Food network
By ADRIENNE FRANK
Get Out
Sept. 11, 2003

Feel like youve become a permanent fixture at your neighborhood Applebees? Perhaps its time to break out of that dining rut, as theres much more to the Valley dining scene than mozzarella sticks and onion rings.

Weve compiled the Get Out Top 100 a list of our favorite eateries from Gold Canyon to Ahwatukee Foothills, from Mexican restaurants to Middle Eastern restaurants and every cuisine in between. Out of all the East Valley restaurants we've checked out, these 100 left the best taste in our mouths.

So forget the buffalo chicken wings and get to work on the Get Out Top 100.

Price key
$ entrees average less than $8
$$ entrees average $9-$16
$$$ entrees average $17-$24
$$$$ entrees average more than $24

American

Arcadia Farms Gourmet salads and sweet baked treats are on the menu at this cute-as-a-button eatery. The patio, with linen-covered tables and a rainbow of flowers, is one of the best in the Valley. (7014 E. First Ave., Scottsdale, ) $$

Bandera In addition to a nice little wine and beer list, this downtown Scottsdale eatery offers wood-fired, spit-roasted chicken and other honey barbecue favorites. (3821 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, ) $$

Bloom Sandwiches, creative entrees and even more imaginative martinis are served up in this hip, oh-so-Scottsdale space. And save room for dessert Blooms Bars of Sin are the best meal finisher in town. (8877 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, ) $$

Café ah Pwah This wonderful restaurant deserves kudos for respecting Gilbert enough to assume its residents can recognize and appreciate fine dining. Prices put this restaurant in the upscale category but then again, so does the food. Specialties include oven-roasted hen, pork tenderloin with a Moroccan glaze and mussels. (207 N. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, ) $$

Elements The view alone is worth the cost of dinner. Have a drink on the patio, or try something from the menu, which changes to accommodate whatever fresh ingredients are available. Try the signature Asian-inspired grilled salmon or one of the amazing desserts. (5700 E. McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley, ) $$

Flancers Cafe This neighborhood favorite does everything from pizza to calzones to sandwiches. And it does them all well. The cafe, which doesnt look like anything extraordinary from the outside, packs a powerful punch inside with its warm, friendly staff and eclectic, hearty menu. Gourmet, inexpensive cuisine in downtown Gilbert who knew? (610 N. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, ) $

Golden Swan The premier restaurant at the Scottsdale Hyatt Regency, Golden Swan features contemporary American cuisine prepared by chef William Bradley, a recent candidate for the James Beard Rising Star award. The ever-evolving dinner menu features such delights as Maine lobster and candied almonds. (7500 E. Doubletree Road, Scottsdale, ) $$$$

Jillys American Grill This place has something for everyone: televisions for the sports fan, celebrity regulars for those who like to track such people and sublime comfort food for everyone who walks through the door. Buckets of shrimp and chicken pot pie are two of the must-trys. (7301 E. Butherus Drive, Scottsdale, and 825 N. 54th St., Chandler, ) $$

Keegans Grill & Taproom Move over Applebees, theres a new place to "eat good in the neighborhood." Keegans serves up halibut tacos, pork chops and everything in between, along with a friendly, casual atmosphere. (4723 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee Foothills, and 1095 W. Queen Creek Road, Chandler, ) $

Landmark Restaurant Housed in an old church, this Mesa landmark has been packing in hungry diners since 1972. Look to land homey food such as pot roast and meatloaf; also, save room for the 100-item salad room, featuring quail eggs and other exotic fixings. (809 W. Main St., Mesa, ) $$

The Melting Pot Do you fondue? You should fondue is fun again. The Melting Pots subdued lighting and booth seating make for a cozy-as-you- desire, unhurried dining experience. And as for the menu, patrons can delight in dipping everything from fruit to cheese to meat. (8320 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, and 3626 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee Foothills, ) $$

Razzleberries Nestled in historic downtown Chandler, this adorable family-owned-and-operated eatery offers milkshakes and malts, along with a variety of burgers and salads. And if that doesnt fill you up, take home fresh- baked sticky buns, brownies, cookies and pies. (98 S. San Marcos Place, Chandler, ) $

