Mesa is an uncharted paradise, an oasis that’s peppered with some seriously impressive eateries.
The best restaurants in Mesa have been, to my palate, a symphony of flavors.
Fancy a slice of spicy Latin American culture or perhaps the nuanced intricacies of Asian fusion?
How about a comforting plate of hearty Italian goodness?
They’ve got it all, neatly tucked away in the folds of this vibrant East Valley suburb.
Hold on to your taste buds because I’m about to serve up a delectable selection of spots that have made my culinary journey through Mesa an unforgettably delicious adventure.
So dive fork-first into the tantalizing epicurean world of Mesa with my tips below.
Best Restaurants In Mesa Compared
I’ve scoured the culinary scene in Mesa, and here are my top picks for the best restaurants.
From cozy cafes to mouthwatering BBQ joints, this list has got you covered.
Editor’s Choice
T.C. Eggington’s
Welcoming guests since 1985, this foodie magnet lures guests with its hearty breakfast, brunch and lunch specialities.
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 3/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
#2nd Best Choice
Vito’s Pizza & Italian Ristorante
Known for its authentic Italian staples and Chicago-style pizza, this eatery has been serving the Valley since 1986.
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 3/5
- Atmosphere: 3/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
#3rd Best Choice
Red White And Brew
Opened in 2002, this bistro-like, casual eatery dazzles with its bold American flavors.
- Taste & Variety: 3/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 3/5
Here are the top 15 restaurants in Mesa open right now.
1. T.C. Eggington’s (Editor’s Choice)
1660 S Alma School Rd #129
Mesa, AZ 85210
(480) 345-9288
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Welcoming guests since 1985, this foodie magnet lures guests with its hearty breakfast, brunch and lunch specialities.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 3/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
Pros
- Varied menu: Whether you’re craving traditional breakfast fare or unique dishes like their signature Eggs Benedict, you’ll find something to suit your taste.
- Fresh ingredients: The restaurant prides itself on using fresh and high-quality ingredients in its dishes.
Cons
- Crowded during peak hours: It is a popular spot, especially during peak breakfast and brunch hours.
- Limited non-breakfast options: If you’re looking for a dinner spot or a place to grab lunch, you may find the selection less extensive.
Why It Made The List
Very few local restaurants are as beloved and popular as T.C. Eggington’s.
For decades, this cozy casual cafe has been a favorite, thanks to its award-winning sandwich-heavy lunches and egg-centric breakfasts.
What’s more, this joint impresses with its stellar service and friendly staff.
Popular Dishes to Try
Kick-start your day in Mesa on the right foot by indulging in the restaurant’s cottage reef omelette.
Hearty and flavorful, this one-of-a-kind omelette has cream cheese and savory crab meat dipped in a luscious hollandaise sauce.
2. Vito’s Pizza & Italian Ristorante
1947 N Lindsay Rd
Mesa, AZ 85213
(480) 832-3311
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Known for its authentic Italian staples and Chicago-style pizza, this eatery has been serving the Valley since 1986.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 3/5
- Atmosphere: 3/5
- Affordability: 4/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
Pros
- Authentic Italian cuisine: The restaurant aims to provide an authentic Italian dining experience, which appeals to those seeking classic Italian flavors.
- Cozy atmosphere: It has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with dim lighting, rustic decor, and friendly staff.
Cons
- Limited vegetarian/vegan options: The selection may not be as extensive as in restaurants that specialize in plant-based cuisine.
- Longer wait times: It can get busy during peak dining hours, resulting in longer wait times.
Why It Made The List
In the mood for heavenly Italian food, but don’t know where to eat in Mesa?
A word of advice, put this eatery at the top of your list of must-visit good restaurants in Mesa.
At this restaurant, guests may sample an array of authentic Italian food and piquant family recipes.
Popular Dishes to Try
Do yourself a favor, and get their Chicago-style thin crust pizza.
It’s filling, with its delicious sausages, luscious cheese and generous toppings.
On top of it all, it has a fantastic crust that’s crisp, thin and almost as light as air.
3. Red White And Brew
6740 E McDowell Rd #102
Mesa, AZ 85215
(480) 807-9393
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Opened in 2002, this bistro-like, casual eatery dazzles with its bold American flavors.
Ratings Criteria
- Taste & Variety: 3/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 4/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 3/5
Pros
- Extensive beer selection: Beer enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of flavors and styles available to choose from.
- American comfort food: The restaurant specializes in American comfort food, offering a range of classic dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and wings.
Cons
- Limited vegetarian/vegan options: Vegetarian or vegan patrons may find the choices limited or may need to request modifications to accommodate their dietary preferences.
- Noise level: If you prefer a quieter dining experience, it might be best to visit during off-peak hours.
