PHOENIX — From ramen and sushi to street tacos and wings, Italian ice and doughnuts, vegan and vegetarian cuisine, more than 100 restaurants, bakeries, and dessert shops have opened around the Valley since March, when the COVID-19 pandemic generally began in Arizona.
Some are new restaurants and concepts, while others expanded, opening second, even third locations.
It marks a spark of positivity amid an industry that has been hit hard by the pandemic. A few weeks ago, we reported that more than 50 eateries and restaurants in the Valley had closed, with most citing the pandemic's economic impact.
Like all small businesses, these new ones will need their communities' support to thrive and survive.
The Churchill, an open-air outdoor dining hall in downtown Phoenix, officially reopened less than two weeks ago, and owner Kell Duncan said while there are no in-person events right now, such as First Friday, so far, customers have been stopping by.
"The biggest thing we're seeing is that now everyone has adjusted to what most places have in place in terms of guidelines," he said, referring to mask requirements and social distancing.
"The Churchill has some advantages for this. We’re open-air, we’re outdoor, [and] we have the luxury of an 8,000-square-foot courtyard."
We've been keeping track of the bars, restaurants, and other food-related businesses in the Phoenix area that have opened or closed since March, following social media posts, emails, and other news reports.
Our list does not include every opening, but the ones that we are aware of, and have been able to confirm. If we missed one, send an email to share@abc15.com.
AVONDALE
JJ's Grub Shack
JJ and Regina are the owners behind JJ's Grub Shack, a trio of neighborhood restaurants. They were initially Native Grill & Wings franchises, but because of the pandemic, JJ and Regina were able to leave the franchise and rebrand. "The goal of owners JJ & Regina is to provide food that no matter where you are from, when eaten, will fondly take you back to a place of good times, great memories and home," the website states. The menu features American comfort foods: wings, burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, Po'Boys, pizzas, and cocktails. There have locations in Avondale, Goodyear, and north Phoenix.
If you go:
10220 W McDowell Rd #160, Avondale, AZ 85392
15375 W McDowell Rd., Goodyear, AZ 85395
2501 W Happy Valley Rd Ste 12, Phoenix, AZ 85085
www.jjsgrubbshack.com
CAVE CREEK
Pomodoro Italian Grill & Seafood
The owners behind Pizzicata, an Italian restaurant and pizzeria in Carefree, have opened a second restaurant. Pomodoro Italian Grill and Seafood opened in the former Cartwright's restaurant space in September, according to the restaurant's Facebook page. The upscale Italian restaurant offers antipasti and salads, a variety of pasta dishes, ravioli, gnocchi, and meat dishes.
If you go:
6710 E Cave Creek Rd Cave Creek, AZ 85331
www.pomodorousa.com
Phat Turtle BBQ
Pack the napkins because there is a new barbecue joint in town. Phat Turtle BBQ, a new Kansas City-style barbecue restaurant, opened over the summer in Cave Creek. Low and slow is their cooking style. Menu items include the staples -- brisket, pulled pork, pulled chicken, ribs -- and the all-important sides.
If you go:
30845 N. Cave Creek Rd #107 Cave Creek, AZ 85331
www.phatturtlebbq.com
CHANDLER
Jeremiah’s Italian Ice
Jeremiah's Italian Ice, a Florida-based dessert concept, opened its first out-of-state franchise in south Chandler in June. Its signature dessert is the "Jeremiah's Gelati," which is layers of soft-serve ice cream and flavored Italian ice. "It’s definitely thicker and creamier than shaved ice, but lighter and a lot more refreshing than ice cream. It falls in between," said franchise owner Abbie Mirata. Jeremiah's has approximately 40 rotating flavors of Italian ice, 20 of which are available each day. Flavors include strawberry-lemon, sour green apple, mango, blueberry, pina colada, banana, chocolate, Scoop Froggy Frog (mint chocolate chip), cake batter and cookie batter.
If you go:
4050 S Alma School Rd. Chandler, AZ 85248
www.jeremiahsice.com
Salad & Go
Salad & Go, a rapidly expanding breakfast and salad drive-thru concept in the Valley, continued its expansion with the opening of at least seven restaurants in the East Valley. Salad and Go opened five locations in Phoenix, two in Tempe, and one in Chandler.
If you go:
3095 E. Queen Creek Rd., Chandler, AZ 85286
3425 W. Greenway Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85053
710 E. Dunlap Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85020
1902 W. Northern Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85021
777 W. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85013
3233 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85018
909 E. Broadway Rd., Tempe, AZ 85282
7800 South Priest Drive, Tempe, AZ 85284
www.saladandgo.com
Bisbee Breakfast Club
Bisbee Breakfast Club opened in Bisbee, Arizona, a small mining town in southern Arizona, in 2005. In the years since, the restaurant has opened more restaurants in and around Tucson, and expanded to the Phoenix area. It has a restaurant in Mesa and recently opened a restaurant in Chandler. The menu is extensive with both breakfast and items, such as omelets, pancakes, oatmeal and gravy, burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
If you go:
940 N 54th St Suite 100, Chandler, AZ 85226
www.bisbeebreakfastclub.com
Founding Fathers Kitchen
Founding Fathers Kitchen relocated from Ahwatukee to Chandler during the pandemic. It opened where Jimmy T's Holy Crab was. The restaurants offers a little bit of everything, from wings and burgers to ribs and steak to crab, lobster, and shrimp. The owners also opened RKDA Kitchen, a similar, but smaller restaurant in Arcadia, but closed that location in March, according to their Instagram account.
If you go:
1050 W Ray Rd, Chandler, AZ 85224
www.facebook.com/FoundingFathersKitchen
Howler's Restaurant & Sports Bar
Howler's is a new American sports bar and restaurant in the Valley. Two locations have opened in Chandler and Gilbert. Two more are in the works for Peoria and Scottsdale, said Dennis Gonsiorovsky, founder of Group71, the company behind Howler's and EuroCafe71 in north Scottsdale. He said he wants to open 10-15 restaurants in the Valley over the next 3-5 years, including locations in Phoenix and in the West Valley. The menu features typical sports bar appetizers, along with burgers, pizzas, salads, wraps and sandwiches, and pastas.
If you go:
3095 W Chandler Blvd. Chandler AZ 85226
1026 S Gilbert Rd., Gilbert AZ 85296
www.howlerssportsbar.com
Biryani Pot
Biryani Pot is a new restaurant in Chandler that specializes in Hyderabadi cuisine, a regional style of cooking in India. As their name implies, some of their signature dishes are biryani, a dish that combines rice, chicken, and vegetables, and are served in a biryani pot.
