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Wildflower
The Top List of Delicious Hideaways - Phoenix, AZ
Explore the secrets of Phoenix cuisine
by Jill Gossage
Search for the hidden treasures of Phoenix cuisine that are scattered throughout the city just waiting for you to find them! Below is a list of the top ten hide away restaurants in Phoenix, AZ. Discover a treat for you taste buds.
RED DEVIL
3102 East McDowell Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85008
(602) 267-1036
(602) 275-5961 takeout
Hours: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. (Mon – Thurs), 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. (Fri-Sat), Sunday take out only 12 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Now in it’s second generation of family operation, Red Devil is a true Italian hidden gem. The menu is endless. Build your own pizza with just about any topping you can imagine, or choose from one of the specialty pizzas like the Mediterranean or Southwest Special. Even better than the pizza toppings is the crust, seasoned with garlic and perfectly soft under the crusty exterior. Or build your pasta with different pasta noodles and a myriad of homemade sauces to choose from (you can even choose more than one sauce to try). Traditional Italian favorites such as tortellini alfredo, chicken cacciatore and eggplant parmigiana are only a few of on the list. The atmosphere is laid back and perfect for a casual date or a big family meal. What they save in décor you save on the bill. Prices are reasonable and you would expect to pay more for the generous portions and courteous service. All menu items are also available for takeout.
Estimate price per person = $15 - $25
Holidays: Set at discretion of management.
BARRIO CAFÉ
2814 North 16th Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85016
(602) 636-0240
Hours: Lunch 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. (Tues-Fri), Dinner 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. (Tues-Thurs), 5 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. (Fri-Sat), 3 p.m. 9 p.m. (Sun), Sunday Brunch 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., Closed Mondays
Barrio Café is quite a fitting name for the neighborhood of this hideaway. Meaning “ghetto” in Spanish, the location might make you a little weary and can be difficult to find, but the food, ambience and authentic charm make it worth the trip. In fact on weekends and evenings, guests wait up to two hours to get a table here and a valet springs up for the dinner crowd. The cuisine and culture are truly Mexican. Executive Chef and co-owner Silvan Salcido Esparza brings her southern Mexican recipes to life with simple favorites such as tacos, enchiladas, and tamales alongside unique dishes such as pescado del mar and pollo en mole. The flavors, however, are more complex and satisfying. The pork is slow roasted (for 12 hours) and so tender it practically melts in your mouth. Of course traditional margaritas are served, as well as Mexican wine and other spirits. Overall Mexican immersion is complete with the atmosphere. Hispanic art pieces adorn the brightly colored walls and the tables, chairs and lighting fixtures have a very south of the border feel. So not only is this a great hideaway, it’s almost a getaway, too.
Estimated price per person = $25 - $35
Holidays: Closed for most major holidays,
AVANTI
2728 East Thomas Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85016
(602) 956-0900
Hours: Lunch 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Mon – Fri), Dinner seating beginning at 5 p.m. (Mon – Sun)
Part of Avanti’s full title is “A Restaurant of Distinction,” something you’d never guess just driving by. Avanti is situated next to a business strip mall on a high traffic street in Phoenix, even sharing its parking lot with the offices and accompanying clients next door. But a restaurant of distinction it certainly is. The gourmet traditional Italian food is delicious and presented artfully in a classy, 1930’s atmosphere. Mirrors, black and white décor and at your side service set the ambience for a glamorous dining experience. Linguine with clam sauce, Fettuccine al Salmon and Scampi and Scallops are among the best selections on the menu. The freshest meat and seafood add to the chef’s special recipes and flavors. The chef also offers a risotto of the day, utilizing fresh, in season ingredients. Dessert is absolutely a must, especially the tiramisu with creamy, rich custard and bold espresso. Avanti is perfect for a celebration or an out of the ordinary business lunch, and anything special in between.
Estimate price per person = $35 - $45
Holidays: Open for most major holidays.
THE STOCKYARDS RESTAURANT
5009 East Washington Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85034
(602) 273-7378
Hours: Lunch 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Mon-Fri), Dinner 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. (Mon – Sat), 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. (Sun)
Located in a now industrial and construction area of Phoenix, The Stockyards Restaurant is one of Arizona’s oldest steak houses and is listed in the City of Phoenix Historical Register. At it’s inception over 50 years ago, The Stockyards played a central role in Arizona’s cattle industry and was once part of over 200 acres of cattle land and a packing house. After a bit of a facelift a few years ago, the restaurant and lounge, aptly named the 1889 Salon, are back among Phoenix’ top steak houses. The Stockyards and 1889 Salon are a taste of the Old West, and the menu reflects just that. “Best of the West” prime rib is offered in three sizes and is served with horseradish, natural juices, choice of soup or salad and choice of side. In fact, all entrees come as complete meals. New York Strip and Filet Mignon are two of several other steak choices, all of which also come with a choice of Whiskey Peppercorn Demi-Glace, Béarnaise Sauce, or Stone Ground Mustard Sauce. Seafood and chicken round out the hearty menu. The restaurant and bar also offer seasonal specials and half price bottles of wine on Sunday. Rich in history and southwest flavor, The Stockyards should not be passed by.