Why It Made The List
Red White And Brew is truly one of the best places to eat in Mesa.
Along with its fresh, made-from-scratch entrees, this restaurant also offers beers and exquisite wines.
Moreover, it has a full bar as well as a patio with a sophisticated ambiance.
Popular Dishes to Try
For the best lunch in Mesa, sample their French onion soup.
Made of caramelized onions, this tasty soup will tickle your taste buds with its rich flavor and irresistible sweet taste.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites By Hilton Mesa Longbow, AZ
4. Crackers & Co. Cafe
535 W Iron Ave UNIT 131
Mesa, AZ 85210
(480) 898-1717
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Originally established in 1984, this renowned joint now has a trio of outposts in the East Valley region.
Why It Made The List
Crackers is ideal for those seeking the most popular restaurants to try in Mesa.
From sandwiches to pancakes and egg skillets, this cafe draws tons of patrons with its tempting all-day breakfast menu.
Plus, this casual cafe will also appease your sweet tooth with its luscious treats, like scones and bread pudding.
Popular Dishes to Try
You can’t go wrong with their breakfast burrito.
Massive and hearty, this burrito is stuffed with cheese, eggs, tomatoes and chorizo sausage.
And, it has a soft shell tortilla that’s slightly crisp and perfectly heated.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Doubletree by Hilton Phoenix Mesa
5. Blue Adobe Sante Fe Grille
144 N Country Club Dr
Mesa, AZ 85201
(480) 962-1000
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Set right in the heart of downtown Mesa, this grill offers a tantalizing fusion of Southwestern cuisine and Mexican flavors.
Why It Made The List
If you’re on the hunt for casual spots to eat Mexican food, look no further than this restaurant.
With its fresh ingredients and innovative homemade sauces, this haunt will satisfy your Mexican food cravings.
And, it’s the coolest Mexican restaurant in downtown Mesa too, featuring live acoustic music and an outdoor bar.
Popular Dishes to Try
Indulge in their carne adovada.
Served with beans, rice and a large tortilla, this fragrant and tasty dish has slow-roasted pork with a robust and pleasant chile sauce.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Place Phoenix/ Mesa
6. All Pierogi Kitchen
101-103, 1245 West Baseline Road
Mesa, AZ 85202
(480) 262-3349
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All Pierogi offers a taste of Eastern Europe with its no-preservative, made-from-scratch comfort food.
Why It Made The List
All Pierogi is a stellar pick for travelers and locals searching for unique restaurants near you.
Here, you may fill your grumbling stomach with Eastern European specialties in a cozy, casual setting alongside their market.
There’s also a selection of vodka, wine, beer and Polish sausages at this market.
Popular Dishes to Try
Go for their Surprise Me Pierogi Plate.
Made up of 12 yummy pierogies, this plate will captivate you with an array of flavors.
Each piece is scrumptious, and there’s an element of surprise on every bite.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix-Tempe University Research Park, AZ
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7. Charleston’s Restaurant
1623 S Stapley Dr
Mesa, AZ 85204
(480) 635-9500
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Situated at Stonehenge Center, this casual and upbeat hangout features a smorgasbord of classic American pub food.
Why It Made The List
Charleston’s is one of the best dinner places in Mesa.
With freshly made American classics, it’s an incredible spot to dine and relax after a busy day of sightseeing in Mesa.
And, it has a warm, inviting and cozy ambiance with televisions to entertain sports fans.
Popular Dishes to Try
A great way to end a perfect day in Mesa is to indulge in the restaurant’s prime rib.
Cooked to perfection, this piece of steak is generously proportioned, flavorful and melts in your mouth.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Delta Hotels by Marriott Phoenix Mesa
8. Over Easy
6451 E Southern Ave
Mesa, AZ 85206
(480) 832-3447
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Since 2008, this family-friendly eatery has been the go-to spot for breakfast and brunch.
Why It Made The List
Over Easy is a renowned breakfast joint that has been featured on Food Network and The Best Thing I Ever Ate.
Featuring a 1950s-diner theme, this joint boasts a belly-filling menu of modern takes on several lunch and breakfast classics.
Popular Dishes to Try
Their chicken fried steak is the best in town.
It’s crispy on the outside, yet incredibly tender inside.
And, it’s topped with a little bacon and a luscious gravy.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Gilbert – East Mesa, an IHG Hotel
9. BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse
6622 E Superstition Springs Blvd
Superstition Springs, AZ 85206
(480) 324-1675
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Located in Superstition Springs, this chain outpost combines classic club fare with fabulous house brews.
Why It Made The List
BJ’s Restaurant has been a fixture in the town’s burgeoning scene since opening its doors in 2005.
