Tempe, Arizona, a vibrant city located just east of Phoenix, is a food lover’s paradise. With its rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary scene, Tempe offers a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Mexican cuisine to modern American fare, and from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, Tempe has it all. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Tempe, highlighting the best places to eat in this vibrant city.
Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Starting your day with a delicious breakfast or brunch is a great way to kick off your day in Tempe. Here are some of the best breakfast and brunch spots in the city:
The Breakfast Club
Located in the heart of downtown Tempe, The Breakfast Club is a popular spot for breakfast and brunch. Their menu features a wide range of options, including omelets, pancakes, waffles, and sandwiches. Be sure to try their signature “Breakfast Club” sandwich, featuring scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheddar cheese on a toasted bagel.
Short Leash Hot Dogs
While they’re known for their gourmet hot dogs, Short Leash Hot Dogs also serves up a mean breakfast burrito. Their “Morning Glory” burrito features scrambled eggs, chorizo, black beans, and avocado wrapped in a flour tortilla. Don’t forget to add a side of their signature “Pickle Dog” sauce.
The Original Breakfast House
This family-owned breakfast spot has been a Tempe staple for over 20 years. Their menu features a wide range of breakfast options, including omelets, pancakes, waffles, and eggs benedict. Be sure to try their signature “Breakfast Combo,” featuring two eggs, bacon, sausage, and toast.
Lunch and Dinner Options
After a morning of exploring Tempe, it’s time to refuel with a delicious lunch or dinner. Here are some of the best lunch and dinner options in the city:
Tempe Public Market
This bustling food hall features a variety of vendors serving up everything from tacos to sushi to burgers. Be sure to try some of the unique offerings, such as the Korean BBQ tacos from “Taco Tornado” or the artisanal sandwiches from “The Breadwinner.”
Four Peaks Brewing Company
This local brewery is known for its craft beers, but their menu is also worth exploring. Their “Brewpub Fare” features a wide range of options, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and entrees like fish and chips and chicken parmesan. (See Also: Where to Eat in Boracay Station 2? Best Dining Spots)
MacAlpine’s Soda Fountain and Diner
Located in the heart of Tempe, MacAlpine’s is a retro-style diner that serves up classic American fare with a twist. Their menu features a wide range of options, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and entrees like meatloaf and chicken pot pie. Be sure to try one of their signature milkshakes, made with real ice cream and a variety of flavors.
International Cuisine
Tempe is a culturally diverse city, and its culinary scene reflects this diversity. Here are some of the best international cuisine options in the city:
La Bocca Urban Pizzeria
This popular pizzeria serves up authentic Neapolitan-style pizza with a variety of toppings. Be sure to try one of their signature pies, such as the “Prosciutto e Funghi” featuring prosciutto and mushrooms.
Thai Basil
This family-owned Thai restaurant serves up a wide range of authentic dishes, including curries, noodle dishes, and soups. Be sure to try one of their signature dishes, such as the “Pad Thai” featuring stir-fried noodles and vegetables.
Los Tacos
This casual taco shop serves up a wide range of traditional Mexican dishes, including tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Be sure to try one of their signature tacos, such as the “Al Pastor” featuring marinated pork and pineapple.
Specialty Food and Drink (See Also: Where to Eat in Vancouver Bc? Foodie Guide)
Tempe is also home to a variety of specialty food and drink shops, perfect for those looking for a unique culinary experience:
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
This popular coffee shop serves up a wide range of specialty coffee drinks, including lattes, cappuccinos, and cold brew. Be sure to try one of their signature drinks, such as the “Mocha Cookie Crumble” featuring espresso, chocolate syrup, and whipped cream.
Sweet Republic
This artisanal ice cream shop serves up unique and delicious flavors, such as honey lavender and cardamom pistachio. Be sure to try one of their signature flavors, such as the “Salted Caramel” featuring rich caramel and flaky sea salt.
Tempe Farmers Market
This weekly farmers market features a variety of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses. Be sure to try some of the unique and delicious offerings, such as the “Fresh Fruit Smoothies” from “The Smoothie Spot” or the “Artisanal Bread” from “The Breadwinner.”
Recap and Conclusion
Tempe, Arizona, is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional Mexican cuisine to modern American fare, and from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, Tempe has it all. Whether you’re in the mood for a delicious breakfast burrito, a gourmet hot dog, or a unique international dish, Tempe has something for everyone. Be sure to check out some of the specialty food and drink shops, such as The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Sweet Republic, and Tempe Farmers Market, for a truly unique culinary experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best place to eat in Tempe for breakfast?
The Breakfast Club is a popular spot for breakfast and brunch, featuring a wide range of options including omelets, pancakes, waffles, and sandwiches. (See Also: Where to Eat in Voss? Best Local Spots)
What are some good options for lunch in Tempe?
Tempe Public Market is a great option for lunch, featuring a variety of vendors serving up everything from tacos to sushi to burgers. Four Peaks Brewing Company is also a great spot for lunch, offering a wide range of options including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and entrees.
What are some good options for dinner in Tempe?
La Bocca Urban Pizzeria is a great spot for dinner, serving up authentic Neapolitan-style pizza with a variety of toppings. Thai Basil is also a great option for dinner, offering a wide range of authentic Thai dishes.
What are some good options for dessert in Tempe?
Sweet Republic is a great spot for dessert, serving up unique and delicious flavors of artisanal ice cream. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is also a great spot for dessert, offering a wide range of specialty coffee drinks and pastries.
What are some good options for special occasions in Tempe?
For special occasions, consider dining at one of Tempe’s upscale restaurants, such as The Original Breakfast House or Four Peaks Brewing Company. You can also consider booking a private room at one of these restaurants for a more intimate dining experience.