My Slice of the Pie Pizzeria

On the surface it seems like a pretty standard NY style pizza joint.  But what earns it the extra star is the customer service and the fresh infusion of southwestern flavors into the standard pizza menu.  

The 'Must Try'- The Al Pastor Pizza

Stax Burger Bistro

In a field littered with the grass fed flotsam of a hundred failed burger ventures stands out a menu that truly merits a visit.  While most burger joints go big, their slider sized offerings are just the right side and allow you to explore the menu.

The 'Must Try'- Mix and match.  We like the Kobe and Buffalo

Sushi J

Sort of loud with a cheap karaoke bar feel but don't let the 'also ran' atmosphere dissuade you from some of the freshest and best executed Sushi in the West. Go for the culinary artistry not the scene.

The 'Must Try'- Tough to beat the sashimi lunch

Ahipoki Bowl

A welcome addition to our landlocked Valley and it will likely grow an extra star or two once we get more acclimated to the Poke phenomenon. Would like a little more guidance from the staff and maybe a few more garnish options to make it more substantial.

The 'Must Try'- The Poki bowl...it's what they do

Leoni’s Focaccia

Naturally the focaccia is the showcase item here but don't discount the quality meats and cheeses stuffed between the light and savory bread.   Definitely worth the effort of having to deal with the Scottsdale/Shea intersection and worth the added cost of in order to get a truly delicious sandwich.

The 'Must Try'- We dig the soppressata but anything will do so long as it is in between their bread

The Great Australian Bakery

The almost identical twin of the Cornish Pasty that is pleasing palates on the other side of Old Town.  The rolls and tarts add a distinctive Australian twist to the concept. Only complaint is that they are a tad small for the price paid.


The 'Must Try'- The Aussie take on the Shepard's Pie

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

1000 Degrees Neopolitan Pizza

I know you're probably thinking 'do we really need yet another fast casual pizza place offering up $9 pies made in 90 seconds'?  Finally, one fast pizza concept worth keeping around.The price point is on par and the flavor is Naples approved.


The 'Must Try'- Tick off the purists and savor the Buffalo Chicken

Simon's Hot Dogs

A welcome fast casual and lower price point for the area.  The frantically fantastic owner and his staff aim to please with some very well executed fresh takes on the Hot Dog.  Do yourself a favor, imagine a Caribbean breeze, and sample the Colombian dog.


The 'Must Try'- Take their suggestion and go full Colombian!

Tortilla Fish

The fish taco torch has been officially passed from Rubios.  Tough to find better seafood at this price.  Fresh and flavorful fish that can be dressed a variety of ways as well as a few other solid earth bound options.  Also, a friendly staff that works hard to ensure your experience is up to par.

The 'Must Try'- Get a standard fish taco and a machaca style fish taco

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

Flancers

Yes it sort of has the ambiance of a low grade frat house with a menu that appeals to the same crowd but that's alright because these sandwiches are top notch.   Factor in the very personable service and you have one more place in the East Valley worth visiting.

The 'Must Try"- The most complete Cheesesteak in Phoenix.

Snooze an AM Eatery

Great creative menu, good execution, and some of the best Benedict in town.  It also offers some of the heaviest meals you will eat before 10am so we recommend to not eat here prior to any important meetings or events.

The 'Must Try'- Pancakes are good but we give the edge to the Benedict

El Conquistador

Greeted by some of the better chips and salsa in the area and followed up with a  menu of solidly executed classics.  One tip though, Mole is only served on Tuesdays and Weekends They also do some great things with pork and green sauce.



The 'Must Try'- Make the effort for the Mole 

EVO

Old town Scottsdale has long been a haven to buy kitschy bolo ties and hear about rumored legends of Paris Hilton's time spent clubbing here.  EVO solidifies this area, along with Franco's and Marcellino's as the Valley's "Little Italy".  We welcome back the original 'Cuoco Pazzo', Chef DeRuvo and he brings back many of the dishes that we have loved at his past spots, namely the Raviolo, Arancini, and Focaccia di Recco.


The 'Must Try'- A lot to like but you must get the Focaccia di Recco

Vincent’s On Camelback

Once you properly adjust your expectations and assuming you don't show up at the same time that the gray hairs are partaking of their 'Early Bird'' meals you will find find out why this is one the long standing dining landmarks in Phoenix.  French food is a lot tastier and less pretentious when it has spent a little time in the Southwest.

   The 'Must Try'-  Sure the famed duck tamales are great but we are partial to the Wild Boar Loon

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

Sushi Broker

Good sushi but we all know that the scene is just as important. This place has an a great vibe for a congenial happy hour and a creative menu that satisfies the purist and the novice alike.

The 'Must Try'- The Surfer