With its handcrafted beer and deep-dish pizza, this hangout is a perfect space to dine, chill and mingle with the locals.
Popular Dishes to Try
Check out their every popular parmesan-crusted chicken.
It’s a delectable and filling treat with lightly breaded chicken breasts, crusted with parmesan.
It’s also served with steamed broccoli and mashed white cheddar potatoes.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix – East Mesa in Gilbert
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10. India Oven
1315 S Gilbert Rd #5204
Mesa, AZ 85204
(480) 892-3333
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Resting at Tableland Village II, this joint brings the flavors of North India to the heart of the Valley.
Why It Made The List
Indian food connoisseurs will find their bliss at this restaurant.
With buffet options filled with intoxicating flavors and aromas, this eatery is sure to satisfy your gusto.
It also has authentic decorations that will transport you to the streets of India.
Popular Dishes to Try
Don’t pass up on the opportunity to sample their tandoori chicken.
Marinated in lemon spiced marinade and a Greek yogurt, this dish is succulently juicy with delightful smoky and earthy flavors.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Phoenix-Mesa/Chandler, an IHG Hotel
11. Casa Ramos II
1526 E Main St
Mesa, AZ 85203
(480) 398-4561
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Get your Mexican food fix by dropping by this well-known restaurant on East Main Street.
Why It Made The List
Casa Ramos is an excellent alternative to some of the best restaurants downtown.
Besides its multicolored seating and quirky interiors, this eatery will also blow your mind with its tangy guacamole and pork carnitas.
Popular Dishes to Try
Sample their irresistible pork carnitas.
Simmered for hours with lard and seasonings, this dish has tender and juicy shredded pork with mild and delicious flavors.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott Phoenix Mesa
Related: Best Things to Do in Mesa
12. Organ Stop Pizza
1149 E Southern Ave
Mesa, AZ 85204
(480) 813-5700
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Established in 1975, this award-winning restaurant is famous for its pizza, pasta and live organ.
Why It Made The List
Organ Stop Pizza isn’t just home to some of the best food in Mesa.
In fact, this airy pizzeria features live music from arguably the world’s largest Wurlitzer theater organ.
On top of it all, this joint has outstanding service and amazingly wallet-friendly rates.
Popular Dishes to Try
You’ll love their PSM pizza pepperoni sausage and mushrooms.
Not only is it tasty and perfectly cooked, but it’s also filling and rich in cheese and toppings.
As a bonus, it has a crunchy and thin crust.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Residence Inn Phoenix Mesa
13. Bobby-Q
1610 S Stapley Dr
Mesa, AZ 85204
(480) 361-7470
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Located on Stapley Drive, Bobby-Q is a steak and BBQ restaurant known for its tender meats and outstanding flavor.
Why It Made The List
Bobby-Q is a restaurant that you don’t want to miss.
You can enjoy their ribs, pulled pork, burgers, chicken, and more, all cooked with almond and mesquite wood for a mouth-watering flavor.
They also have dishes like mac and cheese, cajun shrimp, and beer fries that will make you come back for more.
Whether you dine in, take out, or order delivery, you will have a great experience at Bobby-Q.
They also offer catering for your events.
Bobby-Q is one of the top restaurants in Mesa, and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves steak and BBQ.
Popular Dishes to Try
This place serves some of the best steak and BBQ dishes in town, and you’ll love their menu.
You can’t go wrong with their smoked prime rib, which is tender and juicy, or their baby back ribs, which fall off the bone.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Staybridge Suites – Gilbert – East Mesa, an IHG Hotel
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14. Board & Batten
4012 E Palm St
Mesa, AZ 85215
(480) 641-4148
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With a wonderfully crafted menu and elegant setting, this eatery is a solid pick for fine dining in Mesa.
Why It Made The List
No list of the best rated restaurants in Mesa is complete without Board & Batten.
Specializing in New American cuisine, this upscale eatery will appease your palate with its creative spins on ribs, croissants and Italian cakes.
Even better, it has an elegant ambiance and a diverse selection of wines.
Popular Dishes to Try
Their braised short ribs taste like heaven.
It has meltingly tender chunks of meat glazed beautifully in a glossy and balanced sauce that deeply tastes of beef and wine.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Inn at Eagle Mountain
15. Sam and Luca Rustic Kitchen
1959 S Power Rd
Mesa, AZ 85206
(480) 659-6716
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Founded in 2018, this joint earns our nod of approval for its appetizing, classic Italian bites and inviting ambiance.
Why It Made The List
Although it’s relatively new, this eatery still deserves a spot on our list of the best restaurants in Mesa.
As you stop by this restaurant, you’ll be treated to divine Italian classics using simple, fresh ingredients.
