic pizza recipes, like cheese and pepperoni. If you’re looking to try something a little more unique, switching up your favorite pizza recipes by using a white sauce or adding prosciutto will be a memorable experience.
Pizza a Metro
2336 W Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85015
Phone: 602-262-9999
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For one of the best Italian spots in Midtown, you need to visit Pizza a Metro. It’s a cozy little spot with classic Italian decor and a warm patio outside. I love the ambiance, especially on the deck, with the twinkling lights and greenery. Pizza a Metro is known for its wood-fired pizzas, but plenty of other classic Italian dishes are on the menu. You’ll see pasta, pizza, appetizers, salads, and more on the menu. I’ve been here several times and love their veal cannelloni, salmon piccata, linguine carbonara, and their white pizza. Everything’s lovely, so you can’t go wrong here.
Little Miss BBQ
4301 E University Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85034
Phone: 602-437-1177
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Little Miss BBQ is just south of the Salt River in Rayburn Acres. This modern restaurant is the perfect place to go when you’re craving Texas barbecue food.
The place is definitely no frills, but the staff is welcoming, and the food is phenomenal. The food’s so good, you’ll probably go into a food coma.
Their menu is loaded with various barbecued meats, side dishes, burritos, and desserts. I love their beef short ribs, but you can only get those on Friday and Saturday.
Other popular meats are brisket and spare pork ribs. Whatever you order, you cannot forget to try their jalapeno cheddar grits and mac and cheese.
Postino
Multiple Locations
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This next place, Postino, has locations all over Phoenix, including the Tempe area, right across the street from the Sun Devil Football Stadium and the Desert Financial Arena. They have other locations near Scottsdale in the Highland area, Arcadia, and Central Park North. My favorite thing to do when visiting Postino is to visit with friends and order a fantastic cheese board. Their delicious bruschetta charcuterie board allows you to pick four incredible different flavors. My top four favorites would be salami and pesto, smoked salmon and pesto, warm artichoke, and ricotta, dates, and pistachio.
Durant’s
2611 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Phone: 602-264-5967
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Just north of the Heard Museum on North Central Avenue is Durant’s, a fine-dining steakhouse that does things the old-school way because, as the saying goes, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Probably the best thing on their menu is the slow-roasted prime rib. Pair that with a glass of cabernet sauvignon and I’m in heaven. Don’t worry, they have plenty of other options in case you’re not such a steak lover. Some other great dishes I recommend are the double cut lamb chops and their Florida stone crab claws. Pretty much everything they serve at Durant’s is bound to please.
Matt’s Big Breakfast
825 N 1st St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Phone: 602-254-1074
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There’s no better place for breakfast food in Phoenix than Matt’s Big Breakfast. It’s in downtown Phoenix, making it perfect if you’re staying in that area or want to grab a nice meal before exploring. It’s your typical breakfast cafe that smells of coffee and food and has a comfortable atmosphere. All the food here is made from scratch with as many local ingredients as possible. You’ll find omelets, French toast, and all your favorite classic breakfast dishes. Some of my favorite breakfast items here are the big Papa burrito, griddle cakes, and waffles with bacon.
Dick’s Hideaway
6008 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Phone: 602-241-1881
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Dick’s Hideaway is tucked away in Uptown. It’s considered a hidden gem, so most of the time, only locals know about it. It’s an intimate joint that has a rustic feel. The restaurant has wine lines along the walls, dim lighting, and some of the best service you’ll find in the city. They’re open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but I recommend visiting for dinner. The cuisine is considered New Mexican. The menu has steaks, pork chops, seafood, pasta, and more. The Chimayo chicken is a fan favorite, but I love the New Mexican surf and turf. Be sure to ask your server for wine recommendations.
Kai Restaurant
5594 W Wild Horse Pass Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85226
Phone: 602-225-0100
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Whether you’re staying at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass or not, Kai Restaurant is a place you need to experience while in Phoenix, Arizona. Kai Restaurant is Arizona’s only AAA Five Diamond Award and Forbes Five-Star award-winning restaurant. Along with the Sheraton Grand, the restaurant is rich in Native American culture that can be seen through the decor and atmosphere. For your entree, desert mint duck breast or kurobuta pork prepared three ways are some of the best options on the menu. I love Kai because you can reserve a tasting where you get to sample some of the best Native American-inspired food with some of the best wines Arizona has to offer.
