Phoenix is a city built on contrast—blazing desert days give way to cool, starlit evenings, and sprawling suburban landscapes hide some of the most exciting dining rooms in the American Southwest. Over the last decade, the Valley of the Sun has quietly transformed into a legitimate culinary destination.
From heritage Mexican cooking passed down through generations to boundary-pushing tasting menus, the city’s restaurant scene reflects its diverse, fast-growing population. Dining in Phoenix is not just about the food; it is about the experience of place.
Many of the city’s best tables sit beneath shaded patios, beside citrus trees, or inside restored mid-century buildings that celebrate the region’s architectural past. Chefs here draw heavily on local ingredients, including heirloom corn, mesquite, cactus, and citrus, while also embracing global techniques that keep the scene dynamic and forward-looking.
For visitors, the sheer geographic spread of the metro area can be overwhelming. A single “Phoenix” restaurant might be twenty minutes from your hotel, while another is tucked into a Scottsdale resort or a Tempe side street.
That is why a curated list matters. Rather than relying on generic search results, knowing which rooms consistently deliver exceptional food, service, and atmosphere saves time and ensures a memorable meal. This guide focuses on quality, consistency, and local character.
It includes a mix of fine dining destinations, casual neighborhood favorites, and historic institutions that define the city’s food identity. Whether you are in town for spring training, a business conference, or a desert weekend escape, these restaurants offer a genuine taste of Phoenix—not just a tourist approximation of it.
Because Phoenix dining trends evolve quickly, this list prioritizes restaurants with staying power. These are places that have earned their reputations over years, not months. They are run by chefs and owners who understand the rhythms of the desert city, from the summer slow season to the busy winter months when snowbirds and visitors double the population.
You will find options for every occasion here: a celebratory anniversary dinner, a quick but excellent taco stop, a power lunch, or a long, lazy brunch under misters and fans. Price points vary, but each entry offers value in its own way, whether through impeccable ingredients, generous hospitality, or an atmosphere you cannot find anywhere else.
Below, you will find the fifteen best restaurants in Phoenix right now, followed by practical tips for navigating the local dining scene like a seasoned regular rather than a first-time visitor.
Different Pointe of View
| Address | 11111 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85020 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (623) 745-8485 |
My wife and I had a spectacular experience at A Different Point of View. The view from the second-floor part of the restaurant is stunning, the service staff waited on us hand and foot and were spectacular (Nick was our waiter). We both ordered the salad that was featured on the menu for that evening, two New York strip steaks with mashed potatoes, grilled broccolini, and a s'mores dessert. The food was arranged beautifully, the steaks were seasoned and cooked perfectly, and the deconstructed s'mores dessert reminded me of making s'mores at a campfire as a kid. I can honestly say it was one of the best experiences both of us have had at a restaurant, and we eat out a lot! We will definitely be bringing friends and family and making this a monthly date night!
Truly deserving of an extra star! We spent three hours lingering over an incredible dinner while watching the sun set over the city. The service was impeccable from start to finish—our waiter was knowledgeable and made the evening feel special. Everything from the greeting at the door to the final bite of the meal was excellent. If you’re celebrating with friends, this is the place to do it.
Best service ive ever had. KAYLA was our server and she was TOP tier. Food was great! We had swordfish, the filet and beef tartar. It was a full moon and the 615 reservation gave us every part of the day. Sun, sunset and the beautiful moon. This is a top ten experience.
This is a must to do fine dining experience! Fantastic views of the city and mountains of Phoenix and amazing sunset. The dining room has floor to ceiling wall to wall windows to enjoy the view. The terraced patio with Fantastic views is great for drinks.
Views, staff, and drinks were amazing. Not sure the $200 bone-in Ribeye we had was worth it, though. Would definitely come here again, but wouldn't recommend the Ribeye, I've had a better one from Walmart on my grill at home.
The Arrogant Butcher
| Address | 2 E Jefferson St #150, Phoenix, AZ 85004 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (602) 324-8502 |
Tyler was a great server, the hostess was very kind and friendly. We were advised to try the meatballs so we did, they were amazing.
I had the AB Burger with truffle fries. It was the best burger I've had in Phoenix, so big props there!
The NY Strip was also amazing, and the peppercorn sauce was on another level.
If you're in DTPHX, grab a meal here. Worth the visit!
Started off with a Makers Mark Manhattan which was made to perfection!
My server recommended the meatloaf and said it was better than your Mama's meatloaf and she was right! Meatloaf was moist and flavorful. I skipped the mashed potatoes and asked for extra green beans. The green beans were cooked to perfection with just a little bit of crunch. Expertly seasoned. I also got an order of crispy brussel sprouts which had little crumbles of prosciutto...It was outstanding and highly recommend!
Definitely a great restaurant and outstanding service by the server and manager who came by to see how everything was. Definitely coming back!
Food was absolutely delicious and the service was top notch as well. Server was very kind, made great suggestions and checked on us very often. I ordered the jambalaya and it was pretty good, not the best I’ve ever had but still very good. I’d give the jambalaya a solid 4/5. Loved the restaurant, decor and service, so I’ll def be back to try more of the menu. Def visit if you’re looking for a great restaurant downtown!
Stopped by for happy hour at the bar top. Customer service was great. Beer was good and cold. Had the brussel sprouts and it could easily be an appetizer for 4 people. I will definitely have to come back in for a surf n terf or a Kobe Burger.
Had a great dinner at The Arrogant Butcher. The atmosphere was clean, comfortable, and relaxed, with a nice setup and plenty of character. I ordered the Kobe Burger with fries, and it was a great choice. The burger had excellent flavor, the bacon and cheese worked really well together, and the fries came out fresh.
I also enjoyed a cold beer with dinner, which made it a nice place to sit back and unwind. Service was friendly, and everything came out in a reasonable amount of time. Overall, a very good experience and definitely a spot I’d visit again.
Wren & Wolf
| Address | 2 N Central Ave #101, Phoenix, AZ 85004 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (602) 562-3510 |
We went to Wren & Wolf after our Carry On experience. Our "flight" was at 3:30 p.m., so it worked out perfectly to have dinner at Wren & Wolf afterward. It was Sunday and before 5 p.m., so the place was pretty empty.
The restaurant is huge and decorated with wolf statues and paintings. They also have a lounge area, bar area, regular tables, and plenty of booths. There were a few other groups there who had also come from the 3:30 Carry On flight. Even though it wasn't busy, they seated us right next to another group. It felt a bit cramped, and since the tables were so close together, we could hear their entire conversation, and I'm sure they could hear ours too.
