Pizzeria Bianco Downtown:

Location: Downtown Cuisine: Pizza Ideal for: Small plates, Drinking good wine, Corporate cards

Pizzeria Bianco has become synonymous with Phoenix's culinary scene, propelling it into national acclaim with its delectable pizzas. So renowned are these pies that they've even expanded to Downtown Los Angeles. At the original Heritage Square location, indulge in pies like the Biancoverde, featuring mozzarella, parmigiano reggiano, ricotta, and arugula. Whether before a Diamondbacks game or for a leisurely weekday lunch, gather a group and opt for family-style dining to savor a bit of everything.

Little Miss BBQ:

Location: University Cuisine: BBQ Ideal for: Walk-ins, Kids, Outdoor/patio situation, Serious take-out operation

Little Miss BBQ's original University location offers a taste of Texas-style barbecue that's second to none in Phoenix. While the line may be long, the payoff is well worth it, with mouthwatering offerings like pork ribs, sausage links, and brisket. Be sure to accompany your meal with their irresistible sides, such as jalapeño cheddar grits and ranch-style beans.

Valentine:

Location: Melrose Cuisine: Southwestern Ideal for: Impressing out of towners, Late night eats, Drinking good cocktails, Brunch

Valentine captures the essence of Arizona with its emphasis on locally sourced ingredients showcased in pastries, pasta, natural wine, and late-night cocktails. The ambiance exudes warmth, resembling more of a cozy living room than a traditional dining space, complete with retro modern leather chairs and soft lighting. Their brunch offerings, including avocado squash toast and churro waffles with dulce de leche, are particularly beloved.

The Fry Bread House:

Location: Melrose Cuisine: Native American Ideal for: Impressing out of towners, Quick eats, Serious take-out operation, Kids, Lunch

The Fry Bread House in Phoenix has been an Arizona favorite for decades, and it's no mystery why: their fry bread. This iconic Native American delicacy is a fluffy, frisbee-sized fried dough that can be enjoyed with honey and powdered sugar or loaded with various toppings like beans, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Established by Cecelia Miller of the Tohono O’odham Nation in the early 1990s, The Fry Bread House remains a family-owned and operated establishment, faithfully preserving the original family recipes that have delighted patrons since its inception.

Bacanora:

Location: Grand Cuisine: Mexican Ideal for: Impressing out of towners, Eating at the bar, Seeing and being seen, Feeling hot

Nestled within the restored Bragg’s Pie Factory building on Grand Avenue, Bacanora offers a refined exploration of Sonoran cuisine. Expect a diverse array of dishes, from lime-cured halibut aguachile to succulent bone-in ribeyes. While reservations are recommended and often fill up quickly, you can try your luck at the bar, where you might even rub elbows with an Arizona Cardinals player.

Lom Wong:

Location: Downtown Cuisine: Thai Ideal for: Outdoor/patio situation, Date night, Drinking good wine

Lom Wong radiates a welcoming, familial atmosphere, akin to dining at a friend's home. Dive into their signature dishes like the cold-and-sweet green mango salad and fried chicken paired with Thai red chile sauce. The outdoor patio, equipped with heating for cooler days and misters for warmer ones, provides an idyllic setting for savoring their cuisine, complemented by a thoughtfully curated wine selection.

Barrio Café:

Location: Downtown Cuisine: Mexican Ideal for: Vegetarians, Walk-ins, Happy hour

Distinguished from its similarly named counterparts, Barrio Café stands as a beacon of authentic regional Mexican fare in Phoenix. Renowned for its tableside guacamole and chef's community engagement, this Calle 16 original has cemented its status as a local favorite. Whether indulging in tlayudas or cochinita pibil, expect a vibrant dining experience steeped in tradition and flavor.

Tía Carmen:

Location: Desert Ridge Cuisine: Mexican Ideal for: Special occasions, Big groups, Seeing and being seen, Gluten-free options

Tía Carmen's chic minimalist decor and desert-inspired ambiance provide the perfect backdrop for memorable dining experiences. Indulge in dishes like avocado aguachile or tomahawk ribeye, either for a sophisticated birthday celebration or a casual evening at the bar. With a diverse menu featuring gluten-free options, there's something to delight every palate.

Latha:

Location: Heritage Square Cuisine: African Ideal for: Small plates, Vegans, Live music

Housed in a historic downtown bungalow, Latha offers a unique fusion of African cuisine in a vibrant setting complete with live music. Sip on rum-based cocktails like the passion fruit mojito or rum punch as you await your party's arrival. Once seated, savor dishes like shrimp moqueca, oxtail shakshouka, and vegan mushroom criollo amidst the rhythmic beats of R&B or Afrobeats.