Eat, Drink, & Live Like a Local in the Valley of the Sun

Karli
Eat, Drink, & Live Like a Local in the Valley of the Sun

Food Scene

You can’t go wrong at these Valley establishments.
This is a Phoenix bucket-list restaurant. Make reservations. Have one of the best meals of your life.
51 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
FnB Restaurant
7125 E 5th Ave
51 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
This is a Phoenix bucket-list restaurant. Make reservations. Have one of the best meals of your life.
This place gets all the Phoenix-pizza praise. Tell the server it’s your first time and they’ll steer you in the right direction. Oh, we think their pasta is REALLY good, too.
237 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Pizzeria Bianco
623 E Adams St
237 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
This place gets all the Phoenix-pizza praise. Tell the server it’s your first time and they’ll steer you in the right direction. Oh, we think their pasta is REALLY good, too.
We like to sit at the bar for happy hour and then stay for dinner. It’s a good spot to people watch and the food and drinks are high quality.
120 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Citizen Public House
7111 E 5th Ave
120 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
We like to sit at the bar for happy hour and then stay for dinner. It’s a good spot to people watch and the food and drinks are high quality.
This is THE iconic spot in the infamous Arcadia neighborhood. Best for coffee, breakfast, and lunch. They are known for their English muffins. Parking is very limited (and there is a time limit) in the front. Head around back for valet or take a rideshare. Don’t miss browsing through the unique retail section!
274 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
La Grande Orange Grocery & Pizzeria
4410 N 40th St
274 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
This is THE iconic spot in the infamous Arcadia neighborhood. Best for coffee, breakfast, and lunch. They are known for their English muffins. Parking is very limited (and there is a time limit) in the front. Head around back for valet or take a rideshare. Don’t miss browsing through the unique retail section!
Same ownership as Citizen Public House but a different vibe. Don’t miss the Original Chopped Salad (have the server toss it for you) and one of their iconic cocktails-on-tap. The Noble bread plate is a starter you shouldn’t pass up!
40 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Gladly Restaurant
2201 E Camelback Rd
40 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Same ownership as Citizen Public House but a different vibe. Don’t miss the Original Chopped Salad (have the server toss it for you) and one of their iconic cocktails-on-tap. The Noble bread plate is a starter you shouldn’t pass up!
The Coronado has a full menu of vegan/vegetarian fare as well as a full bar stocked with locally sourced beer, wine, and cocktails. You know it's good...it rates high on the list of Best Vegan lists around Phoenix every year.
86 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Coronado PHX
2245 N 12th St
86 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Coronado has a full menu of vegan/vegetarian fare as well as a full bar stocked with locally sourced beer, wine, and cocktails. You know it's good...it rates high on the list of Best Vegan lists around Phoenix every year.

Drinks & Nightlife

Top-notch wine, beer, and cocktails.
Another 'experience' by Barter & Shake, the owners and creators of our favorite tiki bar, UnderTow (now in the same building). You are transported to a Presidential Pullman train car at Platform 18, or The Grey Hen (French Quarter style). You need separate reservations for these experiences and 90-minutes is the max time you can spend. Note: no food is served here.
61 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Century Grand
3626 E Indian School Rd
61 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Another 'experience' by Barter & Shake, the owners and creators of our favorite tiki bar, UnderTow (now in the same building). You are transported to a Presidential Pullman train car at Platform 18, or The Grey Hen (French Quarter style). You need separate reservations for these experiences and 90-minutes is the max time you can spend. Note: no food is served here.
Good news for our guests - the new Arcadia location is NOW OPEN! Head to the corner of 36th St. & Indian School Rd. to shop an amazing selection for your stay at Casita Serena. At this location you can enjoy pizza and a full bar if you want a cool casual vibe where you hang out.
14 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Trevor's Liquor
7340 E McDowell Rd
14 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Good news for our guests - the new Arcadia location is NOW OPEN! Head to the corner of 36th St. & Indian School Rd. to shop an amazing selection for your stay at Casita Serena. At this location you can enjoy pizza and a full bar if you want a cool casual vibe where you hang out.

