17 Incredible Restaurants in Phoenix, AZ

Travel Lens

Nov 21, 2023 • 11 min read

Phoenix, Arizona, a city as diverse as it is beautiful, boasts an impressive culinary scene.

Known for its stunning desert landscapes and vibrant arts culture, Phoenix's gastronomic offerings are particularly noteworthy.

The city presents a plethora of dining options, showcasing a fusion of cultures and creativity in each dish.

This guide provides an overview of Phoenix's best restaurants.

Mel's Southern Kitchen

Mel's Southern Kitchen in Phoenix offers a genuine taste of Southern cooking, providing an oasis of flavor in the Arizona heat.

This restaurant transcends mere dining, transporting guests to the heartland of rich, soulful cuisine.

The authenticity and quality of the food impress even the most discerning palates, making it a rare find in Arizona.

Mel's Southern Kitchen also offers meal preps for busy weekdays, enhancing its appeal.

Kabob Grill N Go

Kabob Grill N Go in Phoenix is a hidden gem, offering a comforting aroma of BBQ and smoked meats in a humble setting with patio seating.

The Chicken Thigh combo plate is a standout, featuring a medley of Mediterranean and Armenian flavors.

The kebabs, marinated and smoked in mesquite, are a highlight, charred to perfection and accompanied by delicious tomatoes and peppers.

The charm of Kabob Grill N Go lies not just in its food but in the warm, familiar atmosphere fostered by its passionate staff.

Food On Wood

Food On Wood in Phoenix's arts district offers a breakfast experience that blends classic and creative recipes.

With dishes like breakfast burritos and open-faced sandwiches featuring fresh, flavorful toppings, the food complements the vibrant ambiance of the area.

The restaurant is a popular spot for its ambiance and artistic spirit.

Their cannoli, hailed as the best, provides a perfect end to any meal, leaving a lasting impression.

Sushi Michi

Sushi Michi in Phoenix is a hidden gem known for its fresh sushi and exceptional service.

The diverse menu offers a range of dishes, including ramen, noodles, and other entrees, which are eagerly anticipated for future visits.

The off-menu Korean BBQ and Tom & Jerry appetizers come highly recommended and are exquisite.

Sushi options like the Thomas roll, Gabriel Roll, Vegas roll, Rainbow roll, and the standout Pink Lady roll are all fresh and flavorful.

The warmth and friendliness of the staff at Sushi Michi make each visit personal and welcoming, with attention to detail and customer satisfaction evident throughout the restaurant.

The Farish House

The Farish House in downtown Phoenix is a charming spot, offering a Mediterranean and French-inspired dining experience in an elegant redbrick cottage setting.

The staff, especially Chance, are friendly and enhance the dining experience.

Jazz music adds to the relaxed atmosphere, with live performances contributing to the quaint charm of the establishment.

Menu highlights include Mediterranean and French cuisine dishes like Dates, Honeyed Nut & Fruit Crostini, Chianti braised Short Ribs, Foutine, and Raspberry Crème Brulée.

Cocktails like the Basil Gimlet and Peach Cobler are favorites, and complimentary truffle popcorn during happy hour is a thoughtful touch.

The addition of Saturday Afternoon Tea service, offering finger sandwiches, scones, desserts, and a broad tea menu, is a delightful way to spend a weekend afternoon, with hearty portions ensuring value for money.

Binkley's Restaurant

Binkley's Restaurant in Phoenix provides a unique and memorable dining experience, showcasing inventive New American cuisine.

The chic establishment features an impressive wall of spices, indicative of the inventive meals it offers.

Ingredients are meticulously curated, with each dish being a culinary masterpiece.

The ambiance of the restaurant, set in a transformed home, combines comfort and sophistication.

Dishes like indulgent foie gras and Wagyu beef with caviar demonstrate the finesse that characterizes the dining experience at Binkley's.

The seasonal approach to the menu ensures a new array of flavors with each visit, making every dining experience at Binkley's unique and extraordinary.