Restaurant Progress
702 W Montecito Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85013
Phone: 602-441-0553
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As the name may suggest, Owner TJ Culp wanted to open a restaurant in Phoenix that was the epitome of progress. One of the best parts about dining at Restaurant Progress is that they have perfected the art of pairing wine with their dishes. Their menu is rather elegant, with plates of caviar, oysters, beef tartare, and quail egg shooters. If you’ve ever wanted to be a little more adventurous while dining, Restaurant Progress is the perfect place to do that. I loved the French onion soup dumplings and the roasted two-wash ranch chicken.
Haji Baba
1513 E Apache Blvd, Tempe, AZ 85281
Phone: 480-894-1905
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Just east of Phoenix in Tempe is Haji Baba. It’s arguably the best place in the city if you want Mediterranean food. The restaurant is simple, with bright lighting and beautiful wall murals inspired by Greece. It’s a quick counter-service spot that never disappoints. Haji Baba’s menu features all the classic Mediterranean dishes you love and some you might not have heard of. A few of their most popular dishes are chicken shawarma, chicken kabobs, and their combo platter. I love the combo platter because it comes with white rice, couscous, veggies, hummus, and your meat of choice.
Virtu Honest Craft
3701 N Marshall Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Phone: 480-946-3477
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You’ll find Virtu Honest Craft 15 minutes from the airport in Scottsdale. The restaurant is inside the Bespoke Inn and has a lot of charm. The atmosphere and food are Mediterranean inspired, so you might forget you’re in Arizona for a minute. It’s perfect for dining with friends and family or on a date. The menu at Virtu Honest Craft changes frequently due to new inspiration and seasonal ingredients. The best thing to do is check online before arriving to see their current selection. They have dishes like saffron spaghetti, rubbed pork chops, and duck confit to give you an idea.
Chino Bandido
10 W Bell Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85023
Phone: 602-375-3639
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Chino Bandido is north of downtown Phoenix, near Lookout Mountain. This no-frills eatery is a counter-service spot that is unique. The bright yellow walls make it stand out, and it’s the perfect spot when you want a delicious meal but aren’t in the mood to dress up and spend hundreds of dollars. The cuisine here is a blend of Mexican and Chinese food. On the menu, you’ll find burritos and classic Chinese dishes like fried rice. I suggest building your own bowl when you come here. You get to choose your base, which consists of different types of fried rice or beans, and your protein (I love the jade red chicken).
Hana Japanese Eatery
5524 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85013
Phone: 602-973-1238
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When I was in Phoenix, I was craving Japanese food. Luckily, if you’re wondering where to eat in Phoenix that will have all the best flavors of Japan, you need to try Hana Japanese Eatery. Hana is open every day except Monday for dinner service, and they have all your favorite Japanese dishes. From more classic rice and noodle dishes to nigiri, Hana Japanese Eatery has everything. If you plan on getting the ramen for your entree, you may want to try their pork or veggie gyoza instead. The best part about this restaurant is the sushi roll selection. All the fish they use is the freshest possible, and you can tell.
Taco Chelo
501 E Roosevelt St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Phone: 602-368-5136
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Taco Chelo is another delicious, modern Mexican joint in Downtown Phoenix. It’s a casual and lively restaurant that’s perfect for any day. The staff is knowledgeable and welcoming, and the atmosphere is top-notch. The menu here features all your typical Mexican dishes. There are burritos, quesadillas, tacos, and more. I love taco salad, fish tacos, and chicken tacos. Their margaritas pack a punch but are delicious.
Tacos Chiwas
1028 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85014
Phone: 602-358-8830
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Tacos Chiwas is just north of downtown Phoenix on East Indian School Road. This family-owned and operated restaurant is a favorite in the community because the food, ambiance, and service are excellent. I love sitting on the patio when it’s not 1,000 degrees outside. Their menu is loaded with authentic Mexican food. Their recipes are passed down from generation to generation, so you know you’re getting some of the best Mexican cuisine around. They have tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, but I recommend their tacos. The pastor and asada tacos are my favorites.
