When you think about it, you probably spend more time in Glendale than you realize. The city is home to the Arizona Cardinals, hosts the Phoenix Coyotes homes games, spring training, and a good number of large concerts throughout the year. With that being said, you don't have to eat at the numerous chain restaurants that surround these popular venues. Instead, try out one of these locally owned spots in Glendale and Avondale. You might get a one-of-a-kind dining adventure or a taste of somewhere else completely.
Lucky's King Wah
If you're a truly adventurous (and trusting) diner, then you'll want to get the Chef's Choice at this south West Valley restaurant. Lucky's King Wah specializes in Cantonese cooking, but not the kind that caters to the Western palate. Owner and chef Kwok Pat makes authentic dishes such as lamb and bean curd stew or pig's stomach mixed with sour vegetables, which will all be served by this wife, Kitty. It's a no-frills restaurant, which is fine with us. We're too busy enjoying Kwok's one-of-a-kind flavors anyway.
La Piazza Al Forno
Just about every part of the Valley has its own excellent pizzeria, and when it comes to the south West Valley, that honor goes to La Piazza Al Forno. The family owned and operated restaurant in downtown Glendale comes courtesy of chef Justin Piazza and his wife Rachel. The restaurant offers authentic Neapolitan pizzas -- so authentic they've even got the stamp of approval from the Italian trade group Associazone Verace Pizza Napoletana. Choose from classics like the Bianca, made with clumps of ricotta cheese, or more interesting pies like the Dolce Diavolo, which features Calabrian chiles and honey.
Flavors of Lousiana
You wouldn't expect to find Cajun and Creole cuisine in the middle of Avondale, but thanks to Flavors of Louisiana, you can. The restaurant serves a menu of southern favorites such as fried green tomatoes, hushpuppies, and more. There's also a long list of po'boys to choose from, as well as heartier entrees including shrimp etoufee, drunkin' crawfish, red beans and rice, and jambalaya. Ok, so it's not exactly like you'd get in The Big Easy, but will definitely satisfy your need for a fix.
La Purisima Pasteleria
Just because you don't have to drive to Glendale to find a Mexican bakery doesn't mean you shouldn't. That's because La Purisima Pasteleria offers a hugely impressive array of fresh baked breads and pastries. You'll probably have a little time to take it all in as you wait in line, but know that you shouldn't skip the molasses-flavored cochinitos, pan dulce, or freshly made tortillas. The bakery also makes both red and green tamales, which you can get filled with pork, cheese, roasted red pepper, or corn. Whatever you pick up, just made sure to bring cash since that's all the bakery accepts.
Haus Murphy's
When it comes to German food, you have a few choices all over the Valley but one of the best will be Haus Murphy's, a small but charming restaurant in downtown Glendale. You'll find everything from giant Bavarian pretzels to several types of schnitzels on the menu here, all of which can and should be enjoyed with a 32-ounce dark, German beer. Other haus specialties include the sauerbraten (featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives) that includes sweet and sour marinated beef with red cabbage and schwäbische spätzle.
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