When it comes to food, Phoenix has everything. The local food scene is bustling with an abundance of culinary opportunities, allowing you to explore regional favorites, eat local, and experience new flavors and delights.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner place, a casual setting to enjoy good food with friends, or the perfect venue for a special event, you’ll find it here on our list of restaurants in Phoenix with a view.
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Celebrity Chef Experiences
Prepare to feast on gastronomic treats prepared by popular chefs in Phoenix, AZ.
1. Bobby Q
Well-known chef and restaurateur Bobby McGee offers barbecue fare unlike any other. The secret behind Bobby Q’s barbeque lies within the slow cooking process over Almond and Mesquite wood.
Must-Try:
- “Smoasted” Half Chicken – Smoke-roasted BBQ chicken. Choice of one side.
- Jumbo Grilled Shrimp Chimichurri or BBQ – Eight jumbo grilled shrimps marinated in a Chimichurri pesto.
- Ribeye Steak & Jumbo Grilled Shrimp Chimichurri or BBQ – 14oz Ribeye served with five jumbo Chimichurri shrimps.
Reviews:
“Delightful choice for lunch! Flew in from Charlotte on our way to Sedona. 4.5 hr flights and only got pretzels 🙄. We were starving. Found Bobby Qs on TA and it didn’t disappoint! 4 of us shared ribs, pulled pork, sandwich baked beans, mac’n cheese and potato salad. Noah was excellent server!”
– MommaCarter
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 8501 N 27th Ave Phoenix, AZ 85051
- Price Range: $10 - $60
- Click here to check out their menu!
2. The Gladly
This local favorite restaurant and whisky bar serves extraordinarily flavorful American cuisine prepared by chef and owner Bernie Kantak. Choose your poison from their extensive selection of over 300 whiskies, cocktails, and wine.
Must-Try:
- Garrison’s Poke Bowl – Salmon belly and yellowfin tuna, red crab rice, spring mix, avocado, Persian cucumber, jalapeño, pickled red onion, and lemongrass-ginger mayo.
- Pan Seared Scallops – Sweet corn grits, bacon lardon, sautéed pea greens, and cola gastrique.
- The Commander Hamburger – Certified Angus beef chuck and brisket blend, lettuce, tomato, onion, sweet pickle, special sauce, noble bun, and choice of fries or salad.
Reviews:
“The Gladly is one of my favorite restaurants in the valley!!! It has the best [famous] chopped salad you will ever eat. Citizen Public House in Scottsdale also has the same salad. The quality of food, drinks, service, and atmosphere here are all fantastic. However it is quite expensive so I consider it a special occasion kind of place for myself.”
– Caley Morgan
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 2201 E Camelback Rd Ste 106 Phoenix, AZ 85016
- Price Range: $50 - $100
- Click here to check out their menu!
3. The Macintosh
Featuring restaurateur Christopher Collins’ take on modern American cuisine, this popular neighborhood hangout in the heart of Phoenix is the ideal spot to have an amazing dining experience with friends and loved ones.
Must-Try:
- ‘Cowboy’ Baby Back Ribs – Full rack, majesty grade smoked and grilled, served with brother’s tangy slaw.
- Southern Shrimp And Grits – Blackened shrimp, jalapeño-cheddar grits, Tasso ham relish, and charred focaccia.
- White Cheddar Burger – Iceberg, tomato, red onion, local pickle, and mayo mustard.
Reviews:
“Casual atmosphere, great service, tasty food, nice menu variety.”
– John Baker
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 2119 E Camelback Rd Ste A21 Phoenix, AZ 85016
- Price Range: $20 - $30
- Click here to check out their menu!
Photo by Siednji Leon on Unsplash
Romantic Escapes for Couples
Looking for the perfect place for your next date night? Here are our top recommendations for you.
4. Durant's
Travel back in time as you dine in this old-school, ultra-luxe chophouse known for its rich history and tradition. Get nostalgic as the staff serves your food wearing the same style of red tuxedo vests as they did when the restaurant first opened in the 1950s.
Must-Try:
- Roast Top Sirloin of Beef (Thick Cut) – Served with soup or salad, fresh vegetables, and roasted garlic mashed potatoes.
- The Humble T-Bone Steak (16oz.) – Served with soup or salad, fresh vegetables, and roasted garlic mashed potatoes or baked potato. Substitute Caesar salad or spinach salad for house salad.
- The Italian – Shaved sirloin, peppers, caramelized onions, provolone, pesto, and creamy horseradish. Served with French fries, sweet potato fries, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, potato salad, coleslaw, or cottage cheese. Add a cup of soup or house salad, spinach salad, or Caesar salad to any sandwich.