Estimated cost per person = $35 - $45
Holidays: Open for most major holidays.
RICHARDSON'S
1582 Bethany Home Road, Phoenix, AZ
(602) 265-5886 (602) 230-8718
Hours: Monday-Sunday 8:30 AM TO 12AM
You'll be drawn in by the powerful aroma of the wood oven and pecan wood grill and mesmerized by the unique copper, wood and leather decor; that is, if you can find the place. Unless you follow someone through the front door, you probably wouldn't know that the wonderful food of Richardson's or Dick's Hideaway (the offshoot of Richardson's) exists. Once you find the small restaurant with the big taste, you won't forget it is there. For example, Richardson's chile policy is "you order it...you own it!" Whether it's breakfast, lunch or dinner the dishes are gigantic and satisfying served with a New Mexican flair. The menu ranges from Wood Oven Pizzas with your choice of toppings that include green chiles, chicken, goat cheese, grilled shrimp, artichoke hearts, red pepper sauce, and smoked mozzarella to Rack of Lamb served with green chile jelly, green chile potato and a house salad. Two of the "Especialities de la Casa" include the New Mexican Surf and Turf which consists of a 6 oz. Tenderloin, 2 Jumbo Chipotle Pecan Grilled Shrimp, 3 Flat Enchilandas, green chile potato and vegetable or the Chimayo Chicken which is a Baked Chicken stuffed with spinach, sun dried tomatoes, poblano chile, and asiago cheese served over a roasted onion sauce and green chile potato. You can ease the fire in your mouth with Dick's full line of beer, wine and spirits any time of the day. And don't forget to end your lunch or dinner with the scrumptious homemade Flan. If you prefer intimate dining away from the rowdy crowd, you can reserve the private dining area of Dick's hideaway for dinner parties or holiday events that seats up to 20.
Estimated cost for dinner, $10.00 to $22.00 per person.
Holiday schedule: Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day
ZEN 32
3160 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ
(602) 954-8700
Hours: Lunch served Monday through Friday 11AM to 4:30PM, Grilled menu served Sunday through Saturday 4:30PM to 11PM, Sushi served Sunday through Saturday until midnight, The Zen bar is open until 1AM
Mystical, tranquil and exotic are three words used to describe Zen 32, the award winning sushi bar nestled into Phoenix's Biltmore business district. Whether you are visiting for lunch, dinner or just drinks and sushi, Zen's allure, soothing music (inside the dining area and out on the wooden patio) and satin-clad wait staff, along with the fabulous food, will keep you coming back. As you've entered the dimly lit, serene world of Zen, start off with some spicy calamari or chili-glazed shrimp. If you're there between 4:30 and 6:30, Monday through Friday, you can enjoy the Sushi Happy Hour freshly made to order. Not a big sushi fan? Not a problem, Zen's grill is delightful. You can choose the Black and White Ravioli, which is stuffed with lobster, infused with Italian cheeses, served with cooked diced tomatoes and a light curry-laced sauce or the Schechwan Pepper Crusted Halibut served with wasabi mashed potatoes, sautéed baby vegetables an a chive reduction sauce. Save room for the dessert combo, which features an arrangement of Key Lime Pie, Mandarin Orange Cheesecake and Chocolate Zen Triangles. You'll dream about it later. Although Zen 32 is hard to find, there always seems to be a crowd, so reservations are suggested. You can even reserve Lenny's V.I.P room, a private cut-out area encased in leather, to enjoy the award winning Japanese animation with a group of close friends.
Estimated cost of dinner, $15.00 to $28.00 per person
Holiday Schedule: Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
TOMATOES BISTRO
The Camelback Esplanade, 2501 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ
(602) 955-8069
Hours: Monday through Thursday 6:30AM to 3:30PM, Friday 6:30AM to 8:00PM
Tucked into the Camelback Esplanade between office buildings, shops and a movie theater, the Tomatoes Bistro is hardly noticeable. Once you try the fresh salads and sandwiches, you'll wonder why you ate lunch anywhere else. The atmosphere is warm and inviting. It is reminiscent of a rustic, traditionally styled deli, clad with plenty of rich wood and brass. The menu focuses on breakfast and lunch items, but there are some nice dinner pastas as well. For breakfast, you can choose from items such as the bagel sandwiches, omelettes, or Angleica's Breakfast Burrito, all perfect for the "on the run" businessperson. The lunch and dinner menu consist of salads such as the Szechwan Chicken or the Oaxaca Taco Salad, sandwiches and pasta. Creating your own pasta dish is a novelty with plenty of noodles, sauces and cheese to choose from. You can just breathe in the freshness of the ingredients as you walk in the restaurant. The most popular menu item is the Grilled Portabello Mushroom Sandwich that is served with a fresh portabello mushroom cap marinated in balsamic vinaigrette and topped with melted havarti cheese, lettuce, sprouts and red onion. There are always plenty of fresh pastries, cookies, and other baked goods to satisfy your sweet tooth after the meal. The Bistro has a full catering menu and also offers Honey Baked Spiral Sliced Hams for your special parties or events.