If you go:
2820 S Alma School Rd., Chandler, AZ 85286
https://biryanipotchandler.com/
The Stillery
The Stillery, a Nashville, Tennessee-based country bar and restaurant, recently opened in downtown Chandler, part of the "New Square" development. From mason jar cocktails to fried pickles and a fried chicken sandwich, the menu features a few Southern favorites but also has pizzas, salads, and two-handed sandwiches. They also showcase a bunch of Arizona beers, including Four Peaks, San Tan Brewing, OHSO, Huss Brewing, and Mother Road.
If you go:
130 S Arizona Ave. Chandler, AZ 85225
www.stillerychandler.com
Backyard Taco
Backyard Taco is a small, locally-owned chain of Mexican restaurants in the East Valley that has been rapidly expanding over the years. In October, they opened a fourth location in Chandler and have "future plans to open more locations," including one in Queen Creek. Their menu features smoked street tacos, grilled gorditas and tostadas, stuffed quesadillas, burritos, and papa loca, or Mexican baked potatoes.
If you go:
2400 S. Gilbert Rd Gilbert, AZ 85286
www.backyardtaco.com
The Crowned Egg
The Crowned Egg, a breakfast restaurant in Gilbert, opened a second location near the Loop 101 and Ray Road in Chandler. It is located in the same complex as Pokitrition and Rewind Ice Cream. For breakfast, the menu highlights crepes, waffles, French toasty, as well as eggs Benedict, skillets, and omelets. For lunch, diners will find burgers, salads, and burritos.
If you go:
3235 W Ray Rd., Chandler, AZ 85226
www.thecrownedeggaz.com
La Ristra New Mexican Kitchen
Those looking for spicy, may want to make a visit to La Ristra New Mexican Kitchen. The restaurant specializes in New Mexican food. The original location is in Glendale, but the owners recently opened a location in Chandler. House specialties include red or green chile plate, blue corn-stacked enchiladas, and Adovada short ribs, according to an online menu. It also features tacos, tapas, soups and salads.
If you go:
140 N Arizona Ave, Chandler, AZ 85225
www.laristraaz.com
GILBERT
Nurdberger
Nurdberger (yes that is how the name is spelled) is a new build-your-own burger joint in Gilbert, Arizona. Burgers seem to be the name of the game, but it's their colorful drinks, fried onion rings, and funnel cake fries (yes, you read that correctly) that have become the clear standouts on Instagram. The menu also has chicken sandwiches and Philly cheesesteaks.
If you go:
235 E Warner Rd #107 Gilbert, AZ 85296
www.instagram.com/nurdbergergilbert
Da’Bayou Creole Kitchen
After The Brass Tap closed in downtown Gilbert, the space was turned into a new concept: Da’Bayou Creole Kitchen. The Louisiana-inspired restaurant promises Creole cuisine and Bourbon Street-inspired cocktails. "Da' Bayou's mission it to take our guests out of da' desert and drop em' in da' middle of da' French Quarter," the website reads. The menu features dishes such as Po'Boys, shrimp, chicken, and catfish baskets, shrimp etouffee, jambalaya, seafood boil, and surf and turf.
If you go:
313 N. Gilbert Road, Suite 100, Gilbert AZ 85234
www.dabayoucreolekitchen.com
Press Coffee
Press Coffee, a Phoenix-based coffee shop and roastery, opened one location and relocated another during the pandemic. After 10 years in its space, Press Coffee relocated to a larger space at the Scottsdale shopping center. Press also opened a location at The Reserve at San Tan in Gilbert, Arizona.
If you go:
335 E Germann Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85297
www.presscoffee.com
Surf City Sandwich
Surf City Sandwich, a California-based artisan sandwich shop, expanded to Arizona and in March opened a location in Gilbert. The seaside-inspired eatery specialized in handcrafted hot and cold sandwiches. The menu also features salads and shareable sides.
If you go:
5482 S. Power Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85295
www.surfcitysandwich.com
Vito's Pizza & Italian Ristorante
Vito's has been open in Mesa for more than 30 years. In May, the Italian restaurant opened a second location near Higley and Queen Creek roads in Gilbert. Their menu is extensive and has numerous Italian favorites, from pastas and pizzas to soups and salads.
If you go:
4865 S Higley Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85298
www.vitospizza.com
Clever Koi
This is more of a grand reopening for Clever Koi's location in Gilbert. In August 2019, the restaurant in downtown Gilbert closed after a kitchen fire. Fourteen months later, on Oct. 9, Clever Koi reopened. The owners told ABC15 that much of the damage was in the kitchen, but construction was delayed further because of the pandemic. They also took some time to make some aesthetic changes to the restaurant -- brightening it up and updated some of the tables. Clever Koi is an Asian-inspired restaurant whose menu highlights Ramen and noodle dishes, sushi, steamed buns, and dumplings.
If you go:
60 W. Vaughn Ave #101, Gilbert, AZ 85234
www.thecleverkoi.com
B Gastro Bar
After five years, the owners of Cuisine and Wine Bistro, a French restaurant with locations in Chandler and Gilbert, decided to renovate and rebrand the Gilbert location. They opened B Gastro Bar, an American restaurant with comfort foods, classic cocktails, and beer. The menu features some dishes from its days as a French restaurant, but now highlights burgers and salads, a chicken sandwich, lobster and chorizo macaroni and cheeses, and meatloaf.
If you go:
1422 W Warner Rd Gilbert, AZ 85233
www.bgastrobar.com
GLENDALE
Lou Malnati's
Lou Malnati's opened in Glendale, Arizona, its first location in the West Valley and fourth location in Arizona. Similar to its location in Arcadia, the Glendale location is not a full-service restaurant and is focused on carry-out and pickup orders, and catering. It has two full-service restaurants at Uptown Plaza in Phoenix and in North Scottsdale. The Chicago-based pizzeria is known for its pizza (of course), including deep-dish, thin-crust, and no-crust, but it also has salads, pastas, and sandwiches on the menu.
If you go:
7507 W Rose Garden Ln Suite 105, Glendale, AZ 85308
www.loumalnatis.com
The Village in Glendale
The Village in Glendale is a new marketplace in the West Valley that aims to showcase some 30 vegan and plant-based businesses offering pastries and sweets, snacks, ready-to-go meals, essential oils, and eco-friendly sheets and linen. You can see a full list, here.
