A Taste of the Caribbean, 4.5 stars

Paula Smith and her mother Cecily Fontanelle offer an authentic taste of the Caribbean at their simply furnished but cheery restaurant , where jerk, oxtail, curried goat and roti are available every day.

Mr. Chao’s Asia Bistro, 4.5 stars

Andy Tran, founder of China Chili, owns this small, stylish operation, offering quality meat and seafood in such memorable preparations as honey-pecan prawns, sesame chicken and Mongolian beef.

Forefathers Gourmet Cheesesteaks & Fries, 3.5 stars

While they don't live up to cheesesteaks from Philadelphia, Forefathers' cheesesteaks are surely the best in the Valley. This simple, inexpensive Tempe spot gets the job done.

D’Vine Bistro & Wine Bar, 3.5 stars

Cluttered and cozy, this east Mesa wine bar offers a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list, awesome wine flights, affordable snacks and a full menu. Live entertainment draws a local, fun-loving crowd.

Siracha Lounge, 3.5 stars

Housed in an historic Chandler building, Pan Asian restaurant and sushi bar Siracha Lounge is slick but comfortable, drawing a diverse crowd for its imaginative sushi rolls and affordable pad Thai, bulgogi, pho and orange chicken.

China Magic Noodle House, 4 stars

Hand-pulled noodles are the star of the show at this simply furnished Chinese noodle house, which offers five different types of noodles prepared in various delicious ways.

Wholly Grill, 3 stars

Wholly Grill is the first fast-casual in a soon-to-be-expanding food court in Mekong Plaza, and while the digs aren't much and the service is slow, the Filipino-style grilled meats and side dishes are top-notch.

Classic Italian Pizza, 3.5 stars

Tucked away in the far corner of a drowsy strip mall, the romantic Classic Italian Pizza is beloved for its thin-crust, wood-fired pizzas.

The Coffee Shop, 3.5 stars

Situated just a scone's throw from Joe's Farm Grill in Agritopia, this clean-lined, upscale coffee shop specializes in coffee drinks and baked goods, but it also offers fresh, appealing breakfasts and semi-fancy, generously portioned sandwiches.

Chino Bandido, 3 stars

Quirky is the best word for Chino Bandido, a supercasual, family-friendly restaurant specializing in Chinese-Mexican fusion. The only limitation is your own imagination.

Next Page »