Parks & Nature

Get outside!
This is a popular spot for locals and visitors, but I rate it low on my go-to hiking spots. It's more boulder climbing than actual hiking, so it's ripe for twisted ankles and ouchy knees. You can get just as amazing views from the Phoenix Mountain Preserve and South Mountain Hikes and other trails in the McDowell or Superstition Mountains. That said, if you decide to go, this is NOT a choice for beginner or even intermediate hikers. It is rated an extremely difficult trail (& dangerous due to the bouldering and drop-offs). Go early and pay attention on the trail. ***Never go without water and sunscreen. Once you have finished 1/2 of your water, turn around! It is not recommended to hike during the hottest part of the day- SERIOUSLY- a fit woman in her early 30s died of heat stroke on this trail in 2021.
116 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Cholla Trailhead Camelback Mountain
5150 E Cholla Ln
116 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
This is a popular spot for locals and visitors, but I rate it low on my go-to hiking spots. It's more boulder climbing than actual hiking, so it's ripe for twisted ankles and ouchy knees. You can get just as amazing views from the Phoenix Mountain Preserve and South Mountain Hikes and other trails in the McDowell or Superstition Mountains. That said, if you decide to go, this is NOT a choice for beginner or even intermediate hikers. It is rated an extremely difficult trail (& dangerous due to the bouldering and drop-offs). Go early and pay attention on the trail. ***Never go without water and sunscreen. Once you have finished 1/2 of your water, turn around! It is not recommended to hike during the hottest part of the day- SERIOUSLY- a fit woman in her early 30s died of heat stroke on this trail in 2021.
South Mountain has many trails for all levels of hikers. Parking can be tough during peak season, so we recommend an early start. ***Never go without water and sunscreen. Once you have finished 1/2 of your water, turn around! It is not recommended to hike on hot days- SERIOUSLY- young, fit, and experienced hikers die of heat stroke every year because they ignore the dangers of the heat here in the Valley of the Sun.
350 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Parque South Mountain
10919 South Central Avenue
350 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
South Mountain has many trails for all levels of hikers. Parking can be tough during peak season, so we recommend an early start. ***Never go without water and sunscreen. Once you have finished 1/2 of your water, turn around! It is not recommended to hike on hot days- SERIOUSLY- young, fit, and experienced hikers die of heat stroke every year because they ignore the dangers of the heat here in the Valley of the Sun.
This is a good starting point to connect you to several trails within the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. The trail markings aren't always easy to find, so be sure to take a photo of the map at the Trailhead. It’s also a good idea to have a hiking app like All Trails to be sure you don’t get lost. Cyclists can enjoy a paved loop here as well. Arrive EARLY to find a parking spot in the small-ish lot and consider a pre- or post-hike snack at the covered picnic tables. This rec area has recently been redone, so the facilities are top-notch. ***Never go without water and sunscreen. Once you have finished 1/2 of your water, turn around! It is not recommended to hike on hot days- SERIOUSLY- young, fit, and experienced hikers die of heat stroke every year because they ignore the dangers of the heat here in the Valley of the Sun.
68 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Dreamy Draw Recreation Area
2421 E Northern Ave
68 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
This is a good starting point to connect you to several trails within the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. The trail markings aren't always easy to find, so be sure to take a photo of the map at the Trailhead. It’s also a good idea to have a hiking app like All Trails to be sure you don’t get lost. Cyclists can enjoy a paved loop here as well. Arrive EARLY to find a parking spot in the small-ish lot and consider a pre- or post-hike snack at the covered picnic tables. This rec area has recently been redone, so the facilities are top-notch. ***Never go without water and sunscreen. Once you have finished 1/2 of your water, turn around! It is not recommended to hike on hot days- SERIOUSLY- young, fit, and experienced hikers die of heat stroke every year because they ignore the dangers of the heat here in the Valley of the Sun.
Head east mid-morning, pick up a picnic lunch on the way, and enjoy hours of walking in nature. This is a lovely place with paths through several types of landscapes. There are picnic tables under the trees and many places to sit, listen to the birds and the wind in the trees, and find the sense of calm you came here for. Find the bridge for a fun photo to remember your time here.
70 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Arboreto Boyce Thompson
37615 E Arboretum Way
70 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Head east mid-morning, pick up a picnic lunch on the way, and enjoy hours of walking in nature. This is a lovely place with paths through several types of landscapes. There are picnic tables under the trees and many places to sit, listen to the birds and the wind in the trees, and find the sense of calm you came here for. Find the bridge for a fun photo to remember your time here.
I'm an avid hiker and this is my #1 recommendation for guests. There are many trailheads here and plenty of parking areas. Hikers of all levels can find an enjoyable trail to traverse. I recommend choosing a trail other than the Summit Trail. It's VERY steep and VERY populated (with many people who shouldn't be on it!). Check the All Trails app to see all of your options in advance and choose a trail you'll truly enjoy! Bonus TIP: Go at sunrise to hear the Native American flute and drum ceremony floating down onto the trails from the Summit of Piestewa Peak. The Piestewa Peak trailheads are on the south side of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve and about 15 minutes from Casita Serena. For parking, I recommend passing a few of the first parking lots you see and then turn into the 3rd or 4th one. Check the maps for the trail options. There are quite a few and it’s easy to connect trails to form a loop and increase your time and distance on the trail. One of the hardest trails in Phoenix is Piestewa Peak Summit Trail. It’s a climb from the first step on the trail, and it’s a mile straight up. It’s a crowded trail as well. I say skip it and do one of the other trails. They are far more enjoyable and still give you a good workout and view. ***Never go without water and sunscreen. Once you have finished 1/2 of your water, turn around! It is not recommended to hike during the hottest part of the day- SERIOUSLY- a fit woman in her early 30s died of heat stroke hiking in Phoenix in summer 2021.
78 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Reserva Natural Phoenix Mountain
2701 Piestewa Peak Drive
78 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
I'm an avid hiker and this is my #1 recommendation for guests. There are many trailheads here and plenty of parking areas. Hikers of all levels can find an enjoyable trail to traverse. I recommend choosing a trail other than the Summit Trail. It's VERY steep and VERY populated (with many people who shouldn't be on it!). Check the All Trails app to see all of your options in advance and choose a trail you'll truly enjoy! Bonus TIP: Go at sunrise to hear the Native American flute and drum ceremony floating down onto the trails from the Summit of Piestewa Peak. The Piestewa Peak trailheads are on the south side of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve and about 15 minutes from Casita Serena. For parking, I recommend passing a few of the first parking lots you see and then turn into the 3rd or 4th one. Check the maps for the trail options. There are quite a few and it’s easy to connect trails to form a loop and increase your time and distance on the trail. One of the hardest trails in Phoenix is Piestewa Peak Summit Trail. It’s a climb from the first step on the trail, and it’s a mile straight up. It’s a crowded trail as well. I say skip it and do one of the other trails. They are far more enjoyable and still give you a good workout and view. ***Never go without water and sunscreen. Once you have finished 1/2 of your water, turn around! It is not recommended to hike during the hottest part of the day- SERIOUSLY- a fit woman in her early 30s died of heat stroke hiking in Phoenix in summer 2021.

