In recent years food has become a major vacation phenomenon. America’s large cities such as New York, D.C., and San Francisco have always had a phenomenal reputation for food, but now smaller U.S. cities are stepping up their game in a big way. And one city in particular taking the food scene by storm is the greater Phoenix area in Arizona. Check out just a handful of places to add to your Phoenix Foodie list!

CRUjiente Tacos

A Local neighborhood taqueria with a modern take on the street taco.  With a modern yet intimate dining space this joint will make you want to go back 2, even 3 nights in a row!  All small plates giving you the option to try multiple of the Chef’s innovative creations.  Looking for a good margarita to wash down those tacos? Well their cocktail list is well crafted and well deserving of all the press it has been receiving!  Pro Tip – try the ahi poké, tempura avocado, and beef taco.  Each person can easily put down at least three of these delicious plates! Also not to be missed – the Grand Cru margarita!

Zuzu

Located in Hotel Valley Ho this hip atmosphere is reminiscent of Casino, the Sharon Stone and Robert De Niro classic. Not only does it carry that swanky 70’s vibe but it delivers in fresh cocktails and flavorful dishes. Side note: save room for dessert. Every week the chef creates a malt milkshake masterpiece and it is heaven in a glass. Enough said.

Queen Creek Olive Mill

Located in along the Mesa Fresh Foodie Trail is Queen Creek Olive Mill. Make it a point to stop and have lunch underneath the olive trees and enjoy Arizona’s warm weather. This is Arizona’s only family – owned and operated working olive mill and farm. They grow their own olives and press for high quality extra virgin olive oil. This beautiful family looks like they stepped out of a Ralph Lauren spread and they are incredibly friendly and proud of this beautiful olive mill they have created.  Having won numerous awards this place is worth an afternoon stop!

 

I even did this Video Guide to Phoenix!

 

Garage-East

Located in Agritopia this bright and cheerful winery is like you walked into your friends house to grab a drink.  With a large patio outside and puzzles, and board games it is the perfect place for an afternoon cocktail. They carry a variety of Arizona wines and I highly suggest you try a few while enjoying a charcuterie board and quality time with friends.  Pro Tip- Get the breakfast wine, and take some home with you!

The Coffee Shop

Also located in Agritopia this small town Coffee Shop has made major headlines.  Superb coffee and tea along with the best pastries (they won cupcake wars three times)!!  They are also listed as on of Food Network’s top places to eat. Pro Tip – buy a few because there is no way you’ll eat just one!

–––

Phoenix Public Market

This neighborhood coffee shop offers crafted local cuisine by award winning chef Aaron Chamberlin.  This urban oasis is the best place to stop and fuel up before heading out to see all that downtown Phoenix has to offer.  Pro Tip: Order a latte and Suny’s Breakfast Burrito!

Short Leash Hotdogs and Rollover Doughnuts

Doughnut fanatic? Then make time to stop into Rollover Doughnuts.  They make made from scratch brioche doughnuts, so grab a sweet treat and take a walk to see all the beautiful murals nearby!

Postino Wine Cafe

Plan on making a lunch spot at Postino cafe! This chic place serves up high quality wines with bright and tasty bruschetta boards.  Postino means “Postman” in Italian, which is even cooler because Postino Wine Cafe used to be a 1940’s post office!

Hearth ’61

Located in the recently renovated luxurious Mountain Shadow Resort is Hearth ’61.  In 1961 Paradise Valley officially became a town, hence the ’61.  This beautifully adorned restaurant has high ceilings with glass walls looking out onto the hotel grounds.  They also have a bright patio where you can enjoy an aperitif before heading in for dinner.  The open kitchen is a delight to see as you are escorted to your table and the menu is based around the stone oven.  We tried a little bit of everything, but my pro tip here is to start with the ahi tarte, and order the beef tenderloin with a side of brussels sprouts.  Also Mountain Shadow Resort’s room service for breakfast is beyond! Sleep in one morning and order a feast!

Wine Me Dine Me Experience at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort

The Hyatt Regency Scottsdale is serving up the flavor and the fun with their Wine Me Dine Me Culinary Demo.  Each night a small group of people can sit at the counter of the kitchen and watch Chef Juan and his team whip up a four course meal.  The Chef explains each dish and how its prepared, along with pairing it with wine and tequila.  Chef Juan is engaging and the cuisine is mouth watering so make sure you call ahead of time to book your spot while visiting Phoenix!

Have you been to Phoenix?  Tell me your Favorite Places to eat!

**This trip was in partnership with Visit Phoenix.  I’m so thankful to them for inviting me out and showing me the beautiful greater Phoenix area! As always, all opinions are my own.