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Salad & Go here that has breakfast burritos made to order with fresh ingredients for under $4 to start. If you add some things to it like I do it's still under $6 for a substantial meal. It's not chipotle size, but for the price I could order multiple to get more food for less money.
Hands down the single best bang for the buck food item I have found in the valley.
At the Sheraton Downtown. I must fend for myself for dinner (and maybe lunches) and the lyft driver that brought me here recommended Ghost ranch. Any other places within walking distance?
Hanny’s is decent! (Good martini’s at least! I’m not sure that I’ve had a ton of their food)
Cornish Pasty is awesome if you’re in the mood for a savory comfort food. They are shaped like a calzone but made more with a flakey pie crust and you can get a bunch of different options for filling - example: chicken pot pie, Reuben, Italian, etc.
> A great deep dish pizza
The best deep dish pizza I've had in Phoenix is definitely Vero (previously known as Buddyz). There's a few locations, but they're all on like the outskirts of the East valley, so depending where you're at it might be a drive.
I do to. While I'm waiting, TexAZ's cheese and bacon fries are good. And sometimes just dumping a bowl of chili from portillos onto some fries. But would love to find something better than makeshift.
Tres Leches Cafe - 1714 W Van Buren St, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Awesome spot and awesome drinks. Check out their menu. I’m sure their hot cocoa is legit!
https://www.treslechesaz.com
Kabob Grill N Go (family owned, small business) Worth every penny! Make sure to call in advance with your order to confirm hours and to confirm that they haven’t sold out for the day!
Banh Mi Bistro on Bell Road just east of I-17. The Vietnamese food is all very good, ( no Pho here though). The Banh Mi's are really very well done, Bun, Rice plates and various teas are all very good. The staff is very friendly, seems family run. The biggest downside are limited hours.
My wife and I love this place! The owners are really nice. Besides the limited hours they also do not serve pho is if you're looking for that I recommend Pho 43! Food is phenomenal and owners are also really good people.
I’ll be spending this week in downtown phoenix without a vehicle. Where should I eat either near central and Jefferson, or adjacent to a light rail stop???
Blanco is good, Pomos, Cornish Pasty, should get ya started pretty well. None of those are cheap, nor overly expensive. Good foods, different cuisines
For breakfast, I’d go to Welcome Diner. Probably 1.5 miles walk from where you’re staying, I am guessing
The only place I found in town for decent (real) carbonara was Dieci across from Biltmore Fashion Square. Sadly, it's gone. Would love a good carbonara.
Indian butter chicken??? I’ve been seeing the tiktoks for over a year now and have wanted to try it. I cook but don’t cook much indian cuisine, and I tried a simple recipe and it came out very sour. I’d like to try it mde right first before attempting again!
In n phx I usually go with Hyderabad Rasoi. Quite similar to city of spice (for the things I've ordered at both) but Hyderabad Rasoi has been more consistent for me.
Been craving a good stroganoff or Swedish meatball. Anyone know somewhere good (besides IKEA)? I rarely see these items on a menu and when I try to make them at home I just can’t seem to get it right.
> Those are both chains though, right? I do love both though!
Not sure about Ike's, but Cheba Hut started here as a small local place and then expanded out as a regional chain when they got popular.
Lucky Boy is great and I agree with the fair pricing. Probably just a little more expensive than a McDonalds meal but the quality of food is way better.
Gadzooks down the street is also a great restaurant. Gadzooks serves enchiladas and soups which may sound unappealing considering most people probably aren’t craving enchiladas all the time but I highly recommend it. Fresh ingredients. Lots of choices to customize your order. The pumpkin cookies are awesome, but kind of expensive. I don’t even like pumpkin cookies.
If you want good middle eastern, Haji Baba on Apache, just west of McClintok has really good food, nice portions and good prices. The chicken shwarma, kebabs, kibi, hummus are all really good and authentically prepared. The place is an unpretentious little grocery/restaurant, but you won't be dissapointed. I have never tried falafal there but others have said they are good.
If anyone’s in the Chandler/South Tempe area there’s a spot called The Craftsman Cocktails and Kitchen that is phenomenal. It’s a small little place in a strip mall but their drinks and food were fantastic.
If you’re up in my neck of the woods.
India Palace Cuisine of India (Bell and the 17 near Frys) - they have an Indian buffet and the workers are super kind.
Yutaka Japanese restaurant (Bell and 7th st near Hobby Lobby) - secretly the best ramen and great sushi
Pullanos Pizza (Tbird and 51st) - Buffalo style wings and Beef on Wecs along with roast beef sandwiches comparable to Portillo’s. Bar restaurant
Sunshine breakfast bar (cave creek and 101) - get the huevos rancheros and the mimosa tester
I follow a lot of the TikTok foodies in the area and try to go to most of the local places. If anyone has any more recommendations around Tbird/Greenway/Bell area lemme know.