The Coronado PHX
2245 N 12th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006
Phone: 602-767-8133
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The Coronado PHX is a beautiful, delicious vegan restaurant on North 12th Street. It’s in the Coronado neighborhood, only five minutes from the Phoenix Art Museum. The restaurant features black leather seating, funky lighting, and beautiful pink wall murals throughout. You’ll love this restaurant even if you’re not vegan. The menu features a little bit of everything. Pancakes, tacos, sandwiches, and more are on the menu. It’s hard to choose a favorite menu item here, but I think everyone needs to try their beet and onion burger, red potato hash, and chocolate raspberry cake.
The Stand Burger Shoppe
3538 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018
Phone: 602-314-5259
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Just northeast of downtown Phoenix is arguably the best fast-food restaurant in town. The Stand Burger Shoppe is a must-try when in town. It’s a drive-through-only spot and reminds me of a classic, old-school drive-through restaurant. This mom-and-pop restaurant is perfect for a quick bite. As the name might suggest, this restaurant serves burgers and all the things you associate with burgers. You’ll find milkshakes, French fries, and other fast food classics. While they have a variety of burgers on the menu, you can’t go wrong with a classic bacon cheeseburger and French fries. Instead of a soda, you need to try a vanilla milkshake; It’s the best I’ve had.
Valentine
4130 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85013
Phone: 602-612-2961
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Valentine is a spot in Phoenix just west of Steele Indian School Park that you could eat at any time of the day. They offer breakfast, mostly pastries, lunch, dinner, and even brunch services on the weekends, probably the most fun you can have on a Sunday. They even offer a delicious selection of coffee if you’re dining in or ordering pastries to go, plus hand-crafted cocktails. If you’re planning on getting there bright and early for pastries, their menu changes daily due to what they have available and what’s been freshly baked.If you’re feeling a bit hungrier, the elote pasta is by far one of the best dishes you’ll have when you’re in Phoenix. It’s a dish with house-made pasta, romano cheese corn, and Arbol flake.
Glai Baan
2333 E Osborn Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Phone: 602-595-5881
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If you’re looking to escape to Thailand without leaving the United States or Phoenix, for that matter, Glai Baan is the place to be over in the Hart Goede neighborhood. When you stop into Glai Baan, you’ll notice that many of their dishes are meant to be shared. Now, if you want a dish all to yourself, no one will judge you. Something I enjoyed while visiting was the Kanom jeeb. It’s pork dumplings with scallions, ginger, and soy sauce. You can’t go wrong with a side of sticky rice regardless of what you order. Something you’ll want to check out is their street food options.
The Larder and the Delta
200 W Portland St #101, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Phone: 480-409-8520
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You’ll find The Larder and the Delta in the heart of downtown Phoenix, just across from Margaret T. Hance Park. The restaurant is a unique spot featuring Southern dishes in a modern space with fresh Arizona ingredients. The space is elevated but not pretentious. It’s a great date-night spot for foodies. The menu is vast, and since there’s much to choose from, I recommend sharing it with whoever you’re with so you can try a few different menu items. The pimento cheese and hush puppies are the best starters, while the low country purloo is the best main dish on the menu. Be sure to save room for dessert and sip a handcrafted cocktail while waiting.
Bacanora PHX
1301 Grand Ave Unit 1, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: 602-612-4018
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If you’re near Downtown and craving Mexican food, you need to visit Bacanora PHX. This modern Mexican restaurant has a great atmosphere and is more informal than some of the other restaurants downtown. The restaurant features brightly colored walls and decor. Bacanora PHX’s menu has everything you could want in a more modern Mexican joint. They have items like elote, burritos, and tacos on the menu. You have to start with the elote, and then I recommend trying the carne asada burrito. They also have daily specials, so ask about those when you arrive.
Lo-Lo’s Chicken and Waffles
1220 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003
Phone: 602-340-1304
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Lo-Lo’s Chicken and Waffles is on Central Avenue in Central City. This chicken restaurant is laid-back and the perfect dinner spot when you don’t want any frills but want food that tastes out of this world. The menu features a combination of soul food and Arizona staples. People love that they serve breakfast all day, and their chicken and waffles are the best. As for the lunch and dinner menu, you’ll find all sorts of Southern soul food. You have to try the soul food platter with fried or smothered chicken, two sides, and cornbread.