If you go:
7145 N 58th Dr., Glendale, AZ 85301
www.instagram.com/thevillageinglendale
GOODYEAR
JJ's Grub Shack
JJ and Regina are the owners behind JJ's Grub Shack, a trio of neighborhood restaurants. They were initially Native Grill & Wings franchises, but because of the pandemic, JJ and Regina were able to leave the franchise and re-brand. "The goal of owners JJ & Regina is to provide food that no matter where you are from, when eaten, will fondly take you back to a place of good times, great memories and home," the website states. The menu features a slew of American comfort foods: wings, burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, Po'Boys, pizzas, and cocktails. There are locations in Avondale, Goodyear, and north Phoenix.
If you go:
10220 W McDowell Rd #160, Avondale, AZ 85392
15375 W McDowell Rd., Goodyear, AZ 85395
2501 W Happy Valley Rd Ste 12, Phoenix, AZ 85085
www.jjsgrubbshack.com
MESA
Macayo's
Macayo's Mexican Restaurant, which was sold to Kind Hospitality in 2019, has opened two restaurants in Mesa and Tempe this year. The Mesa location opened near Superstition Springs. The Tempe location is near Loop 202 and Scottsdale Road, not far from the north side of Tempe Town Lake. There are plans to open a third location at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, but those plans were put on hold because of the pandemic, according to Ashley Negron, director of operations & brand management for Macayo's East Valley restaurants. The Macayo's Tempe Depot location permanently closed in March, Negron said. The Johnson Family retained ownership of that location after the deal with Kind Hospitality.
If you go:
6538 E Superstition Springs Blvd., Mesa, AZ 85206
650 N. Scottsdale Road Tempe, AZ 85281
www.macayo.com
Mr. Mesquite's Taqueria
Mr. Mesquite's Taqueria, a locally-owned casual Mexican restaurant, opened its newest eatery in east Mesa near Crismon Road and Southern Avenue. At Mesquite's, customers design their own tacos, burritos, protein bowls, and quesadillas. They have other locations in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Surprise, and Tempe with additional locations coming to Gilbert and North Phoenix, according to its website.
If you go:
1222 S Crismon Rd Mesa, AZ 85209
www.eatmrmesquite.com
H Mart + Market Eatery Food Hall
After years of delays and construction, H Mart, a Korean grocery store chain, opened within Mesa's growing Asian district. The grocery store carries a number of Asian good and foods, as well as fresh produce, meat, seafood, and dairy. It also has a food hall that is home to seven eateries: DA Noodle (Chinese cuisine), DA Pan (pan-fried noodles), Korean Food Garden (Korean cuisine), Maisen Katsu (Japanese cuisine), Sogongdong Tofu House (soft tofu-soup restaurant), Korean Fried Chicken, and Paris Baguette, a New Jersey-based french bakery.
If you go:
1919 W Main Street, Mesa AZ 85201
https://fresh.hmart.com
Drizzle Donut Co.
For those with a sweet tooth, Drizzle Donut Co. might be the answer. The doughnut shop specializes in customized, made-to-order doughnuts. It recently opened its debut shop in Mesa. A second location is planned for Queen Creek, though it is not yet known when that location plans to open. They have eight types of doughnuts, six icings and two glazes, more than 20 toppings, and nearly a dozen other "drizzles" or sauces, such as caramel chocolate, and cream cheese.
If you go:
1720 W Southern Ave Ste C1, Mesa, AZ 85202
www.drizzledonutco.com
Bibio
The Korean restaurant opened its first location in Mesa in December 2019 and then opened a second Chandler location in 2020. Like other concepts at Bibio, diners craft their own meal choosing a base, protein, sauces, and toppings. Bibio offers four proteins: beef ribeye bulgogi, chicken bulgogi, spicy chicken, and spicy pork.
If you go:
4972 S Power Rd #103 Mesa, AZ 85212
www.bibiokitchen.com
Tacos Chiwas
Tacos Chiwas, a beloved and revered taco shop in Phoenix and Chandler, opened a third restaurant -- and its largest -- in downtown Mesa. Owner Armando Hernandez, who owns the restaurant with his wife, Nadia, said the duo likes to open their restaurants in up-and-coming neighborhoods and areas that are being revitalized. The Mesa location has the largest footprint of the owners and is the first to have a full-service bar, Hernandez previously told ABC15. Tacos Chiwas is known for its street tacos, gorditas, and burritos. The Mesa location will also have brunch, something the other two locations do not have.
If you go:
127 W Main St., Mesa, AZ 85201
www.tacoschiwas.com
Daruma by Rie
Daruma is a new Japanese restaurant in Mesa that offers sushi, sushi rolls, and noodle dishes. The restaurant opened in August, according to its website. The menu features 25 rolls, from the basic salmon and tuna rolls to the Vegas and poke rolls. It also highlights chicken and rice dishes, as well as noodle dishes.
If you go:
1116 S. Dobson Rd #113 Mesa AZ 85202
www.darumabyrie.com
Mr. Claws Cajun Seafood House
In June, Mr. Claws, a new seafood restaurant, opened its doors in Mesa, according to MouthbySouthwest, a local blog, and the restaurant's Facebook page. The restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, including Snow crab, King crab, shrimp, crawfish, and mussels. They also have fried favorites, like calamari and coconut shrimp.
If you go:
1130 W Grove ave Ste 111 Mesa, AZ 85210
www.facebook.com
PEORIA
Mochilero Kitchen
Mochilero Kitchen is a new Mexican restaurant in Peoria. Brother and sister, Jorge Cota and Meliza Miranda, opened their restaurant in April amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "We're taking people on a backpacking trip through all the regions of Mexico, through different states, and being able to identify different things that people didn’t really realize were part of the cuisine to begin with," Cota told ABC15, part of our "We're Open, Arizona" series. The menu features a variety of tacos, burritos, and bowls, as well as appetizers and salads. At the time, one of their popular items was the Papa Brava Taco, which has Yukon gold potatoes, herbs, Oaxaca cheese.
If you go:
6791 W Happy Valley Rd #100 Peoria AZ 85383
www.mochilerokitchen.com
Hash Kitchen, The Sicilian Butcher, and The Sicilian Baker
Chef Joey Maggiore has taken three of his concepts to the West Valley. Hash Kitchen, The Sicilian Butcher, and The Sicilian Baker all opened at Park West in Peoria, Hash Kitchen is a loud, high-energy breakfast and brunch spot known for its Bloody Mary bar, decadent french toast, and cereal cocktails. The Sicilian Butcher offers customized meatballs, charcuterie boards, pastas, and pizza. The Sicilian Baker specialized in customized cannolis and Italian desserts. He has other restaurants in Phoenix and Chandler.