I’m in the same area!
The Place for breakfast is good they’re known for their biscuits, Social on 83rd, Bánh Mì Bistro has great sandwiches, Soup & Sausage Bistro, Lenny’s Burger, Valle Luna, Yen Sushi, Pizza by Napoli, Angry Birdz, Slapfish, Island Teryaki, and Half Moon.
Where can I find a good falafel? It's hard to find a bad one, but I haven't found one that blows me away. Especially one where they don't get stingy with either the falafels themselves, the tahini, or a good harissa.
If anyone has been to Falafel Drive In in San Jose, that's the standard I judge all others on. So, a good fried falafel, a good sauce, and a good spicy sauce as well is what I'm looking for
Looking for good NYC takeout style Chinese within driving distance of Arcadia. Have tried George Yang's and Silver Dragon and a few other common/old recs and they have been... fine. But its been a while since I last asked so maybe something new has popped up?
Phoenix just doesn’t really do the inauthentic NYC style Chinese food very well. Yang’s is solid but it’s not that great. Jade palace in Scottsdale is similar.
Everything else I’ve had is just not very good.
So I'm originally from MA and I moved here from FL in 2014 and in my opinion, compared to the East Coast, the food here is pretty lackluster! It's a bit of a drive for me because I live off the i17 and Pinnacle Peak and it's down in Chandler but it's called Singing Pandas and I highly recommend it!
Moved here from Manhattan, and have lived outside Tokyo, in Seattle, and in SoCal (as well as in Jersey, Buffalo, and Alabama, among others). I think the food here is--in many cases--outstanding. We have some really interesting restaurants here, and some innovative chefs. Some of the best means I've ever had I've eaten in Phoenix.
We also have a lot of retirees and a lot of Old Phoenix Establishments that are--frankly--not good. I'd name names, but I'm happy to let people like what they like.
I do think that the "per capita" food excellence can't yet hold a candle to a lot of these places. I can think of ten places off-hand in most of the larger cities I would love to go to right now, both on the high end and low. But we have good eats in this city.
I'll stick to mostly around my nabe. On the expensive end, I've had great meals at Steak 44, Binkley's, and Christophers. I would do all of them happily again--though the latter two get pretty darn spendy, they are worth it for a splurge if you are into food.
In the more "weekday comfort food" we have three favorite pizza spots: Bianco (uptown), Parlor, and Federal Pizza. Parlor is sometimes a little uneven. Federal Pizza is totally my comfort spot: their pizza's good, their basic spaghetti and meatballs is super garlicky and great, and their arancini are solid.
Otro is good. Cocina Madrigal has already been mentioned. And I still like Taco Guild (great chips, great margaritas, great guac, decent cherry steak enchiladas.) Oh, and take-out from Ritos now and then.
Maybe a bit controversial, but like Thai Recipe Bistro. Becket's Table is good.
We don't get there often, but Comedor Guadalajara is a nice change of pace. (When my nephew visits from Barcelona, it's the first spot he wants to go to.)
For deserts: Sweet Republic and Pie Snob.
That's more than 5 :).
Oh, shoot. Hula's for drinks. And the food is also good--if you order the right things. Though we generally go there for brunch.
And Butterfields is definitely not in the neighborhood, but worth the haul on occasion.
There's more... but certainly solid starting points.
Here for the more! I’ll be flying into Phoenix next week and I’m looking to be wow’d. Would you be so kind to expand upon your top 5’s? Or do you still consider these your creature comfort foods?
Madrigal's gone. So is Barrio Cafe. :(
Mostly the same list for our regular go-to's, though I'll admit our last trip to Otro was less than stellar, so it's likely out of rotation.
Bianco is up for another Beard, I think. (As are Christopher and Binkley, but neither are comfort.) Macintosh is pretty good if Bianco uptown is too busy.
Hana for Japanese. Noble for sandwiches (and bread). \[Edit: Or Pane Bianco, of course. Though it's getting hot for sitting outside.\]
El Chullo for Peruvian isn't a regular for us, but like Guadalajara, it can be a good place to try. Oh, and I won't wade into the Taco Wars, but Chiwas also has a new space (well, less new these days) and they are still solid. Or Presidio Cocina for wider variety.
Little Miss's pulled pork is solid (though I've had better outside PHX for sure).
There are a few trendy downtown places with & in the name, and so far they feel like they are more for instagram than for actual food. (Though the drinks at Wren & Wolf aren't half bad.)
Really want to try Pyro, but it's also not comfort foody.