Wildflower Bread Company Salads, sandwiches, pasta and a bunch of breakfast favorites are on the menu at this colorful local chain. The Oriental chicken salad and potato soup are good, though the banana nut pancakes served with warm maple syrup are even better. (15640 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, ; 16055 N. 82nd St., Scottsdale, ; 6428 S. McClintock Drive, Tempe, ; and 3111 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler, ) $


Asian

HT Seafood Theres no such thing as a free lunch, but at HT Seafood youll find the next best thing a cheap lunch. With 12 lunch combinations, including eggplant with garlic sauce and Kung Pao chicken or beef, priced at $4.75, diners get plenty of bang for their buck, as all plates come with soup, appetizers, steamed rice, hot tea and a fortune cookie. (2922 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, ) $

Malees When it comes to Thai cuisine, this bistro has long been a Valley favorite. The menu which features spicy curry dishes and stir-fries is the real deal, guaranteed to please Thai lovers and new initiates alike. (7131 E. Main St., Scottsdale, and 21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix, ) $$

Mika The owners of Restaurant Hapa have brought an Asian flair to the East Valley with the opening of Mika (a Japanese word meaning beautiful). The casual restaurant serves Asian- American cuisine, such as chilled shiso shrimp rolls and a seared ahi tuna burger. (6166 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, ) $$

P.F. Changs China Bistro P.F. Changs has been tops in the Valley since it first opened a decade ago. Offering innovative Chinese cuisine and elegance, P.F. Changs has since taken its famous lettuce wraps national, with locations in such corners of the country as New Jersey, Wisconsin and Alabama. (740 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, ; 7014 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale, ; 7132 E. Greenway Parkway, Scottsdale, ; and 3255 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler, ) $$

sN Pacific Rim Asian Kitchen This hip noodle house has single-handedly upped Mesas cool quotient. Featuring a bold black, white and red decor, the eatery features noodle specialties from Japan, China, Vietnam, Malaysia and Singapore. (1236 E. Baseline Road, Mesa, ) $

Thaifoon Thai one on at this fun, biz- casual eatery, serving up such spicy Asian delights as glazed barbecue lamb chops and honey walnut shrimp. Wash it all down with a Key Lime or Banana Tree martini. (8777 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, ) $$


Barbecue

Joes Real BBQ Looking for inexpensive yet tasty eats? At Joes youll find plenty of smoked meats and standard sides from which to choose. Give the lemon cake a go, too moist, tart and tangy, its delicious. (301 N. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, ) $


Breakfast
Brunchies Brunch doesnt have to be limited to Sunday mornings. Brunchies, brought to you by the folks behind Serranos Mexican restaurants, serves brunch daily until 2 p.m. The tasty spread includes all the usual suspects pancakes, eggs, fruit, sausage and home fries along with a variety of soups, desserts and Mexican breakfast favorites. (17 E. Boston St., Chandler, ) $

Crackers & Co. Café From pancakes and omelets to salad and soup, this strip mall gem does em all and does em well. The extensive breakfast and lunch menu also features sinful homemade cakes and treats. (535 W. Iron Ave., Mesa, ) $

Farm House Restaurant Formerly housed in a converted farmhouse, the restaurant lost nothing when it moved up the road to downtown Gilbert. The food is still down-home basics that will fill you up and leave you with memories of Grandma. The menu features killer omelets and giant, homemade cinnamon rolls. (228 N. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, ) $

T.C. Eggingtons Brunchery Within its country French setting, breakfasters get cracking with plenty of egg dishes. A preferred omelet is the Eggington. Look for cinnamon swirl French toast and pancakes, too. (1660 S. Alma School Road, Mesa, ) $


Burgers and beer

Chuck Box The guys at this rustic lunch spot have been serving up the best mesquite-grilled burgers in the Valley for longer than we can remember. And as for sides, Chuck Box also makes great fried zucchini. (202 E. University Drive, Tempe, and 7215 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale, ) $

