July 31, 2024
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 co*cktail 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.
Aruma Cafe at Culdesac Tempe
2011 E. Apache Blvd., #143, Tempe, AZ 85281
Cocina Chiwas owners Nadia Holguin and Armando Hernandezhave yet again expanded their culinary empire, adding Tempe’s newest coffee shop to their ever-growing list of accolades. Aruma Cafe — located at Culdesac Tempe (across from their award-winning concept, Cocina Chiwas —opened in the spring of 2024 and serves up a selection of specialty coffee, espresso and tea drinks, as well as aguas frescas and horchata. This endeavor is a partnership between the duo and former Arizona Cardinals wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (who currently plays for the Tennessee Titans).
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 co*cktails, 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. In2021, their Phoenix concept, Bacanora, wasnamed one of the 40 best new restaurantsin America by “Esquire” magazine. In 2022, the James Beard Foundationrecognized the restaurant as asemifinalist for best new restaurantin the country. And, in 2024, Hernandez and Holguin were names semifinalists in the Outstanding Restaurateur category for their collective roster of concepts. 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 co*cktails 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 + Idle Hands
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 truly unique space draws inspiration from a futuristic underground tunnel system circa 2054.Billed as an adult playground —complete with craft co*cktails and small bites — this concept is also equipped with live music capabilities and will introduce a reimagined patio just in time for fall.
Turn one of the corners within the brick labyrinth and you’re at the door of Idle Hands Enchanted co*cktail Bar, a distinct, 90-minute co*cktail experience of its own. Video projections across window pane walls depict other-worldly scenes landscapes pair perfectly with the equally exclusive co*cktail program for a one-of-a-kind speakeasy vibe.
This effort is the latest collaboration between restaurateur/owner Julian Wright (Fork & Dagger Hospitality) and architect Wesley James(UnderTowandCentury Grandco*cktail bars).
Grass Clippings at Rolling Hills
1415 N. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85288 | 480-530-9880
In 2023, this executive golf course embarked on a rebrand as Grass Clippings at Rolling Hills: Arizona’s only fully lit, 18-hole golf course and practice facility that’s available day and night. Located in picturesque Papago Park, less than 2 miles from Downtown Tempe, this hilly course lives up to its name with quite a few elevation changes. Take in views of the surrounding mountain ranges and skylines from the 8th hole (the course’s highest point) and keep an eye out for Sonoran Desert animals after dusk.
Bonus: The evolution of this 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.
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 co*cktails 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.
Over Easy
690 S. Novus Place, Suite #707, Tempe, AZ 85281 | 480-912-6294
As the newest addition to Tempe’s breakfast landscape, OverEasybrings a retro-meets-modern diner vibe to Novus Place. Aesthetically, the bright space, expansive patio and such décor as the custom neon wall make for a sunny way to start any day. This concept is known for creating energized takes on classic breakfast staples. Think: Golden Waffle Dogs, Chilaquiles and the Monte Cristo — as well as the classic dishes. Pro tip:Try the Banana Nut French Toast (as seen on Guy Fieri’sDiners, Drive-Ins & Dives).
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.
Sala Thai Restaurant
1740 E. Broadway Road, #106, Tempe, AZ 85282 | 480-264-4287
For over two decades, Sala Thai has been offering an authentic taste of Thailand in the Valley of the Sun.In February 2024, this family of concepts expanded to Tempe. Here you can choose from a wide variety of delicious Thai dishes — soups, noodles, fried rice and curries — just like at the other two Greater Phoenix locations. Our advice, however, is to dive straight into the Tempe-exclusive street food section of the menu. Selections include kho mun gai (Thai chicken and rice), khao soi (yellow curry with chicken and egg noodles), khao moo dang (barbecue pork and rice) and Yumm Mama (the best instant ramen you’ll ever eat). Bonus: This location is open until midnight from Thursday to Saturday for all the late-night weekend foodies.
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 has opened its second location in Tempe. Located at University Drive and College Avenue, this concept features the artwork, atmosphere and famous flavors that made the Downtown Phoenix location a favorite since 2018. Hand-pressed, made-to-order tortillas host a variety of tacos variations — carnitas, carne asada, barbacoa, al pastor (Wednesdays only), fish or veggies — along with a selection of authentic starters, salads, tortas, beers and co*cktails.
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 September 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 fromchef Ivan Jacobo (Anhelo in Phoenix), Flour & Thymeis slated to open its doors in Tempe in 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.
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 thesecond 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 co*cktails 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.