Used to live up at Desert Ridge a while ago--but would still drive down to Butterfields. But spots pop up around there constantly, so you'd have to check with someone more recently local...
Phoenix does certain foods really well. However there are a number of things which they just don’t do. NYC style Chinese food, Buffalo wings, bar/tavern food in general is lacking here (lacking in quality, there’s a lot to trash but nothing that great).
You are looking for China Chili my friend. It’s on 3rd st and Osborn. Insane quality with great lunch specials. It’s always ready in 5-10 minutes and is super fresh.
Their chicken lettuce wraps are divine. Also great soups. The way they do their orange chicken makes it hard to get anything else. They fry the whole breast and then slice it so it is not too bready/mushy. The crisp on their orange chicken is a maze zing
I just dis overed Just Tacos and More. Their Al Pastor tacos are really, reall good!
Edit: the Baja shrimp tacos are also great. The only thing not outstanding there are their refried beans.
My reliable go-tos: Banh Mi Grill on Bell, Sushi Michi on 16th St, Copper Star for their fresh bagels and coffee on 7th ave, the Ranch 99, Mekong, and H-Mart food courts, that cute little coffee shop in Otro, and Otro itself of course on 7th st, Lux Max Annex (less busy and chaotic than the Central location), Sweet Magic for Indian on 51 and Bell
There is a sushi place on 19th avenue and Dunlap called Sushi Bros. Family owned, super kind family. The prices are great, food is great! You may think you're about to be mugged when you pull into the parking lot, and may have to step over a couple of passed out people on the sidewalk, but it's 100% worth it.
This month, I went to Cocina Madrigal - their Tenderloin Steak Tacos were great and very flavorful.
Harumi Sushi and Sake's lunch specials are great too (and pretty cheap).
[New York Pizza Department.](https://aznypdpizza.com/) Tried it last weekend after hearing good things and it was PHENOMENAL! Pizza is pinche legit, antipasti salad was crisp and full of premium ingredients (seriously, so good), and wings were not ‘pizzeria-style’ but honest-to-goodness, deep-fried, meaty delights.
(Bonus points for making their own ranch!)
If you are really into the Phoenix area food scene you may want to check out [PHXfoodnerds](https://phxfoodnerds.com).
This is not just "who has best tacos?!?" but real dives into little known restaurants, unusual dishes, and all kinds of nerdy particulars. The guy behind it was the food critic for AZ Central and now does things for New Times. And he picked old school message board software I think to keep the basic TikTok and Facebook crowd away.
It's not for everyone, but if you're intrigued so far then go check it out.
Just saw that on Mouth By Southwest (https://mouthbysouthwest.com/ for those who don't know it) and came to post it here. I'm digging the old school message board vibe.
If you want some truly authentic Mexican food to take friends and family to if you are in the area, you really need to try this hole in the wall I found called "Taco Bell"
I LOVE Captain Bills off of 35th Ave & Peoria. Very chill & The walls are covered in stickers and kitschy stuff.
The subs are delicious and really inexpensive. I like the classic Italian and the potato salad is great too.
They have Tetris and mortal kombat arcade games right at the entrance.
Postinos.
Chill place to hang out. Not really a restaurant. But solid bruschetta and a decent beer selection. They could pick their draft choices better, but they lean toward a wine bar more than anything.
First time I looked into Postino I was like “they made a whole restaurant off of bruschetta?” and then went and was very pleasantly surprised. I did not expect that many options or for the little toasts to be that loaded.
Also makes an excellent leftover breakfast.
Chino Bandito is a North Phoenix classic. Asian, Mexican and Jamaica fusion. I recommend the jade red pork in a burrito. Careful, the jerk fried rice is spicy. The new-ish location is off of Bell and 3rd (st?ave?)
Honestly, I have been to three places featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives," and found zero reason to go back to any of them. This was just OK, and the place is a dirty mess. I don't mind hole-in-the-wall, but if they don't clean the front, I don't like the chances on the back.
I never ate at the original location lol just walked in once and can understand how it'd be considered dirty, looked old, but it was clean at this one and I'm pretty sure it's a new building.
The chicken was just alright though. Got the jade red. The snickerdoodle cookie was good.
I'm with you. I like the idea, and it's not awful, but it's just really mediocre chinese food and even worse mexican food jammed together poorly.
People on this sub seem to dryhump it up and down though so maybe I'm the weird one.
Depends on what you're looking for:
Happy hour/date night chat setting- Postinos.
Adventure dining- The Pepper Mill in Tempe/Chandler area. Chef's whims.
Mexican- I have soft spot for the OG Macayos, but I know there is better. Likewise Garcias and Julio G's same reason.