Since we had already been snacking during Carry On, we weren't very hungry. We ordered a couple of appetizers, the Brussels sprouts and truffle fries, and then we also ordered the spaghetti, duck breast, halibut, and chicken for our mains.
The food was decent, but everything leaned a little salty.
If you park at the Renaissance Square Parking Garage, they'll validate your parking for up to three hours. Overall, I'm glad we checked it out.
I drove over an hour to celebrate an anniversary dinner with a friend at Wren & Wolf, and it was absolutely worth the trip.
We ordered the Za'atar Man'oushe, Avocado Caesar, Bluefin Tartare, Beef Wellington, and Halibut. The entrées felt appropriately priced for the quality, though the starters leaned a bit on the expensive side.
The Beef Wellington and Halibut were highlights in terms of execution—the meat and fish were cooked perfectly and incredibly tender. That said, the mushroom layer in the Wellington pastry and the broth for the halibut were a bit too salty for our taste.
Truth be told, the Beef Wellington is enough for 1 person, with the mashed potatoes as a side.
Service was top-notch. A standout moment was the chef personally coming to our table to cut the Beef Wellington, which added a special touch to the experience. Our server was also very friendly and welcoming throughout the evening.
The ambiance was stylish, but it was quite noisy and made conversation a bit difficult at times.
We skipped dessert as it was outside our budget by that point, but overall it was a memorable dining experience and a great choice for a special occasion.
Argh!!!! So enfuriating to have wasted time and effort going here. I was hoping to impress my girl for her birthday, but got one of the most frustrating experiences in a place that promises a "distinct dining experience". I thought I had done my homework by watching a couple of YouTube videos about it where people described a lovely experience at this place and read lots of shinning reviews online, but I failed miserably. The location is nothing to write home about as it is in downtown Phoenix, but they offer parking validation, so that is a plus. I made a reservation and the restaurant was 80% empty, so we were seated immediately upon arrival. Our troubles started as soon as we were seated in a booth with a wobbly toble with too large a base to be in a booth. We had no room to place our feet and we don't have Shaquile O'Neal size feet either... Our server was slow and dismissive, so the service was subpar. We ordered bread service (Noble bread) and a pastry tower (probably from Noble) and those were the best items we had there. We ordered a hot coffee which sat at the bar counter for 20 minutes with our server walking by it several times and not seeing it or pretending not to see it, and when she finally brought it to the table, it was cold. We asked to have it remade and got a bit of attitude from our server. She went and made the second coffee herself and the coffee was awful. They own a La Marzocco, but didn't have a barista to use it, so the coffee was hot, but barely drinkable. We ordered steak and eggs with country potatoes and a fried chicken sandwich with fries. The steak was very good, but the fried eggs (ordered over easy) came over-fried with hard yolks and burnt edges and the country potatoes also over-fried and over salted, so both eggs and potatoes were uneatable. The sandwich was even worse... over-fried hard chicken in a greasy bun with over-fried and over salted fries... also uneatable. Perhaps chef needs to go back to culinary school to learn how to fry food, and a class on people-to-people skills for the server would wouldn’t be a bad idea either. A very memorable experience for the wrong reasons... The value is not there. Don’t fall for the positive reviews here… We won't return.
Food and ambiance is great! Ayla was our server and she was amazing and attentive. It was our first time dining here and I’d say this is a perfect place for a romantic date. We did bring two little kiddos and Ayla was very accommodating. We’ll definitely be back! The only con I have is that it is on the pricier side.
So I've eaten at Wren and Wolf but this time My visit was actually at Carry-on, The 1970s themed airplane bar that's attached to Wren and Wolf. Though it's not a big bar, it has an amazing atmosphere. My girlfriend loved it. The colors and the textures of everything around you from the wood paneling on the ceilings and walls to the plush seating and the video screen windows, we're all on top tier and help build the 1970s aesthetic. The drinks are really good two that stood out were the Chi-chi and the Chuhai. Even the welcome drink was really good... I wish I could remember its name in case I ever wanted to order it. All the drinks were based off the theme of a flight from New York to Tokyo. There were many Japanese ingredients used in the drinks. Even the complimentary nuts I believe were miso covered. At the end of our "flight" we were giving black and white cookies which were surprisingly phenomenal. Getting "tickets" can be a bit of a headache but it's not a huge bar so I understand the need for the reservation. In the end it was completely worth it. The service was great. The drinks and the atmosphere were just as good. I'd definitely go again... Matter of fact I will go again because my girlfriend said she really loved it and wanted to do it again when they were "flying" to another destination. This would be a great place to start your evening after dinner and before going out and really tying one on or if you have friends or family from out of town. A good day night idea as well. I highly recommend you
Miel De Agave Phoenix
| Address | 705 N 1st St #110, Phoenix, AZ 85004 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (480) 690-2872 |
First time visiting, and I was very impressed! We stopped here on a whim while looking for a place to grab dinner. The hostess was warm and welcoming, seated us right away, and even accommodated my husband’s preferred seating request. I didn’t catch her name, but she wore glasses and was absolutely lovely.
The atmosphere was beautiful, modern, and upscale, perfect for date night. Our waitress, Marcia, was fantastic. She was professional, knowledgeable about the menu, and her recommendations helped me choose a delicious meal.
There was also a gentleman playing the saxophone, which added to the intimate and relaxing ambiance. My only minor critique is that the tables were a bit close together. I understand it’s a smaller dining space, so creating more privacy may not be easy.
Overall, we had a wonderful experience, and I definitely recommend this restaurant if you’re ever in downtown Phoenix. 😊
We did a reservation at 9pm on a Thursday. No wait time. Music was a little bit loud. They had music like a club. Then a saxophone guy started playing and was nice. Food was good. We got mole and NY steak it was pretty good. Very soft meat. I tried tepache it was good as well. We try Paloma it was good but not stong at all. Overall I do recommend it. I would go back. Just recommend to change music one for the bar side and different for the restaurant tables If possible.
Okay…idk what’s going on here, but I feel like everyone is being pranked. I’m not sure how I had an experience like this when the overall rating is 4.8 with almost 8K reviews. Anyway…went here for my 30th, and the food was so bad, I was shocked. I’ll start with the good: the birria tacos, they come with an insane amount of meat.
However, they charge $8 for chips and salsa and the chips were half empty and stale, and the salsa is quite literally just a tomato sauce from a jar. I asked for less stale chips and we got some so at least that was better. The truffle fries came out almost completely raw, we couldn’t eat them.
Our waitress said they got a new chef, so maybe these problems will go away, but we didn’t order a second entree because we weren’t confident it’d be worth the price based on our appetizers, thank gosh we didn’t.