If you go:
Hash Kitchen: 9780 W. Northern Avenue Suite 1100 Peoria, AZ 85345
Sicilian Butcher & Sicilian Baker: 9780 W. Northern Avenue Suite 1110 Peoria, AZ 85345
www.thesicilianbaker.com
www.thesicilianbutcher.com
www.hashkitchen.com
Jalapeno Inferno
Jalapeno Inferno, a Mexican restaurant with two locations in Scottsdale, opened a third location at Park West in Peoria, its first location in the West Valley. It is also the largest of the three restaurants. Jalapeno Inferno specializes in street tacos, but its expansive menu includes many Mexican favorites, including enchiladas, burritos, chile Relleno. It also has fajitas, soups, and salads.
If you go:
9832 W. Northern Avenue, Suite 1660, Peoria, AZ 85345
www.jalapenoinferno.com
Azuquita
Azuquita is a new dessert shop in the West Valley that combines American and Mexican treats. One of their specialties is the Concha ice cream sandwich, which is ice cream sandwiched between Concha, a sweet Mexican bread roll. They also have milkshakes, frappes, ice cream scoops, Buñuelo nachos, and Mexican fruit drinks and smoothies.
If you go:
7539 W Peoria Ave B101 Peoria, AZ 85345
www.facebook.com/theazuquita
PHOENIX
Greenwood Brewing
Brewer Megan Greenwood is the founder of Greenwood Brewing, a new female-owned brewing company in Phoenix that opened a taproom in the heart of Phoenix's Roosevelt Row. Their signature beers include Herstory Pale Ale, Forward IPA, Essence ALe, and Harvest Diem Spiced Ale.
If you go:
425 E Roosevelt St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
www.greenwoodbrews.com
Sushi Vibe
Sushi Vibe, as its name suggests, is a new Japanese sushi restaurant in the Valley. It opened over the summer at Uptown Plaza in central Phoenix. Aside from sushi, the restaurant also offers a variety of appetizers and noodle dishes, including yakisoba, chicken and beef teriyaki, and curry. It is owned by Masa Kim, who also owns Sushiholic, Sushi Style and Fresh Wasabi.
If you go:
100 East Camelback Road Phoenix, Arizona 85012
www.uptownplazaphx.com
Dog Haus
Doh Haus, a chain restaurant that specializes in hot dogs and sausages, opened a location over the summer at CityScape in downtown Phoenix. Dog Haus has opened a couple of locations around the Valley in recent years: San Tan Village in Gilbert and Scottsdale Quarter in Scottsdale. All of Dog Haus' hot dogs, sausages, burgers, and sandwiches are served on Hawaiian sweet rolls. They also have loaded tots and fries and onion rings.
If you go:
1 E Washington St Suite 120 Phoenix, AZ 85004
www.doghaus.com
Thai Chili 2 Go
Thai Chili 2 Go, a locally-owned chain of that restaurants that specialize in authentic Thai cuisine, opened its 10th Valley restaurant in Ahwatukee. The menu has a variety of Thai curries, rice and noodle dishes, and vegetarian and vegan options. Dishes include dumplings, red, green or yellow curry, pad Thai, drunken noodles, Thai Chow Main, spring rolls, and vegetarian (or vegan) fried rice.
If you go:
5029 E Chandler Blvd #306 Phoenix, AZ 85048
https://tc2go.com/
Del Taco
The fast-food Mexican restaurant opened a new location in the Deer Valley area.
If you go:
2205 W Deer Valley Rd Phoenix, AZ 85027
www.deltaco.com
Pachamama
Pachamama, which means "Mother Earth" in Quechua, an indigenous language in South America, is a new plant-based Latin-inspired restaurant in the Valley. Owners Chefette Maria and Kevin Lebron have been part of farmer's markets in the Valley, according to the Arizona Republic, but decided to open their first physical location after not finding enough variety or vegan dishes in Phoenix. "I wanted to create a place that would provide global flavors with a Latin twist using simple yet innovative ingredients," Maria wrote on her website.
If you go:
4115 N. 19th Ave Phoenix AZ 85015
www.pachamamaphx.com
Dori Hand Roll Bar + Ramen
Dori Hand Roll Bar + Ramen opened weeks before the pandemic forced restaurants, bars, and other attractions around town to close. It is the latest concept from the owners behind Ahipoki, a chain of customized poke bowl restaurants. Dori, which means street in Japanese, was designed to look like an urban back alley in Japan. Dori's menu consists of ramen bowls, sushi, and hand rolls.
If you go:
1928 E Highland Ave Suite F-104, Phoenix, AZ 85016
www.dorihandrollandramen.com
Aioli Gourmet Burger
Aioli Gourmet Burger, an award-winning food truck that opened a physical location in Phoenix a few years ago, has expanded amid the pandemic and opened two additional locations. One is inside the Fry's Marketplace in Litchfield Park. The other is a stand-alone restaurant in north Phoenix, similar to the original near 32nd Street and Shea Blvd. The menu features burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
If you go:
430 E Bell Rd #103 Phoenix, AZ 85022
13730 W Camelback Rd, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340 (inside Fry's)
www.aioliburger.com
Pop Stand, Cartel Coffee Lab, and Lylo Swim Club at Arrive Phoenix
Arrive Phoenix, a new $25 million 79-room boutique hotel in central Phoenix, opened in September. With it, comes new locations and concepts from some of Arizona's locally-owned businesses and restauranteurs: Pop Stand, Cartel Coffee Lab, and Lylo Swim Club. Pop Stand serves Mexican-style paletas -- fruit-flavored ice pops -- and doubles as the hotel's check-in desk. Cartel Coffee Lab, a local roastery, opened a cafe that offers coffee drinks, tea, and pastries. Lylo Swim Club is the hotel's poolside restaurant and bar and is helmed by Ross Simon, who also owns Bitter and Twisted and co-owns Little Rituals. Lylo offers drinks and cocktails, such as sorbet Bellinis and a rum-inspired Dole Whip, and Hawaiian-Japanese bites, such as poke bowls and Japanese fried chicken.
If you go:
400 W Camelback Rd Phoenix, AZ 85013
www.arrivehotels.com/phoenix
Angry Crab Shack
Angry Crab Shack, an Mesa, Arizona-based chain of cajun-style seafood restaurants, opened two restaurants during the pandemic in Laveen and Queen Creek. Angry Shack's signature menu item is its create-it-yourself seafood boils where guests choose their seafood -- shrimp, crab, lobster, lobster, clams, mussels -- vegetables, and spices.
If you go:
6360 S 35th Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85041
1749 W Hunt Hwy., San Tan Valley, AZ 85143
www.angrycrabshack.com
The Boozy Breakfast
High Street now has a spot for daily breakfast. The Boozy Breakfast, as its name implies, is a new breakfast restaurant that opened at the north Phoenix residential and shopping complex. On the "boozy" side, it has Bloody Marys, mimosas and mimosa flights, and alcoholic coffee drinks. The breakfast menu features crepes, waffles and French toasts, eggs Benedicts, and create-your-own breakfast sandwiches.
