The Top Restaurants in Phoenix, AZ
It may be in the middle of the Sonoran desert, but the incredible restaurant scene in Phoenix is no mirage. Whether you’re looking for elevated approaches to Southwestern dining or the most delicious taco stand in your zip code, there’s plenty of flavor in Phoenix. And don’t forget – Phoenix’s Latino population has exploded over the years, and a growing number of incredible Latin restaurants right along with it. “Stay away from the heat” has more than one meaning in Phoenix.
Speaking of heat, we should begin any conversation about Phoenix food with its incredible Mexican-inspired meals. With one of the largest Mexican American populations in the US outside of Los Angeles, Phoenix has some of the best tacos, tamales, chimichangas and more in the country. We cover our favorite Tamales in the area, the best chimichangas in Phoenix and the ultimate Mexican in Maricopa County.
If you’ve ever visited Phoenix, you know it’s big – Phoenix isn’t just Phoenix. It’s Mesa, Glendale, Scottsdale, Tempe, and more. We created two different guides for Scottsdale – one focused on Old Town and one focused on the whole area – along with Tempe and Downtown, with many more to come. Our goal is to cover every neighborhood in Phoenix and share the best bites you can find near your neck of the woods.
Known to be a city full of opportunity, luxury, and good dining; you must sit down and have a good meal. Lined up are the 20 best restaurants in Phoenix, AZ. Treat yourself!
1. Aftermath
1534 E Bethany Home Rd | Phoenix, AZ 85014
Come with the energy, because Aftermath is bringing it. On top of their tasty dinner menu; check out their Wine, Beer, and Cocktails menu to go with your meal. Sure, you’ll be full.. but that’s the AFTERMATH!
2. Cocina Madrigal
4044 S 16th St | Phoenix, AZ 85040
Voted #1 in the US on the Kelly Clarkson show, Cocina Madrigal sure does live up to their name! From crispy salmon to trio tacos, you can’t miss this hot spot. It doesn’t get better than #1!
3. Citizen Public House
7111 E 5th Ave | Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Award winning plates and drinks, Citizen Public House is a whole vibe. Originally being a speakeasy, that is now an extension of their main restaurant. It’s your choice; privacy or main room dinner. You coming to Dinner to Social Hour?
4. Toca Madera
4736 N Goldwater Blvd | Scottsdale, AZ 85251
With unique dining and inspiration from traditional Mexican cuisine, this is what Took Madera calls Modern Mexican. Not only are their plates one of a kind, the restaurant itself will blow you away. Let’s go!
5. Bobby Q’s
SEVERAL LOCATIONS
Voted the best fried chicken in Arizona, you can’t beat that! Bobby Q’s not only offers in house dining, but also delivery and catering. There’s nowhere you can’t have your favorite BBQ. Come check out their various menus…
6. The Arrogant Butcher
2 E Jefferson St | Phoenix, AZ 85004
Turning American food into New American dining, the word here is MODERN. The Arrogant Butcher brings comfort food to another level. Grab your favorite people, and come to your new favorite place to eat!
7. ACG Go Anime Store & Cafe
521 S College Ave Unit 111 | Tempe, AZ 85281
Anime, Asian special beverages and snacks/ desserts?! Sold online and physically, go check out their newly opened storefront! There’s nothing you won’t find here.
8. Oscar’s Pier 83
18589 N 59th Ave Suite #111 | Glendale, AZ 85308
“Good food. Good cheers. Good times”, that’s the motto they live by at Oscar’s Pier 83. With daily specials to look forward to or even a great a la carte pick, you’re set for a great meal!
9. The Sicilian Butcher
15530 N Tatum Blvd | Phoenix, AZ 85032
Meatballs, Ciabattas, Pastas, GALORE! The Sicilian Butcher is the craft meatballs & charcuterie bar you’ve been looking for your whole life. Is it fate??
10. OAK
111 E Camelback Rd | Phoenix, AZ 85012
With all meals inspired by global tastes, you won’t find anything other than hand-crafted meals here. OAK is not only a restaurant, it’s a home. Everyone is invited!
11. Wren & Wolf
2 N Central Ave Suite 101 | Phoenix, AZ 85004
Being the perfect spot to meet your friends before a night out or even for a dinner, Wren & Wolf is an example of vibrance. With vibes available for early risers, mid-day outings, and all of the above, you won’t be able to miss this hot spot.
12. Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen
SEVERAL LOCATIONS
With casual food to satisfy your comfort cravings, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen makes all their food from… SCRATCH indeed! Good food at a good price, sounds like a deal to me!
13. Binkley’s Restaurant
2320 E Osborn Rd | Phoenix, AZ 85016
Not only a restaurant, but an experience. With American cuisines, you get then luxury of a several course meal full of deliciousness. From snacks to entrees, Binkley’s has it all!
14. By the Bucket
1420 E Chandler Blvd Suite 101 | Phoenix, AZ 85048
Hot Spaghetti to go? Or even just a bowl of your favorite pasta, you can find all the Italian food you want at By the Bucket. I know I’m ready to eat!
15. Yutaka Japanese Restaurant
751 E Bell Rd #9 | Phoenix, AZ 85022
Looking for Sushi in Phoenix? Yutaka is the place to be. From small plates to sushi rolls to fried rice, we’ll take it all. Let’s get to rolling!
16. Cook & Craft
5310 E High St Unit 109 | Phoenix, AZ 85054
Modern, Local, and full of Variation. Cook & Craft doesn’t stop at normal American dining. They have Vegan, Vegeterian, and Gluten-free options. Doesn’t get any better than this!
17. Maple & Ash
18. Sister Helen
19. The Macintosh
20. Top of The Rock
2000 W Westcourt Way | Tempe, AZ 85282
Located inside of the Marriott, the views are only the first thing that’ll make your jaw drop. With their farm-to-table cuisine, you’ll be wanting to spend the entire night at the Top of The Rock. If you were looking for romance, you found it!
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on June 22, 2022 and last updated on August 8, 2022. Please refer to restaurant websites and social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
