Sure, the triple-digit temperatures might seem frightening at first, but when you really delve into the world that Phoenix has to offer, you’ll realize there is so much more to this desert valley than blazing sunshine and saguaro cacti. Aside from amazing hiking trails, parks and pools galore, professional sports teams, state-of-the-art concert arenas, attractive casinos and friendly people, Phoenix is well-known for its wonderfully eclectic selection of restaurants.
As a thriving melting pot of sorts, you will find that Phoenix offers every style of food you can imagine – Indian, Asian, American, vegetarian, Polish, Mediterranean, Dominican, Mexican. You name it, and we can point you in the right direction! No matter where you are coming from, there is a little pocket of Phoenix that will make you feel right back at home in those moments when you just need a taste.
If you are considering relocating to the Valley of the Sun, you are going to want to become familiar with the best restaurants in town; you know, those special spots that only the locals really know about.
Here are 10 of our favorite “hidden gems” in Phoenix, AZ.
Breakfast, Brunch & Cafes
Let’s get your day started off right! Whether you are an early bird or enjoy an afternoon brunch with friends, these four Phoenix restaurants are phenomenal.
be Coffee + Food + Stuff
We promise we aren’t trying to get you to do math equations early in the morning! This spot is actually known for its artsy vibe. It is located in a shared space with the MonOrchid art gallery and near a plant shop, so there aregreat things to do after eating. They offer craft coffee, amazing breakfast sandwiches and friendly service. Make sure to order any of their delicious Egg Sammies!
Location
214 E. Roosevelt St.,
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Hours
- Monday-Friday
- Saturday
- Sunday
- 6:00am – 6:00pm
- 6:30am – 3:30pm
- 7:30am – 5:00pm
Jobot Coffee & Diner
This hip cafe is a great spot to sample locally roasted coffee and Southwestern grub. A bonus is the occasional live music. The best part is that after a night out on the town, you can still stop by and enjoy a breakfast scramble and espresso, or cocktail if you need one more before hitting the hay.
Location
333 E. Roosevelt St.,
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Hours
- Sunday-Thursday
- Friday-Saturday
- 7:00am – Midnight
- 7:00am – 3:00pm
Vovomeena
A stylish and unique decor is what you will find at this breakfast restaurant. Enjoy creative plates such as the Orchard French Toast with grated apples, the Mexican Benedict or the traditional Biscuits and Gravy, which is one of the most popular items. You can also enjoy a cold brew flight!
Location
1515 N. Seventh Ave.,
Suite 170,
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Hours
- Monday-Friday
- Saturday-Sunday
- 6:30am – 1:30pm
- 7:30am – 2:30pm
Essence Bakery Café
We’d never forget our vegetarian and gluten-free friends! This spot offers a variety a delectable delights regardless of your dietary preferences, and is known for its Paris-trained chef. It also has a pleasant atmosphere and friendly staff. Make sure to try the macaroons, excellent coffee or the puff pastry sausage breakfast for those who don’t mind a little gluten.
Location
3830 E. Indian School Road,
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Hours
- Tuesday-Sunday
- 6:30am – 3:00pm
Lunch, Dinner, & Drink Spots
For an early lunch or dinner before a night out on the town, these spots are sure to make your bellies happy while you explore the beautiful city of Phoenix.
Little Miss BBQ
When in the mood for Central Texas-style barbecue and traditional sides, you can’t go wrong with the smoked meats at this unassuming, no-frills spot. From house-made sausage to beef brisket and pork ribs, you are sure to enjoy perfectly smoked meat.
Location
4301 E. University Drive,
Phoenix, AZ 85034
Hours
- Tuesday-Saturday
- 11:00am – 4:00pm
Cibo
Whether you are in the mood for red or white wine, this charming little spot is a hidden favorite for many locals. The bungalow in which it thrives has been around since the early 1900s. You can enjoy antipasto, wood-fired pizzas and fresh homemade pastas.
Location
3830 E. Indian School Road,
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Hours
- Monday
- Tuesday-Thursday
- Friday-Saturday
- Sunday
- 11:00am – 9:00pm
- 11:00am – 10:00pm
- 11:00am – 11:00pm
- 5:00pm – 9:00pm
Durant’s
Have you ever had a fancy steak dinner in a vintage, red velvet backdrop? For a whole new experience, get transported in this upscale, moody spot. The selection includes steak, seafood and martinis. Sounds simply enough, but everything about this place is from another time – such as the old school crudités with dip and the warm bread with melted leek butter. And those are just for starters!
Location
2611 N. Central Ave.,
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Hours
- Monday-Thursday
- Friday
- Saturday
- Sunday
- 11:00am – 10:00pm
- 11:00am – 11:00pm
- 5:00pm – 11:00pm
- 4:30pm – 10:00pm
Taqueria El Fundador
Who doesn’t love a hole-in-the-wall Mexican joint? Offering self-serve Mexican staples, you can’t go wrong. They are most famous for their tacos al pastor, homemade beans and $1 Taco Tuesdays.
Location
3245 W. Van Buren St.,
Phoenix, AZ 85009
Hours
- Sunday-Thursday
- Friday-Saturday
- 8:00am – 10:00pm
- 8:00am – 11:00pm
Barrio Café
For notable Mexican cuisine, this is the spot. Known for its high-quality ingredients and creative flavor combinations, it is not your typical Mexican restaurant. Make sure to try the fresh guacamole or chef Silvana Salcido Esparza’s signature dish, Chiles enNogada.
Location
2814 N. 16th St.,
Phoenix, AZ 85006
Hours
- Tuesday-Thursday
- Friday-Saturday
- Sunday
- 11:00am – 10:00pm
- 11:00am – 10:30pm
- 11:00am – 9:00pm
Pho 43 Express
Whether you are hunting for authentic macarons or hot pho, this cozy little place is ideal. It serves traditional Vietnamese soups and other staples. It’s not known for fancy décor, and the building may look like another hole-in-the-wall, but who cares when the food is memorable? That’s why only the locals know about it. Make sure to try the pho and spring rolls.
Location
2844 N. 43rd Ave.,
Phoenix, AZ 85009
Hours
- Monday and Wednesday-Sunday
- 9:00am – 7:00pm
Heers Management
At Heers Management, we know the Valley of the Sun well and our properties are located near great restaurants and entertainment venues. Contact us for more information or to take a tour of any of our Phoenix metro area apartment complexes.