The Golden Pineapple: Tempe's Premier Craft Lounge for Baja Mexican Cuisine and Artisanal Cocktails
Written by Angela Muniz
Photos by Mark Lipczynski
Just south of the vibrant Arizona State University Tempe campus and downtown Tempe, a striking pineapple sculpture graces a Mill Avenue wall, captivating passersby and sparking curiosity. This iconic beacon draws food enthusiasts and craft beverage lovers to The Golden Pineapple, a stylish new restaurant and cocktail bar in Tempe’s Broadmor neighborhood.
The Golden Pineapple is the latest venture from beverage experts Justin Evans and Tony Fatica. As a sister concept to their acclaimed Valley spots—The Wandering Tortoise near the Biltmore, The Theodore in downtown Phoenix, and The Sleepy Whale in downtown Chandler—it’s their first to combine exceptional food, craft beer, and cocktails.
Along with co-owner and operator Todd Oltmann, the team has transformed this historic space into an inviting haven with seamless open-air flow between the patio, bar, and dining room. A majestic shade tree beyond the pineapple-adorned gates creates an oasis-like ambiance. Oltmann notes it has swiftly become the neighborhood hub they envisioned.
“It was the right location at the right time,” he says. “We had strong foot traffic even before full service. We’re thrilled to be part of Tempe.”
Leading the kitchen is Chef Dell Morris, whose expertise was honed at the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale. He crafts a Baja Mexican-inspired menu with Sonoran Desert flair, featuring dishes from local suppliers like Schreiner’s Fine Sausage, Hayden Flour Mills, and Frites Street. Highlights include gluten-free corn cakes with raspberry-lime-berry compote, almonds, and mezcal maple syrup; red chili pork or green corn tamales; and the must-try tamale fries—crispy tamale slices topped with chorizo, queso sauce, and pickled onions—that sell out every time.
Beverage Director Adam Fought shines with inventive cocktails like the Imposter Syndrome, blending mezcal with house-made pineapple-cilantro-jalapeño juice. All juices, sodas, and infusions are crafted in-house, elevating classics like the Paloma with fresh grapefruit soda.
True to its siblings, The Golden Pineapple offers a grab-and-go cooler stocked with craft beers, packaged cocktails, and more—perfect for on-site enjoyment or takeout.
The Golden Pineapple
2700 S. Mill Ave., Tempe | (480) 590-5703
