Mesa might be known for its desert landscapes, but the real adventure here is deciding where to eat. This is either because the culinary scene is surprisingly vibrant, or (more likely) because we like to reward ourselves for surviving another scorching Arizona day. If you relate more to the latter, then the best part of planning your outing is choosing the destination. These are our go-to spots for fueling up and celebrating the end of the heat.
The Stone Korean Tofu House
$$ | (480) 361-0523 | WEBSITE
The Stone Korean Tofu House stands out as a genuine find amidst Mesa’s typical dining options, and locals are thrilled to have such an authentic Korean spot in the neighborhood. We love the short ribs and seafood pancake, and absolutely go for the soondubu soup to warm up after a chilly day out in the desert.
翠园
$$ | (480) 668-7979 | WEBSITE
There are as many Korean restaurants in Mesa as there are anywhere else in the country, and Turian Restaurant is one of our favorites. This is where to head when you crave authentic Korean flavors and need a satisfying meal to indulge.
Zushi Japanese Bistro
$$ | (480) 981-2727 | WEBSITE
People love to talk about the sushi scene in Mesa, but as far as we’re concerned, the main attraction is Zushi Japanese Bistro. Because there’s really no better way to cap off your day than to eat your weight in fresh rolls once you’re done. The ‘Z’ Special is definitely the Beyonce of the crew, but the Dragon roll is the unsung hero and also worth your time.
Jack In The Box
$ | (480) 610-5302 | WEBSITE
Driving is hard, Jack In The Box is easy. It’s the kind of no-frills fast-food spot that’s hard to beat anywhere else in town. They have delicious breakfast options and tasty tacos, and pretty much everything here travels well. Grab your order on the go or devour it once you’ve hit the drive-through.
JC Wings
$ | (480) 590-8185 | WEBSITE
Your wing-loving friends are visiting, and you’re ready to prove that Mesa has some serious flavor. Take them for a quick lunch to show them that there’s more to wings than the usual chains, and head straight to JC Wings. Almost every wing on the menu is good enough to please even the pickiest eaters, but we’re partial to the garlic Parmesan and the honey hot.
They also have a solid lineup of other items, so go with a group and try to make your way through the burgers, scooped ice cream, and fresh fruit bowls.
Poke Fuzion
$ | (480) 396-1199 | WEBSITE
In Mesa, the midday heat can derail your lunch plans. Poke Fuzion is perfect if you’ve endured errands that were hotter/longer/more tedious than you expected and need a customizable poke bowl or sushi burrito to properly refuel. They also have some of the area’s best boba drinks.
Aguila’s Hidaway – The office bar and grill
$ | (480) 649-1650 | WEBSITE
You want a drink that’s strong enough to feel like you’re celebrating the end of the workday, but affordable enough that you can actually afford to stay for a few. Aguila’s Hideaway is the answer. While we normally head here for happy hour, the late-night vibe at this classic dive bar in the Gilbert/Mesa area is worth your time too. It involves everything from Washington Apple shots and cold beers to friendly chats with Nicole and the regulars.
Native Grill & Wings
$ | (480) 892-1010 | WEBSITE
After you’ve wrapped up a long day in Mesa, make the most of being in the neighborhood and get to Native Grill & Wings. It’ll hit the spot when you’re craving a casual hangout and the good wings that come with it. It’s right by a small shopping area, so your meal comes with easy parking.
Twisterz Frozen Dessert
$ | (480) 656-2247 | WEBSITE
Twisterz Frozen Dessert is a classic place to stop pre- or post-errand. Their frozen yogurt is refreshing enough to help you tackle a hot Mesa afternoon, but if you want something with a little more indulgence to it, go with the Wild Strawberry Frozen Yogurt or Coconut Milk Soft Serve. And throw in a generous topping of fresh whipped cream and candies in case you start to feel a little overheated and need something to jumpstart your sweet tooth.
Manna BBQ
$$ | (480) 733-5000 | WEBSITE
If you’re craving Korean BBQ and want to actually get your money’s worth, head to Mesa and then settle in at Manna BBQ. The wait on weekends can get pretty long, so showing up on a quiet Tuesday is a smart move. You’re obviously here for the all-you-can-eat options like gyoza and fried rice, but all of the meat cuts are pretty great too. You probably shouldn’t miss out on the Soju either. You earned it.
Jimmy and Joe’s Pizzeria Serious Slices
$ | (602) 351-5555 | WEBSITE
Sometimes after a long day you just need the most satisfying slice possible. This is where Jimmy and Joe’s Pizzeria Serious Slices comes in. Get a classic pepperoni to start, and then go big on the crust. We’re very into that divine crunch, but you’d be making a mistake if you skip asking Kaysar for recommendations.
Subway
$ | (480) 854-8948 | WEBSITE
Subway at Sossaman near Broadway in Mesa induces the kind of willful amnesia that people talk about after having a mediocre meal. You forget the saga of actually getting your sandwich (which includes waiting in line and watching the clock) and block out the ten-minute delay where you questioned your life choices, because it’s the fresh bread at the end that’s sometimes worth the trouble.
Mostly because it’s fighting the good fight for the continued preservation of decent sandwiches amidst the ever more-expensive fast-casual options of Mesa. This place also serves salads, wraps, and cookies.