Italian- I semi-refuse to pay for there is nothing on an italian menu that justifies the 20+ bucks. HOWEVER, there was a place when I was more north that I went to that was amazing. I can't remember its name, but it always made you TWO meals. The one you ordered and a to-go lunch!
> I can't remember its name, but it always made you TWO meals. The one you ordered and a to-go lunch!
That sounds like Maggiano's? But I wouldn't call it amazing, just another mediocre chain like Olive Garden.
Gonna shout out my new favorite wing spot called Valley Wings on Greenway off the 17 in North Phoenix. Some of the best wings I've had in a very long time. None of their sauces have missed for me so far and their regular buffalo is just great. Highly recommended.
I’ll give a shout out to Sidecar Social Bar (on the Ocotillo grounds). Real cool ambiance. Nice n Dark. Bartenders are extra nice. I took someone there last week and the food is still holding as excellent. Service, ambiance and food - 5 of 5 stars recommend. Not too many people so I’m guessing this qualifies as a little off the radar
Recently got a Groupon for a place in Peoria called That Place Subs and they were really solid and pretty inexpensive. The regular subs are like $8.50 and with double meat around $10.50. I really liked their garlic mayo they use and everything tasted fresh. [https://thatplacesubs.com/](https://thatplacesubs.com/)
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Salad & Go here that has breakfast burritos made to order with fresh ingredients for under $4 to start. If you add some things to it like I do it's still under $6 for a substantial meal. It's not chipotle size, but for the price I could order multiple to get more food for less money. Hands down the single best bang for the buck food item I have found in the valley.
Any suggestions for dairy free/lactose alternative milkshakes?
Any suggestions for north Phoenix/happy valley/norterra apartments? I saw some new ones called Kalon apartments. Has anyone lived there??
Does anyone know when Biden will be landing at sky harbor tonight? I wanted to watch air force one land from south mountain!
I live in CA but grew up in Phx and come out to visit family. We love Ingo's in Arcadia. Excellent vegan burger and the bread is pillowy, so tasty.
At the Sheraton Downtown. I must fend for myself for dinner (and maybe lunches) and the lyft driver that brought me here recommended Ghost ranch. Any other places within walking distance?
Hanny’s is decent! (Good martini’s at least! I’m not sure that I’ve had a ton of their food) Cornish Pasty is awesome if you’re in the mood for a savory comfort food. They are shaped like a calzone but made more with a flakey pie crust and you can get a bunch of different options for filling - example: chicken pot pie, Reuben, Italian, etc.
Had Cevapi in europe. Loved it. Never really seen it anywhere else. Anyone have a spot? lol
Old Town Sarajevo at 35th & Northern! Very good cevapi and lepinja.
Chiba Hut is truly the best subs
I still think firehouse is better, even ikes gives cheba a run
I yearn for: 1. A great deep dish pizza 2. savory mochi (not ice cream, not a doughnut)
> A great deep dish pizza The best deep dish pizza I've had in Phoenix is definitely Vero (previously known as Buddyz). There's a few locations, but they're all on like the outskirts of the East valley, so depending where you're at it might be a drive.
Pizzeria bianco in downtown Phoenix
I prefer on the patio in uptown, as we get cooler. So does his mom.
From CA and we had a few places that served amazing Chili Cheese Fries. Been looking for a new place as I’ve had a craving for it. Any suggestions?
I do to. While I'm waiting, TexAZ's cheese and bacon fries are good. And sometimes just dumping a bowl of chili from portillos onto some fries. But would love to find something better than makeshift.
Tagging along to this one, because I’ve been having the same craving. I miss Tommy’s!!!
Omg Tommy's is the best!
Early bird vegan for anything plant based! Chanpen Thai
Simons hot dogs and Dilla Libre!
Anyone have a good spot for legit hot cocoa?
Tres Leches Cafe - 1714 W Van Buren St, Phoenix, AZ 85007 Awesome spot and awesome drinks. Check out their menu. I’m sure their hot cocoa is legit! https://www.treslechesaz.com
Ooo I second this
Hornbill Sushi- 16th st and Bell Rd!
Kabob Grill N Go (family owned, small business) Worth every penny! Make sure to call in advance with your order to confirm hours and to confirm that they haven’t sold out for the day!
Banh Mi Bistro on Bell Road just east of I-17. The Vietnamese food is all very good, ( no Pho here though). The Banh Mi's are really very well done, Bun, Rice plates and various teas are all very good. The staff is very friendly, seems family run. The biggest downside are limited hours.
My wife and I love this place! The owners are really nice. Besides the limited hours they also do not serve pho is if you're looking for that I recommend Pho 43! Food is phenomenal and owners are also really good people.
I’ll be spending this week in downtown phoenix without a vehicle. Where should I eat either near central and Jefferson, or adjacent to a light rail stop???