Luckily, they refunded us the fries and chips and salsa, which was very nice of them, but then they tried to charge us for 2 extra drinks that weren’t even duplicates of our drinks which made the bill even more expensive than it would’ve been with the 2 removed food items. Appetizer pictured has a large hair on it, didn’t even address that because we just didn’t like the appetizer to begin with, which isn’t the restaurant’s fault.
The atmosphere feels very off. The walls are painted like a fake wood, meals are rolled out on dirty carts you’d see in a school, and the share plates are actually chargers. Oh well, never again. At least the drinks were good.
Miel de Agave left me with mixed feelings.
The food was genuinely good, and the passion fruit margarita was excellent. The problem wasn't the kitchen—it was the overall hospitality experience.
From the moment we arrived, the welcome felt cold. We were told to "try to find a seat at the bar," and once we did, it was so cold we ended up moving to the outside bar just to be comfortable. There were three employees working behind the bar, yet we still felt overlooked for much of our visit. Ironically, the barback ended up being the most attentive and helpful member of the team. The restaurant also felt unusually dark, and both the men's and women's restrooms were messy during our visit.
That's what makes this review disappointing. The food and drinks were worth ordering, but the hospitality didn't match the price point. With more attention to the guest experience—from the host stand to the bar to the restrooms—I think Miel de Agave has the potential to be a restaurant I'd gladly recommend.
VFI Rating: 🚶 Worth the Stop
The food here is simply fantastic, and the staff is incredibly friendly. The atmosphere is amazing, with great music to set the mood. We tried the aguachile ribeye, which was absolutely delicious. It wasn’t too spicy, just right. I also tried the quesabirria, which was authentic Mexican food. And let me tell you, my espresso martini was an absolute 10 out of 10! Our server was Marcia and she was very knowledgeable about the food, drinks and her recommendations were just perfect.
Le Âme
| Address | 4360 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (480) 697-6201 |
This restaurant delivered an excellent meal from start to finish. The quality of the food and the attentive service made for a memorable dining experience.
The highlight was definitely the steak frites. The steak was incredibly tender, cooked perfectly, and seasoned just right. The fries were equally impressive—crispy, well-seasoned, and the perfect complement to the steak.
We also ordered the steak tartare, which was beautifully executed. The beef was fresh, tender, and well-seasoned, while the crispy toasted bread added the perfect contrast in texture.
Overall, this was a fantastic meal with great service to match. We’ll definitely be back for more and highly recommend giving this place a try.
We visited Le Âme twice, once for brunch and once for dinner, and both experiences were extremely impressive. The caliber of the food, service, and overall atmosphere was outstanding each time.
Dinner especially exceeded expectations. The staff was polished, attentive, and genuinely knowledgeable, with recommendations that were spot on throughout the meal. The individual treats at the beginning and end of the dining experience were an exquisite touch and made the evening feel even more thoughtful and elevated.
One of the best parts of the experience was being able to see into the kitchen. Watching the team operate with such quiet confidence and precision added another layer to the meal. Every member seemed completely focused, moving almost silently while producing some truly amazing dishes. Tiny culinary ballet, thankfully with fewer tutus and more steak.
The food itself was beautifully executed, refined, and memorable. From brunch to dinner, everything felt intentional and carefully prepared. High praise to the entire staff for delivering such a consistent and elevated experience.
Highly recommend dining at Le Âme if you’re looking for excellent food, exceptional service, and a restaurant that clearly takes pride in every detail.
It was my first time going to Le Ame, and the restaurant has a beautiful ambiance, feels upscale yet welcoming, and was impeccably clean throughout our visit. The food was outstanding, with every dish being well-prepared, flavorful, and thoughtfully presented. While there were a couple of items that I personally wouldn't order again, that came down more to preference than quality, as there wasn't anything I would consider bad. One thing to keep in mind is the cocktail menu. The drinks are excellent, but they can add up quickly and make a huge impact on the final bill. A special shoutout to our server, Tyra, who was fantastic from start to finish. She was friendly, attentive, knowledgeable, and made us feel genuinely welcome throughout the evening. Overall, the combination of great food, exceptional service, and a fantastic atmosphere made for a memorable dining experience, and I would definitely come back.
Le Ame at Global Ambassador delivered an absolutely unforgettable New Years Eve dining experience. We did the two hundred fifty dollar per person NYE tasting experience where you get to sample all of the starters then choose your main course and dessert. Everything was beautifully prepared and full of flavor. Champagne was included but since we do not drink they were happy to substitute lemonade which was a thoughtful and appreciated touch. The ambiance was stunning, elegant, and perfect for a special occasion. Every dish was delicious and the service was exceptional from start to finish. This restaurant truly offers a luxury dining experience and we will definitely be returning.
A great option for fine dining that's good enough to come back. Located inside the Grand ambassador hotel, this French steakhouse has a great menu that bursts with flavor. If I could rate it 4.5 I would, but unfortunately I can't.
All the servers were knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. The escargot, while heavy on the lemon (not in a bad way) did have a balanced seasoning. The duck spring rolls came in second place as they were good on their own and complemented excellent with its sauce, the pork belly dumplings did have a char I didn't care for, but others at the table loved it, and the Parisian seasoned butter used on their steak was perfect. For me, the show stopper was the French onion soup. Packed with flavor, incredibly rich, that's a must order in my opinion. My only drawback to this restaurant is that the cocktails, while good, weren't up to the same standard as the food. It's splitting hairs, yes, but it is fine dining. Le Âme is good enough to come back, bring friends, go on anniversary, etc. and would recommend over Maple and Ash. Happy eating.
Humble Bistro
| Address | 222 E Jefferson St Suite 110, Phoenix, AZ 85004 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (480) 500-9966 |
never would've found this place—it's tucked into a corner building on 3rd St and Jefferson, in front of the Adeline apartments. Someone had to point me here, and I'm glad they did.
The service made the night. Ella (our server) and Audrey walked us through the menu like they actually eat here on their days off—house-made sourdough, the wine list, the dishes worth building a meal around.
We started with the Silk and Spice red blend (smooth, easy recommendation) and an espresso martini with a clean, dessert-like finish. The Caesar came with a jalapeño kick that cut through the Brussels sprout bitterness—unexpected, but it worked. The three-ball meatballs are the appetizer to order: light, well-made, perfect with that sourdough.
This turned into a breadier meal than planned, but the Maximus pizza earned it. I'm a Neapolitan snob and the crust here is doughier than I'd usually go for—but the undercarriage held up, and this is now one of my favorite slices in the Valley. Better than [Name the place east].