Reviews:
“Came here by mistake for my birthday. Best mistake ever!!! Our server Vince was the best! Walking through the kitchen was an expensive but the greeting from the Maitre was refreshing and everyone gave topnotch service. We ordered the Prime Rib and Grilled Scallops with the 3 onion & cheese soup. Everything was cooked to perfection. Best Scallops I’ve had in Phoenix!! We will return!”
– Diona Tharpe
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 2611 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
- Price Range: $50 - $100
- Click here to check out their menu!
5. The Farish House
This historic Victorian-style restaurant was once a turn-of-the-century home that was transformed into a charming, Euro-style bistro. One of the best romantic restaurants in Phoenix with a view, The Farish House has indoor seating, a saloon, and a spacious open-air patio.
Must-Try:
- Farish House Bouillabaisse – Wild caught Mexican shrimp, monkfish, snapper, and mussels in tomato saffron broth served with Maghrib spiced aioli toast.
- Filet Mignon [8oz] – Pan seared in butter and served with peppercorn demi-glace, potato-turnip gratin, and kale.
- Pork Chop and Apple Sauce – 12oz bone-in Frenched chop, savory apple chutney, Yukon mash, and roasted brussels with chestnuts.
Reviews:
“Absolutely love the food, drinks and the people who own and run the restaurant. The dishes are creative yet familiar and so delicious. Deserts are from scratch. The peach pie is amazing. Start with the whiskey mash and the rest will be wonderful.”
– Greg Valdez
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 816 N 3rd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
- Price Range: $50 - $100
- Click here to check out their menu!
6. Anhelo
Located in Orpheum Lofts, Anhelo offers exceptional, intimate fine dining in Phoenix. Dishes are made from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, and their wine menu lists some of the finest wines from around the world.
Must-Try:
- Foie Gras – Chef’s preparation
- Charred Octopus – Potato 2 ways, Iberico chorizo, and cilantro.
- Prime Beef Wellington – Wild mushroom duxelles, prosciutto, black garlic demi-glace, and mustard.
Reviews:
“Always a satisfying experience every time we visit the restaurant. Foods are good, pricing fair, great quality and welcoming atmosphere. This is a good restaurant for gathering because they offer so many options that can fit everyone taste.”
– Erodriguez
Restaurant Information:
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Family-Friendly Views
Parents looking for kid friendly restaurants Phoenix, here are the top spots where you can enjoy a great dining experience with the whole family.
7. Rustler's Rooste
It’s hard not to have fun when there’s a longhorn at the entrance, cotton candy, and an indoor slide in this restaurant that seems more like a Western playground! And guess what? Your kids can eat for free every day, all year long, if you sign up for Rustler’s Rooste Slide Rider Club.
Must-Try:
- Vaquero – Certified USDA prime sirloin, aka “the Coulotte,” served with two enchiladas.
- Cowboy Platter – Beef brisket, jalapeño and cheddar smoked sausage, rotisserie chicken, barbequed pork ribs, crispy shrimp, seasonal fruit, ranch fries, cowboy beans, and corn cobbettes.
- All You Can Eat Beef Ribs – Seasoned and smoked low and slow.
Reviews:
“Western country themed, live music, two dining floors, huge patio with fire pits and hilltop view of the city. Served our group delicious, juicy steaks, fried rattlesnake, cotton candy. There was a guy making balloon animals for the kids, a slide for the kids. A live bull was out front, I think just for show, no rodeo event. I’d definitely recommend this place for all ages!”
– Danielle Spindler
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 8383 S 48th St, Phoenix, AZ 85044
- Price Range: $30 - $50
- Click here to check out their menu!
8. Chelsea's Kitchen
Kids’ meals have six rotating options and are served as a gourmet TV dinner. Children can play Wikki Stix at the table and leave with a smile as they are given a complimentary salted chocolate chip cookie. Kids eat free from 3 to 6 p.m.
Must-Try:
- Grilled Ora King Salmon – Hardwood grilled with fresh vegetables.
- Cowboy Skewers – Mexican wild shrimp, filet, salsa verde, and corn tortillas.
- Grilled Ahi Tuna – Center cut sashimi-grade and grilled rare.
Reviews:
“The food and service were top notch! Probably one of the more expensive places I have been lately, but totally worth it. The quality of the food and drinks definitely set this place above the rest.”
– Sean Vincent
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 5040 N 40th St, Phoenix, AZ 85018
- Price Range: $50 - $100
- Click here to check out their menu!
9. The Duce
This restaurant is also a great place for kids of all ages to hang out and play ping pong, corn hole, shuffleboard, or foosball. The milkshake parlor offers sweet treats like homemade vanilla soda, orange creamsicle float, and butterscotch shake.