If you go:
5450 E High St. Phoenix, AZ 85054
www.theboozybreakfastaz.com
Origami Ramen
Chef Yusuke Kuroda, who trained at Nobu in Los Angeles, opened Origami Ramen, an authentic Japanese ramen restaurant, in Phoenix, the Arizona Republic first reported. The menu features eight signature ramen bowls, from classic to miso to spicy to vegan, but ramen isn't the only thing on the menu. Kuroda also offers donburi, a Japanese rice bowl, sushi hand rolls, and traditional appetizers, such as edamame, seaweed salad, and Karaage (crispy fried chicken).
If you go:
4810 E Ray Rd. Suite A-1 Phoenix AZ 85044
https://www.origamiramenbar.com/
Cafe Margarita
Owner Tommy Morano opened Cafe Margarita, a new restaurant that mixes his passions for Mexican and Italian cuisine. It is also the sister concept to his other restaurant, Tommy's Place, which, as of this writing, remains closed because of the pandemic. The menu highlights a typical breakfast menu in the morning, followed by a combination of Mexican and Italian dishes in the evening, such as pastas, pizzas, Arroz con Pollo, Chili Relleno, and street tacos. It also has American favorites, like burgers, sandwiches, and cheesesteaks.
If you go:
16816 N. Cave Creek Rd Phoenix AZ, 85032
www.cafemargaritaaz.com
La Bohemia
La Bohemia is a new coffee shop in Phoenix that was inspired by Mexico City, according to the Arizona Republic. Friends Alejandro Larios and Carla Chavarría opened the coffee shop in June near 18th Street and McDowell. They have a limited menu of coffee drinks, agua frescas, and pastries.
If you go:
1736 E McDowell Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85006
www.labohemiaphx.com
Chantico
The culinary group behind Ocotillo, Starlight BBQ, and Sidecar Social Club, have opened another restaurant concept, Chantico. "Chantico blends old and new with a focus on local, healthy and organic," the restaurant website reads, noting that its menu is inspired by the ingredients throughout Mexico. The menu features a mix of tacos, flautas, chimichangas, enchiladas, quesadillas, and Yucatan-style tamales, as well as appetizers, salads, and larger plates.
If you go:
1051 E Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85014
www.chanticophx.com
Pho Laveen
Pho Laveen is a Vietnamese restaurant that opened in March, as the pandemic was spreading in Arizona. It specializes in customized Pho. It also features other Asian dishes, including Pad Thai, drunken noodles, Korean barbecue, and spicy kimchi. Owner Jenny Le opened the restaurant as a tribute to her mother.
If you go:
3424 W. Southern Ave, Unit 180 Phoenix, AZ 85041
www.pholaveenaz.com
Flavorz Fish & Chicken
Flavorz Fish & Chicken opened over the summer along 7th Street in Phoenix. It is a small, family-owned restaurant that aims to bring Midwest cooking to Arizona. Some of their specialties include deep-fried catfish, chicken wings, and baked macaroni and cheese, but they also have burgers and fried butterfly shrimp.
If you go:
9706 N.7th st Phoenix AZ 85020
www.facebook.com/Flavorzaz
Kaizen
Kaizen, which roughly translates to improvement or change in Japanese, is a new Japanese-Latin sushi and omakase (chef's choice) restaurant within Phoenix's Warehouse District. It is the latest concept from Conceptually Social, the group that opened The Dressing Room (since sold and close) and The Larry, another restaurant within the Warehouse District. In fact, Kaizen and The Larry share the same space. Kaizen's menu features small and large places, sushi rolls, sashimi, nigiri, and poke bowls.
If you go:
515 East Grant Street Phoenix, AZ 85004
www.kaizenphx.com
Ramen Kagawa
Ramen Kagawa is a new Japanese ramen restaurant in downtown Phoenix. It opened in August near First Avenue and Monroe Street, not far from Harumi Sushi, another popular spot. The menu features seven signature ramen bowls -- chicken, pork, and a vegetarian option -- along with Japanese curry and bento boxes.
If you go:
111 West Monroe St, #130, Phoenix, AZ 85003
www.ramenkagawa.com
Nanaya Japanese Kitchen
Nanaya Japense Kitchen describes itself as a "cozy izakaya-style restaurant" near 36th Street and Indian School in Arcadia. In Japan, izakaya refers to a casual restaurant that serve food and drinks. The menu features a half-dozen ramen dishes, from shio paitan to spicy Japanese curry paitan to shoyu chintan, as well as fried skewers, sushi and sashimi, and traditional small plates and appetizers.
If you go:
3603 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix AZ 85018
www.nanayajapanesekitchen.com
The Golden Margarita
The Golden Margarita is a new American bar and restaurant along Roosevelt Row in downtown Phoenix. It replaces Paz Cantina at the Roosevelt Row Apartments near Third and Roosevelt streets. They have more than a dozen margaritas on their menu, as well as tacos, burgers, and wings.
If you go:
330 E Roosevelt St. Phoenix, AZ 85004
www.thegoldenmargarita.com
Ghett Yo Pizza, Sliders & More
The owners behind Ghett Yo Tacos in Chandler opened a second restaurant, Ghett Yo Pizza, Sliders & More, near 48th Street and Elliot Road in Ahwatukee. Like its name, the menu features pizzas, sliders...and comfort appetizers such as wings, mozzarella sticks, and onion rings. They have about 10 different slider options and a dozen signature pizzas.
If you go:
4747 E. Elliot Road, Phoenix AZ 85044
www.ghettyotaco.com/ghettyo-pizza
Osteria Mia
Mario Rana and his dad, also named Mario Rana, own State 48 Brewery, a Surprised-based brewing company that has rapidly expanded with a handful of locations around the Valley in recent years. Well, Mario, the son, has opened a restaurant of his own, Osteria Mia, in north Phoenix. The Italian restaurant specializes in wood-fired pizzas and handmade pasta.
If you go:
2530 W Happy Valley Road, Phoenix AZ 85085
www.osteriamia.com
Little O's
If Little O's had a brother, it would be O.H.S.O. Brewery & Distillery. Little O's is a small neighborhood bar -- an offshoot of O.H.S.O. -- and recently opened near 7th Street and McDowell Road. It is owned by Summer Anesin, who was a longtime employee at O.H.S.O. The menu features some of the popular items from OHSO, and the bar has (you guessed it) OHSO's beer and spirits.
