Dining in Tempe
Just because Tempe is a college town, doesn't mean you're limited to beer, burgers and pizza. Tempe offers a wide choice in cuisine and price range for breakfast, lunch, dinner and grazing.
BREAKFAST
If you’re in town for a weekend, stop by Café Boa, located in the hip and happening Mill District. This European-inspired bistro offers food that is “seasonally inspired, local, organic and all-natural.” That translates to such tempting brunch fare as Tuscan Bruschetta: eggs served over easy, with heirloom tomatoes and fresh basil on grilled ciabatta. Try it with a fresh-pressed orange juice or an artisan tea. Café Boa is at 398 S. Mill Ave. For the early-riser, head over to the AZ Bakery (315 W Elliot Road, Suite 107). Well worth a jaunt away from the downtown bustle, this friendly, easy-going bakery-café is known for fabulous Pecan French Toast.
LUNCH
Another retreat from the Mill Avenue bustle is the charming, old-fashioned House Of Tricks restaurant (114 E 7th St). You’re likely to feel “treated,” not tricked, with a stop here. Housed in two vintage homes, the restaurant offers contemporary American fare such as Green Chili Salmon and Shrimp. A wooden deck and brick patio in gorgeously landscaped gardens provide romantic outdoor seating and plenty of cat watching.
DINNER
Although House of Tricks is also a favorite for dinner, Tempe offers more exotic cuisine for a change of pace. Places to try include VinciTorio’s Italian (1835 East Elliot Road) and Sahara’s Middle Eastern Restaurant (1804 E Southern Ave). Award-winning VinciTorio’s has a casual, yet stylish atmosphere and specializes in handmade pasta dishes like Lasagna Casareccia. Sahara’s is an informal dinner stop, well loved for its lentil soup, hummus, and kabobs.
From early-morning baked goods to elegant outdoor organic dining, Tempe offers a wide and delectable choice in dining. If you still want beer and burgers, the top-rated Four Peaks Brewing Company (1340 East 8th Street) should hit the spot.