Food Scene

New Places To Dine, Drink and Dance in Tempe

Check out Tempe’s recently opened dining concepts and find out what’s coming soon.

Tempe is bursting with eclectic places to dine, sip and be entertained. From weekend brunches and vibey breweries to sky-high rooftops and late-night dance floors. The best part is that just when you think you’ve tried them all, a roster of new concepts springs up.

Whether you’re in the mood for a great meal, a new cocktail designed by a creative mixologist, or an evening of DJs and dancing, here are our best new restaurants, bars and venues to add to your must-experience list the next time you’re in Tempe.

The Alley

707 E. 6th St., Suite 165, Tempe, AZ 85281 | 480-932-9065

On the scene since September 2023, The Alley is a purveyor of tea as well as atmosphere. Making its Arizona debut at Novus Place, The Alley serves up signature milk teas, fruit-infused drinks, a variety of handcrafted Deerioca (tapioca), ices coffee, espresso and a curated assortment of treats. The atmosphere cute, modern and inviting, so pull up a chair and hang out for a bit.

Bang Bang – Tempe

420 S. Mill Ave., 201, Tempe, AZ 85281 | 480-500-5562

Perched above Mill Avenue, Tempe’s newest nightlife hotspot engages all the senses with sushi, sake, music, ambiance and pure vibrant energy. More than a culinary journey, Bang Bang is and immersive experience that comes to life every evening in the heart of downtown. The Asian-fusion menu offers a robust lineup of sushi rolls, nigiri and sashimi — complemented by noodles, bao buns, dumplings, fried rice selections and loads of sharables. The space transforms as the night rolls along, with an inviting dancefloor that’s home to Arizona’s largest disco ball as well as artists and upcoming DJ/producers from throughout the dance music scene. Just be sure to make reservations or purchase your tickets (depending) in advance.

The Chill Room

1320 E. Broadway Road, Tempe, AZ 85282 | 480-687-1088

There’s a new social destination in buzzing in Tempe. Since last 2023, The Chill Room has distinguished itself and the premier destination for the finest alcohol-free beverages and spirit-free cocktails, as well as herbal teas, Fijian extracts, botanical root teas and coffees. Additionally, the menu features light fare for breakfast, lunch and snacking. Be sure to check out the weekly happenings at this venue, which include weekly open mic nights, live music, DJs, movie nights, poker, trivia and more.

Cocina Chiwas

2001 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe, AZ 85281 | 480-916-3690

From the family that created such concepts as Bacanora, Espiritu and Tacos Chiwas throughout the Valley, comes an upscale and authentic Mexican dining experience in Tempe. Husband-and-wife co-owners, Armando Hernandez and Nadia Holguin, are delivering world-class Chihuahuan cuisine from their new location at Culdesac — Tempe’s new car-free community. Lucky for you, there are parking options. But be sure to make a reservation, because this culinary duo has quite a following of enthusiastic foodies.

In 2019, Holguin was named a semifinalist in the James Beard Awards’ Best Chef – Southwest category. In 2021, their Phoenix concept, Bacanora, was named one of the 40 best new restaurants in America by “Esquire” magazine. And in February 2022, the James Beard Foundation recognized the restaurant as a semifinalist for best new restaurant in the country. Needless to say, we’re thrilled they’ve set up shop in Tempe. Check out our TikTok for more.

Eureka! Tempe

690 S. Novus Place, Suite 173, Tempe, AZ 85281 | 602-242-4431

Open at Tempe’s Novus Place since February 2024, this new concept is a celebration of America’s finest food and spirits. The spacious and sophisticated space features a sleek patio, indoor-outdoor bar, live music stage and scratch kitchen. A roster of gourmet burgers and signature and entrees spotlight the Eureka! philosophy of locally sources ingredients, innovative flavor combinations and elevated pairings. Speaking of which, taps here feature 20 craft beers from the best local breweries, over 40 small-batch whiskeys and craft cocktails that range from classic sips to over-the-top creations.

Bonus: If you’ve ever wanted to join a whiskey club, Eureka! has details for you here.

Devil’s Hideaway

401 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281 

Four years after Downtown Tempe’s iconic Irish pub and restaurant – Rúla Búla – closed its doors, the two-story Mill Avenue building has opened it’s doors to one of two exciting new concepts.

Open since March 2024, Devil’s Hideaway is more than a restaurant + bar. This concept is billed as an adult playground, including new live music capabilities. Still to come, Idle Hands Enchanted Cocktail Bar will invite guests to step into the historic 1888 building for higher-end creations and a speakeasy vibe.

This effort is the latest collaboration between restaurateur/owner Julian Wright (Fork & Dagger Hospitality) and architect Wesley James (UnderTow and Century Grand cocktail bars). Stay tuned for Idle Hands’ projected opening date.

