The Shake Shack

The New York equivalent of In-And-Out, superiority complex and adjusted prices included. Anyways, the burger almost does live up to the hype.  A very solid offering, one of the best in the $5-$7 range.  Their potato roll buns serve notice to everyone else out there surrounding their beef in subpar bread.  

The 'Must Try'-  Smokeshack

Cafe Rio

Utah's culinary contribution to the world which means something overly sweet, cheap, and served in large portions.  A more tasty and less heralded lunch alternative to Chipotle.


The 'Must Try'- Sweet Pork Salad

Noble Eatery and Bakery

This place has the pedigree and expectations that come from Claudio Uriciuoli and his time at Noca and his apprenticeship with Nancy Silverton.  A very simple setting and concept executed at a high level by one of the best craftsmen in the Valley.


The 'Must Try'- The menu board varies but is always good

Mod Pizza

A slightly tastier and moderately more hip pizza place then its fast casual corporate cousin, Fired Pie.  A solid Thursday night option when you want something quick and easy for the family.

The 'Must Try'- The Tristan

Knock Kneed Lobster

A no frills, wrong part of town kind of place that simply serves some of the best fish and chips in town.  The best options are fried but they do offer a rather expansive seafood menu at some of the lowest prices you'll see around.


The 'Must Try'- Fish and Chips with some shrimp

The Fry Bread House

Probably the most unassuming James Beard winning establishment that you will ever visit.  A easy and tasty way to comfortably enjoy some of our local heritage.


The 'Must Try- Duh...it's one of these

Welcome Diner

In the din of a South Central Phoenix neighborhood lies a hippy infused throwback gem serving up some of the most creatively constructed southern comfort dishes this side of Paula Deen's mint julep soaked dreams.  A definite must stop when you make your many forays in the increasingly attractive downtown corridor.


The 'Must Try'- The Fried Green Tomato Sandwich

Matt's Big Breakfast

What else can be said about the near unanimous preferred Phoenix spot for the perfectly presented breakfast?  Forget about the wait or drive and enjoy the how tasty a simple waffle can be when made the right way.

The 'Must Try'- The best Waffle in town

Joyride Tacos

The hipsters at Upward Projects have stolen Nana's old family recipes, awesomely re-purposed another Phoenix building, and given us another reason to head up Central Ave for a Friday happy hour.

The 'Must Try'- Pick a Plate of Tacos

Canyon Cafe

The former Sam's Cafe was one of the first places in town to introduce the tasty melodies that can be produced when you blend Spanish, Southwestern, and Mexican culinary traditions. Still worth the wait should you be down town.

The 'Must Try'- The Salmon Flauta

Short Leash Hot Dogs

One of the founding and prominent players in the now well established local food truck scene.  Perfect marriage of innovation and high quality ingredients as well as one of the best ways to enjoy Naan.

The 'Must Try'- The Bear Dog

Lenny's Burgers

This place hearkens back to a simpler time when we just wanted a tasty burger and we didn't need the overpriced and overwrought sandwiches that currently dominate the burger landscape.


The 'Must Try'- The Cowboy Burger

Switch Restaurant & Wine Bar

One of the better 'gathering spots' downtown.  The perfect spot for drinks and a light meal prior to a night on the town. A well executed menu that offers plenty of options without being overwhelming.

The 'Must Try'- The Seared Salmon with Polenta

Paquime- Street Food of Mexico

The desserts are top notch but don't let their sweet siren songs completely distract you from some incredible tacos and tortas.   This place maintains its authenticity while creating an atmosphere that would rival anything put out by Fox or Upward Projects.

The 'Must Try'- The Ribeye Tacos

Rice Paper

More Brooklyn then Saigon which is understandable given the neighborhood. Good portions that satisfy your appetite without weighing down your afternoon. Not bad, even if the dishes aren't as authenticate as you'd like. 

The 'Must Try'-  The Firecracker Shrimp

Save the date: New Times to Host Best of Phoenix A’fare at Burton Barr Central Library

Exclusive Discounted Tickets for All Bite Sized  Followers!

New Times will host the 15^th annual Best of Phoenix A’fare at the Burton Barr Central Library on Saturday, October 4, 2014 from 8 pm to 12:00am.

Tickets will include samples of signatures dishes from an array of Valley restaurants, as well as cocktails, wine and beer. Attendees can expect live music from local bands and DJs to provide the entertainment for the evening.

The restaurants participating in this year’s event include:  The Vig, The Rose and Crown Pub ,Hob Nobs, Z'Tejas Southwestern Grill, Bosa Donuts, Copper Star Coffee, 5 & Diner Phoenix, Nabers, Sweet Tomatoes, Frost Gelato, The Watershed, Oatmeal Café, Fogon Mexican Eatery, Giuseppe's on 28^th, The Monastery , Rico's American Grill , Karl's Quality Bakery, Detroit Coney Grill, T-bone Steakhouse, Baby Kay's Cajun Kitchen, Tukee's Sports Grille, The Attic, Stacy's Smoke House BBQ, Focaccia Fiorentina, HEK Yeah BBQ, Wild Game Sports Grill, Metropolis, Boondocks , Jam Rock Café,  Central Wine, Uncle Bears with more to be announced.

This year's event will benefit Sun Sounds of Arizona.

The foundation's mission is to provide audio access to people who cannot read print because they have a disability. Service is available on the radio, telephone, and internet as a live stream or podcast. Sun Sounds of Arizona is also available in hospitals and residential facilities around the state. In fact, there are eight ways to tune-in. Sun Sounds of Arizona provides access to information many ways. Ways to Connect

In 2013, the event sold out, leaving zero tickets to be sold at the door. Those who want to ensure they get tickets to this year’s event can purchase tickets at www.BestofPhoenixAfare.com .

General Admission tickets include: entry into the event at 8 pm, samples of cuisine from participating restaurants, cocktails, wine & beer, entertainment.

VIP Tickets Include: VIP early bird access to a the event at 7pm, gift bag, samples of cuisine from participating restaurants, cocktails, wine & beer, entertainment.

Ticket Cost:

– General Admission — $40 early bird, $45 advance, $55 day of event

– VIP — $60 early bird, $65 advance, $75 day of event

Bite Sized Phoenix is proud to offer all of our followers an exclusive $5 off discount!

Use code: BITESIZED

Buy tickets HERE

Tortas El Guero

Los Reyes gets all the Torta attention but El Guero is every bit as good with a slight edge for ambiance, service, and horchata. A few visits here and you will never consider a Subway sandwich again.

The 'Must Try'-We prefer the Cubana

Los Reyes De La Torta

 The heavy weight of the heavy sandwich. The place responsible for introducing Phoenix to the meaty and complex splendor that is the Mexican torta.  Uncinch the belt, this sandwich will be with you for awhile.

The 'Must Try'- The Del Rey Torta