Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Tempe

In-the-know locals frequent this unassuming little wine bar in the Phoenix's Arcadia neighborhood (there are two others as well, one in Gilbert and the other in Central Phoenix). In a city buzzing with strip mall cuisine, Postino is hidden in a residential neighborhood, where the kitchen serves wonderful helpings of the Italian countryside, the Napa Valley, the South of France, and the Mediterranean coast. The wine selection rotates every few months, but Californian and Italian labels are the most common, with a few French wines and a handful of Argentinian ones added for good measure. Beer lovers can also appreciate the superb selection, including the stellar Hazy Little Thing IPA on draft or a rotating selection of craft beers.

Occupying a historic 1929 building in popular Heritage Square, Pizzeria Bianco is one of the many establishments opened by celebrated chef Chris Bianco. As its name implies, the restaurant's focus is pizza, with pies made from handcrafted mozzarella and topped with the finest produce from local sources. The restaurant has the classic Margherita or the slightly adventurous Rosa, made with onion, parmigiano, rosemary and AZ pistachios. The best time to visit is lunch because dinner service is usually crowded. The pizza at Pizzeria Bianco is outstanding, particularly if you can discern the aroma of fresh ingredients sourced locally, the smoky, woody flavor imparted by wood-fired ovens and the iridescence of the olive oil on the oven-fresh pizza. Rationalizing cost by writing off the intrinsic and ambient specialties of the pizza would not do justice to the chef’s nature, Italy, which is where each variation has a backstory.

With a mission to provide comfort and nourishment to all, Café Monarch does not have an a la carte menu like many other restaurants. Guests can select their courses as per preferences and allergies, and these will be prepared fresh by the experienced chef. Known for its inviting ambiance, their patio area is a favorite among patrons. Mostly focusing on American soul food, this is one place where taste meets quality. The elegant ambiance makes it an ideal place to celebrate special occasions with your loved ones.

With a contemporary setting and opulent interiors, the Talavera is a classy dining venue. An upscale restaurant within the Four Seasons Resort, the location allows stunning views of the Pinnacle Peak. A fireplace at the center of the room, with a glass frame, immediately catches attention and you cannot help but notice the painted ceilings. Chef Mel Mecinas does a splendid job with his take on traditional steak and seafood offerings. The restaurant is big on local, farm-fresh ingredients and offers a weekly tasting menu for seasonal specialties.

Ukiyo-e inspired paintings, dim lights, candlelights, Japanese decorative elements and wooden fixtures set the tone of this teppanyaki and sushi establishment. Osaka Japanese Steakhouse is one of the best in town to experience the teppanyaki style of cooking where the chef grills food in an iron griddle. Catch the chefs in action at your table where you will be entertained by their culinary flair and tasty delights. Start off with a Garlic Edamame, Dragon Scales or Pepper Ahi Tuna. Sushi lovers can indulge in their specialties such as Fat Boy, Rockstar, Pokemon, American Dream, Golden Spider and Pink Lady. Meat, seafood and vegetarian variants are offered in their teppan dishes. Round off with desserts like Tempura Ice Cream, Mochi Ice Cream and Key Lime Pie. Tipple on happy hours over a choice drink and tasty bar bites.

If a big cut of meat and a trendy atmosphere are what you're looking for, head right over to Steak 44. The chic, black and white decor with cushy leather padded chairs sets the tone for what is sure to be a fabulous evening. As the name implies, steak is the most popular item at this restaurant, but even that has several options, including filet mignon, NY strip, ribeye, and all the classic cuts. But in addition to the steaks, the excellent menu also includes steakhouse favorites like veal chops, rack of lamb, and a delectable selection of sides. There is also an impressive wine selection that you might notice on display in cases throughout the restaurant.