The dish to remember: cremini sacchetti. Audrey called them "pasta pillows," which undersells it. Ella steered us toward the short rib version, and the short rib, cheese, mushroom, and pasta came together perfectly. This is the dish that'll bring me back.
Highly recommend if you're in or visiting downtown Phoenix.
10 out 10!! We found Humble Bistro while searching Google for a new restaurant in downtown Phoenix, and what a find! We were surprised to learn they have three locations across the Valley.
It's been a long time since we've sat at a restaurant and said, "Wow, this is amazing!" about every single thing we ordered. We started with the $9 Cajun Shrimp appetizer during their happy hour (offered daily until 5 p.m.). The shrimp, the sauce, and especially the bread to soak it all up were absolutely incredible. In fact, we kept forgetting to take photos because we were too busy enjoying the food!
The Brussels sprouts with hummus were some of the best I've ever had, and the hummus paired perfectly with them. We also tried the Gentleman's Pizza Pie with pepperoni and the Cajun chicken sandwich—both were outstanding and packed with flavor.
This was easily one of the best dining experiences we've had in a long time, and we'll definitely be regulars. We've already recommended Humble Bistro to friends who live near their other locations. If you're looking for a restaurant that delivers amazing food, put this one at the top of your list!
What a great restaurant! Our group of 8 was greeted and seated quickly by two friendly hostesses. Abby was amazing and very accommodating. The food was excellent! Humble pie, pasta and short rib grilled cheese were delicious! Great food. Great vibe. Great service!
Been coming here for a few weeks and am never disappointed. Did dinner tonight and each course was a delightful trip in taste. Can’t wait to return.
This was my first time here. Food was good and service was great. Our Server Javi was so friendly and really knowledgeable about the menu. Great spot to eat if your in the down town area. Its right across the the ballpark and Arena.
Pretty Penny
| Address | 509 E Roosevelt St, Phoenix, AZ 85004 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (602) 960-0406 |
This is one of my all time favorite places to go in phoenix. The menu is seasonal which I really appreciate because everything seems to be packed full of flavor. They offer caviar at cost and have rotating specials. It’s a smaller space, intimate and welcoming; perfect for date night or a girls dinner. On top of the incredible food, which I keep coming back for - the staff is stellar and the hospitality is a 10/10. The cocktail menu has some really innovative takes on classics that are sure to impress even the pickiest of drinkers. (*do yourself a favor and try the Pretty Penny Martini or the Citrus Vesper!)
I just can’t say enough great things about this place, it truly is a gem in the heart of downtown phoenix.
Pretty Penny is such a gem in downtown Phoenix. The food is absolutely beautiful, both visually and flavor-wise. Everything we tried was vibrant, well-balanced, and clearly made with care. They also run really exciting specials, which makes each visit feel fresh and fun.
The menu is made up of internationally inspired small plates that are creative and not over-thought. Each dish is flavor-forward, beautifully composed, and well executed, with global influences that keep things exciting. You can really taste the care and quality behind every plate, it’s elevated, but still approachable and fun.
The bartender is creative, friendly, and clearly knows their craft. The vibe is lively and stylish. Most of the seating is high-tops, which I personally didn’t mind at all, but it’s something to note if you prefer standard tables.
Overall, a great spot for excellent food, drinks, and energy. I’ll definitely be back.
Pretty Penny is nothing short of stellar. All the dishes are imaginative and delicious. A lot of the food has unique elements that are really great.
The pasta is incredible. Texture is perfect. The sauce is thick, super flavorful, and a little sweet. I wish I could have this pasta every day
The branzino was the best cooked branzino I ever had. Most times at least part of the fish is overcooked, but not here. The entire fish, head to tail, including the small thin piece by the tail, was perfectly cooked. The sauce was incredible.
Service is great, and everyone is super nice and helpful in giving suggestions and explaining the dishes.
Really cool vibe at this small but fun venue. The menu is concise but covers the bases well. Every dish was delicious and we shared everything between the four of us. The AF offering was delicious as well. $125 per person but food ultra quality enforced the prices.
Great last meal in Phoenix! Caviar at cost with Pringles best deal in the city! Food and service is unbelievable! Eat everything on that menu!
Palma
| Address | 903 N 2nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (602) 580-0000 |
Our first time at Palma, located in Roosevelt Row, offering Asian-inspired cuisine, creative cocktails, and a lively patio with fire pits. They are known as a brunch spot and are popular for their nightlife and Happy Hour, which runs from 11 am to 7 pm, Monday through Friday, with $8.00 frozen margaritas, $5.00-$7.00 sushi maki rolls, and specialty maki rolls from $5.00-$11.00. They also have a nice selection of "sharables" like Char-Grilled Edamame $5.00, Popcorn Chicken $9.00, Thai Curry Fries $5.00, and Hatch Green Chili Queso $8.00, to name a few. Shanda tried the Blood Orange Margarita and EXSW Margarita; both were delicious, and the Char-Grilled Edamame was so good my wife barely let me have any. The Maki Sushi rolls were fresh and packed with flavor. If you are looking for a hip and reasonably priced Happy Hour in Downtown Phoenix, this is the spot.
I went here for brunch and the food was great. Our server Heidi M was friendly and very attentive. I hear the sushi is amazing but, didn’t get a chance to try it since they start the lunch menu @ 2 pm. The Outdoor sitting was amazing however, in May at noon it got kind of hot and the sprinkler system was off.
Other than this everything was great.
This is a hideaway place with great food. You could easily miss it if you're not paying attention while driving. Parking is not available, so be prepared to drive around for a while especially if it's after 5pm. We were seated promptly at our reservation time, it's a must to reserve your table beforehand or be prepared to wait even if tables are available. Our server was nice and professional. The food was fantastic and flavorful, especially the popcorn chicken and yummy fries. I could have easily just had those appetizers instead of the main meal. The only issue was when the appetizers were brought to the table there were no plates on which to eat them. We had get someone to bring plates to the table. Which seems odd. Forks and drinks were at the table, but no plates? That's why service got 4 stars. Otherwise the restaurant was on point.
I’m giving this 3/5, but my personal experience was 1/5.
My fault that I went for brunch on Thursday, but they only have brunch on weekends, and this information was available on website, but I missed it.
I didn’t like my beef tacos, so greasy.
My coffee was cold, asked them to change it was still cold. Couldn’t drink it😐
It was just not a good experience. I pretty much had a mimosa for brunch and paid $45 including a tip!
My friend actually liked her beef tacos and her espresso martini.
The only word I can say appropriately describes our experience is WOW. What a fabulous concept, menu and service staff. Exceeded every expectation. As a Chef, I was extremely impressed with the menu and the flavors were phenomenal! Thank you for existing!
