Tempe's Newest Restaurants: Must-Try Dining Spots for Fall 2020
Tempe's dining scene is thriving, with innovative new restaurants infusing fresh flavors into this vibrant college town. From plant-based Mexican cuisine to artisanal ice cream and bold sweet treats, there's something to satisfy every craving. Alter Ego, the lobby restaurant at Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown, earned the prestigious Best Hotel Restaurant award from Phoenix New Times—just months after its June opening.
Discover Tempe’s latest culinary gems and explore more options at www.tempetourism.com/food-and-drink/.
GuacStar Kitchen and Cantina
920 E. University Dr. #204, Tempe, AZ 85281
(480) 219-9272
GuacStar Kitchen and Cantina delivers a casual, experience-driven vibe with plant-based Mexican dishes, classic margaritas, and retro '80s/'90s cocktails. Highlights include Baja Pescado Street Tacos with beer-battered royal trumpet mushrooms and Enchiladas Calabacitas featuring roasted squash, zucchini, house-made roja and verde sauces, and cashew crema.
Sweet Republic
410 N. Scottsdale Rd. Suite 105, Tempe, AZ 85281
(480) 292-8557
Arizona's beloved artisan ice cream shop, Sweet Republic, has opened its newest Tempe location at the Watermark development near Tempe Town Lake. Made in small batches with local Arizona dairy, fresh fruits, and handmade marshmallows, flavors range from classics to unique creations like Peaberry Espresso and Church Music, a collaboration with The Shop Beer Co.
CoreLife Eatery
1840 E. Warner Rd. Suite 108, Tempe, AZ 85284
(480) 912-8282
For wholesome, flavorful fast-casual meals, CoreLife Eatery offers GMO-free salads, rice bowls, and tacos without artificial colors or additives. Popular choices include Southwest Grilled Chicken with Purple Rice, Sriracha Ginger Tofu with Ancient Grains, and Korean Pulled Pork Tacos.
Drink Me! Tea Room
1730 E. Warner Rd. #5, Tempe, AZ 85284
(602) 206-5469
This whimsical South Tempe tea room reimagines British afternoon tea with Alice in Wonderland-inspired décor. Options include the Wonderland Afternoon Tea with savory bites, scones, and sweets, or the Petite Tea with scones, coconut cream, and lemon curd. Pair with organic, plant-based, gluten-free teas. Reservations required; check the website for seasonal specials.
Alter Ego
108 E. University Dr., Tempe, AZ 85281
(602) 612-7871
Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown's signature spot, Alter Ego boasts stunning interiors and ASU-view patio dining. Executive Chef Ken Arneson crafts elevated fusion dishes like Katsu Chicken Sandwich and Brick Oven Calabrian Shrimp, plus breakfast, lunch, dinner, and craft cocktails. Weekend brunch features inventive plates such as “FRO” (pork fried rice, teppanyaki omelet, Asian pear salad, Thai vinaigrette) and Banana Fritter Pancake with bruleed bananas, cinnamon whipped cream, and warm syrup.
Alibi
108 E. University Dr., Tempe, AZ 85281
(602) 612-7872
Elevate your evening at Alibi, the 14th-floor poolside rooftop bar at Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown. Enjoy global street food like ahi tuna Poki Sampler and Filipino Style Empanadas, alongside cocktails, wine, or beer, with stunning sunset views.
Postino South Tempe
8749 S Rural Rd, Tempe, AZ 85284
(602) 325-2211
Opening in September 2020, Postino South Tempe brings its metro-Phoenix favorite status with bruschetta boards, snacks, salads, paninis, Arizona craft beers, and 30+ wines by the glass. Catch daily happy hour ($5 'til 5 p.m.) and Mon./Tues. $25 Bottle & Board after 8 p.m. Funky décor features mid-century modern pieces, vintage Tempe posters, and a 300-foot skateboard art wall.
Monroe’s Hot Chicken
430 N Scottsdale Rd, Tempe, AZ 85281
(480) 687-0007
Phoenix's 2019 Best of Phoenix winner, Monroe’s Hot Chicken, debuted its second Valley location at Tempe's Watermark in early November 2020. Founded by LoLo’s Chicken and Waffles creator Larry White, it specializes in Nashville-style hot chicken: Fried Chicken Sandwich, Popcorn Chicken Waffle Cone, and Hot Chicken Belgian Waffle Sandwich. Customize heat from “Southern” (no heat) to “What da Cluck!” (waiver required). All-natural chicken is deep-fried in peanut oil for ultimate crunch.