Restaurant Progress

Restaurant Progress in Phoenix stands out as a hidden gem in the city, offering a sophisticated and stylish dining experience with New American cuisine.

The aroma of the food, combined with the chic ambiance, sets the stage for an enjoyable evening.

The craft cocktails, particularly the Espresso martini and the non-alcoholic Mockingbird, are flavorful and well-crafted.

Their old fashioned is also highly recommended.

The menu at Restaurant Progress, featuring dishes like Heirloom Tomatoes and Pacific Tuna Crudo, is vibrant and unique, with a changing menu to keep the dining experience fresh.

Favorites like the Ribeye and Branzino are packed with flavor, making them irresistible.

The restaurant offers a social dining experience with perfectly portioned dishes for sharing, ideal for trying various options.

Exceptional service, including passionate and knowledgeable staff, enhances the dining experience, as seen during special occasions like anniversaries.

Kai Restaurant

Kai Restaurant at the Wild Horse Pass Resort in Phoenix offers an extraordinary dining experience with innovative takes on Native American cuisine.

The ambiance is warm and inviting, with impeccable service from attentive and passionate staff.

The menu fuses traditional Native American ingredients with modern culinary techniques, presenting each dish as a beautifully plated canvas of unique flavors.

The buffalo tenderloin is a standout dish, succulent and perfectly seasoned.

Kai's attention to detail extends to every aspect of the dining experience, including special touches on occasions like birthdays.

While Kai is a luxury restaurant with prices reflecting its quality, the overall experience is deemed worth the investment, making it ideal for special events or treats.

Pemberton PHX

Pemberton PHX, located in downtown Phoenix, is an oasis of food, drinks, shopping, and entertainment.

The vibrant, electric atmosphere is reminiscent of a secret garden party, with a labyrinth-like setup of food and drink trucks and vintage trailer shops.

Pemberton PHX has become a go-to spot for hosting out-of-town guests, offering an unforgettable Phoenix experience.

The variety of food trucks provides a feast of cuisines, while ice cream trucks offer a sweet escape from the heat.

Just Tacos and More

Just Tacos and More in Phoenix is a family-owned restaurant that stands as a beacon of authenticity in the local culinary scene.

This eatery, known for its traditional tacos, taquitos, and tortillas, welcomes guests with a spotless ambiance that reflects their dedication to fresh, wholesome, and carefully crafted food.

Their homemade tortillas and tacos are celebrated for their outstanding taste.

The dining experience is enhanced by a salsa bar, allowing diners to customize their meals with limes, onions, and various salsas.

The jalapeno burrito with green salsa is recommended for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

The Mango Grilled Tacos, described as legendary, offer a sensual eating experience that borders on the indulgent.

Base Pizzeria

Base Pizzeria in Phoenix is known for its scrumptious and hearty pizzas that cater to both traditional and gluten-free preferences.

Popular pizza choices include the Smelly Date, Pesto Chicken, and White Mushroom Truffle, along with the Chef's special, which offers a unique culinary journey.

The Skinny Pork pizza, available for a quick to-go order, boasts a perfectly balanced crust and is suitable for two people.

Base Pizzeria provides commendable service in a cozy setting with both indoor and outdoor seating.

While reservations might be necessary due to limited space, the clean, aromatic environment makes it well worth the effort.

Across The Pond

Across The Pond in Phoenix has become a go-to spot for a unique sushi experience, redefining expectations over the past four years.

With a small but expertly curated menu, dishes like the Karai Hamachi, Slammin’ Salmon, and the exceptional Coffee Cured Salmon keep patrons returning.

The cocktails, especially the Salty Pog and Lemongrass Swizzle, complement the sushi perfectly.

The intimate and comfortable dining atmosphere, along with top-notch service, makes every visit special.

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

Emily Burris, the Bar Director, is commended for her innovative and creative contributions to the restaurant's offerings.

Across The Pond delivers an exceptional dining experience from the first sip to the last bite.