Four Peaks Brewery Dont expect the usual bar food suspects here. Four Peaks menu includes such impressive offerings as Thai hummus, Portabelo veggie beer bread sandwich and the salmon BLT. Oh, and the beer including the customer fave, Kilt Lifter aint half bad, either. (1340 E. Eighth St., Tempe, ) $$

Teakwoods Tavern & Grill Forget the greasy wings and the bland bruschetta. The food at this popular neighborhood watering hole shines. Offering a menu packed with such delights as meatloaf, pasta, pizza and an unbeatable selection of burgers, chicken sandwiches and Philly cheese steaks, Teakwoods is so much more than onion rings and nachos. (5965 W. Ray Road, Chandler, ; 8880 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale, ; and 151 E. Williams Field Road, Gilbert, ) $


Caribbean

Bahama Breeze If fruity spirits and spicy cuisine are your thing, head to this island-inspired eatery. Specialties include Creole-baked goat cheese, coconut prawns and a variety of kebabs. (7200 W. Ray Road, Chandler, ) and 21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix, ) $$

French

Bistro Isabelle Everything about this lovely bistro is impeccable the service, the atmosphere, the cuisine. Specialties such as French-style calamari and seafood crepes are served up with a smile by a truly talented waitstaff. (7131 W. Ray Road, Chandler, ) $$$

Citrus Cafe Why drive to Scottsdale for top-notch cuisine? Small, intimate and delightful, this modestly adorned, friendly cafe features some of the best French bistro food around. Dishes are based on what fresh ingredients the cooks found that day. (2330 N. Alma School Road, Chandler, ) $$$

Mary Elaines The sweeping nighttime vista of Scottsdale from any table is dramatic. Matched with the view is the restaurant's extraordinary French- inspired cuisine and smooth, professional service. The restaurant, located at the Phoenician, also boasts a dazzling wine list. (6000 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, ) $$$$


Fusion
Cowboy Ciao This Scottsdale eatery partners Western, Italian and Mexican flavors an ambitious undertaking indeed. Borrowing from each, bold flavors have been tamed into surprisingly likable dishes, from crab enchiladas to elk strip loin. (7133 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale, ) $$$

Furio After an afternoon of gallery hopping, nothing satisfies like a martini and a meal at this Old Town hot spot. Sexy and edgy, chef Jagger Griffins dimly lit cafe serves up such mouthwatering delights as fresh mussels and aqua clams, tender calamari, Parmesan-encrusted shrimp and braised short ribs. And dont forget dessert the cappuccino cheesecake is sinfully scrumptious. (7210 E. Second St., Scottsdale, ) $$

Michaels at the Citadel Chef and owner Michael DeMarias take on contemporary American cuisine, seasoned with Mediterranean and Asian accents, has garnered the multitalented chef first-name-recognition status. His food is fabulous. Consider any seafood main plate or go for the classic medallions of beef tenderloin au poivre. Sensational sweets, too. (8700 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale, ) $$$$

Mosaic Nestled at the foot of Pinnacle Peak, Mosaic is breathtaking inside and out. The restaurant, which boasts two scenic patios and a framed mosaic with cascading water, offers such tantalizing dishes as curry-dusted scallops, Muscovy duck breast and boar. Be prepared for a wait (reservations are strongly encouraged). But also prepare to be dazzled. (10600 E. Jomax Road, Scottsdale, ) $$$$

House of Tricks Located in a 1920s cottage, Tricks is all the things most other Mill Avenue eateries are not charming, cozy and delightfully unique. In addition to an eclectic menu featuring a fusion of French and American flavors, Tricks also boasts an inviting outdoor bar (complete with fireplace) and a shaded patio perfect for enjoying a bottle of wine. Or two. (114 E. Seventh St., Tempe, ) $$

LEcole at Scottsdale Culinary Institute School lunches never tasted so good. The training ground for SCI student chefs about to be unleashed on the dining world, LEcole offers gourmet food and impeccable service at a very friendly price. The menu changes daily and the reservation book fills up fast, especially in the fall and winter. (8100 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale, ) $$$$

