Here are some top dining picks in Phoenix, Arizona—ranging from casual local favorites to elegant fine‑dining. Each includes a short description and website link:
Durant’s
A venerable steakhouse with red leather booths and a retro vibe, serving aged steaks, Oysters Rockefeller, and chicken livers. A Phoenix institution.
Website: durantsphoenix.com
Pizzeria Bianco
Wood‑fired, hand‑made pizzas by Chris Bianco—nationally acclaimed. Hearty crusts using local herbs and mozzarella made in‑house.
Website: pizzeriabianco.com
The Fry Bread House
Serving Indigenous American fry bread with savory and sweet toppings since 1992. A James Beard “American Classic.”
Website: n/a (no official site), but widely listed online
Kai (Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass)
Arizona’s only AAA Five Diamond & Forbes Five Star restaurant. Indigenous‑inspired tasting menus featuring bison, corn puree, cholla buds, agave — with sweeping views.
Website: available via Sheraton site
Binkley’s Restaurant
A 20+ course tasting‑menu experience in the Farm at South Phoenix (in Cave Creek). Highly theatrical, reservation‑only.
Website: binkleys.com
Lon’s at The Hermosa Inn
Elegant New American cuisine from the inn’s garden—with an extensive wine cellar and desert‑garden views.
Website: hermosainn.com/dining/lons.html
The Arrogant Butcher
A lively Uptown steakhouse/seafood bar—dry‑aged meats, truffle fries, and craft cocktails. Perfect for groups.
Website: thearrogantbutcher.com
Bacanora
Sonoran‑style comfort food grilled over mesquite by James Beard–winning chef Rene Andrade. Try the pollo asado or rib‑eye steak.
Website: bacanora.com
Valentine
Creative American dishes with a southwestern twist—think mesquite‑smoked hot dogs and regional produce desserts. Stylish and modern.
Website: valentinephoenix.com
Glai Baan
Central Phoenix hotspot for authentic Thai street food—noodle soups and moo ping (pork skewers), crafted by James Beard semifinalist Cat Bunnag.
Website: glaibaanphoenix.com
Lom Wong
Downtown Thai comfort food in a relaxed setting—green mango salad, spicy fried chicken, with a curated wine list.
Website: [lomwongtx.com?] Likely via The Infatuation
Chilte
Located in Roosevelt Row and run by former football player Lawrence “LT” Smith. Bold Latin‑Mexican‑inspired dishes like mole lamb flautas and squid‑ink tortillas.
Website: search “Chilte Phoenix”
The Henry
A polished, library‑inspired setting—perfect for brunch (Rancheros bowl, French toast) or dinner with tuna crispy rice and short ribs.
Website: thehenryphoenix.com
Ava Bakery
Persian‑influenced bakery and café, semifinalist in the 2024 James Beard Awards—known for creative pastries and sandwiches.
Website: likely [avabakery.com]
Harumi Sushi
A sleek downtown sushi bar with new cocktails like espresso martinis and craft margaritas. Elegant, youthful vibe.
Website: check “Harumi Sushi Phoenix”
Hana Japanese Eatery
Intimate, casual sushi records—including glazed eel nigiri—the top pick among locals for fresh seafood fare.
Website: listed on Timeout Phoenix
Dining Type | Recommended Spots |
---|---|
Romantic/fine dining | Kai, Binkley’s, Lon’s, Binkley’s, The Arrogant Butcher |
Local flavor/hip | Bacanora, Valentine, Glai Baan, Chilte, Harumi Sushi |
Comfort/brunch | The Henry, Ava Bakery, Fry Bread House |