Must-Try:
- Turkey Hatch Mac Attack Burgers (2 or 3 sliders) – Topped with hatch Chile mac and cheese muffin, gruyere, butter lettuce, and basil mayo.
- Ditka Spicy Sausage – Pesto, fresh parmesan, and garlic oil.
- Hatch Chile Mac Skillet – Sunnyside-up egg, avocado, bacon, and hatch Chile mac and cheese.
Reviews:
“This was our first time to visit. The lunch food was delicious and the servings were large. I should have ordered the half salad instead of the large. The Baked 3 cheese dip, veggies and baguettes starter was a table-pleaser. This is a casual setting, with a large open warehouse door. Despite the 100+ temps in Arizona, we were very cool and comfortable. The Mac n Cheese “muffin” is a misnomer if you are expecting a muffin (which is not on the top of my list). These were rolled balls of creamy and cheesy macaroni covered in crunchy bread crumbs. Fabulous! We will definitely be back again. I am looking forward to sitting on the outdoor patio in cooler weather.”
– Jamie Wohlf
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 525 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
- Price Range: $20 - $30
- Click here to check out their menu!
Photo by Nils Stahl on Unsplash
Event Spaces with a View
Whatever the occasion, these restaurants offer the space, ambiance, and good food that will make your upcoming event a huge success!
10. Blue Hound Kitchen & Cocktails
The perfect place for an exclusive cocktail social or a more formal plated dinner reception. BHKC serves seasonally inspired chef-driven cuisine paired with artisanal wines, craft cocktails, and locally brewed beers.
Must-Try:
- BHKC 900 Hot Stone – Westholme Australian wagyu, cilantro-scallion salad, pickled ginger, and crunchy chili garlic sauce.
- Warm Italian Sandwich – Salami, pepperoni, ham, lettuce, tomato, provolone cheese, pepperoncini, Italian dressing, and hoagie roll.
- Faroe Island Salmon – English pea puree, roasted baby potatoes, globe carrots, and tarragon-truffle essence.
Reviews:
“We were meeting a friend for brunch and this place was fairly central for everyone. We weren’t super hungry and that made the portion sizes pretty perfect. He has the Downtown Bene, I had the Egg White Frittata and our friend had the Belgian Waffles. There was nothing left over and it was all so delicious. It was a relaxed atmosphere and a very good choice for catching up with a friend.”
– Mazanec Mischief
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 2 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
- Price Range: $10 - $20
- Click here to check out their menu!
11. Alexi's Grill
This highly acclaimed fine dining establishment has become a Midtown Phoenix landmark known for serving excellent cuisine in a welcoming, upscale ambiance. Book the Main Dining Room, Bar Area, or Patio for your upcoming event.
Must-Try:
- Rack of Lamb – Four-bone lamb rack roasted to perfection with lemon garlic sauce. Served with potatoes and vegetables.
- Veal Chop – Generous cut, broiled on the bone with a lemon garlic sauce. Served with potatoes and vegetables.
- Roasted Duck – In an orange Grand Marnier sauce or green peppercorn sauce. Served with potatoes and vegetables.
Reviews:
“Amazing food, friendly staff, great ambiance, and well priced for a classy meal! I’d give 6 stars but it won’t let me!”
– Thomas Rodriguez-Schucker
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 3550 N Central Ave #120, Phoenix, AZ 85012
- Price Range: $50 - $100
- Click here to check out their menu!
12. Avanti
For your next event, you may choose from three Private Dining Rooms or buy out the restaurant. Avanti offers custom-designed menus and complimentary printed menus. Entertainment, decorations, flowers, and special-order cakes are available.
Must-Try:
- Penne al Forno – Baked pasta with fresh tomato, mozzarella, and ricotta cheese.
- Cioppino – An assortment of fresh seafood with tomatoes served on a bed of pasta.
- Chicken & Sausage Scarpariello – Sautéed in white wine, garlic, and herbs.
Reviews:
“Sergio was our server. He was fantastic. The daily specials on risotta and pasta were amazing. We also loved the house wine. Also the tiramisu was a great dessert to finish our meal off with some coffee.
Got to talk to the owner a bit, he was full of charisma and made us laugh. Very great experience for a date night.”
– Stephen Malisa
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 2728 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016
- Price Range: $50 - $100
- Click here to check out their menu!
Photo by Kelsey Knight on Unsplash
Dining Al Fresco
The view of desert sunsets, valley views, and cityscapes outdoors just makes your dining experience much, much better, doesn’t it? Here are some of the best restaurants in Phoenix that will surely please both your eyes and your palate.
13. Palma
The grove of palm trees, ever-changing menu, and warm service – these are the things that sets Palma apart from other restaurants. Mandarin sangrias, a house specialty, is a must-try. In the winter, food is served near fire pits.