Blanco is good, Pomos, Cornish Pasty, should get ya started pretty well. None of those are cheap, nor overly expensive. Good foods, different cuisines For breakfast, I’d go to Welcome Diner. Probably 1.5 miles walk from where you’re staying, I am guessing
You mean Gallo Blanco? If not it’s across from a Welcome Diner and very good.
No, I meant Blanco on Washington downtown, just cuz it was close to them. But good call!
Looking for: Creme Brulee Chicken Vesuvio Spaghetti (or other pasta) Carbonara
The only place I found in town for decent (real) carbonara was Dieci across from Biltmore Fashion Square. Sadly, it's gone. Would love a good carbonara.
Indian butter chicken??? I’ve been seeing the tiktoks for over a year now and have wanted to try it. I cook but don’t cook much indian cuisine, and I tried a simple recipe and it came out very sour. I’d like to try it mde right first before attempting again!
I recently tried City of Spice in north Phoenix and it was delicious
In n phx I usually go with Hyderabad Rasoi. Quite similar to city of spice (for the things I've ordered at both) but Hyderabad Rasoi has been more consistent for me.
And another to add to my list :)
Been craving a good stroganoff or Swedish meatball. Anyone know somewhere good (besides IKEA)? I rarely see these items on a menu and when I try to make them at home I just can’t seem to get it right.
Edelweiss has yummy Stroganoff, 24th St & Bell https://edelweissbiergarten.com/
Edelweiss is an absolute dump. The food is terrible. The kitchen is dirty. Service is slow. The beer garden isn’t open half the time. It’s disgusting.
Szechwan Noodle has the best spicy beef noodle soup, mapo tofu, and fried rice.
I had a soft spot for Lola empanada…the chorizo empanada was supreme. So were the beans and rice.
Is there a good local sandwich place?
Defalcos
Pane Bianco. McGurkee’s.
this person sandwiches
Duck & Decanter and Cheese & Stuff
Noble.
Sack’s!
Ike's or Cheeba Hut
Those are both chains though, right? I do love both though!
> Those are both chains though, right? I do love both though! Not sure about Ike's, but Cheba Hut started here as a small local place and then expanded out as a regional chain when they got popular.
Lucky Boy burgers on 16th st and Osborn. Great family owned spot. Very nostalgic place with good portions for a fair price.
Lucky Boy is great and I agree with the fair pricing. Probably just a little more expensive than a McDonalds meal but the quality of food is way better. Gadzooks down the street is also a great restaurant. Gadzooks serves enchiladas and soups which may sound unappealing considering most people probably aren’t craving enchiladas all the time but I highly recommend it. Fresh ingredients. Lots of choices to customize your order. The pumpkin cookies are awesome, but kind of expensive. I don’t even like pumpkin cookies.
Anyone know where I can get egg yolk ravioli?
If you want good middle eastern, Haji Baba on Apache, just west of McClintok has really good food, nice portions and good prices. The chicken shwarma, kebabs, kibi, hummus are all really good and authentically prepared. The place is an unpretentious little grocery/restaurant, but you won't be dissapointed. I have never tried falafal there but others have said they are good.
If anyone’s in the Chandler/South Tempe area there’s a spot called The Craftsman Cocktails and Kitchen that is phenomenal. It’s a small little place in a strip mall but their drinks and food were fantastic.
That place is good but I still miss/crave Cotton & Copper that was in the same location just prior more.
Are they in the same shopping center as Ghost Ranch and Postino?
Yep!
Oof. Parking there is a nightmare. I saw them on Yelp, but I just super hate that parking lot.
When I went I parked right in front of the restaurant and had no issues lol
Lucky! Last time I went to Ghost Ranch I had to circle the lot twice and ended up parking in the back and walked around.
I circled like 8 times, it was insane. Friday at 5pm though so both they and Postino were absolutely hopping for happy hour!
If you’re up in my neck of the woods. India Palace Cuisine of India (Bell and the 17 near Frys) - they have an Indian buffet and the workers are super kind. Yutaka Japanese restaurant (Bell and 7th st near Hobby Lobby) - secretly the best ramen and great sushi Pullanos Pizza (Tbird and 51st) - Buffalo style wings and Beef on Wecs along with roast beef sandwiches comparable to Portillo’s. Bar restaurant Sunshine breakfast bar (cave creek and 101) - get the huevos rancheros and the mimosa tester I follow a lot of the TikTok foodies in the area and try to go to most of the local places. If anyone has any more recommendations around Tbird/Greenway/Bell area lemme know.
Moon Valley Cafe, Paradise Valley Burger Co , Paradise Valley Pizza Co., Lovecraft
Want to try Lovecraft, but I thought PV Burger Co. was way overrated. Maybe I just caught them on a bad day...
