Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of South Tempe

Cool food spots

Finding a meal that actually feels current instead of just another chain restaurant.

Based on 678 Opinions
+675
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
The Tipsy Taps & Grill image 1
The Tipsy Taps & Grill image 2
The Tipsy Taps & Grill image 3
View all

Large open space combines multiple TVs for sports viewing with a pet-friendly patio featuring lawn games and fire pits. Atmosphere stays lively and welcoming, balancing a casual vibe with touches of fine dining. Outdoor and indoor areas accommodate groups comfortably without feeling crowded.

Food stands out for its delicious wings and consistently excellent quality. Service complements the great flavors well.

The place has a cool atmosphere with a great patio. The bar stands out as a cool spot for watching Sunday football.

People are saying

"The food here, especially the wings, was amazing."

"The owners and staff here are so friendly and make you feel welcome."

"The beer selection here is really great and ice cold."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant accommodates late-night hours until 1:30 AM on special occasions.

3

They host themed nights to keep the atmosphere lively and engaging.

02
Bar Capri image 1
Restaurant

Small, intimate restaurant with moss green walls and upscale Italian decor creates a cozy, bistro vibe. Noise level varies from quiet to lively, fitting for date nights and couples. Outdoor seating adds an inviting touch to the overall atmosphere.

Food here is consistently delicious and well-prepared. Every dish comes with great flavor and pairs well with the excellent service.

A very cool bistro vibe sets the tone here. The spot feels fun and has a consistently cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"The ricotta cake is so good you won't want to share."

"The food here was amazing."

"The cocktails here are amazing, like magic from the wizard behind the bar."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

2

The $35 pasta and wine special is available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

3

Vegetarians may find limited options as most pasta dishes contain meat.

03
The Buzzed Goat Tempe image 1

Coffee shop combines modern interior with a sports bar vibe, creating a laid-back atmosphere that feels both airy and welcoming. It offers plenty of outlets and reliable WiFi, making it suitable for work or study. A drive-thru adds convenience, and games and TVs contribute to a fun, relaxed energy.

Food and drinks come with consistent quality and reasonable prices. Staff contribute to a pleasant dining experience with attentive service.

Airy, bright, and clean space creates a cool vibe. TVs add a modern touch for watching sports.

People are saying

"This cold brew is super smooth, sweet, and strong."

"The coffee here is super smooth, sweet, and strong."

"The vibe here is really cool and modern."

Good to know

1

The cafรฉ has a convenient drive-through for quick service.

2

Expect live music during Friday happy hours for a lively atmosphere.

3

Food trucks occasionally visit, offering a variety of meal options.

04
Freely Taproom & Kitchen image 1

Small space with a dog-friendly patio featuring shade, fans, misters, and heaters creates a comfortable outdoor setting. Atmosphere feels like a neighborhood bar with a fun, chill vibe and plenty of TVs showing sports. Offers exceptional beer selections including rare drafts and local meads.

Food arrives quickly and includes a pretzel plate that stands out. The menu pairs well with a strong beer selection for a solid meal.

Staff here are super cool and friendly, creating a relaxed vibe. The overall atmosphere feels laid-back and welcoming.

People are saying

"They always have something a beer nerd would dig."

"The food here is always great."

"I visited and found it to be a cool place."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes at 9 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Freely operates on a self-serve model; order at the bar.

3

Happy hour offers $6 off pitchers before 6 PM.

05
Brick Road Coffee - Tempe image 1

Coffee shop blends Wizard of Oz theme with rainbow decor in a spacious setting offering indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels inclusive, cozy, and calm with a friendly, welcoming vibe. Offers community events, free youth library, and queer merchandise creating a unique cultural hub.

Offers a variety of food options, including vegan choices. Breakfast items and pastries stand out as delicious. Drinks and coffee complement the food well.

A very cool atmosphere stands out here with themed decor detailed down to the smallest element. The vibe feels carefully crafted and unique.

People are saying

"This coffee place is an amazing community space."

"It's a welcoming spot with a supportive LGBTQ+ community."

"The food and drinks here are delicious."

Good to know

1

They host numerous events, including a banned book club and voter registration drives.

2

The coffee shop has an extremely supportive LGBTQ+ community with events happening regularly.

3

They are a hub of resources for the LGBTQ+ community.

06
Lush Cafe and Lounge image 1

Restaurant offers beautiful interior with marble floors and stylish decor creating a calm, cool vibe suited for quiet evenings. Live music features smooth jazz and talented bands, enhancing a relaxing atmosphere. Thoughtful layout includes cozy seating, selfie room, bar, and patio, supporting a refined dining experience.

Lush Cafe and Lounge has a calm and cool older vibe with an atmosphere that feels like an upscale club. The specialty drinks are cool and unique, and the owners are friendly and professional.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and fresh."

"The live music here creates such good vibes for the grown and sexy crowd."

