The BEST Restaurants In Phoenix From Bacnora To Pizzeria Bianco
Share This Post
Phoenix is a city full of creative expression and Latin flair. Whether it’s the many sports teams like the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Arizona Fall League, or the gorgeous street art scattered around the city, this town is a place that isn’t afraid to break from the norm and make its own path. And when it comes to the best restaurants in Phoenix, they’re no exception.
The food scene in Phoenix is truly one of a kind, full of new ideas and flavor combinations you have never thought of trying. Now any restaurant can make a crazy concoction, but it takes a talented chef to create something new while also tasting delicious. That’s what you will find in Phoenix.
Burgers, pizza, BBQ, and, of course, Mexican food, the best restaurants in Phoenix are far, wide, fully unique, and perfectly embody everything that makes Phoenix so great.
1.) Bacnora
Bacnora isn’t a large restaurant, but don’t let that fool you, this small restaurant is brimming with character. Vibrant colors, fun decor, and energetic music keep the good times of Roosevelt Street rolling with an additional Latin touch. Featuring a menu of modernized Mexican classics, Bacnora takes well known classics and revolutionizes them into something truly special. It’s the daringness to try something new while still paying homage to heritage, the flavorful creativity, the attention to detail that turns these dishes into pure Mexican masterpieces. Everything about Bacnora screams flair and personality, and that risk is definitely rewarded in terms of having the best Mexican restaurant in Phoenix and one of the best restaurants in Phoenix, period.
Price- $$65 for a meal
Must Have- Costilla Asado
You probably have had ribs before; you may have even had Costilla Asada before, but you have never had it like this. A sizzling tender plate of ribs prepared in an immaculate blend of seasonings that combine tangy spice with a touch of sweet citrus. Plus, some delectable cilantro garnish that ties the whole thing together in an explosion of rich flavors that burst off the tongue. If you only have time for one meal in Phoenix, make sure it is the Costilla Asado from Bacnora.
2.) Cala
When it comes to restaurants in the United States, you’re often forced to choose between great food with a stuffy atmosphere or average food with a welcoming come as you are experience. But not at Cala. Cala is a place to go if you’re looking for an amazing meal while still being able to relax and enjoy yourself. Just a short walk from Scottsdale Stadium, this spot is a fun mix between upscale modern Mediterranean and a loose sports bar with TVs showing games and a large bar at the center of the restaurant. Plus, a menu of light and flavorful options makes Cala one of the best brunch spots in Phoenix.
Price- $$30 for a meal
Must Have- Calabrian Chile Chicken Sandwich
Cala is known for their brunch options, and none are better than the Calabrian Chile Chicken Sandwich. Juicy pieces of chicken breast topped with sweet onions, peppery arugula, a unique pesto spread, and a delectable garlic aioli that elevates this brunch sandwich into perfection.
3.) Barrio Cafe
Just outside of downtown, you can find this hidden gem of Phoenix restaurants. Tucked away in an unassuming strip mall, Barrio Cafe is a place you normally wouldn’t give a second look. But after sampling some of the Mexican dishes, you will see why it’s a must when in the city. At Barrio Cafe, the Mexican heritage oozes in all corners of the restaurant, from the authentic Mexican meals packed with personality to the rich artwork found around the building inside and out. While it may not be flashy or extravagant, Barrio Cafe is proof that passion and determination are all you need to create one of the best authentic Mexican restaurants in Phoenix.
And don’t forget to check out the cool Phoenix mural in the parking lot!
Price- $30 for a meal
Must Have- Suizas Enchiladas
Authentic enchiladas at their finest. Chicken and chorizo wrapped in soft tortillas and covered in tomatillo cream, jojoque cream, and bathed in gratinada de queso.
A heaping plate of authentic flavors that will have you begging for more.
4.) Paradise Valley Burger Company
The definition of a hole in the wall spot. Buried at the end of a strip mall, Paradise Valley Burger Company doesn’t leave the slightest of impressions from the outside. However, when you taste one of these heavenly burgers, this restaurant becomes unforgettable. The burgers at Paradise Valley Burger Company aren’t just slabs of meat between 2 buns; they’re carefully crafted concoctions of thick, savory patties blanketed by airy pieces of bread and additional accessories that make this spot unmatched. With burgers like these, it’s clear to see why Paradise Valley Burger Company is home to the best burgers in Phoenix.
Price- $10 for a meal
Must Have- Daddy Melt
Part burger and part masterful meat monstrosity, the Daddy Melt is the pinnacle of burger creations. 2 thick and juicy patties topped with a layer of smoky pulled pork, bacon relish, and the secret ingredient, whiskey soaked onions. All slathered in a smooth BBQ sauce make this wonderfully tangy burger a full summer cookout on a bun.
5.) Wren and Wolf
Looking to escape the heat and relax after checking out the Desert Botanical Garden? Or maybe you’re wanting to grab something to eat before heading to Chase Field for an Arizona Diamondbacks game. Whatever the occasion, Wren and Wolf has you covered. Found in the heart of the sports district near the top entertainment Phoenix has to offer, Wren and Wolf provides a smooth sanctuary ready to be enjoyed. As convenient and delicious as this restaurant is, the atmosphere is one of the most intriguing parts of this place. Sleek modern designs combined with the outdoorsy wilderness give the appearance of a log cabin of the future. Chic lighting and modern accents clash with stuffed pheasants, large wildlife paintings, and faux fur pelts on the backs of chairs. From the food to the atmosphere, Wren and Wolf experiments with opposites to create one of the most unique restaurants in Phoenix.
