House of Tricks
Robert and Robin Trick opened one of Tempe’s first fine-dining restaurants in 1987 in a remodeled 1920s cottage, then bought the 1903 adobe structure next door for additional indoor seating. A gorgeous deck and patio bar connect the two dining rooms. Chef Kelly Fletcher’s contemporary American menu changes seasonally. Open for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday. 114 E. Seventh St., Tempe (map), 480-968-1114.
The Chuckbox
Little more than a wooden shack, this dimly lit ASU student favorite is in its fifth decade of serving mouth-watering mesquite-grilled burgers. Their signature, one-third-pound The Big One will set you back less than $5. Or try the Tijuana Torpedo with jalapeno jack cheese inside and green chiles on top ($5.90). It’s cash only, but there’s an ATM inside. Open for lunch and dinner daily. 202 E. University Drive, Tempe (map), 480-968-4712.
Desert Roots Kitchen
Even diehard carnivores will succumb to the super-tasty vegetarian and vegan fare at this off-Mill courtyard eatery, which opened in 2012. The creative menu changes daily, so you’ll need to check their Facebook page for temptations like caramel apple peanut kale salad, curry-pecan quinoa with chickpeas, or a saffron-tarragon veggie wrap. Open for breakfast and lunch weekdays. 414 S. Mill Ave., Tempe (map), 480-382-0228.
La Bocca Urban Pizzeria
Part of Julian Wright’s Mill Avenue nightlife empire, this sophisticated yet casual pizzeria and wine bar offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. There are tasty salads and sandwiches, but it’s the hand-tossed pizzas ($9-$14)Â and bruschetta planks (choose four for $12) that take center stage. A well-curated drinks menu features 50 wines (half available by the glass). Open for lunch and dinner daily. 699 S. Mill Ave., Tempe (map), 480-967-5244.
Ncounter
A hip offshoot of longtime Mesa breakfast fave T.C. Eggington’s, this vibrant urban space with an industrial-chic decor is a great way to start your day. Breakfast options include Bananas Foster French toast ($7) and The Pear omelet with pears, bacon, almonds, and Havarti cheese ($8.50). At lunch, attention turns to just-as-tempting salads and hot and cold sandwiches. Open for breakfast and lunch daily. 310 S. Mill Ave., Tempe (map), 480-968-9288.
