Republica Empanada
Kick things off with a visit to Republica Empanada and see why this vibrant Latin restaurant has scored a loyal local following. The friendly team here is dedicated to dishing up empanadas that are the real-deal, stuffed with savory fillings like slow-roasted pulled pork, mouthwatering veggies, zesty beef, and so much more. Order a dozen (or two…we won’t judge) and get ready to experience empanada perfection with every flaky, flavor-packed bite. Salsa or chimichurri for dipping is a must! Don’t forget to ask your server about their craft cocktail menu, you’ll want to pair your snacks with one of their tasty Latin-inspired libations.
Address: 218 W Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201
Phone: (480) 269-7004
Proof Bread
We all know that the key to any local foodie’s heart is an amazing bakery, and Proof Bread delivers in spades. This bright and buzzy spot is serving up some of the most mouthwatering loaves, pastries, and sweet treats you’ll find in the entire Valley. Pro tip: get there early because the goodies sell out lightning fast! Start your morning with one of their unique croissants like the roasted beet, dill and goat cheese, or go savory with the bacon cheddar jalapeño scone. But you absolutely cannot leave without snagging a freshly-baked baguette or rustic loaf to savor at home. Proof’s bread baskets are frequent stars at local restaurants’ tables, so you know it’s the real artisanal deal.
Address: 590 W 2nd St #1, Mesa, AZ 85201
Phone: (480) 398-2474
Joe’s Farm Grill
Craving a hearty all-American meal? You’ll go gaga for Joe’s Farm Grill, a beloved neighborhood spot dishing up classic eats with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Families flock here for the famous bacon cheddar hamburgers, street tacos overflowing with crave-worthy fillings, and house-made ranch dressing so addictive you’ll want to guzzle it. Even better, Joe’s serves up all this stick-to-your-ribs fare in a charming rustic-chic setting complete with garage doors that roll up to let that Arizona sunshine pour in. Trust us, one meal at this down-home gem and you’ll be a loyal regular for life.
Address: 3000 E Ray Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85296
Phone: (480) 563-4745
Myke’s Pizza
No local foodie trail would be complete without a shout-out to one of the best pizza joints in town. With multiple locations across the Valley, Myke’s Pizza has built a reputation for serving up gourmet New York-style pies on the daily. Their signature is a chewy, crispy outer crust encasing a slightly-soft and oh-so-flavorful core. While we’re suckers for their classic Margherita with house-made sauce and mozzarella, the real must-try is a slice of the chicken bacon ranch—it’s pizza perfected. Friendly tip: the new downtown Mesa location has a spacious back patio perfect for big groups. It also happens to be walking distance from several local craft breweries, if you’re thirsty for a cold pint alongside your ‘za!
Address: 122 W Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201
Phone: (480) 892-6611
Mangos Mexican Cafe
You can’t come to the Southwest without sampling the Mexican food, and Mangos is hands-down one of the top spots to get your fix in Mesa. This isn’t your typical Tex-Mex fare—Mangos highlights authentic regional specialties from across Mexico that you’d be hard-pressed to find elsewhere in the Valley. Craving Yucatan flavors? Go for the cochinita pibil, citrus-marinated pulled pork smothered in a bright habanero sauce. Or let your tastebuds travel to Oaxaca with a hearty tlayuda topped with chorizo, beans, avocado, and quesillo. Don’t sleep on the masa stuffed with ooey-gooey Oaxacan cheese either. One bite and you’ll be dreaming of Mexico!
Address: 3409 S Lindsay Rd Ste 102, Gilbert, AZ 85297
Phone: (480) 240-7804
Joyride Taco House
If you’re looking for a more raucous, lively dining experience, put Joyride Taco House at the top of your list. This local hot spot is slinging up funky, Baja-inspired tacos alongside boozy margaritas, drawing lively crowds of locals nightly. While all the tacos are solid, the fan favorites are definitely the crispy fried avocado tacos and the wood-grilled carne asada skewers with bacon-battered fries. We’re getting full just thinking about it! When you need a break from all that meaty goodness, order a round of frosty prickly pear margs to cool down. Pair your meal with some tunes from local musicians performing live on Joyride’s patio and you’ve got all the ingredients for a quintessential evening in Mesa.
Address: 310 S Mill Ave #A119, Tempe, AZ 85281
Phone: (480) 477-8346
EVO
For a swanky night out on the town, book a table at evoDon’t let EVO’s modern, sleek setting fool you—the real star here is the impeccable Italian fare crafted by Chef Pauline Martinez. You could make an entire meal out of the antipasti like the house-pulled mozzarella with prosciutto or luscious beef carpaccio, but you’d be missing out on EVO’s incredible handmade pastas. We’re talking pillowy agnolotti del plin, rustic pappardelle with wild mushrooms, and a to-die-for squid ink tonnarelli with lobster cream. Whatever you do, don’t skip dessert—their olive oil cake is legendary. Looking to level up date night? Ask your server about their phenomenal wine list too.
Address: 310 S Mill Ave #A107, Tempe, AZ 85281
Phone: (480) 968-5237
Hash Kitchen
Brunch is a way of life in Arizona, and no local brunch game is complete without a visit to Hash Kitchen. This buzzy breakfast haven whips up creative twists on morning staples, but never skimps on flavor. You’ll want to start with the sweet and savory hash hash browns, loaded with peppers, onions, olives, mushrooms, and even mozzarella for good measure. Then come the hard choices: maybe the Maine lobster truffle hash with poached eggs? Or the bacon brie breadpudding? What about the house-smoked salmon with lemon mascarpone? Ditch the menus and just order one of each—you’ll be glad you did. Obviously you’ll need to chase it all with a boozy morning cocktail (or three).
Address: 8849 E Vista Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Phone: (480) 947-3214
Reserve Your Private Shuttle to Mesa’s Best Eateries
After reading through all those mouth-watering descriptions, you’re probably already plotting your gluttonous tasting trail around Mesa. Rather than stressing over navigating unfamiliar streets and tracking down parking spots at each eatery, let the professionals handle transportation while you focus on treating your taste buds. Here at Mesa Party Bus Company, we specialize in helping locals and visitors alike explore Arizona’s top foodie destinations in complete comfort and style. Just picture it: hopping into a plush, spacious charter bus rental and being whisked directly to your group’s first restaurant. No squabbling over directions or fighting for parking spots, just reclining back with an ice-cold beverage. In between meals, take breaks aboard your private shuttle to relax, catch up on emails using the WiFi, or just digest that last “I can’t eat another bite” course! We’ll make sure your entire epicurean excursion around Mesa is smooth, stress-free, and deliciously satisfying. Ready to start checking off each must-visit stop on your Mesa foodie bucket list? Call our team today at (602) 338-9088 to book your very own private dining shuttle. Just bring your appetite—we’ll take care of the rest.