Price- $20 for a meal
Must Have- Wild Boar Chorizo Burrito at breakfast
While this spot is a great evening hangout, it really shines brightest in the morning. A perfect example is the Wild Boar Chorizo Burrito. A full, hearty burrito stuffed with savory, non-fatty boar chorizo, and keeping with the odd mixture theme of the restaurant, a sweet and spicy salsa drizzled overtop. With this meal, you get a hearty heap of breakfast flair with a touch of spice and a subtle, sweet surprise. Sounds like the perfect way to get ready for whatever your Phoenix day has in store, doesn’t it?
6.) The Churchill
Day or night, by yourself or with a large group of friends, in a rush for a quick bite to eat or looking to sit back and have a good time for hours, no matter what you want, The Churchill has you covered. Part outdoor food court and part fun hangout spot, this restaurant is a must when in Phoenix. Found right alongside the 1 1/2 street mural project, this spot has many different choices, like craft cocktails, delectable desserts, and mouthwatering bagel sandwiches. As the Phoenix heat rises, why not cool off with TVs, couches, some Cornhole, and of course, all of the terrific food choices and fun atmosphere that make The Churchill one of the best restaurants in Phoenix.
Price- $15 for a meal
Must Have- Eggs Thee Scallion from the Stoop Kid
The Stoop Kid restaurant is famous for its assortment of bagel sandwiches, and the Eggs Thee Scallion tops them all. An asiago bagel sandwiching an over easy egg, honey ham, and the pièce de résistance, an unbelievable scallion and parmesan spread. This bagel is a tangy, cheesy, scallion packed brunch sandwich so good you can’t afford to pass up.
7.) Tacos Chiwas
You can find taco stands seemingly everywhere you go, some are better than others, but most serve the same staples you have seen before. Not at Tacos Chiwas. Here they aren’t afraid to break the mold and try a delicious out of the box idea. Mexican squash, sure why not. Beef tongue tacos, delicious. The handful of different taco and burrito dishes are what elevate this spot into one of the best and most unique restaurants in Phoenix. As great as the topas style Mexican food is, the atmosphere is just as good. With indoor and outdoor seating and energetic music that keeps the good times going and the assortment of margaritas flowing, Tacos Chiwas is a great experience for your entertainment and your taste buds.
Price- $10 for a meal
Must Have- Calabacitas Tacos
Seeing Mexican squash tacos might make you skeptical, but when it comes to the Calabacitas tacos, your adventurousness is paid off. Sweet, cheesy, and full of flavor, these interesting tacos are a perfect way to step out of your culinary comfort zone and try a meal you won’t soon forget.
8.) Little Miss BBQ
You know a BBQ place is good when they offer meats by the pound, and the sign says open until 4 unless sold out beforehand; welcome to Little Miss BBQ. Not far from Hole in the Rock, this restaurant makes you feel as though you stepped into a deep south smokehouse with the food, decor, and music reminiscent of something you would find in Texas. Enjoy the undeniably inviting smoky smells coming from massive outdoor smokers cooking up row upon row of irresistible tender meats. With a plethora of meats and delicious southern treats, the BBQ lovers paradise that is Little Miss BBQ is without a doubt the best BBQ in Phoenix. I mean, with BBQ this good, why would you go anywhere else?
Price- $$30 for a meal
Must Have- Brisket and Pecan Pie
At Little Miss BBQ it’s hard to pick between 2 incredible meals, so just get both. The brisket is a mouthwatering smoky delight smoked so well it would make any pitmaster jealous. And the pecan pie, a heavenly sweet treat that screams southern hospitality. Both perfectly complimenting each other in stupendous BBQ harmony.
9.) Pizzeria Bianco
Feel as though you’re in Naples with the decor, ambiance, and food of an authentic Italian bistro. A small yet inviting restaurant featuring a short bar serving top wines and fresh espressos, and of course a large brick pizza oven in the center of the restaurant for all to see the pristine pies bubbling up. Keeping with the classic Italian theme, the pizza is a traditional Neapolitan style thin crust rich with fresh herbs and slathered in savory olive oil. It’s easy to see why people line up to get in before the restaurant opens. So, if you’re looking for the best pizza in Phoenix, there’s no question you will find it at Pizzeria Bianco!
Price- $$35 for a meal
Must Have- Biancoverde Pizza
Fresh basil sprinkled overtop a savory bed of melty mozzarella and parmigiano reggiano cheese, all dripping in olive oil and baked to perfection. One bite will put you in pizza paradise!
Pro Tip- Make sure to place reservations before going as it can fill up quick.
10.) Dog Haus
It’s not often a restaurant makes its name from serving hot dogs, but these gourmet dogs aren’t something you see every day. Found near the Phoenix Symphony Hall in downtown Phoenix, the Dog Haus is a great place to grab some food, a couple of drinks, and watch the game. With a large craft beer selection and plenty of TVs, it’s no wonder sports fans come here to hang out. While the beer and TV’s are nice, it’s the numerous creative hot dogs, brats, and burgers that are the real stars. Unique combinations you never thought of creating, all waiting to open your idea of what “bar food” can really be.
Price- $15 for a meal
Must Have- Old Town Dog
The Old Town Dog is a flavor creation perfectly encapsulating the southern and Mexican flair found throughout Phoenix. A large juicy hot dog topped with pickled jalapenos, bacon, chipotle aioli, caramelized onions, and a sprinkle of cojita cheese all stuffed inside a thick slice of Texas toast is a giant one of a kind dog that hits the spot you didn’t know you were missing.
Share This Post
