There used to be a divide between those who knew Glendale’s hidden gems and those stuck in chain-restaurant purgatory. But now a kind of passive equilibrium has been reached by everyone. In other words, no one can be arsed to venture beyond their usual three spots anymore. This makes it hard when you’re craving something that isn’t predictable or available on every corner, but you absolutely do not want to lift more than two fingers scrolling through endless options. Enter these 19 spots.
Papa Murphy’s | Take ‘N’ Bake Pizza
$ | (623) 825-0048 | WEBSITE
If you aren’t the type to fuss with dough and toppings, or worry about perfecting that crust, then let Papa Murphy’s make things a little more straightforward. They’re offering pizza creation, gluten-free options, stuffed crust favorites, and more – all ready to be baked up and served.
Rosy Taco Shop
$ | (623) 696-2669 | WEBSITE
Taco specialists Rosy Taco Shop are serving up carne asada, quesabirria, and al pastor tacos all over Glendale. You can choose between the classic carne asada or the standout al pastor with pineapple, or a mixture of both. There are also some typically satisfying senora dogs as well. The family-owned spot delivers consistently tasty, flavorful food worth the trip, with excellent service from the nice owner and staff.
Enjoy it outside with calm lighting and lively music that makes it feel like a party with your family.
Yard House
$$ | (623) 872-3900 | WEBSITE
We once described this Westgate mainstay as “consistently great”, and now they are serving up some incredible-tasting happy hour specials. Each visit highlights a specific vibe in the restaurant, available for both late-night crowds and family gatherings. Currently, there’s a lively atmosphere with friendly bartenders, or a welcoming vibe reminiscent of favorite spots back home. Enjoy here for dining across Glendale.
El Charrito Authentic Mexican Cuisine
$ | (623) 847-4139 | WEBSITE
The closest you’ve ever come to ‘authentic Mexican cooking’ is that time you microwaved a frozen burrito after a late night. Luckily, the food at El Charrito tastes pretty foolproof. As well as their hearty homemade menudo and standout nopales, they’re also serving generous carne asada burritos and flautas. Plus, there’s strong margaritas and tasty fajitas too.
Sonic Drive-In
$ | (623) 334-3800 | WEBSITE
The Glendale-based drive-in is offering all manner of quick and convenient deals through their app, from Jr. double cheeseburger specials, to diet cherry coke promotions, to a whole load of fresh and hot French fries for you to enjoy on the go. Check out all the options on their mobile application.
Robert Emmets Food & Spirits
$ | (623) 435-1770 | WEBSITE
Robert Emmets Food & Spirits is a bar that doesn’t hold back on good times, nor affordable eats, and now you can enjoy both in a single laid-back evening. The Glendale spot is serving up crowd-pleasing specials like the $9.99 steak sandwich, alongside great service and a nice crowd. Whether you’re there for lunch or a night of music and drinks, it’s a chill spot worth checking out, especially on Fridays with good DJs. Order a drink, grab a seat, and soak in the fun atmosphere owned by Bobby.
Homage Coffee House
$ | (602) 510-3036 | WEBSITE
A cozy coffee break is guaranteed if you visit Homage Coffee House in Glendale. For around $15, you can enjoy their exceptional Elderberry Hibiscus tea and a must-try pastry, perfect for a relaxing afternoon. The peaceful, modern atmosphere with its calming vibe and small patio area makes it an ideal spot for reading or studying. The owner and staff are always friendly and welcoming, with service that’s consistently on point.
Whether you’re sipping their signature Stroopwafel Latte or enjoying a delicious Riser drink, this gem truly exceeds expectations and is sure to become your go-to spot.
The Honey Baked Ham Company
$$ | (623) 245-0000 | WEBSITE
The Honey Baked Ham Company is a consistently reliable spot when you need a holiday meal that feels like a warm embrace from family. Thankfully they’ve got plenty of pre-made, frozen sides available for when you need this convenience at home. Every order comes with their signature ham or sliced turkey breast, depending on your preference, plus popular sides like the apples, and the rest. The food quality remains excellent year after year, and regulars know exactly what to expect.
During the winter months, the staff is particularly helpful, making the whole experience smooth and enjoyable. For those who discover their lunch options, the sandwiches are praised for their flavor, and the split pea soup made with their ham bone is a definite hit. While there might be waits during busy holiday times, many find the flavorful food and variety completely worth it.
It’s a solid choice for anyone needing assistance during the holidays, ensuring good food and family togetherness without the extensive preparation.
Ray’s Pizza
$ | (602) 938-4065 | WEBSITE
We once described Ray’s Pizza’s New York style pie as ‘Glendale’s most satisfying formation of dough and toppings’. And although the consistency may not be as perfect if it’s being made by you – a distracted home cook who tears mozzarella from the bag – how can crispy wings with plenty of sauce, a family-favorite garden pizza, and those so-good calzones taste anything other than seriously worth a try? Get your pizza experience here.
Little Caesars Pizza
$ | (602) 978-0446 | WEBSITE
How do piping hot pizza, perfectly crispy crust, and the knowledge that you could grab Little Caesars’ stuffed crust at any time sound? Pretty great, right. This Glendale spot is serving up thin crust pizza, breadsticks, and a limited edition marinara sauce. Hurry, they’re only making a limited amount to order in person.
