9 East Valley restaurants receive 2014 ‘Food Nerd’ stamp of approval

Republica Empanada (pictured) in Mesa, Chou’s Kitchen in Chandler, and Wedge & Bottle in Ahwatukee are among nine East Valley restaurants receiving “Food Nerd Approved” designation this year.

Other East Valley restaurants receiving 2014 accolades are Beaver Choice, Dolce Vita Italian Grocer, and Hue Gourmet in Mesa, and Curry Corner, Miu’s Cuisine, and Umami in Tempe.

The unofficial awards are determined by a local group of food and restaurant enthusiasts who frequent the food and drink discussion boards on PHXFoodNerds.com. The criteria:

Once a year, the members of PHXfoodnerds.com gather to nominate restaurants and other food-related establishments based on the deliciousness of their offerings, their exceptional character, and the extent to which they’ve generated excitement and discussion on the board.

Nineteen restaurants and food-related businesses made the inaugural list last year. Twenty-one made the 2014 list. See the full 2014 list here.