Razzs Restaurant & Bar The inventive and subsequently yummy food a little Asian, a little Italian and a little Spanish created by chef and proprietor Razz Kamnitzer has received national acclaim. Yep, its that good. Dont miss Razzs flower petal and cheese ravioli in tomato broth or his decidedly delicious duck cakes. (10321 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, ) $$$$


Irish
Rúla Búla In addition to pints of Guinness and Irish coffee with a jolt of Baileys, this Mill Avenue bar and grill modeled after the Irish pubs serves up a mean shepherds pie. Other specialties at this fun, colorful hot spot include corned beef and cabbage, soda bread, lamb stew, boxty and bread pudding. (401 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, ) $$


Italian

Buca Di Beppo Though it might be tricky, try not to fill up on Bucas southern Italian specialties chicken parmigiana, garlic mashed potatoes and the best Caesar salad in the Valley. Otherwise, you wont have room for Bucas new wine cooler, a delightful mix of Midori, chardonnay and sweet and sour. (3828 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, ; 1730 S. Val Vista Drive, Mesa, ; and 7111 W. Ray Road, Chandler, ) $$$

Café Boa Hungry? Unchain yourself at Café Boa, where hearty offerings include panini, pasta and a very tasty tiramisu. (709 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, ) $$ Also, check out Boas sister location, Caffé Boa in Ahwatukee Foothills.
Kokopelli Winery While this award- winning winery doesnt offer such Italian staples as spaghetti and meatballs, the quaint eatery does offer an inventive assortment of panini sandwiches, bruschetta, soup and salads. And, of course, all taste even better with a glass of wine. (35 W. Boston St., Chandler, ) $

Marcellos Pasta Grill A favorite among the Arizona Cardinals (as evidenced by all the players photos lining the walls), this neighborhood eatery has an extensive wine and pasta selection. The eggplant parmigiana is fabulous, as is the warm focaccia bread. (1701 E. Warner Road, Tempe, ) $$

Naples Ristorante This delightful eatery dishes up some of the finest Italian cuisine in the East Valley, served up by the same great chefs since 1992. And despite Naples location near a Wal-Mart, the ambience is cozy and romantic. (888 W. Warner Road, Chandler, ) $$

Pasta Pomodoro This Bay Area chain boasts a hip, modern vibe and inventive pasta dishes at easy-to-swallow prices. The salads are tasty, too, as is the espresso-heavy tiramisu. (7040 E. Hampton Ave., Mesa, ; 16225 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, ; and 3395 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler, ) $

Sanguigni Pasta If you live in far northeast Mesa, youre probably one of the lucky locals who frequents this as-casual-as-it-gets pizza and sandwich haven. If you dont live so far out, the bad news is, its going to take a while to get there. The good news is, its worth it. Dont forget the fresh-baked Italian desserts. (6707 E. McKellips Road, Mesa, ) $$

Suroeste Grille Tucked away in an unimpressive strip mall youll find most impressive food. Chef Martin has given the place an Italian overhaul, with such specialties as shrimp parmigiana and duck ravioli highlighting the menu. (4747 E. Elliot Road, Ahwatukee Foothills, ) $$

Sugo Pastaria Wine Bar Bathed in red light and featuring an intimate twinkle- lit patio, this Italian eatery is a great place for pasta and a martini. Sugo is owned by Maurizio Cristiani and Sandi Alexander Cristiani, the same folks as nearby Grazie Pizzeria Wine Bar. (4151 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale, ) $$

Vitos Pizza & Italian Ristorante This southern Italian family eatery offers something to satisfy every appetite. From veal parmigiana to homemade lasagna, every dish is hearty and baked with love. (1947 N. Lindsay Road, Mesa, ) $$


Mexican

Chipotle Mexican Grill This quick n fun lunch spot serves up fresh and zesty burritos and tacos that are made to order. The ingredients are always fresh and the burritos massive. (Several Valley locations) $