Must-Try:
- Chicken + Bubble Waffle – Chicken strips, ginger butter, five spice syrup, dragon sauce, and daikon pickles.
- Bulgogi Beef Nachos – Short rib, mashed black beans, jack cheese, kimchi, gochu crema, cilantro, and avocado.
- Beijing Pork Roll – Chive pancake, pickled cabbage, cucumber, plum sauce, and cilantro.
Reviews:
“Palma is my new favorite place downtown. The restaurant is beautiful, the cocktails are unique and tasted amazing. The menu has a variety of small plates, salad, sushi, & the best fried chicken! This was our first time visiting Palma & our server Sara was incredible! She walked us through the menu, gave us recommendations, and overall she made the experience fun & memorable.
Based on her recommendations we shared the Spanish fly maki, the lion king maki & the Thai fried chicken noodle salad. Everything was delicious and the service was amazing. This is the perfect place for a date night, but I can’t wait to go back and try their brunch.”
– Amanda Spicola
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 903 N 2nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
- Price Range: $30 - $50
- Click here to check out their menu!
14. Fuego at The Clarendon
The terrace at this Latin-fusion bistro has a laid-back vibe, surrounded by mid-century modern architecture and twinkling lights, and filled with live music every evening. Regulars always look forward to frequent dinner specials and new craft cocktails or top-shelf wines to try.
Must-Try:
- Empanadas – Signature turnovers stuffed with ground beef, peppers, onions, black beans, potatoes, and cheddar topped with Yucatan BBQ sauce and pico de gallo.
- Pernil Asado – Pork slow-cooked for eight hours in a medley of spices and juices, shredded and served with orange habanero mojo, sugar-cured cabbage, and tortillas.
- Tortilla-Crusted Tilapia – Tortilla-crusted tilapia topped with black bean and corn salsa and guajillo Chile sauce.
Reviews:
“Food, cocktails, service, atmosphere, music are all wonderful! It seemed a little pricey at first but the entrees are HUGE. Split an entree with someone and get a dessert (I got the vegetable enchiladas). Cocktail menu is overwhelming but there are so many good things on there; I had the Harvey Wallbanger and would recommend it 100%.”
– Hannah Kerner
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 401 W Clarendon Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85013
- Price Range: $30 - $50
- Click here to check out their menu!
15. Different Pointe of View
This restaurant is one of the best Phoenix restaurants with a view where one can behold breathtaking desert sunsets, valley vistas, and cityscapes. Savor superb dishes on a sunken flagstone dining area outside or on private bar tables aimed at the gleaming city lights.
Must-Try:
- Pulpo Confit – Charred octopus, preserved lemon, celery, and soubise.
- Prime Beef Tenderloin Tartare – Crispy capers, olive oil, Parmigiano Reggiano, red onion, cured egg yolk, sauce gribiche, and micro arugula.
- Sambuca Mussels – Smoked salmon, tomato, and cream.
Reviews:
“Different Point of View is easily in the top echelon of fine dining in the valley. The view over looking the city is spectacular, and the food is uniquely created by the amazing chef and staff. We enjoyed the melt in your mouth pork belly to begin the meal. The salads were fresh, the filet, and the chicken main course were prepared to perfection. The pastry chef did not disappoint with exceptional and meticulously prepared desserts! This dining experience is highly recommended for any occasion!!”
– David Canonic
Restaurant Information:
- Address: 11111 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85020
- Price Range: $30 - $50
- Click here to check out their menu!
A Culinary Journey
Phoenix, AZ, is a food haven, and the restaurants we mentioned in this article are just some of the best in the city. Whatever your cravings are, there’s at least one culinary spot to satisfy you.
If you love to dine out and you happen to be interested in moving to Phoenix, our team can show you all the best neighborhoods that offer convenient access to the best restaurants in town. Call or text us at (480) 888-5272 or send us an email so we can schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best times to visit these restaurants for the best views?
Sunsets offer the best views of the desert mountains, so be sure to arrive about an hour before the sun goes down.
What should I wear when dining at upscale restaurants with a view?
Guests at an upscale restaurant should be dressed in business casual at a minimum. For him, the attire could be a dark suit or a button-down with trousers, made complete by a sportscoat. For her, a formal pants outfit or a sophisticated black dress complemented by an evening wrap is recommended.
Are reservations necessary, and how far in advance should I book?
A reservation is not necessary, but it guarantees a table at the restaurant of your choice when you arrive. When considering a restaurant reservation, you should book as early as possible, usually a few days before your visit. During busier holidays and prime hours, it is best to book a reservation at least a week in advance.