ROSSO ITALIAN
| Address | 2 E Jefferson St #113, Phoenix, AZ 85004 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (602) 218-6001 |
Fell in love with this Italian Restaurant in Downtown Phoenix. It was a cozy intimate setting for our 28th Anniversary. The atmosphere was perfect and the music is my favorite now, Tame Impalas "Breathe Deeper!" The food was outstanding! Perfectly cooked with the Italian flare we were hoping for. The Tiramasu, a great finishing touch. Our server, Chloe, was friendly and very attentive. She went above and beyond to help make this Anniversary memorable! We definitely will be back to try your Espresso Martinis during Happy Hour per Chloes suggestion. Thanks Again!!
I ordered the chicken parm, added pasta and miniature gulf shrimp. All were salty, but the chicken parm even more so. The chargrill on the shrimp was heavy on the char. The flavor was a little off putting. The pasta would have been nice if it were lighter on salt.
The server made a point to tell me the chicken parm isn’t the same as Olive Garden, and was more authentic Italian. Is not chicken parm, chicken parm? I was low key insulted that she assumed that I’ve been to the Olive Garden. (The only different is that OG’s chicken is filleted.)
I’ve finished and have been sitting here writing this review, waiting to get my check.
The bread and house salad are good.
Too much salt was the main issue here, but they were good about refunding the chicken parm to make up for it.
Some restaurants feed your stomach. Others feed your soul.
Rosso Italian did both.
I chose Rosso for my birthday dinner while visiting Phoenix, and somewhere between the first warm welcome, the wonderful food, and the genuine kindness of everyone there, it stopped feeling like I was eating at a restaurant. It felt like I had been welcomed into someone's home.
The meal was outstanding, but what I'll remember years from now won't just be what was on the plate. I'll remember the people. The manager and staff treated me with a warmth that can't be taught. It was sincere, effortless hospitality, and it turned an excellent dinner into one of my favorite memories of this trip.
Phoenix has become a place that feels like a second home to me, and experiences like this are exactly why. Cities are ultimately remembered through the people who give them their heart. Rosso Italian has plenty of heart.
Thank you for helping make my birthday one I'll never forget. I'll be looking forward to my next visit long before I return to Phoenix.
Amazing food! Our waiter Giulio was very attentive and answered all of our questions. His recommendations were great, service was quick and everything was fresh. We had a second server, Chloe, who was equally as friendly. 10/10, would return if I’m back in Phoenix
I went here 2x while on a business trip. The first day was amazing!! The whipped ricotta with hot honey and focaccia was AMAZING! I ate the entire thing by myself!
The second visit wasn’t a big of a hit.
I sat at the outside bar and could smell the bar dishwasher - very mildewed smell.
The meatballs were good, maybe a touch over salted. The cacio e Pepe was not well incorporated. It’s a simple dish and delicious when done properly. The sauce should be velvety smooth, but this was not. It was grainy as the cheese wasn’t melted well. It was cold. Disappointing.
However both times the bartenders were attentive.
The decor is cute with friendly staff. I’d go back just for the whipped ricotta!!
LATHA
| Address | 628 E Adams St, Phoenix, AZ 85004 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| Phone | (480) 640-6183 |
Really enjoyed my experience here! The food was delicious, and I loved the combination of Caribbean, Latin, and African inspired flavors. It’s also great to support a Black owned restaurant with such a unique menu.
The watermelon salad was a great way to start the meal light, refreshing, and full of flavor. For my main course, I had the Moqueca and added shrimp and salmon. It was absolutely delicious! The dish had just the right amount of spice enough of a kick to add flavor without being overwhelmingly hot.
To finish the night, I tried the chocolate Brigadeiro torte dessert. It’s thick, rich, and very flavorful, so if you’re looking for something light after dinner, this probably isn’t the dessert for you. But if you enjoy rich, indulgent desserts, it’s definitely worth trying.
Overall, a great meal with unique flavors and a really nice dining experience. I’d definitely come back!
I had a really GOOD time for my after birthday dinner at LATHA, the food was delicious, we went with the Chef’s Tasting Menu and I absolutely LOVED the oxtail and shrimp rice, the whipped goat cheese and the DELECTABLE pound cake!
From the moment we arrived, a bit earlier than our outdoor table reservation, Will took care of us and accommodated us by escorting us to the SOKO Market located in-house of the restaurant.
There, we met co-owner Evelia, who warmly welcomed us and informed us of the items for purchase. We had an entertaining conversation with her and she is very sweet and relatable!
We bought one of the Caribbean hot sauces and it is really good on noodle dishes and poultry…getchu some!😂❤️🔥
Just before our tantalizing courses arrived, Evelia personally stopped by our table and read a very meaningful birthday message and presented me with a lovely birthday gift! It was totally unexpected and such a heartwarming and thoughtful gesture that I absolutely LOVED!💖
There was also a lovely band with a beautiful singer and handsome band members playing soulful and jazzy music.
Great food, live music and wonderful weather! I couldn’t ask for much more!
Happy 47th indeed!😂💝💝
Visited here this week and thought a lot about my experience. They do some things really well here, but overall missed the mark unfortunately. I will detail below.
We had an 8pm reservation, and when the server came back with our drinks and appetizers, we needed a few more minutes to look over the menu. Our server was not rude but told us "ok but just so you know, the kitchen closes in 25 minutes." I understand that kitchens and restaurants need to close eventually, but we had a reservation and it seemed like poor taste to rush a customer at a restaurant where we ended up spending $200+ for the 2 of us. Overall the service was very average, by the time we left around 9:15, they had cushions stacked inside the restaurant and seemed to be closing up. It all just felt very rushed and like I walked into a fast food restaurant just a few minutes before closing, which was not the case.
Now onto the most important part, the food. The drinks were hit or miss, sangria was VERY sweet but the watermelon margarita was nice. The hummus appetizer was great, but the sides were below average. Brussel sprouts were bitter and not cooked well. The entree was the bright spot! The blackened cod coconut curry was amazing, definitely the best part of the meal...buttery, flavorful and robust. Everything we hoped for!
Overall we wouldn't go back, it felt like a restaurant that didn't have a true grasp on what it wants to be, and it lacked passion and hospitality. It felt like we were being rushed through an experience that we were really looking forward to. From the time we walked in to the time we left, it didn't seem like anyone truly wanted us there. Maybe they should cut off reservations earlier, or bring in hospitality staff from successful restaurants for training because some of the food was amazing, but I can't see a restaurant like this lasting with the current state.