De la Cruz The newest in the de la Cruz familys restaurant dynasty, De la Cruz brings a much-needed flavor boost to the East Valley outskirts. Like its predecessors (El Zócalo, El Sol and Mangos), this restaurant pleases with its signature green chili, molé and other Mexican taste sensations that even gringos can appreciate. (5301 S. Superstition Mountain Drive, Gold Canyon, ) $$

Dos Gringos The food here tacos, burros and the like is fine, but what makes Dos Gringos tops is the atmosphere. Its fun. Plus, its a great place for second-tier celeb sightings you know, if youre into that sort of thing. (4209 N. Craftsman Court, Scottsdale, and 216 E. University Drive, Tempe, ) $

El Zócalo The de la Cruz clan has struck gold again with this downtown Chandler hot spot. In addition to a lush, inviting patio, the restaurant also offers authentic Mexican dishes and margaritas perfect for enjoying on the aforementioned patio. (28 S. San Marcos Place, Chandler, ) $$

Guedo's Taco Shop Whats good here? Tacos, of course! (Though, for the record, the veggie burrito is fabulous.) This cramped local favorite has caught on through great word of mouth and is usually overflowing with folks who love to score good food at a good price. (71 E. Chandler Blvd., Chandler, ; 603 W. University Drive, Tempe, ; and 747 N. Val Vista Drive, Gilbert, ) $

Los Dos Molinos If you prefer your Mexican food hot and we mean fiery hot head to this longtime Valley favorite, where the margaritas are fish-bowl size and the salsa is hotter than a black car in the middle of July. (260 S. Alma School Road, Mesa, ) $$

Los Sombreros Mexican Cantina Some surprises on this compact menu include the pumpkin-seed-encrusted snapper and the verduras guisadas, tomatillo- braised mushrooms and zucchini served with crispy potato cakes. The soup and classic Mexican dishes are great as well, and the price is refreshing. (2534 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, ) $$

Mangos Mexican Cafe Just to warn you, if you happen upon Mangos anytime between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., youre sure to encounter a line. That only means, however, that the authentic Mexican fare is worth waiting for. Über-popular with downtown Mesas 9-to-5 set, Mangos satisfies with tacos, chimichangas, enchiladas and the like, and a breakfast burrito thats tasty any hour of the day. (44 W. Main St., Mesa, ) $

Rancho de Tia Rosa From the gorgeous architecture to the colorful ambience to the fabulous cuisine, we cant stop singing the praises of this east Mesa gem. Specialties include shrimp quesadillas, salmon enchiladas, chicken molé and an extensive margarita menu. In our part of the country, Mexican restaurants seem to outnumber 7-Elevens. Tia Rosa, though, outshines them all. (3129 E. McKellips Road, Mesa, ) $$

Serranos Mexican Food Restaurant Although the tacos and tamales are terrific at this family-owned-and- operated eatery, its the bean dip that really shines. We just dare you not to fill up on the stuff while youre waiting for your dinner. (141 S. Arizona Ave., Chandler, ; 1021 S. Power Road, Mesa, ; 6440 S. Rural Road, Tempe, ; 1955 W. Guadalupe Road, Mesa, ; and 1964 E. McKellips Road, Mesa, ) $$

Middle Eastern and Mediterranean
Bravo Bistro If the thought of a bistro brings to mind a comfortable neighborhood eatery dishing good food and friendly service, head to Bravo Bistro. The menu is Mediterranean; look for bruschetta, osso buco, lamb and a good assortment of pastas. (4327 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, ) $$$

Byblos Expect top-notch service and delightful (and extremely reasonably priced) Mediterranean fare at this family-owned-and-operated eatery. The homemade lemonade is sweet n sour perfection, and the hummus is top-notch. (3332 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, ) $$

Cafe Sahara A hidden gem in Gilbert, this Middle Eastern eatery dishes up authentic cuisine to awaken even the sleepiest taste buds. Give the chicken feta a try the casserole-like dish, featuring rice, crispy bread, chicken and tahini sauce, is divine. (3641 E. Baseline Road, Gilbert, ) $$

