Meeting Planners

New Places To Dine, Drink and Dance in Tempe

December 18, 2024

Check out Tempe’s recently opened dining concepts and find out what’s coming soon.

Tempe is bursting with eclectic places to dine, sip and be entertained. From weekend brunches and vibey breweries to sky-high rooftops and late-night dance floors. The best part is that just when you think you’ve tried them all, a roster of new concepts springs up.

Whether you’re in the mood for a great meal, a new cocktail designed by a creative mixologist, or an evening of DJs and dancing, here are our best new restaurants, bars and venues to add to your must-experience list the next time you’re in Tempe.

 Three Thirty Three

430 N. Scottsdale Road, #101, Tempe, AZ 85288 | 480-590-7215

This new, high-end dining experience engages all the senses by blending elegance with energy. Located at Watermark, 333 is truly a one-of-a-kind concept that pairs bold Asian flavors — reimagined with a modern twist — with captivating ambiance that includes flowering cherry blossom trees, a wraparound LED screen and glowing DJ tower. The 14,000 square-foot space also features a bar, lounge and equally decadent cocktail program. From the kitchen, offerings range from a standout sushi bar to a 64-ounce Wagyu tomahawk steak, and also include far-from-typical noodle and rice selections (to name a few). Reservations are highly recommended, this is a cashless establishment, and be sure to note the dress code before you head out.

Aruma Cafe at Culdesac Tempe

2011 E. Apache Blvd., #143, Tempe, AZ 85281

Cocina Chiwas owners Nadia Holguin and Armando Hernandez have yet again expanded their culinary empire, adding Tempe’s newest coffee shop to their ever-growing list of accolades. Aruma Cafe — located at Culdesac Tempe (across from their award-winning concept, Cocina Chiwas — opened in the spring of 2024 and serves up a selection of specialty coffee, espresso and tea drinks, as well as aguas frescas and horchata. This endeavor is a partnership between the duo and former Arizona Cardinals wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (who currently plays for the Tennessee Titans).

The Alley

707 E. 6th St., Suite 165, Tempe, AZ 85281 | 480-932-9065

On the scene since September 2023, The Alley is a purveyor of tea as well as atmosphere. Making its Arizona debut at Novus Place, The Alley serves up signature milk teas, fruit-infused drinks, a variety of handcrafted Deerioca (tapioca), ices coffee, espresso and a curated assortment of treats. The atmosphere cute, modern and inviting, so pull up a chair and hang out for a bit.

Catalyst Crafted Ales

1845 E. Broadway Road, Suite 106, Tempe, AZ 85282

Tempe’s newest craft beer oasis, Catalyst Crafted Ales, opened the doors to this brewing operation in early 2024. Here, Will Walthereson and Alex Baldwin are pairing their passion, innovation and community collaboration to produce a wide range of sips, with an emphasis on sours, IPAs and stouts. Seltzer lovers will appreciate the quality and variety here, too. Regardless of what you’re sipping on, it doesn’t any get better than having some of the best seafood tacos in town under the same roof— this concept is also home to S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Tacos).

The Chill Room

1320 E. Broadway Road, Tempe, AZ 85282 | 480-687-1088

There’s a new social destination in buzzing in Tempe. Since last 2023, The Chill Room has distinguished itself and the premier destination for the finest alcohol-free beverages and spirit-free cocktails, as well as herbal teas, Fijian extracts, botanical root teas and coffees. Additionally, the menu features light fare for breakfast, lunch and snacking. Be sure to check out the weekly happenings at this venue, which include weekly open mic nights, live music, DJs, movie nights, poker, trivia and more.

Cocina Chiwas

2001 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe, AZ 85281 | 480-916-3690

From the family that created such concepts as Bacanora, Espiritu and Tacos Chiwas throughout the Valley, comes an upscale and authentic Mexican dining experience in Tempe. Husband-and-wife co-owners, Armando Hernandez and Nadia Holguin, are delivering world-class Chihuahuan cuisine from their new location at Culdesac — Tempe’s new car-free community. Lucky for you, there are parking options. But be sure to make a reservation, because this culinary duo has quite a following of enthusiastic foodies.

In 2019, Holguin was named a semifinalist in the James Beard Awards’ Best Chef – Southwest category. In 2021, their Phoenix concept, Bacanora, was named one of the 40 best new restaurants in America by “Esquire” magazine. In 2022, the James Beard Foundation recognized the restaurant as a semifinalist for best new restaurant in the country. And, in 2024, Hernandez and Holguin were names semifinalists in the Outstanding Restaurateur category for their collective roster of concepts. Needless to say, we’re thrilled they’ve set up shop in Tempe. Check out our TikTok for more.

In fall 2024, El Jardín Chiwas also made its Culdesac debut. Located just a short walk from Cocina Chiwas, this beer garden is a celebration of plants, community and sipping.