Binkley’s Restaurant
2320 E Osborn Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Phone: 602-388-4874
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Binkley’s is much more than a restaurant. It’s an experience. If you’re looking for a dining experience that will impress, you’ll want to make a reservation here. And yes, reservations are necessary when choosing this restaurant. They serve a select handful of guests each night at a set price. You’ll be able to know the price per person or couple before arriving at the restaurant. The price includes a bottle of their finest wine and tastings of some of their best foods. Something to keep in mind when making your reservation is any dietary restrictions. They do have vegetarian options, so you’ll want to state that while making your reservation.
Lon’s At The Hermosa
5532 N Palo Cristi Rd, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
Phone: 602-955-8614
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Located in one of the best places to stay in Phoenix, Hermosa Inn, you’ll find Lon’s. Hermosa Inn can be found in Paradise Valley in Phoenix and has been a top lodging choice for people since the beginning. This four-diamond boutique hotel and restaurant is nestled at the bottom of Camelback Mountain. Lon’s is rated one of Paradise Valley’s top restaurants. When you reserve your table and choose to sample the chef’s tasting menu, you’ll get a taste of some items that can’t be found on the traditional Lon’s menu, but they reflect the diversity of Arizona culture. The best part about Lon’s is that they offer breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner service.
The Parlor Pizzeria
1916 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Phone: 602-248-2480
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What started as a single wood-fired oven and a bright vision has expanded into The Parlor Pizzeria that locals and visitors love today. If you don’t believe me when I say how delicious this pizza place is, The Food Network voted Parlor Pizzeria the best pizza in Arizona. The menu is the perfect selection of antipasti, pizza, pasta, and salad. They have all your favorite classic pizza recipes, but my favorite was their spicy florentine pizza. Check them out on East Camelback Road, right across the street from the Camelback Colonnade and the Town and Country Shopping Center shopping malls near Phoenix.
Kaizen PHX
515 E Grant St #100, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Phone: 602-432-0752
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Kaizen is a Japanese fusion restaurant in Phoenix that is the perfect place to pop in for a nice meal. Check them out on East Grant Street, within walking distance to Chase Field and Footprint Center. The chefs at Kaizen specialize in omakase dishes of fresh sushi and sashimi. I recommend the ceviche mixto, it’s a combination of Japanese red snapper, scallops, prawns, yucca chips, and avocado. If you can make it between 4-6 p.m., their happy hour specials are great. They have great drink deals, and many of their sushi rolls are only $5.
The Capital Grille
2502 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Phone: 602-952-8900
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Located inside the Biltmore Fashion Park shopping mall is The Capital Grille, a widely known name in the fine dining industry that very rarely disappoints. They’re also right across the street from the AMC DINE-IN Esplanade 14 and the Embassy Suites by Hilton Phoenix Biltmore.The steak here is always unbelievably tasty, but there are so many other menu options to choose from that you can also get seafood and chicken as well. My favorite, however, is the dry aged NY strip with a side of lobster mac and cheese. That’s my own personal way of doing surf n turf here at Capital Grille.
Rusconi’s American Kitchen
10637 N Tatum Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85028
Phone: 480-483-0009
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Rusconi’s American Kitchen is up next and they were far and away one of the best restaurants near me while I was staying at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Phoenix Scottsdale. They were just over a mile away from me in the Paradise Village Gateway shopping mall. When you get here, I highly recommend the chardonnay steamed mussels, it was one of the best dishes I’ve ever had. If you need something a bit more substantial, for those with a larger appetite, I recommend the braised beef short rib. The only thing more impressive than the cuisine here at Rusconi’s is their enormous wine selection.
Tratto
1505 E Van Buren St, Phoenix, AZ 85006
Phone: 602-296-7761
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If you’ve been in Phoenix long enough to try Pizzeria Bianco, you have to try Tratto. Tratto is another top-notch restaurant by the mind behind the famous pizzeria. The restaurant is a chic farmhouse-style restaurant that serves seafood, chicken, and some of the best side dishes you’ll ever have. Tratto chefs collaborate with local farmers to ensure they use only the freshest ingredients for your meal. Check them out in Eastlake Park on East Van Buren Street, less than a mile away from the Children’s Museum of Phoenix and the Arizona Science Center.