7 Best Restaurants in Phoenix, Arizona
Are you on a quest for the kind of food that makes you dance?
We took a weekend trip to Phoenix, not only did we stop in and eat these great cuisines, we also talked with the locals about the best restaurants to visit. They did not steer us wrong! So, if you’re in Phoenix and you’re hungry, look no further we’ve got the cuisine tea for you!
Though Phoenix, Arizona may not be at the top of many travel lists yet, they do happen to be at the top of my list for travel cuisine.
Yes, I did write a blog post with an itinerary for Phoenix, Arizona (you should check it out) and some of these places are on it, but I’m dedicating this one strictly to cuisine. So for my foodies or those who just want to have a great meal, from brunch to dinner and all that’s in between, Read on!
Best Restaurants in Phoenix, Arizona: Quick Guide
Just in case your in a hurry, we compiled a quick list of the best places to eat in the multicultural town:
Brunch & Sip- Best breakfast restaurant in the city and a fun vibe
CC’s on Central- Best Casual Restaurant
Sweet Magnolia Smokehouse- Best bbq restaurant
Maple & Ash- Great fine dining restaurant
Tash- Great fine dining restaurant
The Churchill- Best gathering spot restaurant and bar
Ocean Trail- Best Seafood Restaurant
Best Brunch Restaurants in Phoenix, Arizona
Waking up on vacation after a long night, a nice hearty breakfast may be the first thing on your mind, or maybe even a brunch to keep the vibes going; Phoenix has exactly what you want.
Here is the Top Brunch restaurant in town:
1. Brunch & Sip
A restaurant where brunch is also a party. There aren’t enough words to explain the experience here, you just have to see for yourself!
The vibe and energy here is absolutely amazing. From the staff to the guest are very lively, friendly and welcoming. It’s genuinely a great time where everyone enjoys themselves.
They say you should have a reservation but we didn’t have one and were still able to get seated in decent time. They also have patio seating if you prefer that over indoor seating.
The food is to die for and to top it off the drink selection will give you the early happy hour you are looking for. There is something on the menu for everyone. We ordered multiple things to try and not one of them disappointed. They were all delicious.
If you visit here you will not regret it!
Best Family & Casual Restaurants in Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix is a family oriented, multicultural place; very familiar with the restaurant rush and kids in tow.
Here are the best casual and family restaurants in town:
2. Sweet Magnolia Smokehouse
One of the best restaurants in town, especially for bbq. I think this is very much a best kept secret in the area; a gem.
The experience begins before you even step out of your car and the delicious bbq smell hits you. Then, you enter and you’re greeted by the friendly staff. They have 1 location but they also have a food truck that sells most of their delectable menu items.
They also have coupons and deals available through one of the local apps. I don’t eat pork so I chose the brisket with the macaroni and cheese and it was delicious. Fresh food, packed with flavor and its reasonably priced, with welcoming staff. Sounds like a bbq WIN to me.
3. CC’s on Central
CC’s is a family owned restaurant offering a mixture of Southern breakfast and Creole with a modern twist, lunch dishes. Promoting a chill family friendly environment to make you feel right at home.
This gem created by a mother and son duo, showcases their passion for cooking through sharing family recipes while using fresh and localized ingredients. They aren’t open on Saturdays but they offer a Sunday menu and every first Sunday of the month is Soul Food Sunday.
Located inside an office complex building, makes it a bit hard to find if you aren’t certain what you’re looking for. There is parking inside the garage and they do validate the parking for you, so don’t be worried. CC’s will give you the comfort food your looking for.
Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Phoenix, Arizona
Looking for a romantic night out with your significant other or just a fine dining experience to enjoy the finer side of life, these restaurants have you covered.
Here is the Top Fine Dining Restaurants in town:
4. Tash
Pronounced TH-O-SH is located inside Talking Stick Resort, showcasing a beautiful mountainside view and delicate ambiance. Tash is more than just a boutique restaurant offering gourmet and savory dishes that are innovative and transcendent, setting each one of your taste buds ablaze. This restaurant is an ode to the Pima Maricopa Indian Community as the name Tash means sun, day or time.