Local Favorite

These are our favorite places to eat, drink, and hang out.
When they say 'garage' they mean it. This Sip location, formerly a Jiffy Lube, is a great place to get a coffee or beer and hang out. You'll find people working on their laptops next to friends enjoying an after-work beverage. Patio seating is great here. Don’t miss 36 Below, a bar that occupies one of the former oil changing pits.
172 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Sip Coffee & Beer
3617 N Goldwater Blvd
172 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
When they say 'garage' they mean it. This Sip location, formerly a Jiffy Lube, is a great place to get a coffee or beer and hang out. You'll find people working on their laptops next to friends enjoying an after-work beverage. Patio seating is great here. Don’t miss 36 Below, a bar that occupies one of the former oil changing pits.
Top-notch beer selection and burgers. Sit on the patio for a peek-a-boo view of Camelback Mountain at sunset.
30 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Attic Ale House
4247 E Indian School Rd
30 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Top-notch beer selection and burgers. Sit on the patio for a peek-a-boo view of Camelback Mountain at sunset.
The only two patty burger this girl has ever DEVOURED. Go for broke and get fries and a shake. You’re on vacation, right?
43 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Stand Burgers
3538 E Indian School Rd
43 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The only two patty burger this girl has ever DEVOURED. Go for broke and get fries and a shake. You’re on vacation, right?
I’m from Omaha and so is Pitch. We’re both pretty cool exports, if you ask me. We are in love with the coal-fired pizza, happenin’ atmosphere, and one of the best patios around. Tip: Sit at the bar and you’re guaranteed to meet interesting people.
29 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Pitch
6350 E Thomas Rd
29 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
I’m from Omaha and so is Pitch. We’re both pretty cool exports, if you ask me. We are in love with the coal-fired pizza, happenin’ atmosphere, and one of the best patios around. Tip: Sit at the bar and you’re guaranteed to meet interesting people.
This former beauty parlor is one of my favorite places to hit with a friend for lunch. We like to split a salad and a pizza with a good glass of wine. I prefer their pizza to that of Pizzeria Bianco. It’s thin crust (like Bianco) but I like their unique topping choices better. Don’t miss the historical photos near the restrooms. If you’re a woman, there’s a fun surprise in the restroom!
71 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Parlor Pizzeria
1916 E Camelback Rd
71 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
This former beauty parlor is one of my favorite places to hit with a friend for lunch. We like to split a salad and a pizza with a good glass of wine. I prefer their pizza to that of Pizzeria Bianco. It’s thin crust (like Bianco) but I like their unique topping choices better. Don’t miss the historical photos near the restrooms. If you’re a woman, there’s a fun surprise in the restroom!
Tarbell’s is a Phoenix staple for amazing food, wine, service, and atmosphere. The menu here is a bit more upscale than The Tavern next door (under the same ownership). Don’t miss a visit to the wine store on the west end! We like to buy a bottle and have it opened at our table at The Tavern. Here you’ll find a more casual menu with yummy classics. DO NOT miss the coconut cream pie for dessert. I am not a huge fan of coconut and this stuff is AMAZING!
31 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Tarbell's
3213 E Camelback Rd
31 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Tarbell’s is a Phoenix staple for amazing food, wine, service, and atmosphere. The menu here is a bit more upscale than The Tavern next door (under the same ownership). Don’t miss a visit to the wine store on the west end! We like to buy a bottle and have it opened at our table at The Tavern. Here you’ll find a more casual menu with yummy classics. DO NOT miss the coconut cream pie for dessert. I am not a huge fan of coconut and this stuff is AMAZING!
Got work to do or just want a hip spot to hang out and look like you’re working? This is the place. They serve coffee, breakfast, and lunch, so you truly can make a day of it. The patio is spacious and fills up quickly during mild weather. A WiFi password is provided with your purchase. Conference rooms and small private booths are available to rent. See their website for details http://schmoozescottsdale.com/
31 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Schmooze Workspace and Cafe
4222 N Marshall Way
31 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Got work to do or just want a hip spot to hang out and look like you’re working? This is the place. They serve coffee, breakfast, and lunch, so you truly can make a day of it. The patio is spacious and fills up quickly during mild weather. A WiFi password is provided with your purchase. Conference rooms and small private booths are available to rent. See their website for details http://schmoozescottsdale.com/
