Cafe Lalibela
849 W. University Drive, Tempe If you've never had Ethiopian food, get your fingers ready for a pretty fun dining experience. At Cafe Lalibela, on University Drive east of Hardy Road, diners dig into traditional Ethiopian stews with their fingers, because that's the custom. Scoop up mouthfuls of beef, lamb or veggies with spongy injera bread, and wash it all down with Ethiopian coffees, teas, wines and beers. Don't forget to bring a friend or two; it makes the whole experience that much more fun.
Casey Moore's Oyster House
850 S. Ash Ave., Tempe Those new to the Valley might question the concept of an oyster house in Tempe. But trust us, this longstanding local spot knows its way around some seafood. The oysters come raw, Rockefeller style or made into shooters. Not down to slurp up your dinner? Try the equally delicious fish and chips or fried shrimp. Other favorites include the giant and saucy wings and the French onion soup, perfect for sipping on a cool evening on the patio. The kitchen also serves a separate, entirely vegan menu. Casey Moore’s checks a lot of boxes, as it's a dive bar, a seafood restaurant and a casual student hangout all in one. Find a seat by the pond outside or in the neon-lit bar at this Tempe classic. 
The Chuckbox is a cash-only staple of Tempe.
Jacob Tyler Dunn
The Chuckbox
202 E. University Drive, Tempe The Chuckbox is older than nearly anything else in Tempe and does one thing quite well: charcoal-grilled burgers. For decades, students have been able to step off campus (but just barely) and into this rustic little cabin for an affordable burger unlike any you'll find elsewhere in the Valley. There's no flat top here, just the open flames of a mesquite charcoal grill that, when combined with the special secret spices, makes for one great lunch. Be sure to bring some hand money, as this place is cash only.
Feast on delicious Indian and Pakistani dishes at Curry Corner in Tempe.
Jackie Mercandetti
Curry Corner
1212 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe Located on Apache Boulevard a few blocks west of campus, this popular, family-owned eatery offers flavorful Indian and Pakistani food. Many of the dishes at Curry Corner are vegetarian, but the casual restaurant still delivers on meatier options like garlic goat served with tomatoes and onions, kebabs and wings. Start with a mountain of Tikka Masala Fries and then dig into a Thali. These platters come with a little of everything, allowing newcomers to try a selection of the menu. After your first visit to Curry Corner, you'll likely find yourself becoming a regular. 
Haji Baba
1513 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe Stop by Haji Baba if you’re looking for some groceries, to grab takeout or to enjoy a sit-down meal. This multi-purpose culinary destination is a Tempe staple. If you’ve got time to sit and stay awhile, start with a plate of hummus to share. The creamy, tahini-laden spread is garnished with olives, pickles and olive oil and served with fluffy pita bread. Next, dig into the classic Chicken Shawarma plate or taste the tender lamb Shish Kabab. If you’re grabbing lunch to go, enjoy these juicy options wrapped up in a pita sandwich. Stop by the market on your way out to stock up on tea, snacks and spices. 
Harlow's Cafe
1021 W. University Drive, Tempe Step back in time with this Tempe brunch spot. Have an early morning start or need to recover from a late night out? Harlow’s cozy booths and wood paneling are comforting and the kitchen’s giant plates are sure to make you feel better. Pick between four different football-sized burritos and a dozen varieties of breakfast plates with varying combinations of eggs, ham, sausages, bacon, potatoes, toast and more. No one leaves Harlow’s hungry. Make sure to check out the daily specials and peruse the cocktail menu as well. This old-school brunch spot is filled with everyone from retirees to undergrads fuelling up for the day. 
Kuka Sushi & Izakaya
1221 E. Apache Blvd. #103, Tempe Whether planning a date night or a fun dinner with friends, Kuka Sushi &Izakaya is a great option for fresh Japanese food. Located on the ground floor of the Nexa Apartments building on Apache Boulevard, the modern restaurant and bar is fun and unpretentious, while still elegant. Start things off with some flaming edamame or tempura calamari before digging into a bowl of ramen or sharing some sushi. The rolls are split into two categories, the “you already know” rolls and “crazy” rolls. The colorful options are made with fresh ingredients and are dressed up with flavorful sauces and toppings such as a pile of spicy popcorn shrimp. Kuka is not only one of the best restaurants near Arizona State University’s campus, it’s also a top sushi spot Valley-wide.
Pedal Haus Brewery
730 S. Mill Ave., #102, Tempe Pedal Haus Brewery’s original location has been a staple of dining and drinking in Tempe and the greater Valley since 2025. The bike- and dog-friendly brewpub has stretched its legs beyond that first location, serving its award-winning beers and bites at three other locations around metro Phoenix, with a fourth coming this fall. But, we’re partial to the OG, particularly for an ASU football watch party. The Tempe location got a refresh last year, providing more room to hang out and watch sports, as well as dedicated space for its regular rotation of live musicians. When we pull up to a table, we’re ordering the Brewer’s Board, a massive Bavarian pretzel paired with lots of sweet and salty toppings, including a beer brat, maple butter and beer cheese. The beers, crafted by a team helmed by expert brewer Derek “Doc” Osborne, are tasty, true-to-style renditions. A pint of Day Drinker pairs perfectly with football. 
Perfect Pear Bistro serves tasty dishes made with fresh and healthy ingredients.
Perfect Pear Bistro
Perfect Pear Bistro
603 W. University Drive, Tempe Perfect Pear Bistro has served fresh, seasonal fare at its all-day restaurants for more than a decade. The north Tempe location is often bustling with students and community members alike who drop in to sample the large selection of salads, sandwiches and pasta. Can't decide what to pick? Luckily, Perfect Pear has a combo option pairing half orders of salad, soup or pasta. These servings are still generous and we usually leave with leftovers. When the air turns crisp and signals the coming fall, the dish we crave from the bistro is its Creamy Mushroom Marsala. In the Perfect Pear’s rendition of the trattoria classic, we don’t miss the meat thanks to umami-rich mushrooms. Roasted garlic and caramelized onions add depth to the creamy marsala sauce that bathes al dente rigatoni.
Chef and co-owner Suny Santana delivers food to guests at the chef's table at Taco Chelo in Tempe.
Sara Crocker