And, did we mention that it’s one of the best birthday restaurants in Mesa?
There’s even a private event room where you can celebrate your big day in a spectacular way here.
Popular Dishes to Try
Their grilled shrimp risotto is to die for.
Each bite is tasty, creamy and bursts with flavors.
The shrimps are prepared well, and incredibly tender.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Four Points by Sheraton at Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport
Dining Guide
Comparing Restaurants: Which One Is Right For You?
I’ve tasted my way through these delicious Mesa spots, and they’ve each left a unique imprint.
At T.C. Eggington’s, it felt like I was in my grandma’s kitchen, the Eggs Benedict bringing back those cozy Sunday morning vibes.
Vito’s?
It was like a mini vacation to Italy with every bite of their Marinara.
Red, White, and Brew was a real game-changer, though.
Their chimichurri steak was a flavor revelation, the kind you dream about later.
Each spot has a special zing that’s worth discovering.
So, choose the one you think best suits your family’s taste and budget.
How I Picked The Restaurants
In my quest to uncover the hidden gems of Mesa’s culinary landscape, I embarked on a gastronomic odyssey like no other.
I traversed the city, indulging my senses and savoring the flavors that danced on my tongue.
But it wasn’t just about my personal experiences.
I delved deep into research, leaving no stone unturned.
I scoured local reviews, tapped into the collective wisdom of fellow travelers, and engaged in spirited conversations with locals who knew the pulse of the dining scene.
Armed with a tapestry of firsthand encounters and insightful discussions, I meticulously curated this list of the top restaurants in Mesa.
Our Restaurant Rating Method
We rate these restaurants based on the following criteria.
- Taste & Variety: We use it to evaluate the variety and food quality served at every restaurant. Does the restaurant serve tasty dishes with unique flavors? Does the restaurant’s menu cater to different dietary preferences, like vegetarian and gluten-free? We ask ourselves these questions to evaluate the taste and variety criterion.
- Service: It’s used to evaluate the quality of service provided by the restaurant’s staff. Are their servers knowledgeable about their food? Are they friendly, prompt, and courteous? These are the important questions whenever we rate the service of every restaurant.
- Atmosphere: It evaluates the overall ambiance of the restaurant. Is the restaurant comfortable and inviting? Does the restaurant’s atmosphere match the type of cuisine they serve? We consider these factors when evaluating the restaurant’s atmosphere.
- Affordability: We use this to assess the value of money provided by the restaurant. Are the food portions ideal for the price? Are the guests going to be satisfied with what they pay for? We ask ourselves these questions in order to rate the restaurant’s affordability.
- Accessibility: It measures how accessible the place is for the guests. Is the restaurant in a convenient location that is easy to get to? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have enough parking space? Is it wheelchair accessible? We use these questions to assess the accessibility of every restaurant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Vegan Or Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants In Mesa?
Yes, Mesa has several vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants to cater to plant-based diets. Some popular options include Green New American Vegetarian, The Nile Coffee Shop, and Pomegranate Café, which offer a variety of delicious vegan and vegetarian dishes.
Do Any Restaurants In Mesa Offer Gluten-Free Options?
Certainly! Mesa has numerous restaurants that provide gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions. Some notable examples include Ncounter, Zinburger, and True Food Kitchen, where you can find a range of gluten-free menu items.
Are There Any Unique Or Themed Restaurants In Mesa?
Absolutely. Mesa has some unique and themed restaurants that offer a distinctive dining experience. One such place is Organ Stop Pizza, where you can enjoy delicious pizza while being entertained by the world’s largest Wurlitzer organ. Another notable mention is The Hub Grill and Bar, which features a motorcycle-themed ambiance and a diverse menu.
Conclusion
Mesa, the uncharted culinary paradise, bursts with eateries that offer a symphony of flavors, transporting you to distinct culinary landscapes.
From Latin American zest and Asian fusion complexities to comforting Italian, Mesa’s vibrant food scene has you covered.
Comparing the culinary stars, T.C. Eggington’s is my top choice among the best restaurants in Mesa, shining bright with its unique breakfast and brunch flavors.
Although other establishments offer authentic Italian delights, hearty American comfort, or smoked BBQ wonders, it’s T.C. Eggington’s nostalgia-inducing breakfast offerings that hit home.
It’s an essential stop on this wonderful gastronomic journey.
Editor’s Choice
T.C. Eggington’s
Welcoming guests since 1985, this foodie magnet lures guests with its hearty breakfast, brunch and lunch specialities.
- Taste & Variety: 4/5
- Service: 4/5
- Atmosphere: 3/5
- Affordability: 3/5
- Accessibility: 4/5