If you go:
521 W McDowell Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85003
www.littleosaz.com
Tombstone Brewing Co.
Arizonans have another spot to grab a pint or two in Phoenix. Tombstone Brewing Co., a small, but popular brewery based in Tombstone, Arizona, the town that's "too tough to die," recently moved into the space that formerly housed Helio Basin Brewing Co., which closed after four years. The most essentially doubles Tombstone's brewing capacity, said owner Matt Brown, and gives them a presence in Phoenix, which is their top-selling market. They plan on serving food at the taproom, as well as having beer on tap and in cans.
If you go:
3935 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018
https://tombstone.beer
Fuego Bistro at the Clarendon
After 13 years, Fuego Bistro was ready to close its Latin-fusion restaurant in Midtown. But, an opportunity came to relocate and join The Clarendon Hotel in Phoenix. So, the owners moved the restaurant and reopened over the summer. Diners will find tacos, enchiladas, nachos, pork medallions, soups, and salads on the menu, among other dishes.
If you go:
401 W. Clarendon Phoenix, 85013
www.fuegobistro.com
Stoop Kid
Stoop Kid recently opened at The Churchill, an outdoor marketplace in downtown Phoenix home to small-format restaurants, bars, and shops. Stoop Kid, co-owned by Steve McMillen, serves New York-style bagel sandwiches and coffee in the mornings and transitions to burgers in the afternoon and evening.
If you go:
901 N. 1st St Phoenix, AZ 85004
www.thechurchillphx.com
SCOTTSDALE
Chispa's
Chispa's is a fast-casual design-it-yourself Mexican restaurant in Scottsdale that offers customized tacos, burritos, bowls, quesadillas, and tostadas. Some of its specialty dishes include chicken flautas, Mexican hot dogs, ceviche, stuffed papa, and elote cups. It also has a drive-thru. The restaurant is owned by Czarina Valenzuela, whose family owns Los Olivos Mexican Patio, a longtime restaurant in Scottsdale. Chispa means "spark" in Spanish and is also the nickname of her grandma, who she named the restaurant after.
If you go:
8046 E Thomas Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
www.chispasfresh.com
Francine Restaurant
Francine, an upscale Mediterranean-French fine-dining restaurant, opened in August within Scottsdale Fashion Square's self-branded luxury wing. It is the latest concept from Chef Laurent Halasz, who owns Farmhouse and Fig & Olive in Los Angeles, California. "Everything on my mother’s table was fresh, seasonal, and full of flavor, and that is exactly what FRANCINE will offer our guests,” said Halasz, who was raised in southern France, in a statement. His restaurant joins a healthy lineup of upscale restaurants that have joined the mall: Nobu, Ocean 44, Toca Madera, Tocaya Organiza, and Zinqué.
If you go:
4170 N Goldwater Blvd., Scottsdale AZ 85251
www.francinerestaurant.com
The Dash Inn Tribute Room
The Dash Inn was a Mexican bar and restaurant that closed in 1994 after 27 years in business. Owner Dave Andrea, who oversaw The Dash Inn in its last years, and also owns Brat Haus, has reimagined the restaurant and reopened a tribute room to it at Brat Haus in Old Town Scottsdale. It features a simple design with wood slates, simple tables, a big box TV, and vintage lighting. "The Dash played an important role in thousands of peoples happy memories of a simpler time and college life in the ‘70s and ‘80s. It’s been so much fun listening to all their stories as we bring it back," said Andrea in a statement.
If you go:
3616 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
www.dashinnaz.com
Stratta Kitchen
Stratta Kitchen is a health-conscious fast-casual restaurant focused on Mediterranean cuisine in North Scottsdale. It is also the latest concept led by Alex Stratta, a James Beard award-winning and Michelin-starred chef, who has worked at The Phoenician, the Arizona Biltmore Resort, and the Wynn Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. He partnered with Genuine Concepts, the group behind The Vig, Ladera Taverna y Concina, and Little Woody. Stratta Kitchen opened in August. The menu features a variety of small plates and shared dishes. Items include grilled skewers, toasts, hummus, wraps, and sauces.
If you go:
8260 N Hayden Rd Ste A102 Scottsdale, AZ 85258
www.strattakitchen.com
Press Coffee
Press Coffee, a Phoenix-based coffee shop and roastery, opened one location and relocated another during the pandemic. After 10 years in its space, Press Coffee relocated to a larger space at the Scottsdale shopping center. Press also opened a location at The Reserve at San Tan in Gilbert, Arizona.
If you go:
15147 N Scottsdale Rd #102Scottsdale, AZ 85260
www.presscoffee.com
Teriyaki Madness
Teriyaki Madness, a fast-casual national Asian restaurant chain, opened its first location in Scottsdale with the Scottsdale Shops shopping center. Teriyaki Madness has nine signature bowls, from salmon, chicken, and beef to yakisoba noodles, chicken katsu, and spicy tofu. Other locations are in Chandler, Gilbert, and Mesa. Locations are listed as coming soon to Peoria and Tolleson, according to its website.
If you go:
14884 N Pima Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85260
www.teriyakimadness.com
Cobre Kitchen + Cocktails and Outrider - Canopy by Hilton Scottsdale Old Town
Cobre Kitchen + Cocktails is the signature restaurant at Canopy by Hilton Scottsdale Old Town, a 177-room hotel part of Hilton's boutique hotel line. It is also reportedly the first hotel to open in Scottsdale in a decade. Cobre Kitchen is a Southwest-inspired American brasserie. Its menu features different small plates, sandwiches, salads, and flatbreads. Outrider Rooftop Lounge, like Alibi in Tempe, is the hotel's 7th-floor rooftop bar and lounge. It will also focus on small bites and shared dishes, such as meatballs, ceviche, pulled pork tacos, chicken wings, and chilled shrimp.
If you go:
7142 East 1st St. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
www.hilton.com
The Mick Brasserie and Bar
The Mick Brasserie and Bar is a French-inspired restaurant that opened over the summer in north Scottsdale. On its website, The Mick is described as a "modern interpretation of a French brasserie." Its menu highlights a number of small plates, meat-and-cheese boards, and some familiar French dishes, like beef tartare, escargot, and Flambé.
If you go:
9719 N Hayden Rd Scottsdale, AZ 85258
www.themickaz.com
Gabriella's Contemporary American Cuisine
Owners and husband and wife, Anthony and Anna Barr, moved to Arizona from California after the coronavirus pandemic hit and effectively forced their catering business to close. So, they took their skills and opened Gabriella's, a contemporary American restaurant, in Scottsdale. The menu at Gabriella's features familiar dishes, such as pork belly sliders, braised short ribs, grilled steak, free-range chicken, as well as salads, pastas, and other grain dishes.