Goldwater Crossings Taproom

9895 S. Priest Drive, Suite 102, Tempe, AZ 85284 | 480-300-6892

If you’ve ever has the pleasure of sipping on an unforgettable pint of Hop Chowda hazy, New England-style IPA, then you’re likely familiar with the buzz Goldwater Brewing Co. creates everywhere it goes. Owned and operated by the McClelland family — that’s over 30 years of brewing history, knowledge, passion and skill right there — Goldwater Brewing Co. has tap rooms in Old Town, Scottsdale, East Mesa, and, since May 2023, South Tempe has joined the line up. Cheers to welcoming the McClelland family to our city!

Lush Cafe & Lounge

7470 S. Priest Drive, Tempe, AZ 85283 | 480-590-5755

Swinging onto the scene with sold out grand opening featuring R&B star Bobby Valentino, Lush Café & Lounge is a hottest spot in South Tempe. The chef-inspired menu begins with baked goods, espresso and more in the earlier part of the day, followed by live music, elevated entrees and and hand-crafted cocktails in the evenings. Music and vibes course throughout the experience, no matter what time of day. Be sure to follow @lushcafeandlounge on Instagram for details on special events, including wine & jazz Wednesdays and sing-a-long Sundays R&B brunch and more.

Lumberjaxes Axe Throwing Bar & Grill

2000 E. Rio Salado Parkway, Suite 2105, Tempe, AZ 85288 | 480-773-6551

The newest addition to The District at Tempe Marketplace is Lumberjaxes Axe Throwing Bar & Grill. Sure, you’ve slung an axe or two in the past, but it’s time to elevate your entire experience — just like this brand did with its new digs. For starters, the vibe is plush and the fresh renovations are inviting and cozy throughout this 13,000-square-foot space. There are 13 targets for axe throwing and over two dozen screens for catching a game or a fight from every corner of the indoor/outdoor space, including the giant bar. As for the menu, all you need to know is that celebrity chef and culinary director Matt Hearn is at the helm. While he’s best known for his appearances on Hell’s Kitchen and MTV’s “Snack-Off,” we don’t expect it will take long before he’s living up to his promise of challenging the food scene here in Arizona

Omni Tempe Hotel at ASU

7 E. University Drive, Tempe, AZ 85281

This much-anticipated addition to Downtown Tempe’s skyline officially opened its doors in April — and brought four new dining (and drinking) concepts with it.

  • Library Rules: More than a coffee shop — although the coffee and pastries are a perfect complement to any Tempe morning — this gathering spot is open all day. And the menu transitions to light bites and a wide variety of libations in the evening.

  • Neighborhood Services: This industrial, yet approachable, all-day dining venue offers both indoor and outdoor seating for savoring its menu — by renowned chef Nick Badovinus — of rotating favorites, craft cocktails and more.

  • Lucero Rooftop Lounge & Terrace: Welcome to Tempe’s newest rooftop bar and restaurant. Designed for the adventurous and bold, and emulating the starry night sky, this upscale concept features a tapas-style menu with small sharable plates as well as signature dishes — including crispy branzino, Moroccan lamb empanada, chilled lobster — and enviable craft cocktails by executive chef Chris Castro. Check out the sunset from Lucero in out TikTok.

  • Salt + Gila Pool Deck Restaurant: Located on the third floor, this buzzy pool deck bar and restaurant is ideal for sunshine sipping as well as cozy, fireside evenings. Choose from salads, sharables and cocktails that all revolve around the seasonal inspiration of tea for the summer months.

Pair Cupworks at Arizona Bouldering Project

2626 S. Hardy Drive, Tempe, AZ 85282 | 480-716-9014

Pair Cupworks has landed in Tempe. Open inside Arizona Bouldering Project since fall 2023, this marks the second location for co-owners Kimhak Em and Eugenia Tai. Turns out, rock climbing and espresso are a matcha made in heaven. Grab a day pass or a membership to this new indoor rock-climbing gym, and don’t miss the chance to try locally roasted specialty coffee blends and artisan teas. Standouts here include the fresh whisked matcha and pour overs, because — much like bouldering — perfection takes time.

Pronto by Serrano’s

6440 S. Rural Road, Tempe, AZ 85283 | 480-345-0044

Serrano’s Mexican Restaurant originally opened in Tempe in 1985, but the Serrano family’s legacy throughout the Valley of the Sun dates back more than 100 years. Of course, the key to longevity is evolution. And Tempe is the newest recipient of the Serrano family’s exploration of just that. Enter Pronto by Serrano’s. Located in the same space that housed Serrano’s Mexican Restaurant for over 30 years, this fresh, new concept offers all the flavors this family is famous for — but in a modern, fast-casual concept. Here you’ll find the legendary machaca, shredded chicken, asada steak and tomatillo pork available in build-your-own, customizable offerings, including burritos, tacos, nachos, salads and bowls. Ask about the seasonal offerings — upon Pronto’s July grand opening, these included quesabirria tacos, birria ramen, spicy fish tacos, a breakfast burrito, stacked enchiladas and chicken tortilla soup. Pro tip: Don’t skip on dessert. Felicidades, Pronto!