This was our first time dining at Latha and we were not disappointed! First of all, the atmosphere is immediately inviting. Relaxed and a genuine feeling of family. The Moroccan sangria was refreshing and perfectly spiced. The watermelon salad and whipped goat cheese started off our flavor adventure and the branzino and peri-peri chicken were fabulous. Sadly, we were too full to try the desserts but we will be sure to next time because we will be back! Thank you, team Latha, for wonderful dining experience!
This is a fun, unique place. The staff are very friendly, our waiter seemed a little clumsy in their delivery but nice. We had the goat cheese and the shrimp appetizers. Besides not having quite enough of their tasty bread for the goat cheese it was excellent. We had the code special and the chicken. We asked about the heat on the chicken and was told it was pretty mild. For one of our party it was, for a others it was super hot, and he has a high heat tolerance, so just know it's inconsistent. The chocolate tort is good too, very heavy but delicious. There are other things that we would like to try. We will be back.
STK Steakhouse
| Address | 201 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85004 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 2:30 – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 2:30 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 2:30 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 2:30 – 11:00 PM Friday: 2:30 PM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 2:30 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 2:30 – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (480) 781-3023 |
Amazing date night. My server was amazing Michael took great care of us. The food was good. We decided to try the Happy Hour menu Oysters on the half shell were Devine. The jalapeño shrimp cocktail was my favorite ordered it twice. The Stk Burger, the salmon pastami cones, and beef tartar are worth a try as well. The tater tots were the only no for me. Espresso Martini for the win add the Baileys. We shall return as this spot doesn't close til 12am.
I enjoyed a nice happy hour here and would recommend it for anyone with a medium afternoon appetite. However, my expectations proceeded me with the quality of service and food.
I will be returning and requesting Nicholas and Jada. The service by them was exceptional. Nicholas recommended some very scrumptious items and Jada was spot on with service. They are very personalable in a place of high quality. I can't wait to come for dinner and can't wait until everyone knows about STK downtown phoenix.
The atmosphere is impeccable too. I thoroughly enjoyed my experience here. 10/5 recommend!
I recently visited with a group and tested a handful of bites from the happy hour menu. The hash browns are perfectly crispy on the exterior with a warm interior with a flavor bomb of truffle oil. The sliders pair very well with their sauce options and are the perfect size to get you started. Their crab bites fall in line with the hash browns where they are perfectly bite sized and full of flavor.
When you make your way to the cocktails - their take on the espresso martini is perfection! It's smooth, not too creamy and truly gets you going. The staff was a pleasure and was on their A-game to support our group.
I had the best experience at STK Steakhouse ! It is an amazing place for date night! I was surprised by how relaxing and amazing the food was for such an amazing price! I enjoyed Happy Hour including the calamari and my favorite STK cocktail the Strawberry Cobbler! My date had a peanut allergy and they were so accommodating! I would definitely recommend not only for date night, but for any special occasion! The staff is so friendly and nice!
Subject Request for Complete Case File and
Itemized Invoices
I recently dined at STK Phoenix and had an absolutely amazing experience from start to finish.
The food was outstanding - every dish was flavorful, perfectly prepared, and beautifully presented. The steaks were cooked to perfection, and the sides and appetizers were just as impressive. You can really tell they use high-quality ingredients and put care into every plate.
What truly made the evening exceptional was the service. The General Manager Christopher was exceptional. He runs a tight ship and he cares about the guests. The staff was attentive, friendly, and professional throughout the entire meal. Our bartenders, D’Shayne, Emily and Isabella were knowledgeable about the menu, gave excellent recommendations, and made sure we had everything we needed without ever feeling rushed.
The atmosphere was energetic and upscale, making it the perfect spot for a night out.
STK Phoenix exceeded my expectations in every way, and I will definitely be returning. Highly recommend for anyone looking for incredible food, top-tier service, and a great dining experience.
Samsara - Restaurant & Lounge
| Address | 901 N 4th St, Phoenix, AZ 85004 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 2:00 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | — |
My friends and I visited Samsara for the first time tonight, and we had such a great experience. The food was delicious, the drinks were just as good, and the atmosphere made for a really fun night out.
A special shoutout to our waitress, Pauline. She was an absolute doll. She was so kind, checked on us often, and always came back with updates on our orders, which we really appreciated. Her service made an already great experience even better.
We'll definitely be back. I honestly don't know why it took us so long to try Samsara, but I'm so glad we finally did!
Hands down the best place I’ve been to in Phx area, security extremely professional, helpful and a welcoming which is rare now of days ( Tall Curly hair light skin guy) made sure to give us suggestions when to come back again. Server Bre was on point with quality service! She was out with bottles and hookah and our food well in a timely manor and great suggestions on what to try out. Both DJ had us up dancing entire time and keep good music going for a Sunday for sure. Only bad was parking sucked and line for the bathrooms didn’t flow possibly suggest a security be placed in that area. Otherwise great time definitely suggest asking for the server Bre for when you are here. My group will definitely be back on our next Phx trip!
Let me be the first to say that as an Assyrian of Iranian and Iraqi Assyrian Parents who was also raised in Chicago, this place was absolutely amazing! The best of all my worlds all wrapped in one. My Girlfriend and I shared the Samsara Vegetarian Platter as well as the Samsara Skewer Platter. We chose the Lamb, Ground Beef Koobideh and the Chicken Skewer. It came with two kinds of rice and roasted tomatoes as well as Maust Khiar (Cucumber and Yogurt Salad), and it was all amazing. The service was on point and the food was clear quality. We also enjoyed the hookah experience in here as well as the DJ and all the diversity of people whom of which were all very relaxed, welcoming and nothing but the greatest and most positive vibes. Located in the heart of Downtown Phoenix, this place has it all. It even has outdoor seating for those nicer evenings. They’re open late too so come on down and enjoy this very unique experience. You won’t be disappointed!
I enjoyed myself tonight. The owner is very friendly & down to earth. He even fed a homeless guy and was careful about the food he could eat due to the man having diabetes. The food amd drinks were "tasty". Josh, Arthur & Ivan came to our table to make sure we good a few times. The guys were very friendly. It was our 1st time there and we had a great experience.