Devil’s Hideaway + Idle Hands

401 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281 

Four years after Downtown Tempe’s iconic Irish pub and restaurant – Rúla Búla – closed its doors, the two-story Mill Avenue building has opened its doors to two exciting new concepts.

Open since March 2024, Devil’s Hideaway is more than a restaurant + bar. This truly unique space draws inspiration from a futuristic underground tunnel system circa 2054. Billed as an adult playground — complete with craft cocktails and small bites — this concept is also equipped with live music capabilities and a reimagined patio out back.

Turn one of the corners within the brick labyrinth and you’re at the door of Idle Hands Enchanted Cocktail Bar, a distinct, 90-minute cocktail experience of its own. Video projections across windowpane walls depict other-worldly scenes landscapes pair perfectly with the equally exclusive cocktail program for a one-of-a-kind speakeasy vibe.

This effort is the latest collaboration between restaurateur/owner Julian Wright (Fork & Dagger Hospitality) and architect Wesley James (UnderTow and Century Grand cocktail bars).

Eureka! Tempe

690 S. Novus Place, Suite 173, Tempe, AZ 85281 | 602-242-4431

Open at Tempe’s Novus Place since February 2024, this new concept is a celebration of America’s finest food and spirits. The spacious and sophisticated space features a sleek patio, indoor-outdoor bar, live music stage and scratch kitchen. A roster of gourmet burgers and signature and entrees spotlight the Eureka! philosophy of locally sources ingredients, innovative flavor combinations and elevated pairings. Speaking of which, taps here feature 20 craft beers from the best local breweries, over 40 small-batch whiskeys and craft cocktails that range from classic sips to over-the-top creations.

Bonus: If you’ve ever wanted to join a whiskey club, Eureka! has details for you here.

Flavor Eatery and Lounge

404 S. Mill Ave., # 101, Tempe, AZ 85281 | 480-361-6001

New to Mill Avenue (on 4th Street), Flavor Eatery and Lounge brings together Caribbean favorites, American classics and craft cocktails in a restaurant and lounge atmosphere that features live music, events and, of course, shows all the big games. From such island flavors as curry goat, oxtail and jerk chicken to burgers and wraps, this new spot is a crowdpleaser, whether it’s for a quick lunch bite or for lingering a little longer in the evenings.

Grass Clippings at Rolling Hills

1415 N. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85288 | 480-530-9880

In 2023, this executive golf course embarked on a rebrand as Grass Clippings at Rolling Hills: Arizona’s only fully lit, 18-hole golf course and practice facility that’s available day and night. Located in picturesque Papago Park, less than 2 miles from Downtown Tempe, this hilly course lives up to its name with quite a few elevation changes. Take in views of the surrounding mountain ranges and skylines from the 8th hole (the course’s highest point) and keep an eye out for Sonoran Desert animals after dusk.

Bonus: The evolution of this course and practice facility will continue throughout 2024. Golfers can expect a live music venue, an activity lawn, a new Mexican restaurant and a patio bar to open later this year.

Lush Cafe & Lounge

7470 S. Priest Drive, Tempe, AZ 85283 | 480-590-5755

Swinging onto the scene with sold out grand opening featuring R&B star Bobby Valentino, Lush Café & Lounge is a hottest spot in South Tempe. The chef-inspired menu begins with baked goods, espresso and more in the earlier part of the day, followed by live music, elevated entrees and and hand-crafted cocktails in the evenings. Music and vibes course throughout the experience, no matter what time of day. Be sure to follow @lushcafeandlounge on Instagram for details on special events, including wine & jazz Wednesdays and sing-a-long Sundays R&B brunch and more.

Over Easy

690 S. Novus Place, Suite #707, Tempe, AZ 85281 | 480-912-6294

As the newest addition to Tempe’s breakfast landscape, Over Easy brings a retro-meets-modern diner vibe to Novus Place. Aesthetically, the bright space, expansive patio and such décor as the custom neon wall make for a sunny way to start any day. This concept is known for creating energized takes on classic breakfast staples. Think: Golden Waffle Dogs, Chilaquiles and the Monte Cristo — as well as the classic dishes. Pro tip: Try the Banana Nut French Toast (as seen on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives).

Pair Cupworks at Arizona Bouldering Project

2626 S. Hardy Drive, Tempe, AZ 85282 | 480-716-9014

Pair Cupworks has landed in Tempe. Open inside Arizona Bouldering Project since fall 2023, this marks the second location for co-owners Kimhak Em and Eugenia Tai. Turns out, rock climbing and espresso are a matcha made in heaven. Grab a day pass or a membership to this new indoor rock-climbing gym, and don’t miss the chance to try locally roasted specialty coffee blends and artisan teas. Standouts here include the fresh whisked matcha and pour overs, because — much like bouldering — perfection takes time.

