What a difference a year makes. Last year’s version of this annual roundup began: “To be honest, 2024 wasn’t a banner year for new restaurants in the Valley.”
In contrast, 2025 delivered one of the strongest waves of new restaurant openings the Valley has seen in years – from crave-worthy comfort food to boundary-pushing global flavors.
In alphabetical order, here are MXSW’s Best New Restaurants of 2025.
Chickenhug
2070 E Apache Blvd #103, Tempe | map
Chickenhug proves there’s still room to reinvent roasted chicken. The fast-casual standout by four friends from Jordan nails juicy, well-seasoned birds – whole or half – with crunchy coatings, house sauces that actually matter, and sides that don’t feel like afterthoughts.
Eddie’s Philly
3016 N Dobson Rd #9, Chandler | map | menu
The new go-to spot for sandwich lovers. Owner Eddie Shafeek delivers legit cheesesteaks, piled high with shaved beef, melty cheese, and authentic Amoroso rolls flown in from Philly, plus cold hoagies that hold their own. A no-frills, blue-collar sandwich shop done right.
El Camino
7133 E Stetson Dr #105, Scottsdale | map | menu
Unpretentious and late-night friendly, this bar and grill quickly has become an Old Town staple for those dodging the velvet-rope vibe. Their specialty? Proper smash burgers – starting at just $9.45, with fries. It’s a laid-back haven for cold drinks and comfort food.
Golden Oak Barbecue & Taproom
1326 N Central Ave #101, Phoenix | map | menu
A powerhouse collaboration between Nicky’s BBQ and Oro Brewing, Golden Oak elevates the smokehouse experience with full table service and Peruvian flair. The menu ranges from St. Louis ribs to papa a la huancaína, all paired with award-winning ales.
Heritage Kitchen & Cocktails
10121 E Bell Rd #150, Scottsdale | map | menu
A Mediterranean-inspired gem where the wood-fired hearth produces incredible piatta bread and the patio offers stunning McDowell Mountain views. Highlights from “Chopped”-winning chef Christopher Brugman include Spanish octopus and Dungeness crab tortelloni.
Lujos Cocina Mexicana
53 N Val Vista Dr #101, Gilbert | map | menu
Lujos’ sleek, black-on-black interior sets the stage for elevated Mexican fare like truffle-fry-stuffed Lujo Burritos and the Gilbert Gringo Plate. It’s a refined, modern take on the neighborhood mom-and-pop shop, offering scratch-made quality in a stylish, minimalist setting.
Mixela
3410 N 24th St, Phoenix | map | menu
This Midtown “aperitivo bar” channels a lively house-party vibe with global tapas. Chef Gian Franco Brugaletta blends Venezuelan and Italian roots, serving everything from prosciutto croquetas to sushi. One of the year’s most exciting culinary risks.
Shio Ramen & Crudo
1455 N Scottsdale Rd #105, Scottsdale | map | menu
Located on the SkySong campus, Shio specializes in rich, traditional broths like black garlic oil tonkotsu and yuzu shio. Beyond the bowls, the crudo side of the menu shines with fresh sushi and donburi. It’s a sleek, modern retreat perfect for a quick lunch or a lingering happy hour.
Süss Pastries
5337 N 7th Ave, Phoenix | map | menu
After years of wholesale and pop-up success, Süss finally has opened its doors for walk-ins. Known for their signature Fruit Pockets – an elevated version of a Pop-Tart – the menu also features savory chorizo and egg pockets, quiches, and build-your-own cakes.
Tikka N Taco
11001 N 19th Ave, Phoenix | map | menu
Where Mumbai meets Mexico City, Tikka N Taco’s menu is a playground of flavors, featuring tandoori chicken chimichangas, lamb tacos, and masala nachos. It’s a vibrant, casual spot that proves Indian spices and Mexican formats are a match made in heaven.
Honorable mention
Belmont Kitchen & Cocktails (Scottsdale): A refined destination specializing in wood-fired American fare and craft cocktails with a sophisticated neighborhood feel.
Casa 16 (Phoenix): This vibrant sibling of renowned Casa Corazon brings a modern energy to 16th Street with an approachable menu of Mexican classics and margaritas.
Indibar (Phoenix): A chic destination for those seeking Indian-inspired small plates and inventive cocktails in a sleek, lounge-like atmosphere.
Liquor Pig (Scottsdale): A lively “social house” that nails indulgent, late-night-friendly food with a playful edge, making it a go-to for Old Town crowds after dark.
Morning Jam (Chandler): A music-themed brunch spot that wins fans by combining a vinyl vibe with a menu of creative bowls, massive burritos, and chopped sammies.
Pinyon (Scottsdale): A rustic-meets-modern eatery delivers refined Southwestern cooking rooted in Arizona ingredients without tipping into stuffy fine dining.
Sexy Burger (Tempe): This cheeky Mill Avenue concept focuses on indulgent, over-the-top Wagyu burger builds, fries cooked in beef tallow, and decadent milkshakes.
Sweet Impastries (Gilbert): A clever gluten-free bakery that satisfies dessert cravings with pastries and sweets as Instagram-friendly as they are well-executed.
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