Tempe Eats Food Hall

85 E. Southern Ave., Tempe, AZ 85282

Inspired by creator Teresa Nguyen’s international food hall experiences, this concept houses multiple dining and drinking options for enjoying in the new space as well as convenient to-go ordering. Open since February 2024, the food hall is divided into different areas, including:

  • Craft U, a craft beer-focused place to sip
  • Fork Off, featuring such handheld eats as tacos, burritos, empanadas and varieties of street corn.
  • Wings & Wagyu, starring wings, nachos, fries, chicken sandwiches and wagyu burgers.
  • Maison Bijon, a bevy of sweetness ranging from cakes and tarts to gelato and sorbet.
  • Mardi Q, a celebration of barbecue — choose from plates, burgers and sandwiches, or plus pasta entrees and classic sides.
  • Sobremesa Tapas & Wine Bar, starring sharables and bottles.
  • Pastiazza, endless variety of pizzas and pasta.
  • Mixwich, fresh salads and sandwiches that are perfect for dining in or convenient takeaway.

Voodoo Doughnut

1324 S. Rural Road, Tempe, AZ 85281 | 602-641-6669

Open since Sept. 7, 2023, Tempe’s new VooDoo Doughnuts marks the first Arizona location for this famed purveyor of sweets treats. Originating in Portland, VooDoo Doughnut is widely known for their unique and delicious take on traditional doughnuts, bars and twists that include decadent flavor combos, filling and decoration themes for every occasion under the sun. Die-hard fans can expect to find branded merch in the Arizona State University colorway, as well as the signature pink. This shop is open from 6 a.m. to 3 a.m.; mobile orders and curbside pickup are also available.

White Castle – Tempe

8755 S. Jewel St., Tempe, AZ 85284

After debuting its largest restaurant in the world in Scottsdale back in 2019, White Castle has landed in Tempe! Cravers, as the chain’s die-hard fans are widely known, have been enjoying \the iconic sliders this burger operation in celebrated for inventing at the new South Tempe location since Nov. 28, 2023.

Coming Soon:

Flour & Thyme
944 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281

Marking the second venture from chef Ivan Jacobo (Anhelo in Phoenix), Flour & Thyme is slated to open its doors in Tempe in early 2024. Initially, the restaurant will launch with upscale breakfast and lunch offerings, ranging from gourmet coffee and pastries to salads and burgers. Then, Jacobo’s plan is to then expand to dinner service, which will include small plates categorized by air, land, garden and sea. The restaurant will be located across from ASU Gammage, inside a cozy 1933 house with indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a private dining room. Check out Flour & Thyme’s Instagram account for updates.

Grass Clippings at Rolling Hills
1415 N. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85288 | 480-530-9880

Located in picturesque Papago Park, this executive golf course put the final touches on a major renovation — in December 2023. However, the evolution of Arizona’s only fully lighted 18-hole, day/night golf course and practice facility will continue throughout 2024. Golfers can expect a live music venue, an activity lawn, a new Mexican restaurant and a patio bar to open later this year.

Taco Chelo
521 S. College Ave., Suite 112, Tempe, AZ 85281

This beloved Valley taquería — a collaboration of restaurateur Aaron Chamberlin, chef Suny Santana and artist Gennaro Garcia — is coming to Tempe. The restaurant’s second location will open on University Drive and College Avenue in a 1,600-square-foot space. Expect the same hand-pressed, made-to-order tortillas, along with select cocktails and signature entrees that have made the Downtown Phoenix location a favorite since 2018.

Novus Place: University Drive and Rural Road

In April 2023, Fox Restaurant Concepts announced two new restaurants coming to Tempe. However, patience is key, as both standalone Fox Restaurant Concepts are expected to open in the second half of 2024. So, stay tuned!

Blanco Taco Cocina + Cantina: A bright space that’s as fresh as its famous twist on Mexican culinary classics. Best paired with signature margaritas, sangria or beer.

North Italia: Scratch-made Italian favorites, including pizza, pasta, and sandwiches, as well as craft cocktails and fine wine (and brunch!)

Flower Child: Nourishing, made-from-scratch goodness — and vibes — that celebrates all dining preferences … vegetarian, vegan, meat and gluten-free to keto and pale.

Blue Sushi Sake Grill: The largest sushi group running a sustainably sourced seafood program in partnership with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch also offers one of the broadest menus of vegan sushi in the country.

Over Easy: Known for energized takes on classic breakfast and brunch staples with a focus on creating sharable moments.

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