Marquesa Diners are offered an exploration of Mediterranean cuisine at the premier restaurant within the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess resort. It's posh but not pretentious. Marquesa chefs' interpretation of the cuisine is sophisticated and has earned the prestigious AAA Five-Diamond award. (7575 E. Princess Drive, Scottsdale, ) $$$$

Pita Jungle Vegetarians arent the only ones who love Pita Jungle, with its huge portions of mostly healthy fare. Usually crowded, with cool art on the walls, this is one spot that college students and post-grads can agree on. (1250 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe, and 1949 W. Ray Road, Chandler, ) $

Romeos Euro Cafe In addition to a selection of sinfully sweet creations, from dense chocolate cakes to cookies, eclairs and brownies, this colorful cafe also offers pasta, pizza, calzones and seafood dishes. And listen up, eggplant lovers: Romeos devotes an entire section of its extensive menu to eggplant specialties. (1111 S. Longmore, Mesa, ) $$

Sinbad All kebabs are not created equal. At Sinbad, a quaint Middle Eastern and Lebanese eatery buried (unfortunately) in a bland Tempe strip mall, the kebabs out-dazzle even the belly dancers who perform there every Friday night. Diners can choose from lamb, chicken and beef kebabs, all of which come with hummus, tabbouleh and rice. (5004 S. Price Road, Tempe, ) $$


New Mexican

Blue Adobe Grille Dont be deceived by looks. Sure, from the outside this cafe resembles a condemned 1970s IHOP, but inside is another story. And besides, its the food that matters, and the New Mexican cuisine dished up here is good stuff. (144 N. Country Club Drive, Mesa, ) $$
Carlsbad Tavern Need more spice than found at most East Valley New Mexican eateries? Get your carne adovada fix here; you also can fill up on fresh snapper tacos and green-chili-topped burgers. (3313 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, ) $$


Pizza

Classic Italian Pizza This strip mall find serves up wood-fired pizza at its finest. And while the gourmet pies, salads and desserts are pricey (at least compared to Pizza Hut), theyre worth every penny. The friendly service is equally impressive. (1030 E. Baseline Road, Tempe, ) $$

Fatmans Pizza & Grill This no-frills restaurant specializes in all things Chicago, from the Blackhawks memorabilia that lines the walls to the Windy City-style pies that comprise the menu. The deep-dish pizzas are sinfully good, and the thin-crust ones arent half bad, either. (1985 W. Apache Trail, Apache Junction, ) $$

Grazie Pizzeria Wine Bar Cute, charming and perfectly situated amongst Old Towns galleries, this is a great place for a glass of wine with friends or a gourmet pizza. The desserts are creative and tasty as well. (6952 E. Main St., Scottsdale, ) $$

Nellos If deep-dish Chicago-style pizza is what you crave, Nellos pizzerias are where to go. They get it right, every time. Give the spinach pie a try eating healthy never tasted so good. (4710 E. Warner Road, Ahwatukee Foothills, ; 8658 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale, ; 1806 E. Southern Ave., Tempe, ; and 2950 S. Alma School Road, Mesa, ) $$

NYPD Pizza Authentic, mouthwatering New York-style specialty pizzas and pasta dishes are on the menu at this local chain. Specialties include Broadway bruschetta, Da Works pizza, Al Capone calzone and New Yorks Finest Cookie N Cream dessert. (2580 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler, ; 9845 S. Priest Drive, Chandler, ; 8880 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale, ; and 10433 N. Scottsdale Road, Phoenix, ) $$

Oreganos Pizza Bistro Good pizza, great big bowls of tasty pasta and a gloriously simple, gooey cookie dough and ice cream dessert are what make Oreganos an always-packed crowd favorite. (523 W. University Drive, Tempe, ; 3622 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, ; 1008 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, and 130 E. Washington St., Phoenix, ) $$

