By Delaney Wood

Having been born and raised in Tempe, I’ve had the unique opportunity to test out numerous restaurants, attractions and events that we have here in town. Here in Tempe, there is a good mix of mom-and-pop establishments, as well as larger businesses and chain establishments. However, there are a select handful of places that I find myself returning to time and again.  

Here are my recommendations for Tempe restaurants to try within the city I call home.

Someburros
101 E. Baseline Rd., Tempe, AZ 85283

I’m putting Someburros at the top of my list because this is absolutely the restaurant I visit most often.  When I don’t feel like cooking dinner, or if I’m in need of some delicious Mexican food to help me through midterm season, I will most likely come here.  The location on Mill and Baseline is near and dear to my heart, and fun fact- it was the first Someburros location ever! Also, check out their new Tempe location near the ASU Tempe Campus: 1314 S. Rural Rd., Tempe, AZ 85281.

Pho Dalat
7707 S. Kyrene Rd. #106, Tempe, AZ 85284

As the weather gets colder, I start to crave very large bowls of delicious pho (pronounced “fuh”).  Pho Dalat is the perfect, cozy spot to dive into delicious Vietnamese food- I recommend the Chicken Pho, Tofu Spring Rolls, or the Grilled Chicken Rice Plate.  The waiters are all very friendly, and happy to help you decipher the very extensive menu. This location also hosts karaoke nights if you’re looking for a fun night out with friends.

Republic Ramen
1301 E. University Dr. #114, Tempe, AZ 85281

In the same vein, Republic Ramen is another restaurant I like to go to when the weather gets colder.  The ramen here is completely customizable, which is perfect for a picky eater like myself. The serving sizes are gigantic, and you will definitely head home with leftovers!

Barro’s Pizza
950 E. Baseline Rd. #101, Tempe, AZ 85283

Barro’s is the go-to place in Tempe for delicious pizza, wings, and PIZOOKIES!  People of all ages flock to Barro’s for pizza, and it is absolutely a local favorite.

Joe’s Italian Ice
2019 S. McClintock Dr., Tempe, AZ 85282

You know you visit a restaurant too often when the employees start calling you by your name. However, I will ignore my dessert addiction when it comes to Joe’s, because they sell the most delicious Italian ice in Phoenix.  Their trademark dessert is their “Joe Latti”, which is half Italian ice and half ice cream, but I can never resist a simple cup of strawberry Italian ice.