The 10 Best Places to Eat (and Drink) in the East Valley
Where: Mesa, Tempe, Gilbert, Chandler, Ahwahtukee, Queen Creek, the sliver of Phoenix sandwiched between the 10, the 143, and Sky Harbor
The East Valley, consisting of Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, and Gilbert, is a practically a metro area in itself with nearly a million residents and seemingly never-ending growth. But until recently, it’s been a bit of a dead spot for memorable food, consisting mostly of national chains and third (or fourth) valley locations. Things are improving rapidly though, with East Valley spots getting national attention from the James Beard Foundation, the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation and more and more good places opening up in and around the downtown cores. The area may never have the density, high-end wealth, or tourist draw needed to become a true national dining destination, but it’s definitely becoming one of the most sought after places to live.
