Get recommendations from the pages of Edible Phoenix.
Los Altos Ranch Market
This Mexican market has locations across the southwest. The combination of fresh produce and meats along with prepared foods such as fresh tortillas and an ample food court with tacos and a bakery make it a must-visit whether or not you have access to a kitchen during your stay. Don’t miss the killer agua fresca bar.
Nogales Hot Dogs
The two locations serve the same local favorite: Sonoran hot dogs, which are wrapped in bacon and tucked into Mexican rolls along with beans, onions, tomatoes, guacamole, and cheese. Don’t forget to hit the stunning condiment table featuring more of all that plus mushrooms and jalapeños. Oh, and when they ask if you want mayo, the answer is yes.
Gallo Bianco
Local ingredients and fresh preparations of classic Mexican dishes make this a must-stop. The brunch on the weekends is worth planning your day around.
Bitter and Twisted Cocktail Parlour
First things first, this bar is set in the former Arizona Prohibition Headquarters in downtown Phoenix, so take a moment to appreciate that ironic nod to history. Enjoy the expertly made—and often highly creative—drinks along with a menu of snacks and bar bites to keep the fun going.
Sweet Republic Ice Cream
Cool off from the city’s famous dry heat with the made-from-scratch ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt made locally without preservatives, hydrogenated oils, or anything artificial. There are at least 24 flavors on offer daily. They have housemade candy, too, so pile on the marshmallows and more.
Farmers Markets
The desert is surprisingly fertile. If you’re in town on Saturday, check out the bounty at these farmers markets to see (and taste!) a huge range of local foods: Uptown Farmers Market, Phoenix Public Market, Roadrunner Park Farmers Market.
Desert Botanical Garden
Get a different sense of the desert’s bounty in this serene setting you can enjoy on your own or with a guided tour.