Thanks guys!!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Diamond absolutely exceeded my expectations! From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was a whole vibe—beautiful, classy, and perfect for a night out. The food was fresh, flavorful, and came out hot. Every bite was worth it! The drinks were on point, and the service was amazing. Diamond made sure we were taken care of the entire time and was friendly, attentive, and professional without ever making us feel rushed. You can tell they genuinely care about making sure guests have a great experience. If you’re looking for good food, great music, excellent service, and an unforgettable night, this is definitely the place to be. I’ll absolutely be back and highly recommend asking for Diamond! 💎🔥
Cleaverman
| Address | 455 N 3rd St #1005, Phoenix, AZ 85004 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (602) 675-3635 |
The only negative was that the food wasn't something out of this world, but it was still very good. I love the vibe here. Classy and Sexy. Everyone was very nice. No rude staff. We celebrated an anniversary and they did make us feel special. I would definitely go back to try other things. The speakeasy (filthy) attached is a great touch.
Great steaks, seafood and chicken served in a magical room that is decorated beautifully. Steaks were delicious, cooked as ordered. My only advice to give is to ask forb your steak with a little less salt. We thought our fish and steak were a little too salty (and I'm a salt lover). Try the butter cookie dessert, you won't be disappointed!
I have a lot to say about this place.
Let me start with the positives. Firstly as you walk in, the decor immediately gets you attention, as it should. Every corner of this place is absolutely high end and perfect.
The server was absolutely perfect!!! I say this with enthusiasm because he was so good and attentive. Maybe even more than I’d personally prefer. He did an amazing job keeping us satisfied.
The bus boys even had style and class for days.
Now for the food, I ordered a Caesar and a New York strip. My wife had the Mac and cheese and New York strip as well. Once again, the presentation was elegant and beautiful, but the food lacked flavor for me. The meat was tough. The steak knives struggled to cut through the cut.
The flavor was extremely basic for my standards. The make and cheese was so busy and disappointing at the same time. The Cesar Salad was the Highlight of my meal, and even that was just ok for the price.
It’s a great place for a nice romantic date night filled with ambience. But do not expect to love the food. Maybe the restaurant can send vouchers for a couple free meals and change my mind.
It should be all five stars for me but I give the food 3 stars for blandness.
Oh yeah, 36 dollars for 2 waters is absolutely criminal.
This is a great place to send an evening if you are looking for an elevated experience. The main courses and sides may rival some of the best steaks and recipes out there. The menue is limited but everything they offer is true quality. Service can take a little extra time for things to come out but it's worth it.
Absolutely wonderful experience! The restaurant is beautiful inside. I love the details they do with fun play on words throughout the menu and dishes. The cocktail - Fancy Girl is now my new favorite - fantastic! Tuna appetizer was light and polite - delicious! Best scallop dish EVER! We came to celebrate our anniversary and this was the perfect spot for a celebration.
The Farish House
| Address | 816 N 3rd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (602) 281-6659 |
It’s hard to put into words how great this place is. Have you ever been somewhere when everything just feels “right, balanced, happy”? That is Farish House. The cozy, intimate comfort of what used to be Coup des Tartes blended seamlessly with the deep, peaceful, gentle “love” you felt from House of Tricks into one calm, warm, easy spot. Farish House is a real, soul-warming experience across the board. The service, care, comfort, ambience, food, value and clear love they put into everything make Farish House our new favorite place. We walked through the front gate, up onto the front porch and inside where we took one of three small tables in the cozy front salon of this soul-warming 1899 French Bistro.
*Food: we started with a bottle of Australian Cab. Shockingly good. And not crazy expensive, especially on Thursday when bottles are 30% off, it was an amazing deal. Turns out, the owner, Greg, was in the wine distribution business for several decades, curating wine programs for top Valley restaurants, so he really knows his stuff and their vast wine selection is amazing. We were offered a basket of truffle popcorn, mmm, salty, crunchy, and rich. We ordered the Chef’s Selection Charcuterie and Warm Noble Baguette & Marinated Olives to get started. Both were beautifully curated, balanced, and incredibly high quality. The flavors and textures blended perfectly. with cheeses broken from large wheels, rather than cut and sliced, house-made pickled grapes, unique and unusual ingredients, smokey meats, compound butters, just awesome! We then moved into one of the cozy dining rooms and ordered the slow roasted Peposo Short Ribs and fingerling potatoes pan fried in duck fat served with Moroccan spiced aioli. Both were rich, warm and delicious. For dessert, and yes we thought we’d explode from all this food, we ordered a massive slice of bread pudding, some of the best I’ve ever had, rich, gooey and incredible. Along with that we ordered a beautiful Espresso Martini and an off-menu banana cream martini. Their drinks are not “poured” or mixed here, they’re balanced and expertly crafted. This is French Bistro comfort food at its finest and it’s unmistakeable.
*Service: it just doesn’t get better. Everyone working there is “family”. And that’s how they make you feel; like family, cared for, wanted, welcomed. Service isn’t a choreographed masterpiece, no tuxedos, cloths draped over arms, napkins frantically re-folded when you step away, dishes served and cleared in unison. No, it’s relaxed, warm, friendly, kind, like being at your grandmothers house and knowing you’re surrounded by people who care. Met Greg and Katherine, the owners, and their daughter Alexandra and several other “family” members taking care of us. Their appreciation for your presence is unmistakable.
*Ambience: it’s just plain comfy, cozy, easy, relaxed, warm, deep, gentle, worn (in a good way), wise, and calm, that’s the best I can describe it. Hard wood floors, cozy rooms, soft, warm lighting. It’s a non-pretentious, French bistro that feels like the home of a favorite grandma or great aunt living in a warm family cottage in the outskirts of Paris.
*Value: it’s perfect. It’s not ridiculously expensive like Kai, Brinkley’s, Cafe Monarch, Christopher’s, or French Laundry where you go, “okay, that was fun but we’ll only do this very occasionally/rarely and it’s probably worth it, but dang that was pricey!” No, Farish House is 100% value to experience, not cheap, but not overpriced, the balance is just right. It’s a place you can go often, and we will. Yes, our meal with apps, drinks and dessert, some on happy hour and the Thursday wine special, was around $200. I’d happily say this experience was worth every penny.
*Overall: I can’t recommend Farish House highly enough. The food, ambience, service, quality, and experience were stellar. I wish I could rate them 6 stars instead of just 5. I’ll return often and highly recommend Farish House to everyone. I genuinely hope you enjoy as much as we did!
We took my mom to afternoon tea on Saturday for an early Mothers Day surprise and we had a wonderful experience! The service was fantastic, all of the food options for the afternoon tea were fun and delicious and we really enjoyed being able to all select our own tea flavors. We are HUGE tea drinkers, hot and cold so this was right up our alley. My mom loved it and definitely wants to go again! Thank you for the excellent service!
Farish House is the kind of restaurant you wish every city had. From the moment you walk in, it feels less like a restaurant and more like you’ve been invited into a friend’s cozy home somewhere in Europe. Warm, intimate, unpretentious, and incredibly welcoming.