Sala Thai Restaurant

1740 E. Broadway Road, #106, Tempe, AZ 85282 | 480-264-4287

For over two decades, Sala Thai has been offering an authentic taste of Thailand in the Valley of the Sun. In February 2024, this family of concepts expanded to Tempe. Here you can choose from a wide variety of delicious Thai dishes — soups, noodles, fried rice and curries — just like at the other two Greater Phoenix locations. Our advice, however, is to dive straight into the Tempe-exclusive street food section of the menu. Selections include kho mun gai (Thai chicken and rice), khao soi (yellow curry with chicken and egg noodles), khao moo dang (barbecue pork and rice) and Yumm Mama (the best instant ramen you’ll ever eat). Bonus: This location is open until midnight from Thursday to Saturday for all the late-night weekend foodies.

Taco Chelo

521 S. College Ave., Suite 112, Tempe, AZ 85281

This beloved Valley taquería — a collaboration of restaurateur Aaron Chamberlin, chef Suny Santana and artist Gennaro Garcia — is has opened its second location in Tempe. Located at University Drive and College Avenue, this concept features the artwork, atmosphere and famous flavors that made the Downtown Phoenix location a favorite since 2018. Hand-pressed, made-to-order tortillas host a variety of tacos variations — carnitas, carne asada, barbacoa, al pastor (Wednesdays only), fish or veggies — along with a selection of authentic starters, salads, tortas, beers and cocktails.

Tempe Eats Food Hall

85 E. Southern Ave., Tempe, AZ 85282

Inspired by creator Teresa Nguyen’s international food hall experiences, this concept houses multiple dining and drinking options for enjoying in the new space as well as convenient to-go ordering. Open since February 2024, the food hall is divided into different areas, including:

• Craft U, a craft beer-focused place to sip
• Fork Off, featuring such handheld eats as tacos, burritos, empanadas and varieties of street corn.
• Wings & Wagyu, starring wings, nachos, fries, chicken sandwiches and wagyu burgers.
• Maison Bijon, a bevy of sweetness ranging from cakes and tarts to gelato and sorbet.
• Mardi Q, a celebration of barbecue — choose from plates, burgers and sandwiches, or plus pasta entrees and classic sides.
• Sobremesa Tapas & Wine Bar, starring sharables and bottles.
• Pastiazza, endless variety of pizzas and pasta.
• Mixwich, fresh salads and sandwiches that are perfect for dining in or convenient takeaway.

Coming Soon:

Electric Pickle 
8688 S. Emerald Drive, Tempe, AZ 85284 | 480-520-4000

This new dining-meets-entertainment concept — the first-ever Electric Pickle — will blend dining and entertainment across 4.5-acre space in South Tempe. Combining the ultra-trendy sport of pickleball with an outdoor entertainment space and a two-story, globally-inspired restaurant is set to make its debut in January 2025. Guests can expect Electric Pickle to redefine the entertainment and dining scene with nine state-of-the-art pickleball courts, private cabanas, Full Swing Golf Simulators, bocce ball, cozy fire pits, a live-music stage and an expansive lawn for cornhole, lounging and more. The signature restaurant will offer inventive cocktails and dishes perfect for a post-game celebration.

Filthy Animal
740 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281

Wexford Developments announced that Pretty Decent Concepts — the high-end restaurant group behind Phoenix’s Wren & Wolf, Trophy Room and Carry On — will build its fourth cocktail and creative restaurant concept in the 7700-square-foot (plus patio) in the space that was formerly home to P.F. Chang’s at Mill Avenue and University Drive. Slated to open in 2025, Filthy Animal will be Pretty Decent Concepts’ first establishment in Tempe.

Jaguar Cantina
640 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, AZ 85281 

Announced in August, Julian Wright (Pedal Haus, Devil’s Hideaway) is bringing a new cocktail concept to Mill Avenue. Jaguar Cantina will feature a tropical, Mexican theme and specialize in a large selection of agave-based cocktails and margaritas. With a grand opening projected for early 2025, Jaguar Cantina will be open for lunch, happy hour and late night, both inside and across its two large patios.

Novus Place: University Drive and Rural Road

In April 2023, Fox Restaurant Concepts announced two new restaurants coming to Tempe. However, patience is key, as both standalone Fox Restaurant Concepts are expected to open in the second half of 2024. So, stay tuned!

Blanco Taco Cocina + Cantina: A bright space that’s as fresh as its famous twist on Mexican culinary classics. Best paired with signature margaritas, sangria or beer.

North Italia: Scratch-made Italian favorites, including pizza, pasta, and sandwiches, as well as craft cocktails and fine wine (and brunch!)

Flower Child: Nourishing, made-from-scratch goodness — and vibes — that celebrates all dining preferences … vegetarian, vegan, meat and gluten-free to keto and pale.

Blue Sushi Sake Grill: The largest sushi group running a sustainably sourced seafood program in partnership with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch also offers one of the broadest menus of vegan sushi in the country.