If you go:
10155 E Vía Linda Scottsdale, AZ 85258
www.gabriellasscottsdale.com
Vicinos Local Italian
Earlier this year, Vito's Pizza and Italian Ristorante in Scottsdale was sold to new owners. In September, the owners rebranded the restaurant, changed the name to Vivinos Local Italian and changed the menu. Co-owner David Henry said they kept the Chicago-style pizzas on the menu, but changed others. Some of their popular items now are Fettuccine Alla Bolognese, Branzino (breaded Mediterranean seabass), and Costoletta di Maiale (pan-seared pork chop).
If you go:
10999 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85259
www.vicinositalian.com
Snooze an A.M. Eatery
Snooze, a popular Denver, Colorado-based breakfast chain, opened its eighth location in Arizona at Pima Crossing in Scottsdale. Last year, Snooze opened a restaurant within the old Circles building in downtown Phoenix. Snooze has a decadent menu of breakfast items, including eggs Benedict, pancakes and pancake flights, French toast, and breakfast tacos and burritos.
If you go:
8612 E Shea Blvd., Scottsdale, AZ 85260
www.snoozeeatery.com
Benjamin's Upstairs
Benjamin's Upstairs opened above Citizen Public House in Old Town Scottsdale. It is described as "an intimate, immersive dining experience featuring fried chicken, oysters, & shareable chef's plates paired with pétillant natural wines and classic cocktails," according to its website.
If you go:
7111 E. 5th Avenue Scottsdale, AZ 85251
www.benjaminsaz.com
Rift Wine + Tap
Owners Jonathan Coppins and Damien Kanser, who also host "Spilling the Truth," a local podcast where the two discuss various topics about wine and the industry, opened their own bottle shop and taproom in Scottsdale. Rift Wine + Tap has 25 beer handles and a larger selection of canned and bottled beer.
If you go:
431 North Scottsdale Road Scottsdale, 85257
www.riftbaraz.com
Twist Bistro and Gallery
Twist Bistro and Gallery bills itself as a Mediterranean-inspired American bistro, and recently opened in north Scottsdale. It is owned by Larry & Sandy Tracey Shore, who recently moved back to Arizona from Denver, Colorado. The restaurant's menu features tapas and shared plates, soups, salads and sandwiches. Some of its main entrees include a margarita pizza, stuffed pepper, salmon, and Filet Mignon.
If you go:
32409 N. Scottsdale Rd #107, Scottsdale, AZ 85266
www.twist-bistro.com
Culinary Dropout
Culinary Dropout, one of Fox Restaurant Concepts' signature restaurants, opened a location at the Scottsdale Quarter shopping center, marking its fifth restaurant in the Phoenix metro and sixth in the state. The restaurant groups also has plans to open a second location of Blanco in downtown Phoenix, and locations of Flower Child and North Italia in Gilbert. In 2019, Sam Fox sold his restaurant empire to Cheesecake Factory Inc., though Fox still oversees the company's operations.
If you go:
15125 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
www.culinarydropout.com
Rusty Taco
Texas-based Rusty Taco, a taco shop with locations across the United States, opened a second restaurant in the Valley in Scottsdale. Its first is located in Gilbert. The Scottsdale restaurant is located within the Salt River's Talking Stick Entertainment District near the Loop 101 and Via de Ventura. As the name suggests, tacos are the signature item on the menu. They have more than a dozen combinations, from beef and pork to fish and vegetarian.
If you go:
9290 East Vía de Ventura Suite 105, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
www.rustytaco.com
Reserve
The team behind Cafe Monarch, a fine-dining restaurant in Scottsdale that has numerous awards and recognitions for its romantic atmosphere, has opened a small, upscale, and intimate concept, called "Reserve." It is located across the street in Cafe Monarch's original building. Reserve offers an upscale, 12-course tasting menu featuring foods from around the world, according to its website.
If you go:
6934 E 1st Ave 102 Scottsdale, AZ 85251
www.reserveoldtown.com
Cielo at Adero Scottsdale
Cielo is the signature restaurant at Adero Scottsdale, a new certified "Dark Sky" hotel part of Marriott's Autograph Collection. The hotel was previously known as the CopperWynd Resort. Cielo, which means "sky" or "heaven" in Spanish, overlooks the Sonoran Desert. It has brunch, lunch, and dinner menus that feature a variety of salads, sandwiches, and main entrees of salmon, steak, and pasta.
If you go:
13225 North Eagle Ridge Drive Scottsdale, Arizona 85268
www.aderoscottsdale.com
SURPRISE
Reel Pizza Pies
Owner Kaleb Copenhaver intended to open his Surprise pizza joint, Reel Pizza Pies, in March, but because of the pandemic, he paused the grand opening to May. "It's real pizza, honest pizza," he told ABC15 in May, part of our "We're Open, Arizona" series. His pizzas are naturally leavened, which he says gives it more complex flavors and makes it easier to digest. He has eight signature pizzas on the menu, a few sandwiches, a couple of salads. His pizzeria combines his love of pizza and music, he said. It features a unique wall with some 900 cassette tapes on it.
If you go:
13953 West Waddell Road, Suite 103, Surprise, AZ 85379
www.reelpizzapies.com
ATL Wings
ATL Wings, which stands for "All The Love," is a Phoenix-based eatery that is known for its wings. In recent years, it has begun to franchise and open several locations around the Valley. The newest opened in Surprise. They have more than 20 dry rubs and sauces, plus salads, sides, and fried biscuits.
If you go:
13732 W. Bell Road, Surprise AZ 85374
www.atlwings.com
TEMPE
Artichoke Basille's Pizza
Artichoke Basille's Pizza was founded in New York City's East Village neighborhood in 2008 and has expanded to more than a dozen locations across the United States. In June, Artichoke's added Tempe to its list of locations. They have eight signature pizzas, including the Artichoke, which has artichoke hearts, spinach, cream sauce, mozzarella, and Pecorino Romano cheese.
If you go:
1120 E Baseline Rd., Tempe, Arizona 85283
www.artichokepizza.com
The Golden Pineapple Craft Lounge
The Golden Pineapple Craft Lounge is a new bar and restaurant in Tempe from the owners behind The Theodore in downtown Phoenix and The Sleepy Whale in Chandler, according to the Arizona Republic. It replaced Quartiere, an Italian restaurant that replaced Riazzi's Italian Garden, which occupied the same building for more than 70 years. It has more than a dozen beers on draft with more than 70 brews available in bottles or cans, according to an online menu. It also has a variety of bar snacks, as well as a heftier dinner menu. The dinner menu features tacos, fried fish, chicken, burgers, and salads.