"It's got a really cool, grown and sexy vibe."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for karaoke night, which starts at 8:00 PM on Thursdays.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added for parties of two or more.

3

Dress code is enforced; no shorts or overly casual attire allowed.

07
Bonfire Craft Kitchen and Tap House Tempe image 1

Spacious sports bar combines family-friendly atmosphere with multiple interactive games like shuffleboard and trivia. Loud energy rises during football games, enhanced by a Big 10 theme and dog-friendly outdoor seating. Smoked meats and craft beers complement the lively, cozy environment.

Food here stands out for its delicious flavors and excellent quality. Every dish offers a tasty experience with consistent satisfaction.

Sports bar vibe creates a fun and cool atmosphere. Big 10 theme adds a unique touch that makes it a chill spot to hang out.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the smoked meats and wings."

"The smoked meats here are some of the best I've had."

"I thought the atmosphere here was pretty cool."

Good to know

1

Family Feud night happens every Wednesday, making it a fun family outing.

2

Trivia night takes place on Tuesdays at 8pm, with a lively atmosphere.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays, featuring half-price appetizers.

08
Bubba's 33 image 1
American restaurant

Large space filled with 20+ TVs creates a lively setting for sports fans. Friendly vibe with a dog-friendly patio and fun decor featuring metal sculptures and beer can art. Atmosphere stays upbeat with varied music and cold drinks served in frozen glasses.

Food arrives quickly and hot, with most dishes homemade and tasting excellent. Service stays consistent and complements the satisfying meals well.

The atmosphere features sports, music videos, and crazy internet videos with good music playing. Staff like Alec stand out as genuinely cool and friendly, offering knowledgeable and efficient service.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and homemade."

"You can get great food while watching live sports here."

"The staff here are genuinely cool and fun to talk to."

Good to know

1

On Wednesdays, they offer all-you-can-eat wings.

2

Daily specials include burgers on Mondays and pizzas on Tuesdays.

3

Happy hour features great deals on food and drinks.

09
Bobazona Tempe image 1
Bubble tea store

Bubble tea store with fun and retro decor featuring iconic characters and colorful menu boards creates a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. Plenty of seating and interactive claw machines add playful energy, attracting a younger crowd. The space balances open layout with engaging art and merchandise, making it comfortable and lively.

Food features amazing flavors and great drinks including Boba. The menu pairs well with a beautiful atmosphere and lively music.

A great menu offers plenty of ways to cool off on hot days. Staff are super cool and the space feels amazing to relax in. A cool selection of gelato adds to the chill vibe.

People are saying

"I tried the Dubai chocolate strawberry cups and they were amazing."

"The staff here are so kind and patient, making it a great spot for dates."

"The food and drinks here are amazing."

Good to know

1

Bobazona Tempe offers a large selection of boba teas, gelato, and bubble waffles.

2

Expect to pay around $8 for a smoothie.

3

The Dubai chocolate cup costs about $22 after tax.

10
Better Buzz Coffee - Tempe image 1

Coffee shop combines modern design with inviting patio seating and thoughtful bee-themed decor. Atmosphere balances loud, energetic music with a clean, cozy environment suitable for work or socializing. Space accommodates both solo visitors and groups with indoor and outdoor options.

Food arrives hot, fresh, and tasty with quick service. Options accommodate dietary restrictions well, and coffee pairs nicely with the menu.

Atmosphere feels very cool with a relaxed vibe. Coffee options include hot Americanos that can be softened with cream.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great coffee here."

"The food here is always hot, fresh, and tasty."

"The layout inside and outside is beautiful and thoughtfully planned."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop opens at 4:30 a.m. daily.

2

Parking can be challenging on Sundays; arrive early.

3

The drive-thru can be disorganized, leading to slow service.

11
Central BBQ Lakehouse image 1

Lakeside Korean BBQ restaurant offers huge outdoor patio seating with beautiful water views and boat rides on the lake. The atmosphere is relaxing and comfortable, featuring cushioned chairs and misted fans. Food arrives via robot servers, adding a unique touch to the dining experience.

Food features delicious flavors and amazing quality. Service complements the meals with exceptional attention.

A robot server delivers food, adding a unique touch to the experience. The salad bar stands out from typical kbbqs, and the lakeside location creates a cool vibe with great music.

People are saying

"The Korean BBQ here has premium cuts of meat and seafood."

"The food here is great and of good quality."

"The meats here are fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on appetizers and drinks from 4-6pm daily.

2

A DJ plays every Saturday night until 10pm, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

12
Yucca Tap Room image 1

Bar combines live music, vintage pinball arcade, and pool tables across three rooms. Atmosphere stays chill and energetic, attracting a young, hip crowd with a strong local music scene. Food and drinks include affordable beer and standout tacos, creating a dive bar with a welcoming, cool vibe.

Mexican food stands out with carnitas tacos from a queer owned business. Food vendors serve good food outside on some nights, paired with a solid selection of beer.

