Tempe Rising
New bars and restaurants abound in the southeast Valley city
By Alison Bailin Batz
The Valley food and drink scene is on an absolute roll, especially in Tempe, which has seen a slew of high-profile debuts in recent months. Here are some of the biggest to date.
Three Thirty Three
This larger-than-life restaurant opened with a bang in late 2024. A fusion of Asian delicacies and modern steakhouse fare, Three Thirty Three – named to honor an Asian equation that brings an answer of nine, resulting in prosperity and longevity – is dark with vibrant jewel tone accents. The menu is high-end with items like caviar service; a 64-ounce, gold-grade wagyu tomahawk; roasted bone marrow; and lobster tails with yuzu butter. The space boasts indoor trees with cherry blossoms, adding to the aesthetic, as well as a live DJ most nights of the week, and the largest LED screen in a North American restaurant, which is used as a video art installation depicting moving landscapes ranging from the ocean to the woods. www.threethirtythreerestaurants.com.
Neon Spur
Designed to bring a nostalgic yet fresh experience to the area, Neon Spur – which opened in January – combines the laid-back vibe of the 1970s with a retro cowboy aesthetic to bring to life its unique take on a classic dive bar. The venue boasts an indoor space and outdoor trailer bar, complete with vintage furniture, western-inspired decor and buzzing neon signs among other distinctive elements. In addition to the casual yet lively atmosphere, guests can expect a selection of cold cans and stiff drinks. The food menu features recognizable American comfort food curated by celebrity chef Beau MacMillan. www.neonspurdive.com.
Blue Sushi Sake Grill
Also open since in January, Blue Sushi Sake Grill is the newest concept from Flagship Restaurant Group, best-known locally for Pyro and Palma. Blue Sushi is out to transform the traditional American sushi restaurant by merging responsibly sourced seafood with creative ingredients and a bold visual experience. From a backlit collage of a massive Godzilla in the lounge to a geisha mural at the host stand, the team has reimagined important symbols of Japan that embody heritage, culture and hospitality. The menu is fully transparent and includes sourcing details for every item that is served. There are an array of inventive dishes, including copious gluten-free and vegan items. The concept has gained popularity quickly, leading to a second location now open in Surprise as well. www.bluesushisakegrill.com.
North Italia
While not a new concept to Arizona, North Italia made its debut in Tempe’s bustling Novus Place in February. Now joined by Blanco Cocina + Cantina and Flower Child at Novus as well, the Tempe North celebrates its Italian heritage with a gorgeous multidimensional mural showcasing the lore of a rooster – a symbol of good fortune and good luck in the kitchen – as well as across the menu with a showstopping collection of long-time favorites and seasonal specialties ranging from pizza and lasagna to white truffle garlic bread and citrus olive oil cake with pear compote, orange cardamom curd, and mint. www.northitalia.com.
Feta Cowboy
Open since March, Feta Cowboy is the latest concept from the founders of Pita Jungle. The eatery is a fusion of the bold flavors of the Mediterranean and the Southwest, pairing such items together as shawarmas and carne asada as well as kebabs and sweet-and-spicy barbecue. The menu includes signature bowls, burritos and pitas, as well as a variety of dips and seven flavorful sauces, including spicy Zhug, north African chile paste-infused harissa, and creamy, Lebanese toom. Guests can explore vibrant ingredients, including premium rice like Calrose and basmati, legumes such as green lentils du puy and Roma beans, and proteins like brisket, birria, and gyro – all slowly braised, grilled or fresh off the rotisserie. www.fetacowboy.com.
Glenrosa at Grass Clippings Rolling Hills
Newly opened for lunch and dinner at Grass Clippings in Rolling Hills in April, this eatery’s menu was conceived by James Beard Award nominee Samantha Sanz and is led by executive chef Victor Davila, most recently of Caesars. The menu is focused on all family-style platters with rib-eye, tortillas, roasted vegetables, rice, and beans, along with tacos, salads, and salsas inspired by authentic Sonoran ingredients and techniques. Cocktails are made with scratch mixes, housemade syrups and freshly squeezed juices, with a focus on mezcal, whiskey and tequila. There is also a robust wine program and slew of local and regional beer offerings. www.glenrosarestaurant.com.
Drop Dead Gorgeous
This cocktail bar and lounge that will open this month embodies seductive, 1970s-inspired luxury with moody amber lighting, plush textures and an ambiance that captures the essence of golden hour. The cocktail program, curated by James Beard Award finalist Jax Donahue, balances classic sophistication with modern technique, elevating the lounge experience to something truly unforgettable. www.ddgbar.com.
Filthy Animal
Just steps away from Drop Dead Gorgeous, Filthy Animal – also newly opened – channels a wilder spirt with a jungle-inspired dining concept rooted in primal elegance and theatrical flair. Anchored by a dramatic open-fire kitchen, the space pulses with life, offering dishes that are unapologetically bold and flavorful. The culinary program is a celebration of fire-kissed dishes and vibrant global influences. The beverage program is equally adventurous, with flavorful libations that match the cuisine’s intensity. www.thisisfilthyanimal.com.
On The Rocks
On The Rocks is the newly expanded patio and bar at the similarly reimagined Marriott Phoenix Resort at Tempe Buttes. Awash in mountain views in every direction, the cocktail menu is a celebration of local, domestic and imported beers and wines including Four Peaks and Grand Canyon Brewing as well as an expansive list of bourbons and whiskies. The beverage menu offers elevated takes on classics and an array of margaritas. There is also a menu of burgers, premium cuts of meat and seafood, and several shareable dishes like charcuterie boards and ceviche. www.marriott.com/phxtm.