Sassy’s Cafe & Bakery

Shabby Chic meets the family dinner.  Think of  a poor man's Sweet Cakes Cafe... complete with the sandwiches, cookies, and the scores of women gathering for the lunch and the latest gossip.  Sandwiches above average but man those cookies are something special.  

The 'Must Try'-  The cheesesteak is good but the real reason you are here is those cookies

Wild Game Grill

This place has carved out a great niche for those who want to catch the game but are hampered by kids in tow and dietary restrictions.  They've got a great atmosphere for sports, a menu full of lean and unique meat options, and a nice corner to drop off the kids.

The 'Must Try'- Head off the beaten path with some Ostrich Ravioli

Backyard Taco

With all of the hipster joints turning a small taco into $5 affairs it is nice to find the old dives that serve them up right.... sizzling hot and cheap.  A solid spot that provides a great authentic street taco experience.


The 'Must Try'- Tacos al Carbon

Casanova Brothers Pizza

A solid NY style slice that is a great weeknight option.  But what really sets this place apart is their customer service. They are so nice and welcoming that you will be wondering how they could possibly be from New York. 

The 'Must Try'- Straight up slice of cheese

Giant Rustic Pizza

The great thing about the Phoenix pizza scene is that we are big enough to have pizza options for almost every occasion.  Where does Giant Rustic Pizza fit?  It is the ideal spot for some cheap NY style lunch slices or to take the kids for dinner on a weeknight.  It's not Pomo or even Spinatos but you will be hard pressed to find a better pizza lunch deal for under $6.

The 'Must Try'- The 2 slice daily special

Organ Stop Pizza

You don't go for the pizza, you go because you want to be a kid again and enjoy the electric atmosphere created by that Wurlitzer Organ. One of the few places in town that can satisfy two distinct demographics- kids and retirees.

The 'Must Try'- The Organ, the true star of the show

The Cider Mill

Tucked away in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale this place prides itself on its sandwiches and soda bar.  Their average sandwiches and higher price point hold me back from really giving this local spot a wholehearted recommendation.



The 'Must Try' - Sandwiches are ok but make sure you don't leave without getting a homemade soda.

Oreganos Pizza Bistro

A long standing Phoenix staple that provides one of the more festive and congenial atmospheres around.  It also doesn't hurt that they have a Chicago inspired menu full of red blooded staples ranging from excellent wings, to deep dish, to the vaunted Big Beef Sandwich.

The 'Must Try'- Numero ONE-O Deep Dish Pizza