Postino is a locally-owned chain known for it's bruschetta boards and $5 glasses of wine before 5pm. Both the Arcadia and Tempe locations are close to Casita Serena and have completely different vibes. The owners are known for taking existing buildings and repurposing them. The Arcadia location is the original and is housed in an old post office. The Tempe location is adjacent to ASU's campus and used to house the weight training room for ASU athletes! We like to go for brunch or lunch and hang out on the patio.
141 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Postino Arcadia
3939 E Campbell Ave
141 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Postino is a locally-owned chain known for it's bruschetta boards and $5 glasses of wine before 5pm. Both the Arcadia and Tempe locations are close to Casita Serena and have completely different vibes. The owners are known for taking existing buildings and repurposing them. The Arcadia location is the original and is housed in an old post office. The Tempe location is adjacent to ASU's campus and used to house the weight training room for ASU athletes! We like to go for brunch or lunch and hang out on the patio.
Another locally-owned chain that we visit regularly. This location is great for any meal and has one of our favorite patios for al fresco dining. We just realized they have a fantastic weekend brunch menu and $5 Bloody Mary's! The breakfast burrito, pozole, pad thai, and salmon are a few of our favorites. FYI: Parking during peak hours is usually valet. We usually end up parking across the street in the strip mall's lot.
121 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Vig Arcadia
4041 N 40th St
121 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Another locally-owned chain that we visit regularly. This location is great for any meal and has one of our favorite patios for al fresco dining. We just realized they have a fantastic weekend brunch menu and $5 Bloody Mary's! The breakfast burrito, pozole, pad thai, and salmon are a few of our favorites. FYI: Parking during peak hours is usually valet. We usually end up parking across the street in the strip mall's lot.
THE place you HAVE to go at least once for breakfast/brunch. Go early if you want to easily get parking and a table and/or avoid the loud club-like atmosphere on the weekends. Yep, there's a DJ and a disco ball starting at around 10am! Hash Kitchen is known for it's make-your-own bloody mary bar , mimosa flights, and HUGE portions. We have never had a bad meal here and ALWAYS have leftovers to bring home. Expect a wait on the weekends after 9:30am. TIP: We put our name in and check the bar to see if there are seats. We've been able to get seats and avoid the wait. And it's fun to watch how many drinks are being made for the brunch crowd!
50 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Hash Kitchen
4315 E Indian School Rd
50 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
THE place you HAVE to go at least once for breakfast/brunch. Go early if you want to easily get parking and a table and/or avoid the loud club-like atmosphere on the weekends. Yep, there's a DJ and a disco ball starting at around 10am! Hash Kitchen is known for it's make-your-own bloody mary bar , mimosa flights, and HUGE portions. We have never had a bad meal here and ALWAYS have leftovers to bring home. Expect a wait on the weekends after 9:30am. TIP: We put our name in and check the bar to see if there are seats. We've been able to get seats and avoid the wait. And it's fun to watch how many drinks are being made for the brunch crowd!
Unbelievable scrambled eggs, pastries and macarons. Everything is made from scratch and you can't go wrong for breakfast or lunch here.
39 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Essence Bakery Cafe
3830 E Indian School Rd
39 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Unbelievable scrambled eggs, pastries and macarons. Everything is made from scratch and you can't go wrong for breakfast or lunch here.
Open for lunch and dinner with a diverse selection of yummy appetizers and sushi rolls. This is my go-to sushi place! One note: parking can be a BIG challenge due to the other popular tenants in this small center. You may want to use a rideshare service.
38 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Sushiholic
3957 E Camelback Rd
38 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Open for lunch and dinner with a diverse selection of yummy appetizers and sushi rolls. This is my go-to sushi place! One note: parking can be a BIG challenge due to the other popular tenants in this small center. You may want to use a rideshare service.
Bagelfeld's - hands down, THE BEST BAGELS YOU'VE EVER HAD. Honestly, these are up there with the best New York bagels. Go early to get what you want - they open at 6 or 7am (depending on the time of year) and close at noon. But they sell out WAYYYY before closing time. You'll want them warm, so get your butt out of bed and make the 6 minute drive west on Thomas Rd. You'll be SOOOO glad you did.
Bagelfeld
Bagelfeld's - hands down, THE BEST BAGELS YOU'VE EVER HAD. Honestly, these are up there with the best New York bagels. Go early to get what you want - they open at 6 or 7am (depending on the time of year) and close at noon. But they sell out WAYYYY before closing time. You'll want them warm, so get your butt out of bed and make the 6 minute drive west on Thomas Rd. You'll be SOOOO glad you did.