Gritty punk dive bar vibe meets cool local art and pinball machines. Bartenders serve with wit in a laidback, comfortable space.

People are saying

"It's packed with an impressive lineup of pinball machines."

"The food here is awesome and enjoyable."

"It's a cool dive bar with a lively vibe."

Good to know

1

Tuesdays feature $2 tacos and a special taco of the day.

2

The pinball tournament on Tuesdays at 6:30 costs only $1 to enter.

3

Live music performances happen regularly, showcasing top bands.

13
PHX Beer Co. image 1

Large warehouse space offers a spacious, well-lit environment with modern, cozy vibe and warehouse aesthetic. Games like cornhole and shuffleboard create a friendly, fun atmosphere suited for relaxed socializing. Beer selection includes varied, crisp brews appealing to diverse tastes.

Food includes delectable options that suit those not into beer. A decent food truck adds variety, while beer and food overall remain average.

A super cool tour guide leads the experience. The spot offers a chill vibe perfect for hanging out and making memories.

People are saying

"I found the beer to be excellent, crisp, and lovely."

"It's a cool spot with a spacious warehouse vibe and fun games."

"The food and beverages were delectable."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at PHX Beer Co.

2

There is no food available at PHX Beer Co., despite advertising.

3

The brewery offers a tour package that is well worth the money.

14
Main Event Tempe image 1

Large space filled with arcade games, bowling lanes, and laser tag creates an energetic and lively vibe. Bright neon lights and a mix of activities keep both kids and adults entertained. Well-kept amenities and a family-friendly atmosphere make it a versatile spot for fun.

Food comes with great taste and arrives promptly during activities like bowling. Servers provide excellent service, making the dining experience smooth and enjoyable.

Offers a cool atmosphere that keeps things fun and refreshing. Works well for kids and helps beat the heat without costing much.

People are saying

"The staff here makes the fun activities feel so welcoming and easy."

"The atmosphere here is so cool with flashing lights and loud music."

"I thought the food here was good."

Good to know

1

Each game costs about $1.75 to play, which may feel high for smaller games.

2

Many of the arcade games didnโ€™t work and took my credits without functioning.

3

The bowling wait time is at least 45 minutes to get on a lane.

15
Xtreme Bean Coffee image 1

Former bank building offers vault study room, varied seating options, and live music performances. Atmosphere feels like a cozy living room with a chill, inviting vibe. Separate rooms and cubicles support work and relaxation in a spacious, subtly decorated setting.

Food features exceptional quality and solid coffee with light food options. The menu stays simple and the food is consistently good.

The atmosphere feels super chill with a cool interior set inside an old bank. The vibe inside and outside stays consistently cool, making it a great spot to work or hang out with friends.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great coffee and chill spot."

"It's a cool little coffee place with a chill vibe."

"The food and drinks here are really good."

Good to know

1

Xtreme Bean Coffee opens at 5am for early risers.

2

The coffee shop roasts its own beans on-site for fresh flavor.

3

Expect a small medium cup size; it may be smaller than expected.

16
Majestic Tempe 7 image 1
Movie theater

Movie theater combines reclining chairs with in-seat food and drink service for a relaxed experience. Atmosphere blends 80s and 90s charm with a full bar and classic video games, creating a cozy, local vibe. Sound and screen quality are excellent, enhancing the immersive feel.

Food stands out with amazing quality for a movie theater, paired with friendly service that keeps orders flowing smoothly. The menu offers a solid mix of options that complement the movie experience well.

The vibe feels really cool with screenings of old movies and 35mm features alongside new films.

People are saying

"You can order full meals and drinks right at your seat for the movies."

"The seating here is so comfortable, especially the recliners."

"The food here is amazing, especially the popcorn."

Good to know

1

Tuesday movie tickets cost $5, making it an affordable option.

2

Special event nights feature unique films and performances.

3

Food and bar service closes when the movie starts, so plan ahead.

17
Tilt Studio Arizona Mills image 1

Two-level retro arcade offers a huge variety of classic and modern games, including well-maintained pinball machines and a unique towering plushy game. Upstairs features a peaceful bar and lounge area with food options, creating a fun yet relaxed atmosphere suitable for all ages.

Food offers excellent quality and great value compared to other spots like Dave & Busters. Staff assist with organizing food and drinks to fit party preferences.

A secluded row of pinball machines upstairs stands out as a cool feature. The arcade games are clean and well-organized, creating a neat and enjoyable atmosphere.

People are saying

"The pinball machines here are awesome and well-maintained."

"The food here is really good, especially for the price."

"The pinball machines here are cool and well-organized."

Good to know

1

Tournaments are held on Thursday evenings at 6pm.

2

Access to the bathroom requires a purchase of games with proof of a tilt card.

3

Most games are reasonably priced, but some experiences like VR can be expensive.

Discover more

South Tempe, Tempe

Area guide
Loading Map...