Though select things on their menu change seasonally, they have some things that do not leave the menu at all. They source local ingredients with global inspiration to bring you an experience that not only satisfies your belly but your mind as well.
I personally would recommend the Beef Short Ribs A La Bourguignonne or the Lamb Chops. They have a great and delicious desert that isn’t on the menu and many don’t know about it because it reserved for birthdays. So if its your birthday or a person you are with, you should absolutely order it!
5. Maple & Ash
With a Michelin star chef in the kitchen this steakhouse will teleport you into a world of cuisine artistry. While food may be the focal point they have “one of the most outstanding wine list in the world” as said by Wine Spectator Magazine. So if you are a wine drinker, you are in for a treat.
Located on the Scottsdale waterfront the ambiance showcases an ideal dining atmosphere for luxury dining. So not only is there delicious food to include juicy steak but great wine and an atmosphere to die for. What more can one ask for.
They offer a diverse menu with the finest hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood, redefining the steakhouse experience for each guest.
Best Gathering Spot Restaurant and Bar in Phoenix, Arizona
Looking for a place to kick back, relax and take in the views with great camaraderie while enjoying a delicious meal and good drinks. Phoenix has many places as such.
Here is the Top Gathering Spot Restaurant and Bar in town:
6. The Churchill
If you’re looking for vibes and community with conversation, the Churchill has you covered. It’s located in the heart of the hub of Roosevelt row and is nothing short of amazing. It fosters a casual and welcoming atmosphere and is very popular among the locals and tourists.
The unique design of the building made from repurposed shipping containers, innovates the diverse mix of eateries and bars. Offering great food and Happy Hour all in one.
It’s absolutely a spot to check out: eat, drink, and enjoy the communal spirit.
Best Seafood Restaurant in Phoenix
You might be thinking its no way to find fresh, high-quality seafood dishes in the desert. Phoenix actually has restaurants known for expertly prepared fish, shellfish, and sushi, often sourced from coastal suppliers. Ambiance, service, and creative menu options also play a key role in their choices.
Here is a Top Seafood Restaurant in town:
7. Ocean Trail
Talking Stick Resort must really know food because we are going back to talk about another restaurant located inside the resort. Fresh and delicious seafood to satisfy your tastebuds. Even nice drinks to spice up the meal.
The customer service is awesome but I would suggest making a reservation. It’s a small boutique restaurant and is usually busy, especially for dinner, which may extend your wait unless you want to sit at the bar.
We enjoyed the Seafood Creole and the Louisiana Gumbo which had our tastebuds dancing for the night. Paired with a nice glass of wine and a shooter drink you are in for a treat.
The ambiance is very inviting and relaxing and maybe you will get lucky to catch the live band playing music during your visit.
Where To Stay
Phoenix isn’t the most touristy place as yet but they do offer nice hotels and resorts that are family friendly, pet friendly or both. Keep these hotels in mind as you book your stay:
✅ Sheraton Phoenix Downtown- Conveniently located near the metro, stadiums, and convention center. Affordable and quiet, it’s great for families and business travelers alike.
✅ Talking Stick Resort- Located on Indian Reserve right outside of downtown, this family-friendly resort offers on-site activities, multiple dining options, and even free points for casino games if it’s your first visit.
Book your hotel at the lowest price
Phoenix is becoming more of an attraction. Be sure to book as soon as possible. Use the same aggregator as we do to ensure the lowest prices and smoothest booking!
How To Get There
Jumping on a flight is the quickest and best way to get to Phoenix, especially with the airport only about 12 minutes from the downtown area. However, there are many who take the drive to experience the gorgeous views and the mountain landscapes from the highway.
The Wrap-Up
This compilation is a small mixture and example of the great food culture in Phoenix. Though there are many, many restaurants in Phoenix, Arizona, especially serving a diverse menu, we know this list will satisfy all your cuisine needs.
The mixture directly showcases the rich culture and population of the Phoenix area. The food scene there is ever-evolving, making it a fantastic culinary destination blending tradition and innovation.