KiKu Revolving Sushi
$ | (623) 825-1135 | WEBSITE
Sushi lovers looking for a quick, fun fix, KiKu Revolving Sushi is serving up fresh rolls on a conveyor belt that just keeps spinning. Grab plates at reasonable prices—every plate costs the same all day. The variety includes many with crab salad, plus ramen, full rolls, and sashimi available if you ask. The staff is awesome, always fast and friendly, and drinks get refilled quickly even when busy.
It’s cheaper and faster than a typical sushi spot, with K-pop videos and Dragonball playing on the TVs for a lively vibe. Perfect for when you’re in a hurry or just hungry.
Rubio’s Coastal Grill
$ | (623) 376-9868 | WEBSITE
Rubio’s Coastal Grill is serving up coastal classics, but you’re here for the Fish Tacos and the Especial Impossible Burrito that will make anyone want to dance. They’ve got the best vegetarian options around, with a friendly and consistent staff that provides exceptional service. They’ll even bring your food outside if you prefer, creating a wonderful experience with patient and kind employees.
While some might find the guacamole or Mahi Mahi not quite extraordinary, the overall cleanliness and prompt service make it a solid choice for group outings. The well-prepared food and lovely atmosphere keep customers coming back, with many noting how considerate the workers are even when you arrive close to closing time.
Jo Jo’s Pizza & Family Restaurant
$ | (623) 516-7770 | WEBSITE
Take the meaning of family dinner to an entirely different level with one of Jo Jo’s lunch specials. The welcoming corner spot is doing standout pizza that includes a unique and delicious crust, fresh wings, and hearty sandwiches. Or the regular menu has things like spaghetti with vegetarian options, fresh salad, and cheesecake for dessert.
The prompt service and friendly staff create a pleasant atmosphere where you won’t leave hungry, and the solid prices make it ideal for families or individuals. Many customers return for their favorite dishes, knowing Jo Jo’s gives back to the local community too.
Potato Corner
$ | (602) 679-0914 | WEBSITE
Not in the mood to cook up some fries? No worries, because you can get Glendale’s best fries straight to your door instead. Potato Corner has joined the delivery scene so that you can enjoy fresh, hot, and crispy fries with chili cheese, a layer of chili, cheese, and a second helping of each. There are a few flavor options, including classic salted, this way.
Luna Pizza
$ | (623) 934-2122 | WEBSITE
Anyone who has tried to recreate authentic Italian pizza at home with store-bought dough and pre-shredded cheese knows it never quite hits the mark. Leave the hot, cheesy pies to the professionals and head to Luna Pizza for their generous, family-style portions that guarantee satisfaction. Their crispy wings and classic pizzas deliver that authentic flavor you crave, all served in a spotlessly clean, welcoming atmosphere.
While the wing sauce and ranch dressing could use a little tweak, and the garlic knots might not be dripping with butter, the overall experience—with friendly service and delicious, satisfying food—makes this family-owned spot a must-visit for a truly great meal.
HARU sushi
$$ | (623) 217-2720 | WEBSITE
You were hungry. You were craving. You were checking the clock every five minutes. No, we’re not talking about waiting for a concert to start, we’re talking about what it was like anticipating Monday’s Happy Hour at HARU sushi. No need to be so patient now to secure a seat at their small bar and maybe (definitely) order some of their fresh sashimi tuna and perhaps one of their discounted drinks too during their weekly special.
Dosa Place – Phoenix, AZ
$ | (602) 612-2383 | WEBSITE
You might have never tried a kizhi porotta before this sentence. But you’re definitely going to want to experience it after it, because the kizhi porotta at this Kerala South Indian spot is exceptional. And they’re serving authentic dishes in Phoenix. The menu features unique items like fish nirvana, along with must-try classics like ediyappam with Malabar chicken curry and porotta with beef. There’s a popular biriyani available on certain days as well.
The food arrives expertly prepared with rich, bold flavors that make a lasting impression. The staff is friendly and attentive throughout the meal, though getting specific recommendations can sometimes be a challenge. While the atmosphere stays warm and quiet, the delicious food and solid service more than compensate. You’ll likely return to explore more of their flavorful, spicy curries.
Thai Basil Signature Downtown Phoenix
$ | (602) 759-8737 | WEBSITE
A go-to for pad Thai in Phoenix, you can now get Thai Basil Signature’s standout shrimp pad Thai to enjoy downtown. The dish is the highlight of the menu (with both green curry and drunken noodles also praised) and comes with rice noodles, bean sprouts, peanuts, all in their flavorful tamarind-based sauce. The location is conveniently near theaters and Chase Field, making it a great spot before or after entertainment.
While the food delivers remarkable flavors like the tom yum soup and mango sticky rice, the service can be slow and inconsistent, with long waits for orders, food, and checks. Despite some delays, the tasty dishes keep customers coming back for more, especially gluten-free diners who find it accommodating.
Koibito Poke – Stetson Hills
$ | (480) 418-7591 | WEBSITE
Correct us if we’re wrong, but we think the odds of you making fresh poke bowls with precisely measured proteins and custom sauces at home, are reasonably low. You can order both to go or for delivery from Koibito Poke though, alongside generous portions with brown rice or mixed greens as well. Order for pickup or delivery, seven days a week.