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Tempe's Best Restaurants: Top Picks from a Local Native

By Delaney Wood

Born and raised in Tempe, I've explored countless restaurants, attractions, and events in our vibrant town. Tempe offers a perfect blend of cozy mom-and-pop spots, local favorites, and popular chains. Yet, a few stand out as my go-to choices for consistently exceptional experiences.

Discover my top Tempe restaurant recommendations, straight from a lifelong resident.

Someburros
101 E. Baseline Rd., Tempe, AZ 85283

Someburros tops my list as my most frequent visit. It's my reliable choice for quick, flavorful Mexican cuisine—perfect for busy nights or midterm cravings. The Mill and Baseline location holds special nostalgia as the original Someburros. Don't miss their new spot near ASU Tempe Campus: 1314 S. Rural Rd., Tempe, AZ 85281.

Pho Dalat
7707 S. Kyrene Rd. #106, Tempe, AZ 85284

As temperatures drop, I crave hearty bowls of pho (pronounced “fuh”). Pho Dalat delivers authentic Vietnamese comfort in a cozy setting. Favorites include Chicken Pho, Tofu Spring Rolls, and Grilled Chicken Rice Plate. Friendly staff guide you through the extensive menu, and they host lively karaoke nights for group outings.

Republic Ramen
1301 E. University Dr. #114, Tempe, AZ 85281

For more cold-weather warmth, Republic Ramen shines with fully customizable bowls—ideal for picky eaters. Generous portions mean plenty of leftovers to enjoy later.

Barro’s Pizza
950 E. Baseline Rd. #101, Tempe, AZ 85283

Barro’s is Tempe's ultimate destination for pizza, wings, and legendary PIZOOKIES. It draws crowds of all ages and remains a true local staple.

Joe’s Italian Ice
2019 S. McClintock Dr., Tempe, AZ 85282

I'm a regular at Joe’s, where staff know me by name. Their Italian ice is Phoenix's finest—try the signature “Joe Latti” (half ice, half soft-serve) or classic strawberry for pure refreshment.

Travel Notes
  • -

    Jerome, one of my top-favorite destinations, captivates with its eclectic vibe, artistic shops, and breathtaking scenery. Perched atop Cleopatra Hill at 5,200 feet between Prescott and Flagstaff, this historic mining town brims with character. Seeking a break from routine date nights, my partner Tauren and I chose Jerome for an exciting day trip—just two hours from Tempe, making it ideal for exploration. We kicked off with breakfast at Snooze A.M. Eatery, right by Arizona State University Tempe

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    Recently, my husband and I took our two toddlers on a delightful day trip from Tempe to Payson, packed with outdoor adventures. Just 1.5 hours away, this charming small town offers pine forests, vast open spaces, quirky eateries, and stunning mountains. Easy to navigate with friendly locals everywhere, Payson boasts abundant hiking trails—from gentle paths to challenging treks. Check our route on Google Maps for drive times between stops. Breakfast kicked off our day at Great Harvest Bread Co.,

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    Sedona ranks among my top favorite destinations worldwide, boasting a vibrant downtown filled with excellent restaurants, world-class hiking trails, and postcard-perfect scenery. Just a scenic two-hour drive from Tempe, its an ideal day trip. Recently, I joined friends Jen and Diana for an unforgettable hike to Devils Bridge. We kicked off our adventure at Harlows Café, a Tempe hidden gem on University Drive. This cozy spot features wood-paneled walls adorned with vintage photos. The friendly s