If you go:
2700 S. Mill Ave. Tempe, AZ 85282
www.thegoldenpineappleaz.com
Alter Ego and Alibi - Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown
Alter Ego and Albi are two concepts that are part of Copy by Hilton Tempe Downtown, a new 14th-floor hotel near University Drive and Myrtle Avenue. Alter Ego is a modern American bar and restaurant and the hotel's signature restaurant. It is described as "eclectic and adventurous yet timeless, and comfortable," on the website. Dishes include a skirt steak with chimichurri, Katsu chicken sandwich, and sweet pear salad. Alibi is the hotel's tropical-themed rooftop bar and lounge. Guests can expect tropical drinks and classic cocktails, and street food-inspired dishs, like poke sampler, steamed pork buns, short rib sliders, and Ohana-style beef tacos.
If you go:
108 E. University Drive Tempe, AZ 85281
www.hilton.com
Crumbl Cookies
Crumbl Cookies, the rapidly growing Utah gourmet cookie chain, opened five more locations in the Valley -- Avondale, Glendale, Norterra (north Phoenix), Scottsdale, Tempe. The concept offers a weekly lineup of revolving cookie flavors that can be picked up or delivered, even during the late-night hours. There are 16 locations in the Valley.
If you go:
430 N Scottsdale Rd Suite A112, Tempe, AZ 85281
7300 N Vía Paseo Del Sur, Suite 106 , Scottsdale, Arizona 85258
10120 W McDowell Rd, Suite 150, Avondale, Arizona 85392
2450 W Happy Valley Rd, Suite 1151, Phoenix, Arizona 85085
9390 W Hanna Ln, Unit B-103, Glendale, Arizona 85305
www.crumblcookies.com
Sweet Republic
Sweet Republic, a popular small-batch ice cream shop in Phoenix, opened a third location at The Watermark complex in Tempe, not far from Tempe Town Lake. They have more than 20 ice cream flavors available, including some fall favorites, like pumpkin spice, apple pie, sweet potato, and huckleberry. Sweet Republic also has locations in Phoenix and Scottsdale.
If you go:
410 N Scottsdale Rd, #105 Tempe, AZ 85281
www.sweetrepublic.com
Postino
After Tempe Public Market Cafe unexpectedly closed in south Tempe, Postino, a popular neighborhood eatery known for its bruschetta boards, wine, and beer pitchers, moved in. The breakfast and lunch spot opened in September near Rural and Warner roads, marking its ninth location in the Valley.
If you go:
8749 S Rural Rd., Tempe, AZ 85284
www.postinowinecafe.com
Doc and Eddy's
Eighteen months after a devastating St. Patrick's Day fire burnt it to the ground, Doc and Eddy's, a longtime sports bar in Tempe, has been rebuilt and reopened. For longtime fans, the menu, look, and design of the restaurant looks remarkably as it did before the fire, said general manager Sean Cleary. They made some upgrades, but kept most of it the same.
If you go:
909 E Minton Dr, Tempe, AZ 85283
www.docandeddystempe.com
Kungfu Ramen
Kungfu Ramen, a Chinese noodle restaurant, opened in Tempe amid the pandemic, according to MouthbySouthwest, a local blog that tracks restaurant openings primarily in the East Valley. Kungfu serves a variety of ramen and noodle dishes, as well as pork buns, steamed dumplings, stir-fried dishes. They also have popular dishes, including orange chicken, Mongolian beef, and cumin beef.
If you go:
1845 E Broadway Road Tempe, AZ, 85282
www.phoenixramen.com
Mike's Grub
Mike's Grub is a fast-casual eatery in Tempe with a walk-up window and a drive-thru. It bills itself as "new fast food." Its menu features a handful of breakfast burritos, as well as tacos, pizzas, salads, mac and cheese, and carne asada fries.
If you go:
1845 E University Dr., Tempe AZ, 85281
www.mikesgrub.com
Pitadise Mediterranean Grill
Pita Mediterranean Grill, a new design-it-yourself Mediterranean restaurant, opened in Tempe. Diners craft their own bowls and pita pockets choosing their protein, salad, dip, and appetizer. They also have seven signature options for those who want their decision made simple and easy.
If you go:
710 W Elliot Rd., Tempe, AZ 85284
www.pitadise.com
Slim Thick Protein and Coffee Bar
Slim Thick is a new breakfast and lunch restaurant, and coffee shop in Tempe. The breakfast menu has a few traditional items, such as pancakes, waffles, and French toast, as well as bowls, sandwiches, burritos and empanadas. For lunch, the menu features bowls, sandwiches, and salads.
If you go:
1900 W. 5th Street, Tempe AZ 85281
www.slimthickcafe.com
Bar Smoothie
You will find some 15 signature smoothies on the menu at Bar Smoothie, a new smoothie shop in Tempe. The store opened near Mill Avenue and Southern Avenue, according to its Facebook page.
If you go:
3137 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe AZ 85282
www.facebook.com/barsmoothie
GHOST KITCHENS
Ghost Street Asian Taqueria (ghost kitchen)
Ghost Street is a virtual or "ghost kitchen" from the owners of Ling and Louie's Asian Bar and Grill. It does not have a physical restaurant location. Instead, people can view the restaurant's menu online, place an order, and either pick it up from Ling and Louie's or have it delivered via DoorDash or Grubhub. Ghost Street specializes in Asian-inspired street tacos, such as firecracker chicken tacos, duck carnitas, and Korean steak tacos. They also have wok-charred street corn, Asian guacamole, and a carne asada sushi roll.
More information: www.ghoststreettacos.com
Carnitas Way (ghost kitchen)
Similar to Ghost Street in the entry above, Carnitas Way is a virtual restaurant from the owners behind Los Sombreros. Carnitas Way does not have a physical location. Instead, its food items will be made at its Los Sombreros kitchens and delivered via third-party apps, such as UberEats, DoorDash, GrubHub, etc. The concept is a beach-inspired menu focused on California-style burritos, bowls, and salads.
More information: www.carnitasway.com
Jerry's Restaurant (ghost kitchen)
In 2019, Jerry's Restaurant in Mesa closed after more than 50 years in business. The owners behind Los Sombreros bought the restaurant and turned the space into another Los Sombreros. But, they're keeping the Jerry's Restaurant menu alive as a ghost kitchen or virtual kitchen, similar to Carnitas Way, their other ghost kitchen. The Jerry's menu was kept relatively the same, we're told. People can order online and have it delivered via delivery companies, like DoorDash and Grubhub.
More information: www.jerrysrestaurants.com/mesa
