Phoenix Restaurants: Your Ultimate Guide to Dining in the Desert City
If you're looking for the best restaurants in Phoenix, you're in for a treat. Phoenix is a huge city with no shortage of places to eat. From Mexican food to Italian cuisine, there's something for everyone here. So whether you're visiting Phoenix or a local, check out some of these fantastic restaurants, including one that has appeared on Chef's Table!
01 Cocina Madrigal
If you love tacos and tequila, then you’ll love Cocina Madrigal. Guests rave about the queso, but the unique main dishes from this family-owned Mexican restaurant propel this spot to the top of most lists of the best restaurants in Phoenix.
Aside from serving fresh and innovative tequila-focused drinks, they offer plates such as pomegranate-marinated beef tenderloin tacos, slow-roasted beef enchiladas with New Mexico Hatch green chilies, and Bavarian cream-filled churros. Simply put, you will want to try everything on their menu.
02 Rusconi's American Kitchen
Rusconi's American Kitchen is a popular restaurant in Phoenix that's known for its creative American cuisine, including short rib sliders and wood-grilled lamb loin. If their impressive list of mouthwatering meats doesn’t entice you for a visit, then perhaps their extensive list of award-winning wines will.
The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends or family. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a leisurely dinner, Rusconi's American Kitchen is a spot to check out.
03 Little Miss BBQ
Southwest flavors abound in Phoenix, but if you want to change it up with a central Texas-style barbecue, you’ll want to check out Little Miss BBQ. They whip up some of the juiciest, most tender chopped brisket and pulled pork in the area and make their own sauces to drown them in.
For those eager for even more Texas-style tastes, we recommend trying all their sides (the jalapeño cheddar grits are especially delicious, though). With two locations in Phoenix, you’re never too far from a Little Miss BBQ. Just be sure to end your meal with their out-of-this-world pecan pie — one taste, and you'll understand what we're talking about.
04 Pizzeria Bianco
Head into downtown Phoenix and prepare to delight your senses at Pizzeria Bianco. If you’ve seen the first season of Chef’s Table: Pizza, then you’ll be familiar with this spot owned by pizza legend Chris Bianco.
Food critics and fans alike rave about the Rosa Pizza on the menu. Some even say it’s better than the pizza they’ve tried in Naples. But, regardless of what you order, prepare to become addicted to the exciting mix of flavors they add to each pie.
05 Durant’s
In the mood for something slightly more upscale? Durant’s is an old-school steakhouse revered for its elegant dining space and a tantalizing menu full of decadent steak dishes ranging from filet mignon to New York strip steak and bone-in ribeye.
Our pro tip? Pair a drink with your meal to elevate the taste. The tequila sunrise here gets a lot of attention, as do the many wines on their wine list.
06 Different Pointe of View
Different Pointe of View is a great choice for a special date night or celebration. Inside the restaurant, you’ll be wowed by sweeping views of the Tapatio Cliffs and (if you’re lucky) stunning sunset colors.
However, it’s not just the views people love about this spot. The elegant American eatery perfectly fuses American flavors with rich Mediterranean influences to craft dishes such as duck confit and Faroe Island seared salmon.
07 Binkley’s Restaurant
Whereas Different Pointe of View is the perfect spot for a chic date night or birthday celebration, Binkley’s Restaurant is ideal for couples or solo travelers looking for an elevated yet intimate experience.
The restaurant is like no other in the area as they only open 20 seats each evening for reservation, meaning you’ll dine amongst 19 other patrons as you move through what feels more like a culinary show than just a meal. The menu starts at $240 per person. We know it may seem a bit expensive, but trust us, it is worth it for the culinary journey you'll be taken on during your dining experience.
08 The Clever Koi
For a scaled-back yet stylish and trendy Asian-inspired vibe, head over to The Clever Koi. While their craft beer list attracts travelers and locals alike, it’s the way they pair their menu items so perfectly with their craft beer list that makes the spot stand out.
The energetic atmosphere and the aromas that fill the space ensure you’ll have a delightful experience regardless of what you order. If you’re looking for suggestions, try the spicy kimchi ramen or the house pad Thai.
09 Breakfast Club
In the mood for brunch? There’s no better place for brunch in Phoenix than Breakfast Club. From their fluffy, oversized pancakes to their salmon eggs benedict, there’s something here for everybody in the family to enjoy.
The space is trendy yet suitable for families, friends, and everyone in between. Try the fresh-squeezed orange juice and one of their many well-made espresso-based drinks.
10 Kai
For those interested in reserving a table for a special evening in the city, Kai boasts an eclectic menu rich in history and Native American culture.
The restaurant is located in the Wild Horse Pass Resort, providing breathtaking views from every angle. Indulge in dishes that change seasonally depending on what’s available but consider yourself lucky if you can try their grilled tenderloin of tribal buffalo.
11 Hana Japanese Eatery
Nestled in the heart of Phoenix, Hana Japanese Eatery offers a serene escape into the world of authentic Japanese cuisine. This family-owned gem is a favorite among locals for its fresh, artfully presented sushi and sashimi. The intimate setting allows for a focus on the culinary experience, where dishes like sweet glazed eel nigiri and the Hana mint leaf specialty take center stage. It's a must-visit for anyone craving a genuine taste of Japan in the desert city.
12 Green New American Vegetarian
Green New American Vegetarian is a haven for those seeking plant-based indulgence. This 100% vegan eatery in Phoenix challenges the norms with its creative and comforting menu. From the Big Wac burger that could fool the most dedicated carnivores to the saucy “wings” and chili-“cheese” fries, every dish is a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of vegan cuisine. It's a vibrant spot that proves plant-based eating is anything but boring.
13 Chino Bandido
Chino Bandido is a culinary adventure, blending the bold flavors of Mexican and Chinese cuisines into an unexpected and delightful fusion. Imagine sinking your teeth into a burrito filled with teriyaki chicken or savoring carnitas alongside chicken fried rice. This quirky eatery offers a mix-and-match menu that invites diners to create their own unique combinations, making each visit a new experience. It's a quirky, casual spot that's perfect for those looking to step outside their culinary comfort zone.
14 Matt’s Big Breakfast
Start your day the Phoenix way at Matt’s Big Breakfast. This bustling diner, with its no-frills ambiance, has become a cornerstone for breakfast enthusiasts. Known for its oversized, fluffy pancakes and savory scrambles, every dish feels like a homestyle hug. The local favorite is their crispy bacon and farm-fresh eggs, a simple yet perfectly executed classic. It's the ideal spot for a hearty breakfast that will fuel your adventures in the city.
15 Welcome Diner
Welcome Diner offers a delightful blend of Southern comfort and Southwestern flair. This charming eatery, with its retro vibes and friendly atmosphere, is a hotspot for innovative dishes like chorizo meatloaf and smoked pork over heirloom corn grits. Their fried chicken biscuit is a crowd-pleaser, perfectly balancing spice and crunch. With a cocktail in hand and a plate of their spicy chili, you're set for a memorable dining experience that's uniquely Phoenix.
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