The food is on another level. Every dish is thoughtful, beautifully executed, and packed with flavor—the kind of European comfort food that somehow feels both elegant and comforting at the same time. Every bite had us saying, “You have to try this.”
The cocktail program is outstanding, but the real hidden gem is the wine list. Finally, a restaurant that isn’t just another lineup of predictable California wines. The selection spans regions and varietals from all over the world, with something exciting whether you’re an adventurous wine lover or just looking to discover your next favorite bottle. It’s one of the most thoughtfully curated wine lists I’ve seen in Arizona.
What truly ties it all together is the hospitality. The staff genuinely loves what they do, knows the menu and wine list inside and out, and makes you feel like a regular even if it’s your first visit.
Locally owned, incredibly charming, and unforgettable. If you’re looking for a place with soul, phenomenal food, world-class wine, and an atmosphere that makes you want to linger for hours, Farish House is it.
Hands down one of the best dining experiences in Phoenix. We can’t wait to go back.
Wow was this a great meal and experience. Our server, Nicole, could not have possibly been better -- she was fun & funny, told us the history of the restaurant and made sure we ordered the right amount of food and the best items on the menu. The food was lovely and well prepared. We had 4 small plates instead of entrees and it was a great experience all around!
You come for the food, but you come back because of the service. Very courteous and knowledgeable staff, very attentive manager, and great chef. The food was delicious, the environment inside is cozy, and the seating is great inside and outside. We ordered the filet mignon (flavorful, the potatoes had a great texture), tomato soup (as app), pork chop, Raclette (a mix of fingerlings, cheese, salami and bread), Le Mac (Mac n cheese), tiramisu, and the caramel pecan pudding. Everything was delicious, we had a great time, and felt everything was priced accordingly to the level of service they provide. I will definitely recommend them.
CIBO
| Address | 603 N 5th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 3:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (602) 441-2697 |
If you’re looking for an authentic Italian spot with a cozy, hometown feel, CIBO is an absolute gem. The food is incredible, fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with care. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, especially on the patio where you can soak in a relaxed, charming vibe. On weekends, the live music adds the perfect touch and really elevates the whole experience.
What truly sets this place apart is the customer service, friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. You can tell they take pride in creating a great experience from start to finish. Highly recommend!
Amazing pizza and dessert. It was hard to choose what to order because everything on thr menu sounded and looked good. They have photos of every menu item on their website, which is helpful for browsing as well. Cibo has such a cute outdoor area, set up with lots of seating, fairly lights, flowers and lush greenery all over. Picturesque, for sure. The staff seemed knowledgeable on wine recommendations and the service was flawless. Great stop for an Italian meal!
Had no problem finding a seat at the bar and the tender was great. I was drawn to the potato and sausage pizza and it was the best decision I made. Loved it. House Pinot Grigio made a perfect pairing. I know they have a lot of pizza options that may feel overwhelming but if you want a rec you gotta go potato sausage you will not be disappointed.
I can’t remember the name of our waitresses but they were amazing! It was our first time visiting Phoenix and she explained the whole menu and gave us recommendations. I loved the atmosphere and everything was delicious!!! I will definitely be returning whenever I’m down that way again.
We really enjoyed our dinner at Cibo! All the staff were lovely, our waiter was wonderful and the food was delicious. There is plenty of seating and lots of availabilities for walk-ins outside their booked reservations and the prices are very fair for what you get. We got two appetizers, the Pesto Salad and Il Tagliere. The salad was light and flavorful and the Il Tagliere had so many interesting components on it. Highlight was the small stuffed pepper with cheese. There was only one on the board, but it was delicious! For the main entree we all got pizzas, the Vegetariana with pepperoni added on gluten free crust, the Capricciosa, and the Polpettine. We also ordered an aperol spritz and the Bellini. Delicious! The pizzas were the closest we’ve had to our experience in Italy. Would definitely come back again.
Tips for Dining in Phoenix Like a Local
Phoenix dining has its own unwritten rules, and understanding them will dramatically improve your experience. The city’s size, climate, and seasonal rhythms shape everything from reservation availability to menu offerings. These practical suggestions will help you avoid common frustrations and eat better throughout your stay.
1). Make reservations far in advance during peak season
From January through April, Phoenix is flooded with visitors, especially around spring training, major golf tournaments, and large conventions. Popular restaurants can book out two to three weeks ahead, particularly for weekend dinner slots. If you have a must-try restaurant on your list, secure a table before you arrive in town rather than hoping for a same-day opening.
2). Embrace the patio, but know when to sit inside
Outdoor dining is part of Phoenix’s identity, and many restaurants design their patios with shade structures, misters, and evaporative coolers to extend comfort into warmer months. From October through May, patios are wonderful. From June through September, however, even the best misters cannot defeat 110-degree heat. Check the weather forecast and request indoor seating during the summer.
3). Understand that peak dinner time is earlier than in other major cities
Phoenix tends to eat earlier than New York or Los Angeles. Prime dinner reservations often cluster between 6:00 and 7:30 PM, and many kitchens close by 9:00 or 10:00 PM on weeknights. If you prefer a quieter, more relaxed meal, aim for a 5:30 PM seating or a late table just before the kitchen’s last seating.
4). Do not underestimate casual strip-mall restaurants
Some of the best food in Phoenix hides in unglamorous strip malls and suburban plazas. The city’s low-rise, car-centric layout means excellent tacos, pho, sushi, and barbecue often sit next to nail salons and insurance offices. Judge these places by their food and reputation, not their curb appeal.
5). Respect the summer restaurant weeks and off-season deals
Phoenix restaurants work hard to attract diners during the brutally hot summer months. Many participate in Arizona Restaurant Week or offer prix-fixe menus, discounted tasting experiences, and special chef collaborations from June through August. If you are flexible with travel dates, summer offers a chance to try high-end rooms at a fraction of winter prices.
Phoenix has evolved far beyond its old reputation for chain restaurants and hotel coffee shops. Today, the city offers a dining landscape that reflects its history, its geography, and its increasingly sophisticated palate. Whether you are chasing the perfect handmade tortilla, a wood-fired steak, or a tasting menu rooted in desert ingredients, the Valley delivers with confidence and hospitality.
The best way to approach Phoenix dining is with an open mind and a willingness to explore beyond the obvious tourist corridors. Some of the most memorable meals happen in unassuming neighborhoods, where chefs cook with pride and locals return week after week.
Use this list as a starting point, but do not be afraid to ask your server, your hotel concierge, or a friendly local what they are excited about right now. In a city this large and diverse, there is always something new worth discovering.