Asi Es La Vida Restaurant

Asi Es La Vida Restaurant in Phoenix offers a cozy and authentic Mexican dining experience.

The ambiance is vibrant yet homey, accentuated by Frida Kahlo paintings that add charm and authenticity.

The Adobada is a highly recommended dish, renowned for its tantalizing taste.

While the food is the main attraction, the Sangria and other cocktails complement the meal nicely.

On weekends, guests can enjoy a varied menu of seafood and steaks accompanied by live music.

The staff at Asi Es La Vida provide excellent service, contributing to a pleasant dining atmosphere.

The restaurant's cleanliness is also commendable.

Highlights of the menu include fresh Guacamole with chips, flavorful Cesina, and the popular Recalentado, appealing even to picky eaters.

Lom Wong

Lom Wong in Phoenix is a local Thai restaurant known for its inviting ambiance and authentic culinary craftsmanship.

The chefs' dedication to traditional cooking methods, like hand-pounding curry paste, is reflected in the exquisite taste of each dish.

The menu offers a variety of plates with complex flavors balancing sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements.

The meticulously crafted cocktails enhance the dining experience.

Lom Wong encourages diners to explore unfamiliar dishes, supporting them on their culinary adventures.

Cocina Madrigal Tacos + Tequila

Cocina Madrigal Tacos + Tequila in Phoenix redefines classic Mexican cuisine with its vibrant energy and delicious food.

The restaurant is known for its irresistible enchiladas, balancing spiciness and creaminess perfectly.

For taco enthusiasts, the tropical fish tacos are a standout, especially when paired with zesty homemade salsa.

Cocina Madrigal's unpretentious, welcoming atmosphere and charming patio seating make it an ideal spot for relaxed dining.

Parking may be challenging during peak hours, but the effort is well worth it.

The tequila offerings are another highlight of the restaurant, adding to the overall appeal.

Ms. Martha's Caribbean Kitchen

Ms. Martha’s Caribbean Kitchen in Phoenix is a cozy restaurant offering a taste of the Caribbean with authentic dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.

Known for its delicious and perfectly seasoned oxtail, crispy beef patties, and succulent jerk chicken, the restaurant provides a flavor explosion with every bite.

The plantains, sweet and caramelized, are a highlight, often warranting a second helping.

This family-run establishment captures the essence of Caribbean cuisine and hospitality, making it a must-visit for those seeking genuine Caribbean flavors.

Centrico

Centrico, located in the historic San Carlos Hotel in Phoenix, provides a charming dining experience with classic Mexican dishes and drinks.

The inviting atmosphere, combined with the allure of patio seating, creates a comfortable and enjoyable environment.

The Queso fundido is a standout appetizer, with its flavorful blend of melting cheese.

Other dishes like enchiladas and tacos are satisfying, and the large, tasty burritos are a highlight.

The experience of dining on the cozy patio and enjoying a Margarita adds to the overall enjoyment of the visit.

Centrico offers a delightful escape in the city, ideal for enjoying good food and the simple pleasures of life.

Thai Recipe Bistro

Thai Recipe Bistro in downtown Phoenix offers a true taste of Thailand with exceptional customer service and a casual dining setting.

The restaurant's attention to detail, from the adorable robot kitty that serves orders to the well-maintained cleanliness, enhances the dining experience.

The menu, filled with classic Thai curries and noodle dishes, is a testament to Thai cuisine.

Generous portion sizes, particularly in dishes like Pad Thai and curry, leave guests satisfied and craving more.

Thai Recipe Bistro's commitment to providing great food, top-notch service, and a charming atmosphere makes it a hidden gem in Phoenix, perfect for an authentic Thai dining experience.

Final Thoughts

Phoenix, Arizona, presents a remarkable array of global cuisines.

Mel's Southern Kitchen stands out for its delectable southern dishes.

Cocina Madrigal is noted for its irresistible tacos, adding to the city's vibrant culinary scene.

Phoenix's rich cultural diversity is mirrored in its food, making it a haven for culinary enthusiasts.

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