Patsy Grimaldis Pizzeria This NYC import has been named the Big Apples best pizzeria for the last seven years by Zagat. And hey, thats good enough for us. In addition to pizza, patrons can nosh on calzones, salad and homemade cannoli. (4000 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, ) $$

Pestos Pizza Despite this pizzerias ho-hum strip mall location, Pestos serves up delightful gourmet pizzas, from the Tex Mex to the grilled eggplant to the crab Alfredo pie. The salads and pasta dishes are equally tasty. (1960 W. Ray Road, Chandler, ) $$


Sandwiches

Dillys Deli Any time (even July) is a good time for soup especially at Dillys. Better known for its grilled sandwiches, this popular lunch spot also serves up a mean homemade bread bowl. Our favorite soup? The cream of broccoli. (414 W. University Drive, Tempe, and 3330 S. Price Road, Tempe, ) $

Garlics Pasta and Bread Company Whether you opt for the chicken salad on focaccia bread, the honey maple ham on a baguette or one of Garlics 20 other delights, youre sure to leave this quaint sandwich shop stuffed and satisfied. And because Garlics portions are so generous, you wont have to worry about what to make for dinner, either. (7001 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, ) $

In Season Deli Nestled in a shady, quaint courtyard area most people dont even know exists, In Season is truly a hidden gem. Specials include such healthy offerings as blue corn tamales, artichoke salad and curry crab. And the homemade lemonade? It alone is worth the aggravation of finding a parking space on Mill Avenue. (414 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, ) $

Sacks Art of Sandwicherie Patrons will discover arty sandwiches and an equally colorful ambience at this longtime ASU fave. The sandwiches, named for the greats (Picasso, van Gogh and the like), are served in a sack (get it?) with a fresh-baked chocolate chip cookie. Its just like mom used to do only cooler. (35 E. Ninth St., Tempe, and 839 W. University Drive, Tempe, ) $

Sweet Cakes Sure the sandwiches including the Turkey Delight, topped with avocado are good. But Sweet Cakes homemade cookies are even better. Give the frosted sugar cookies a try; theyre the top seller. (21 W. Main St., Mesa, ) $


Seafood

Eddie Vs Edgewater Grille Who would have thought we could get such great seafood smack-dab in the middle of the desert? The service is impeccable, the restaurant is comfortable yet elegant and the food is exquisite. (20875 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, ) $$$

Rockfish Seafood Grill Whether you prefer your seafood with a side of Southwestern flair or you're more of a traditionalist, this Dallas chain has got you covered. Specialties include the Mexican shrimp martini and seafood enchiladas. (21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix, and 3095 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler, ) $$

Seafood Market Restaurant If you're trolling for aquatic fare, dock here for fish and other seafood done right. Some 20 fresh varieties are available at wallet- friendly prices. (1318 W. Southern Ave., Mesa, ) $$


Southwestern

Coyote Grill Generous portions and seafood with a zippy, Southwestern twist are on the menu at this north Scottsdale eatery, which also boasts an extensive tequila selection. Our faves include the rock shrimp spring rolls with a sweet mango sauce and roasted corn and clam chowder. (7077 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale, ) $$$

Roaring Fork The upscale cowboy cuisine of chef/proprietor Robert McGrath just might be the best in the West. Try the pork and green chili stew or wrap your mitts around the Big Ass Burger offered in the bar. (4800 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, ) $$$

Z Tejas Grill Blending American regional styles, this restaurant has remained a favorite with locals and visitors alike. The food, dubbed New American cuisine, is a combination of Tex-Mex, Southwest and Cajun/ Creole flavors. And the potent margaritas? Well, theyre sure to put you in your place. (20 W. Sixth St., Tempe, ; 7014 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale, ; 10625 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix, ; and 7221 W. Ray Road, Chandler, ) $$$


Spanish

Barcelona The servings at this Spanish sparkler are large enough for two to share but you will probably prefer to take the leftovers home so you can enjoy them again another night. Boasting an outdoor bar and dance floor, Barcelona is also popular with the party people. (900 N. 54th St., Chandler, and 15440 N. Greenway Hayden Loop, Scottsdale, ) $$$