Coffee Spots

Check out these locally owned spots for a good, strong cup.
One of my favorites for picking up a cup on the way to work or sitting and sipping while I people watch. I’m a fan of their teas and lavender latte.
22 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
PROVISION
4501 N 32nd St
22 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
One of my favorites for picking up a cup on the way to work or sitting and sipping while I people watch. I’m a fan of their teas and lavender latte.
This local multi-location coffee shop sources, roasts, and brews amazing coffee.
15 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Press Coffee - Scottsdale Waterfront
7135 E Camelback Rd
15 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
This local multi-location coffee shop sources, roasts, and brews amazing coffee.
IMO the most hipster of local coffee joints in the Valley. Visit whether you fit that mold or not. With multiple locations, including the airport, you’re sure to find a satisfying cup to give you a much needed jolt. This location is a great respite as you make your way through the Old Town Scottsdale shops. The original is in Tempe near ASU.
158 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Cartel Coffee Lab
7124 E 5th Ave
158 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
IMO the most hipster of local coffee joints in the Valley. Visit whether you fit that mold or not. With multiple locations, including the airport, you’re sure to find a satisfying cup to give you a much needed jolt. This location is a great respite as you make your way through the Old Town Scottsdale shops. The original is in Tempe near ASU.
I used to work across the street from this one-of-a-kind spot. Beans from a family farm in Brazil to Chandler, AZ. Who knew how good it could get! Order one of the seasonal specials, no matter the season.
32 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Peixoto Coffee Roasters.
11 W Boston St
32 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
I used to work across the street from this one-of-a-kind spot. Beans from a family farm in Brazil to Chandler, AZ. Who knew how good it could get! Order one of the seasonal specials, no matter the season.
More than 50 beans and loose leaf teas here! Beans are roasted on site and there is a coffee education program here, too. Everyone here is passionate about coffee and tea, and wants you to have an amazing cup. It’s a cool place to chill, study, or get some work done with plenty of seating inside and outside. If you’re here for a longer stay, pick up some beans, have them ground for a French Press (in the upper kitchen cabinet), and enjoy excellent coffee during your stay.
14 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Infusion Coffee & Tea
1300 E 8th St
14 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
More than 50 beans and loose leaf teas here! Beans are roasted on site and there is a coffee education program here, too. Everyone here is passionate about coffee and tea, and wants you to have an amazing cup. It’s a cool place to chill, study, or get some work done with plenty of seating inside and outside. If you’re here for a longer stay, pick up some beans, have them ground for a French Press (in the upper kitchen cabinet), and enjoy excellent coffee during your stay.