🥂 Welcome to Tempe’s Freshest Food & Nightlife Scene
Tempe is sizzling with energy — new restaurants, lounges, and rooftop bars are redefining what it means to dine and play in the desert. Whether you’re here for the food, the music, or just the vibe, this guide highlights the best new places to dine, drink, and dance in Tempe.
Make the most of your stay by booking a stylish vacation rental with Rove Living, your local host for modern stays near Tempe’s top dining and entertainment districts.
🔥 The Hottest New Openings in Tempe
Electric Pickle — Eat, Play, and Party
Tempe’s most talked-about “eatertainment” venue combines pickleball, elevated dining, live DJs, and cocktails in one massive social space.
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Why Go: Perfect for groups or guests craving something active and social.
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Vibe: Playful and energetic with a great sunset bar scene.
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Don’t Miss: Shareable appetizers and themed DJ nights.
📍 Located near Tempe Marketplace — easy Uber or e-scooter ride from most Rove Living stays.
Filthy Animal & Drop Dead Gorgeous — Dinner Meets Disco
A dramatic duo: Filthy Animal serves wood-fired dinner in a luxe, moody space, while Drop Dead Gorgeous next door offers speakeasy cocktails and DJ beats.
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Why Go: Perfect for couples or stylish nights out.
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Pro Tip: Dress up and make a reservation — this one’s Instagram gold.
📍 Downtown Tempe — walkable from several Rove Living rentals.
Devil’s Hideaway & Idle Hands — A Dual Concept Experience
An immersive Mill Avenue hotspot combining neon art, signature drinks, and a hidden bar-within-a-bar.
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Why Go: Ideal for guests seeking a unique, underground feel.
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Experience: Book the 90-minute cocktail session at Idle Hands for a personalized mixology show.
Aruma Café & El Jardín Chiwas — Where Coffee Meets Culture
From the team behind Cocina Chiwas, this Culdesac favorite blends specialty coffee, craft beer, and wine in a relaxed courtyard atmosphere.
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Why Go: Perfect for brunch, remote work mornings, or casual evening drinks.
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Bonus: El Jardín’s outdoor garden often features live acoustic sessions.
📍 Close to public transit and just minutes from Rove Living properties.
NOVUS Place Dining District — Everything in One Spot
The NOVUS development brings several trendy dining options:
Blanco Cocina + Cantina, Blue Sushi Sake Grill, Over Easy, The Melt, Salt & Straw, and North Italia.
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Why Go: One hub for every craving — from tacos to sushi.
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Perfect For: Groups and families looking for variety and great patios.
🌆 Where to Sip, See the Sunset & Dance
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Lucero Rooftop Lounge at Omni Tempe Hotel — craft cocktails and desert skyline views.
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Drop Dead Gorgeous — transforms into a late-night dance floor with DJs.
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Electric Pickle — check the event schedule for live bands and evening DJ sets.
All of these are within easy reach of Rove Living rentals — so you can enjoy the night without long commutes.
🌵 Pro Tips for Guests
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Reservations: Book ahead for popular spots like Filthy Animal, Drop Dead Gorgeous, and Lucero Rooftop.
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Transportation: Electric scooters and rideshares are everywhere — or choose a Rove Living stay within walking distance of Mill Avenue.
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Best Time to Go: Visit from October to April for the best weather and outdoor patio season.
🍽️ A Sample Night Out in Tempe
Afternoon: Coffee at Aruma Café
Dinner: Reserve a table at Filthy Animal or Blanco Cocina + Cantina
Night: Dance at Drop Dead Gorgeous or chill at Lucero Rooftop Lounge
Then head home to your relaxing Rove Living rental — your quiet, stylish retreat after a night on the town.
Stay Near Tempe’s Top Dining & Nightlife
Want to experience all this without the stress of long drives or parking?
Book your stay directly with Rove Living — where every property is handpicked for style, comfort, and unbeatable proximity to Tempe’s best restaurants and nightlife.
✨ Final Thoughts
Tempe’s culinary and nightlife landscape is evolving fast, and every visit brings something new to explore. Whether you’re craving an early brunch, a sunset rooftop cocktail, or an all-night dance floor, the city has a place for every mood.
Stay close to the action — stay with Rove Living.