Pepín The tapas are tops at this downtown Scottsdale favorite, nestled next to the Scottsdale Center for the Arts. In addition to live salsa music (and dancing, too!), patrons can enjoy such spicy delights as paella, Spanish crab cakes and braised rabbit. (7363 E. Scottsdale Mall, Scottsdale, ) $$$


Steakhouses

Don and Charlies American Rib and Chop House This Valley favorite is nothing short of a baseball shrine, with celebrity caricatures and magazine covers tacked to the walls and hundreds of autographed baseballs and memorabilia on display. Owner Don Carsons popular rib restaurant is generally packed with fans of his Chicago-background barbecue. The baby-back ribs, chicken and pork chops are legendary. (7501 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale, ) $$$

Drinkwater's City Hall Steakhouse Owner Mark Drinkwater, son of former Scottsdale mayor Herb Drinkwater, serves everything from prime steaks to Atlantic salmon to lamb rib chops at this family history-infused restaurant. The menu is exquisite, as is the wine selection. (6991 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale, ) $$$$

Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Not the typical stuffy steakhouse of yesterday, Flemings is a comfortable and classy spot in which to find hand- cut, skillfully cooked prime steaks and familiar sides. Even the seafood is a joy. Flemings has an extensive and impressive roster of wines, too, with more than 100 offered by the glass. (6333 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, and 905 N. 54th St., Chandler, ) $$$$

Fogo e Brasa Vegetarians best steer clear of this popular Brazilian steakhouse. Thats because Fogo e Brasa specializes in all things meat, from short ribs and pork loin to ham and chicken hearts. Diners can also indulge in lobster, shrimp, mussels, pasta and eight different delectable desserts. (4909 E. Chandler Blvd., Ahwatukee Foothills, ) $$$

Mastros Steakhouse Reminiscent of a Manhattan supper club, Mastros has a masculine but not overbearingly macho feel. The food is heavy-duty, too, from tender, sizzling steaks to lobster and fish. Diners leave satisfied and glad they indulged. (8852 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale, ) $$$$

Open Range Steakhouse This family-owned-and-operated eatery which boasts a charming, twinkle-lit patio perfect for fall dining serves up steaks, chicken and seafood, along with more than a dozen homemade sides, including the tasty twice-baked potato casserole. (6030 S. Kings Ranch Road, Gold Canyon, ). $$


Teppanyaki and sushi

Hon macHi Grill From calamari, shrimp and scallops prepared on teppanyaki tables to an extensive sushi menu, this Japanese strip mall gem is sure to delight. (3450 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler, ) $$$

Kona Grill Among the Valleys prettiest people, Kona Grill is the place to be for happy hour. And for good reason: The snazzy eaterys appetizers including Maui tacos, California rolls and calamari are half off. While youre there, also check out the sushi menu, which includes squid, sea urchin and salmon eggs. (7014 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale, and 3111 W. Chandler Blvd., Chandler, ) $$
Kyoto Serving steak, seafood tempura and sushi, this hot spot is the eatery of choice for the citys most beautiful hipsters, but dont let that deter you. The teppanyaki is a delight and the extensive sushi menu is worth slipping into that little black dress for. (7170 E. Stetson Drive, Scottsdale, ) $$

Ra Sushi Bar Restaurant From spicy tuna rolls to lobster shrimp rolls, Ra offers dozens of sushi selections. Also worth a try are the apple teriyaki salmon or the ginger cilantro ahi tuna along with a sake bomber or two, of course. (3815 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, ; 411 S. Mill Ave., Tempe, ; 7012 E. Greenway Parkway, Scottsdale, ; and 4921 E. Ray Road, Ahwatukee Foothills, ) $$

Zipangu Though its strip mall exterior is nondescript, this Amer-Asian bistro features good-tasting Japanese eats. Look for a selection of made-to-order sushi favorites, assorted noodle dishes, tempura and artful main-dish fare. (1006 E. Warner Road, Tempe, ) $$

Former dining writer Michelle Burgess contributed to this story.