Estimated cost for lunch or dinner, $5.00 to $8.00 per person
Holiday schedule: Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Years Day
SAM'S CAFE
Biltmore Fashion Park
2566 E. Camelback Road, Suite 201, Phoenix, AZ
(602) 954-7100
Hours: Monday through Thursday 11:00AM to 10:00PM, Friday & Saturday 11:00AM to 11:00PM, Sunday 11:00AM to 9:00PM
Upon entering the doors of Sam's Cafe amidst the upscale shops of the Biltmore Fashion Park, you will feel as if you have entered another land. You have entered into a "American Southwest Experience". You'll be dining on heavy mission style furniture surrounded by the spiritual artwork and decor of the American southwest. The unique food was born by European, Caribbean, South American and American influences. You should start off with the South Texas Tortilla Soup and with each meal, breadsticks are served in a brightly colored, oversized mug with a cream cheese jalepeno dipping spread. The Chef's Favorites include the Desert Fire Pasta, Chile Rubbed Shrimp Skewers and the Tenderloin Filet and Crab Cake. Another tempting item is the Sedona Spring Rolls which are flour tortillas wrapped around a combination of chicken and vegetables served crisp over Sam's roasted tomato BBQ sauce with tossed greens. Don't leave until you've had one of Sam's signature hand-shaken margaritas. You can choose from the Conmemorativo, Grand Canyon, Coyote or Blue Moon Margarita. Sounds frightening doesn't it? Don't be afraid to try anything at Sam's Cafe, all the dishes are created with a unique finesse that is designed for you to experience the southwest in style.
Estimated cost of dinner, $15.00 to $25.00 per person
Holiday schedule: Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day
HONEY BEAR'S BBQ
2824 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ
5012 E. Van Buren Street, Phoenix, AZ
(602) 279-7911
(602) 273-0617
Hours: Monday through Saturday 10:00AM to 10:00PM, Sunday 10:00AM to 9:00PM
To find a Honey Bear's restaurant, just follow your nose! As you walk through the doors of either Honey Bear's location you will instantly feel the warm, down-home family atmosphere and your senses will be overtaken by the aroma of barbecued ribs and dishes that are "Cooked from the heart and soul." Honey Bear's is well known for the secret Tennessee barbecue flavors and sauces that have been handed down through generations for over 50 years by Gary Clark and Mark Smith. You'll be licking your lips from the mouth watering tastes of Barbecued Pork, Chicken or Beef served as dinners or on sandwiches. Honey Bear's quirky motto is, "You don't need no teeth to eat our meat!" They are right; it simply melts in your mouth, as do the delectable cobblers and sweet potato pies. You can accompany your BBQ dinner with a side of fries, potato salad, Cowbrow beans or a whole ear of corn that is all made fresh daily. Honey Bear's offers "Party Packs" for delivery and pick up orders which can range from $5.00 to $9.00 per person. Just ask to see the party packs and catering specials.
Estimated cost for dinner, $5.00 to $14.00 per person
Holiday schedule: Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas
WILDFLOWER BREAD COMPANY
2805 W Aqua Fria Freeway
Deer Valley Towne Shopping Center, Phoenix, AZ
(623-879-6819
Hours: Monday through Friday 6:00AM to 8:00PM, Saturday 7:00AM to 8:00PM, Sunday 7:00AM to 7:00PM
Is there anything more comforting than the smell and taste of fresh baked bread? The Wildflower Bread Company has an arrangement of Artisan breads, rolls, bagels, muffins and more, baked fresh daily. The Wildflower Bread Company commitment to quality is voiced within their Golden Rule, "Would I be proud to serve this to my mother?" The answer is usually, "Yes." Wildflower uses the highest quality and freshest ingredients and they claim that bread making is an artform. The atmosphere is friendly and warm and you can immediately feel a connection with the cozy little restaurant that "extends beyond the products." The customer service is outstanding. It's as if the employees want to make friends with everyone who walks through the front door. The Wildflower does offer more than breads and other delicious baked goods. You can order gourmet salads and sandwiches; like the Mediterranean Salad, the Turkey Breast and Brie Sandwich, or the Caribbean Cobb. They also have a large breakfast menu that has a Feta & Roasted Vegetable Frittata and Banana Walnut Pancakes among various other items all served from 6:00AM to 10:30AM (2:00PM on weekends) accompanied by a full espresso bar. The Wildflower offers many holiday specials including pies, cakes, gift breadbaskets and more. You can inquire with a manager for a catering menu for your business and casual events. Finally, the Wildflower donates all of their daily leftover bakery products to shelters to help feed the less fortunate and is an active contributor to many local charities and fund-raisers. This place is so cute that you just want to pinch it!
Estimated cost for dinner, $5.00 to $8:00 per person
Holiday schedule: Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, Closing at 5:00 on Christmas Eve
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