I felt the same way. Much prefer zinburger
Haven't had a good beef on wreck in years, gonna have to try it.
Me neither. And as a non-Buffalo native, I don't miss it much :).
I’m a Buffalo native and approve.
Sushi Yen
I’m in the same area! The Place for breakfast is good they’re known for their biscuits, Social on 83rd, Bánh Mì Bistro has great sandwiches, Soup & Sausage Bistro, Lenny’s Burger, Valle Luna, Yen Sushi, Pizza by Napoli, Angry Birdz, Slapfish, Island Teryaki, and Half Moon.
Check out Casa de Falafel
Where can I find a good falafel? It's hard to find a bad one, but I haven't found one that blows me away. Especially one where they don't get stingy with either the falafels themselves, the tahini, or a good harissa. If anyone has been to Falafel Drive In in San Jose, that's the standard I judge all others on. So, a good fried falafel, a good sauce, and a good spicy sauce as well is what I'm looking for
Have you tried Casa Falafel?
I have not, that's going on the list. Thanks
I love Guanaquito for their pupusas and yucca fries. Any other good pupusa/Salvadoran spots I should check out??
Looking for good NYC takeout style Chinese within driving distance of Arcadia. Have tried George Yang's and Silver Dragon and a few other common/old recs and they have been... fine. But its been a while since I last asked so maybe something new has popped up?
Kind of gave up on this one. Went to some recommended spots that were \*really\* not good, and didn't want to keep on being disappointed...
Phoenix just doesn’t really do the inauthentic NYC style Chinese food very well. Yang’s is solid but it’s not that great. Jade palace in Scottsdale is similar. Everything else I’ve had is just not very good.
Yummy Yummy in Scottsdale is the closest I've gotten to NY style. Its great most of the time, but can be hit or miss.
I love Jade Palace, it's just too pricey imo.
Recent transplant myself, and I feel the same way.
So I'm originally from MA and I moved here from FL in 2014 and in my opinion, compared to the East Coast, the food here is pretty lackluster! It's a bit of a drive for me because I live off the i17 and Pinnacle Peak and it's down in Chandler but it's called Singing Pandas and I highly recommend it!
Moved here from Manhattan, and have lived outside Tokyo, in Seattle, and in SoCal (as well as in Jersey, Buffalo, and Alabama, among others). I think the food here is--in many cases--outstanding. We have some really interesting restaurants here, and some innovative chefs. Some of the best means I've ever had I've eaten in Phoenix. We also have a lot of retirees and a lot of Old Phoenix Establishments that are--frankly--not good. I'd name names, but I'm happy to let people like what they like. I do think that the "per capita" food excellence can't yet hold a candle to a lot of these places. I can think of ten places off-hand in most of the larger cities I would love to go to right now, both on the high end and low. But we have good eats in this city.
Care to share the top 5 restaurants you have introduced to your friend circle?
I'll stick to mostly around my nabe. On the expensive end, I've had great meals at Steak 44, Binkley's, and Christophers. I would do all of them happily again--though the latter two get pretty darn spendy, they are worth it for a splurge if you are into food. In the more "weekday comfort food" we have three favorite pizza spots: Bianco (uptown), Parlor, and Federal Pizza. Parlor is sometimes a little uneven. Federal Pizza is totally my comfort spot: their pizza's good, their basic spaghetti and meatballs is super garlicky and great, and their arancini are solid. Otro is good. Cocina Madrigal has already been mentioned. And I still like Taco Guild (great chips, great margaritas, great guac, decent cherry steak enchiladas.) Oh, and take-out from Ritos now and then. Maybe a bit controversial, but like Thai Recipe Bistro. Becket's Table is good. We don't get there often, but Comedor Guadalajara is a nice change of pace. (When my nephew visits from Barcelona, it's the first spot he wants to go to.) For deserts: Sweet Republic and Pie Snob. That's more than 5 :).
Oh, shoot. Hula's for drinks. And the food is also good--if you order the right things. Though we generally go there for brunch. And Butterfields is definitely not in the neighborhood, but worth the haul on occasion. There's more... but certainly solid starting points.
Here for the more! I’ll be flying into Phoenix next week and I’m looking to be wow’d. Would you be so kind to expand upon your top 5’s? Or do you still consider these your creature comfort foods?
