Tempe Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Tempe. Your complete guide to dining in Tempe.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Tempe! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Tempe has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Tempe's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Tempe like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Tempe offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Tempe.
Perfect Pear Bistro
Highly rated American in Tempe with 4.6 stars from 2364 reviews.
📍 603 W University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Culinary Dropout
Highly rated American in Tempe with 4.4 stars from 8591 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 149 S Farmer Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Filthy Animal
Highly rated Restaurant in Tempe with 4.5 stars from 398 reviews.
📍 740 S Mill Ave Suite D140, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Top of the Rock Restaurant
Highly rated Restaurant in Tempe with 4.4 stars from 1680 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 2000 W Westcourt Way, Tempe, AZ 85282, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
Ghost Ranch: Modern Southwest Cuisine
Highly rated Mexican in Tempe with 4.5 stars from 1421 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1006 E Warner Rd, Tempe, AZ 85284, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Mexican cuisine
Alter Ego
Highly rated Restaurant in Tempe with 4.4 stars from 440 reviews.
📍 108 E University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Postino Annex
Highly rated Restaurant in Tempe with 4.6 stars from 2347 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 615 S College Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Spitz Restaurant - Tempe At ASU
Highly rated Restaurant in Tempe with 4.8 stars from 2330 reviews.
📍 681 E Apache Blvd, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Hudson Eatery & Bar
Highly rated Restaurant in Tempe with 4.7 stars from 553 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1601 E Apache Blvd, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Board & Brew - Tempe
Highly rated Restaurant in Tempe with 4.9 stars from 2954 reviews.
📍 1015 S Rural Rd #105, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
Society
Highly rated Italian in Tempe with 4.6 stars from 835 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 920 E University Dr #204, Tempe, AZ 85288, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Italian cuisine
Thirsty Lion
Highly rated Restaurant in Tempe with 4.4 stars from 4952 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 2000 E Rio Salado Pkwy #1041, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Tempe.
Safeway
Highly rated Bakery in Tempe with 4.2 stars from 3257 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.
📍 926 E Broadway Rd, Tempe, AZ 85282, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
Tempe Marketplace
Highly rated International in Tempe with 4.6 stars from 21832 reviews.
📍 2000 E Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85288, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Lee Lee International Supermarkets
Highly rated International in Tempe with 4.5 stars from 8344 reviews.
📍 2025 N Dobson Rd, Chandler, AZ 85224, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Los Altos Ranch Market
Highly rated International in Tempe with 4.2 stars from 2412 reviews.
📍 1118 E Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85204, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Whole Foods Market
Highly rated International in Tempe with 4.4 stars from 1296 reviews.
📍 750 S Ash Ave Ste 101, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Asiana Market
Highly rated International in Tempe with 4.6 stars from 2259 reviews.
📍 1135 S Dobson Rd #104, Mesa, AZ 85202, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Whole Foods Market
Highly rated International in Tempe with 4.4 stars from 3001 reviews.
📍 2955 W Ray Rd, Chandler, AZ 85224, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
H Mart Mesa
Highly rated International in Tempe with 4.6 stars from 4725 reviews.
📍 1919 W Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Tempe.
Arizona Food Tours
Highly rated International in Tempe with 5 stars from 556 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Taste It Tours Scottsdale Food Tours
Highly rated Restaurant in Tempe with 4.9 stars from 676 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Taste It Tours -Food Tours Phoenix
Highly rated International in Tempe with 4.8 stars from 71 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Rydables Tours- Downtown Mesa
Highly rated International in Tempe with 4.6 stars from 16 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
JoyRidesAZ Scottsdale Tours
Highly rated International in Tempe with 5 stars from 329 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Outlaw Distillery
Highly rated International in Tempe with 4.9 stars from 159 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Tempe.
Honey 2 A Bee Coffee & Crepes
Highly rated Cafe in Tempe with 4.9 stars from 2017 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1000 E Apache Blvd Suite 101, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Brick Road Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Tempe with 4.7 stars from 679 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 4415 S Rural Rd #10, Tempe, AZ 85282, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
The Buzzed Goat Tempe
Highly rated Cafe in Tempe with 4.7 stars from 186 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 3415 S McClintock Dr, Tempe, AZ 85282, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Snakes & Lattes Tempe
Highly rated American in Tempe with 4.5 stars from 2223 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 20 W 6th St, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Experiment Coffee and Pastry
Highly rated Bakery in Tempe with 4.9 stars from 284 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1135 W Geneva Dr, Tempe, AZ 85282, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
Shaghf Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Tempe with 4.7 stars from 886 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 1250 E Apache Blvd #116, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Cafetal Coffee & Familia
Highly rated Cafe in Tempe with 4.8 stars from 660 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 777 S College Ave #101, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Shibam Coffee of Tempe
Highly rated Cafe in Tempe with 4.9 stars from 224 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 977 E Apache Blvd Suite 101, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Tempe.
Signature Dish
A must-try Tempe specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Tempe dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Tempe with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Tempe specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Tempe creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Tempe classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Tempe specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Tempe dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Tempe with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Tempe specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Tempe.
Four Peaks Brewing Company
Highly rated Restaurant in Tempe with 4.6 stars from 3012 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1340 E 8th St, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Devil's Hideaway
Highly rated Bar in Tempe with 4.1 stars from 148 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 401 S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Tempe Tavern
Highly rated Bar in Tempe with 4.2 stars from 1111 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1810 E Apache Blvd, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Mill's Modern Social
Highly rated Bar in Tempe with 4.3 stars from 1657 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 83 E Broadway Rd, Tempe, AZ 85282, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Fat Tuesday
Highly rated Bar in Tempe with 4.2 stars from 1374 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 680 S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
The Hudson Eatery & Bar
Highly rated Restaurant in Tempe with 4.7 stars from 553 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1601 E Apache Blvd, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Tempe's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Tempe vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tempe is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Tempe offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Tempe specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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