Phoenix is one of those cities that has a reputation for being hot, and the city lives up to that reputation. There are more than 300 days of clear skies, pleasant temps most of the year, and hot weather every summer. Rain seems to be picky and elusive when it comes to visiting what Arizona natives call “The Valley of the Sun”, though summer monsoon season can be a welcome respite. The “Valley of the Sun” name describes the greater metropolitan area that extends from Phoenix to the surrounding suburbs of Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, and many more. While some don’t like the desert-inspired climate, visitors who come to the city frequently change their minds once they discover the area’s dining treasures. Phoenix restaurants offer unique and diverse perfectly prepared cuisines that rival many of the eateries in larger metropolitan areas.

First-time visitors frequently drive around the Valley in search of some of the best food on the planet as many of the Valley’s eateries may not be on popular social media sites. The restaurants in the Valley don’t need to make a splash on the Internet to prove they are gastronomical rock stars. Their food speaks for itself. If the Valley of the Sun were up for culinary awards that recognize low-key authentic food, prepared by some of the finest chefs in the Southwest, there would be more winners than losers. Several Phoenix restaurants are featured on top culinary websites, many with rave reviews for their food, ambiance, and service.

We found 6 outstanding restaurants in Phoenix we’d like to share with people who come to the city for a vacation stay. We didn’t base our opinions on hearsay, or by the amount of advertising that has a way of selling more sizzle than steak in TV and printed ads. We based our comments on the experiences of the locals and people who have found great vacation rentals and keep returning year after year to eat, relax, and enjoy what the Valley has to offer. Our list is not in any particular order. We let readers decide which restaurant tops the list. That’s part of the fun. Everyone has a different set of standards when it comes to eating out, so we want you to decide which restaurant speaks to you through their food. We know you will enjoy all these culinary titans because they all offer you something you can’t find anywhere else but in the Valley of the Sun.

 

Our Top 6 Phoenix Restaurant Picks In The Valley

Kai Restaurant

If you are in the mood for some Native American cuisine rooted in traditional crops grown along the Gila River, then Kai is the restaurant for you. The grilled buffalo tenderloin with cholla buds and smoked corn puree or the wild scallops with mesquite-smoked caviar are culinary creations that make dining an epic experience. The perfectly orchestrated service and expertly created wine list, as well as the Native American art on the walls, make you feel like your eyes and taste buds are finally waking up after a long nap.

Match Cuisine And Cocktails

Housed in a new Boutique Hotel, Match Cuisine and Cocktails offers guests a globally inspired menu built around a wood-fired oven. The menu is diverse, and so are the pizza choices. The cocktail menu is as diverse as the food menu so it’s not uncommon for guests to do a tasting that features different menu choices and cocktail selections.

Irma’s Kitchen

Irma’s is one of those city restaurants that makes you feel like you’re sitting on a plaza in Mexico eating incredible Mexican delicacies. Irma’s is a little nook on 15th Street. Locals pop in to get their Mexican food cravings satisfied, and then they pop out and go on their way. Don’t worry about dressing trendy and forget about a well-manicured ambiance at Irma’s. All you get at Irma’s is authenticity in service, food, and appreciation.

JL Smokehouse

Owner James Lewis says his pulled pork at JL Smokehouse is the best in the United States, and the locals agree. Lewis opened his smokehouse in 2017, and as soon as the doors opened the place was a hit. The rib tips are exceptional, and the bold flavors and robust smoke of the ribs and brisket are in a league of their own.

Buck And Rider

Most visitors don’t expect to get good seafood in a desert restaurant in Phoenix, but Buck and Rider prove they have the best seafood this side of San Diego. All the seafood comes in daily, so the Sushi Grade Ahi Tuna Burger with avocado is a local favorite. Plus, this upscale beach-house style restaurant makes you think you’re on some tropical island enjoying the King Crab salad like a true islander.

CRUjiente Tacos

A trip to the Valley wouldn’t be complete without visiting CRUjiente Tacos. This incredible taco re-imagining restaurant opened in November 2017 and it is the Latin dining experience Phoenicians were looking for. The Pork belly taco with Kimchi and cilantro will make you want to stand up and cheer the chef. And the tequila-inspired cocktails are one-of-a-kind specialties, according to local tequila experts.

Our list of Phoenix restaurants is just a preview of what the Valley of the Sun offers guests and locals. There’s more to discover, and we will help you find the restaurant you’re looking for without the hype or the sizzle.