Having worked in downtown Tempe for several year now, I’ve had the good fortune of trying several lunch spots in Tempe that make my tummy happy and my day a bit brighter. Here is my list of top 7 lunch restaurants to try in Tempe. In no particular order, here they are:

Pita Jungle – Fresh, delicious flavors are what you’ll experience at Pita Jungle. A fun, hipster atmosphere will greet you when you walk in, making you instantly feel right at home. The hummus is amazing, and be sure to try the roasted bell pepper hummus or the cilantro jalapeño hummus too. I usually find a yummy seasonal salad on the daily specials menu to tempt me, but when I want something more hearty, I go for the chipotle chicken lavosh pizza or the chicken schwarma pita. I’ve never been disappointed with anything I’ve tried at Pita Jungle – it’s all good!
1250 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe, AZ 85281

Four Peaks Brewing Company – A local favorite, Four Peaks Brewery is one of my favorites too. Located in a historic creamery, the pub has a fun atmosphere and an open air feel, making it the perfect place to hang out and grab a beer and bite to eat with friends. The alehouse sandwiches are mouth-watering good. My favorites are the portabella veggie beer bread and the grilled chicken beer bread. My dad usually orders the Reuben and swears it’s one of the best he’s ever tasted. Four Peaks is known for their amazing selection of craft beers. Try the Kilt Lifter or Peach Ale, two of my faves.
1340 E 8th St, Tempe, AZ 85281

Original Chop Shop Co. – The Original Chop Shop Tempe location is situated next to the ASU campus, giving it an energetic youthful vibe. They have a great outdoor space to enjoy and the inside is quaint and charming. I can never decide between their sandwiches and salads so I usually get one of each and split with the person I’m dining with. You can’t go wrong with the Danish salad or the Moroccan turkey sandwich. The veggie and hummus  sandwich is also on my list of faves. And my cousin raves about the protein plates as well, although I have yet to try one. Maybe that will be on my next order when I’m there.
222 E. University Dr., Tempe, AZ 85281

Daily Jam – Located on the north end of downtown Tempe, Daily Jam offers a delicious lunch menu, but also offers their breakfast menu all day long! This is a plus for me since I love having breakfast for lunch. My top lunch choices are the grilled cheese “melt down” or the original shop salad. It just depends on whether I’m trying to eat healthy that day or not. When I’m in the mood for having breakfast for lunch I typically go for the one of their yummy omelettes or the farmers market benedict.
310 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281

Sacks Art of Sandwicherie – A sandwich shop with an artistic twist. Each sandwich is crafted so the ingredients blend together harmoniously, hence the “art of sandwicheire” slogan. The Symphony and Impressionist are my go-to sandwiches and make my belly happy every time. Also, with every sandwich comes a sweet surprise – a small chocolate chip cookie to complete the meal.
839 W. University Dr., Tempe, AZ 85281

Pedal Haus Brewery –  Built to be a haven for lovers of bikes, good times and great beer, Pedal Haus Brewery has everything you need for a memorable night out. This 14,000 sq. ft. bike-friendly restaurant features hand-crafted European-style beers, a Belgian-American gastropub food menu, a huge patio space and three indoor and outdoor bar options with 24 taps each. With one of the biggest patios in all of Downtown Tempe, Pedal Haus Brewery brings together European-style crafted beers, a massive fire pit, beer garden and games such as cornhole, ladderball and ping pong.
730 S Mill Ave #102, Tempe, AZ 85281