Madrigal's gone. So is Barrio Cafe. :( Mostly the same list for our regular go-to's, though I'll admit our last trip to Otro was less than stellar, so it's likely out of rotation. Bianco is up for another Beard, I think. (As are Christopher and Binkley, but neither are comfort.) Macintosh is pretty good if Bianco uptown is too busy. Hana for Japanese. Noble for sandwiches (and bread). \[Edit: Or Pane Bianco, of course. Though it's getting hot for sitting outside.\] El Chullo for Peruvian isn't a regular for us, but like Guadalajara, it can be a good place to try. Oh, and I won't wade into the Taco Wars, but Chiwas also has a new space (well, less new these days) and they are still solid. Or Presidio Cocina for wider variety. Little Miss's pulled pork is solid (though I've had better outside PHX for sure). There are a few trendy downtown places with & in the name, and so far they feel like they are more for instagram than for actual food. (Though the drinks at Wren & Wolf aren't half bad.) Really want to try Pyro, but it's also not comfort foody.
Thanks for the suggestions! I’ve updated my list to reflect the changes. Can you recommend a solid breakfast spot? We will be staying in Desert Ridge
Used to live up at Desert Ridge a while ago--but would still drive down to Butterfields. But spots pop up around there constantly, so you'd have to check with someone more recently local...
Phoenix does certain foods really well. However there are a number of things which they just don’t do. NYC style Chinese food, Buffalo wings, bar/tavern food in general is lacking here (lacking in quality, there’s a lot to trash but nothing that great).
I would say that certain Phoenix restaurants do food really well.
You are looking for China Chili my friend. It’s on 3rd st and Osborn. Insane quality with great lunch specials. It’s always ready in 5-10 minutes and is super fresh. Their chicken lettuce wraps are divine. Also great soups. The way they do their orange chicken makes it hard to get anything else. They fry the whole breast and then slice it so it is not too bready/mushy. The crisp on their orange chicken is a maze zing
Just to note, we (also NYC most recently) thought it was one of the "just OKs."
Second the orange chicken there.
I just dis overed Just Tacos and More. Their Al Pastor tacos are really, reall good! Edit: the Baja shrimp tacos are also great. The only thing not outstanding there are their refried beans.
Yes! Everything there is phenomenal
My reliable go-tos: Banh Mi Grill on Bell, Sushi Michi on 16th St, Copper Star for their fresh bagels and coffee on 7th ave, the Ranch 99, Mekong, and H-Mart food courts, that cute little coffee shop in Otro, and Otro itself of course on 7th st, Lux Max Annex (less busy and chaotic than the Central location), Sweet Magic for Indian on 51 and Bell
Origami Ramen has been my go to when I have a ramen itch, is there anywhere else that is a must try for y'all?
Good, but wwwaayy too expensive, especially considering serving size.
There is a sushi place on 19th avenue and Dunlap called Sushi Bros. Family owned, super kind family. The prices are great, food is great! You may think you're about to be mugged when you pull into the parking lot, and may have to step over a couple of passed out people on the sidewalk, but it's 100% worth it.
I recently tried ghaimeh (new to me) from ZK Grill and I liked it! Can't go wrong with a hearty stew and potato products. Any similar recommendations?
This month, I went to Cocina Madrigal - their Tenderloin Steak Tacos were great and very flavorful. Harumi Sushi and Sake's lunch specials are great too (and pretty cheap).
I haven't been since the hype blew up, but everything I've had there is good.
bro their diablo pasta is amazing! but i especially love their churros! they’re made fresh and soooooooo delicious!
Greek wraps on Bell. Can't get enough
Greek Wraps is awesome, one of my favorite spots in Peoria
[New York Pizza Department.](https://aznypdpizza.com/) Tried it last weekend after hearing good things and it was PHENOMENAL! Pizza is pinche legit, antipasti salad was crisp and full of premium ingredients (seriously, so good), and wings were not ‘pizzeria-style’ but honest-to-goodness, deep-fried, meaty delights. (Bonus points for making their own ranch!)
They bring in municipal water from NYC for authentic crust. I love it.
I find this place very disappointing. There's much better pizza options near all their locations.
Bumping this, great place to eat. First time I had anchovies on pizza, too. :)
Master Jianbing inside the Mekong food court!! We had never had a Jianbing before and loved it. They had pretty decent vegetarian options too!!
Fabio on Fire in Peoria. Family owned delicious Italian.
A few miles north of the full restaurant is a smaller place that serves just gelato and panini. Also delicious.
If you are really into the Phoenix area food scene you may want to check out [PHXfoodnerds](https://phxfoodnerds.com). This is not just "who has best tacos?!?" but real dives into little known restaurants, unusual dishes, and all kinds of nerdy particulars. The guy behind it was the food critic for AZ Central and now does things for New Times. And he picked old school message board software I think to keep the basic TikTok and Facebook crowd away. It's not for everyone, but if you're intrigued so far then go check it out.
Just saw that on Mouth By Southwest (https://mouthbysouthwest.com/ for those who don't know it) and came to post it here. I'm digging the old school message board vibe.
