Discover the Best Restaurants in Tempe, AZ: A Food Lover’s Guide

If you’re visiting Tempe, you’re in the perfect spot for a culinary adventure. The city’s restaurant scene is booming — from cozy Italian kitchens to bold Southwestern flavors, you’ll find something memorable around every corner. This guide highlights the top restaurants in Tempe AZ you don’t want to miss.

Here are 10 of the best restaurants in Tempe AZ, great for romantic dinners, group nights out, or casual meals. Use this as your go-to list for where to eat in Tempe AZ during your stay.

1. Bar Capri

Cuisine: Mediterranean / Italian fusion
Location: 1730 E Warner Rd #10
Why it stands out: A newer gem in Tempe, Bar Capri combines classic Italian with subtle Middle Eastern touches. The decor is sophisticated without being stuffy.
Signature bites: Try the lamb skewers with mint-yogurt dip, arancini, or creamy burrata.
Pro tip: It’s one of the more sought-after restaurants in Tempe, so booking ahead is wise.

2. Cafe Lalibela

Cuisine: Ethiopian / African
Location: 849 W University Dr
Why it stands out: A longtime favorite, this spot delivers authentic Ethiopian fare with a warm, welcoming vibe.
Signature bites: Dishes served with injera (the spongy sour flatbread), slow-cooked stews, and vegetable mix platters.
Pro tip: Great for sharing — order a few dishes and dig in.

3. Caffe Boa

Cuisine: Modern Italian / European
Location: 398 S Mill Ave
Why it stands out: Romantic, cozy, and perfect for date night or relaxed dinners. Excellent pastas, fresh ingredients, and a thoughtful wine list.
Signature bites: Butternut squash ravioli, lasagna with light cream, and artisan charcuterie boards.
Pro tip: Evening service offers the best atmosphere — soft lighting and comfortable seating.

4. Cocina Chiwas

Cuisine: Elevated Mexican / Contemporary
Location: 2001 E Apache Blvd (Culdesac Tempe)
Why it stands out: This modern Mexican concept brings new life to heritage dishes, with artful presentation and bold flavors.
Signature bites: Carnitas tacos on heirloom corn tortillas, oysters with hibiscus-mignonette, beef-cheek pasta in chile colorado.
Pro tip: Pair your meal with a stroll through Culdesac Tempe, a car-free neighborhood developed just a few years ago.

5. The Dhaba

Cuisine: Punjabi / Indian
Location: 1872 E Apache Blvd
Why it stands out: Rich spices, hearty food, and a menu that spans from snacks to full meals. A go-to for Indian cuisine lovers in Tempe.
Signature bites: Thali platters (meat or vegetarian), tandoori dishes, naan, and aromatic curries.
Pro tip: Try the chai at the end — it’s a perfect finish.

6. Hundred Mile Brewing Co.

Cuisine: Brewery + Pub Fare
Location: 690 N Scottsdale Rd
Why it stands out: Combining a high-quality brewery with a thoughtful food menu, this spot is perfect when you want a relaxed night out.
Signature bites: Fish & chips, tacos, ahi poke salad, and a rotating tap of craft brews.
Pro tip: Go during happy hour or early evening to enjoy cooler patio seating.

7. Mandi House

Cuisine: Middle Eastern / Yemeni
Location: 1639 E Apache Blvd
Why it stands out: Known for generous portions, bold flavors, and a welcoming Middle Eastern dining experience.
Signature bites: Chicken or lamb mandi with spiced rice, garlic yogurt, spicy tomato sauce.
Pro tip: Ideal for groups or families — portions are ample.

8. Old Town Taste

Cuisine: Sichuan / Chinese
Location: 1845 E Broadway Rd
Why it stands out: For lovers of bold, spicy food. This is one of the top Chinese restaurants in Tempe for depth of flavor and heat.
Signature bites: Chongqing-style fried chicken, mapo tofu, flavorful soups, and crispy fried fish.
Pro tip: Order multiple dishes to share — the menu is built for exploring tastes.

9. Filthy Animal

Cuisine: Contemporary / New American
Location: In Tempe
Why it stands out: Sleek, innovative, and ideal when you want something upscale and modern.
Signature bites: Try the pibil dumplings, short ribs, or dessert options like miso cheesecake.
Pro tip: Dress smart-casual and go for a special occasion or splurge night.

10. Electric Pickle

Cuisine: New American / Entertainment Venue
Location: South Tempe
Why it stands out: A fresh concept combining food, drinks, and entertainment — including pickleball courts, live music, and games.
Signature bites: Seared ahi, short ribs, barbacoa nachos, shareables.
Pro tip: Plan a whole evening — dining, play, and drinks all in one place.

🎯 Dining by Mood & Occasion

Romantic evenings: Caffe Boa, Bar Capri, Filthy Animal
Group or shared-plate meals: The Dhaba, Mandi House, Old Town Taste
Casual nights out / fun scenes: Hundred Mile Brewing, Electric Pickle

🏙️ Where These Restaurants Are & What’s Close By

Many of Tempe’s best restaurants are centered around Mill Avenue and Downtown Tempe or along the Apache Boulevard corridor. If you’re staying near ASU or Tempe Town Lake, you’ll find several choices within walking or short driving distance.

Culdesac Tempe, where Cocina Chiwas is located, is a unique car-free neighborhood designed for walkability and a relaxed dining experience.

New dining and nightlife spots are also opening quickly across Tempe, adding even more excitement to where to eat in Tempe AZ.

🗓️ Sample 3-Night Dining Plan

✅ Tips for Getting the Most Out of Tempe Dining

• Reserve in advance, especially at places like Bar Capri and Filthy Animal.

• Sharing is smart — many menus are built for sampling.

• Check hours — some restaurants close between lunch and dinner.

• Mix familiar and adventurous — try something new each night.

• Use rideshares or walk when possible — parking can be limited in busy areas.

• Explore new spots — dining in Tempe is always evolving.

✨ Final Thoughts

The best restaurants in Tempe AZ deliver more than great food — they showcase culture, creativity, and community. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a fun group outing, or a laid-back night out, this guide will help you find where to eat in Tempe AZ with confidence and excitement.