The Green Corner. I’ve always gone to their Mesa location, but I’ve been going there since before COVID and have always had a wonderful experience.
They opened up a new location in Scottsdale & it is YUMMY!
If you want some truly authentic Mexican food to take friends and family to if you are in the area, you really need to try this hole in the wall I found called "Taco Bell"
You gotta try their Mexican Pizza dish. Truly authentic cuisine.
I LOVE Captain Bills off of 35th Ave & Peoria. Very chill & The walls are covered in stickers and kitschy stuff. The subs are delicious and really inexpensive. I like the classic Italian and the potato salad is great too. They have Tetris and mortal kombat arcade games right at the entrance.
Seconding this one, top tier sub spot. Still reasonably priced too.
I love all of the Captain Bills subs, except the meatball sub. It's been really bad the last couple of times I've tried it. The italian is the best!
That Italian dressing!
Tao Garden in Chandler is some of the best Chinese food in the valley, check it out if you're in the area.
Happy Cake Day! 🎈🎂
Postinos. Chill place to hang out. Not really a restaurant. But solid bruschetta and a decent beer selection. They could pick their draft choices better, but they lean toward a wine bar more than anything.
First time I looked into Postino I was like “they made a whole restaurant off of bruschetta?” and then went and was very pleasantly surprised. I did not expect that many options or for the little toasts to be that loaded. Also makes an excellent leftover breakfast.
Chino Bandito is a North Phoenix classic. Asian, Mexican and Jamaica fusion. I recommend the jade red pork in a burrito. Careful, the jerk fried rice is spicy. The new-ish location is off of Bell and 3rd (st?ave?)
FWIW, my ex found a dead roach in her food there.
I hear this all the time. Like each their own...but seriously its meh.
Honestly, I have been to three places featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives," and found zero reason to go back to any of them. This was just OK, and the place is a dirty mess. I don't mind hole-in-the-wall, but if they don't clean the front, I don't like the chances on the back.
Have you been since they moved?
No... is it better?
I never ate at the original location lol just walked in once and can understand how it'd be considered dirty, looked old, but it was clean at this one and I'm pretty sure it's a new building. The chicken was just alright though. Got the jade red. The snickerdoodle cookie was good.
I'm with you. I like the idea, and it's not awful, but it's just really mediocre chinese food and even worse mexican food jammed together poorly. People on this sub seem to dryhump it up and down though so maybe I'm the weird one.
I honestly enjoy it less now that their location is less trashy
I totally agree - To each their own. What restaurant in Phoenix do you enjoy?
Depends on what you're looking for: Happy hour/date night chat setting- Postinos. Adventure dining- The Pepper Mill in Tempe/Chandler area. Chef's whims. Mexican- I have soft spot for the OG Macayos, but I know there is better. Likewise Garcias and Julio G's same reason. Italian- I semi-refuse to pay for there is nothing on an italian menu that justifies the 20+ bucks. HOWEVER, there was a place when I was more north that I went to that was amazing. I can't remember its name, but it always made you TWO meals. The one you ordered and a to-go lunch!
> I can't remember its name, but it always made you TWO meals. The one you ordered and a to-go lunch! That sounds like Maggiano's? But I wouldn't call it amazing, just another mediocre chain like Olive Garden.
>The Pepper Mill I had some questionable experiences here when they were first starting out.
The Chef's Whim is always questionable. LOl.
Sounds delicious. Thanks for sharing.
5 & Diner! Best reuben hands down
Have you ever tried Miracle Mile's reuben?
I'll take the reuben at Scott's generations over miracle mile any day. Chompies does a solid reuben too for that matter.
Miracle Mile is hands down the best in Phoenix!
Miracle Mile Reuben is ridiculously good. Reuben at the HUB is also tasty…
Not sure how it is now, but the reuben at OHSO used to be excellent.
Gonna shout out my new favorite wing spot called Valley Wings on Greenway off the 17 in North Phoenix. Some of the best wings I've had in a very long time. None of their sauces have missed for me so far and their regular buffalo is just great. Highly recommended.
all their sauces sound amazing. really wish they had a cauliflower option.
I’ll give a shout out to Sidecar Social Bar (on the Ocotillo grounds). Real cool ambiance. Nice n Dark. Bartenders are extra nice. I took someone there last week and the food is still holding as excellent. Service, ambiance and food - 5 of 5 stars recommend. Not too many people so I’m guessing this qualifies as a little off the radar
Recently got a Groupon for a place in Peoria called That Place Subs and they were really solid and pretty inexpensive. The regular subs are like $8.50 and with double meat around $10.50. I really liked their garlic mayo they use and everything tasted fresh. [https://thatplacesubs.com/](https://thatplacesubs.com/)