We’ve gathered the very best spots to chow down in Mesa, Arizona. You can see our methodology here.

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1. Backyard Taco

Try the: Al Pastor Taco

“There’s something different about home cooking. You can taste the love.

Hailing from magical Mazatlan, Mexico, Ruben and Marisela have been sharing their love of good food and their culture since 2005, with family and friends. Word spread and more and more people came as the legend of their tasty tacos grew. Soon people started following them to stranger’s backyards just to get some of the delicious food off the grill. With one… small… problem. Their backyard just wasn’t big enough. Soon, there was a line to their backyard a mile long. Mesmerized by the mesquite-infused aromas of Tacos al Carbon, people wanted more.”

2. Bobby Q

Try the: Smoked Baby Back Ribs Platter

Also honored in: 2021 Best Restaurants in Phoenix

“Bobby Q offers a culmination of barbeque favorites. Along with extensive barbecue research mixed with culinary expertise, the secret behind Bobby Q’s barbeque lies within the slow cooking process over Tennessee hickory wood paired with the perfect blend of spices found in the special dry rub for the meat, as executed by barbeque master, Executive Chef Mark Hittle. This results in succulent hand-pulled pork, smoky sausage links, fork-tender brisket, and ribs that fall right off the bone. Bobby Q is sure to offer barbecue fare unlike any other. The starters will whet your appetite and the desserts will satiate your sweet-tooth cravings, but the barbecue is the show-stopper. Three different ribs are offered (St. Louis, Texas, and baby back) as well as chicken, salmon, burgers, and hand-cut steaks. Nestled in a charmingly-rustic setting, Bobby Q’s building features reclaimed woodwork with exposed brick walls, antique gas lamps, and 10-foot vintage French doors. Come visit us soon!”

3. Angry Crab Shack

Try the: King Crab

“Former NFL player Ron Lou spent four years in the league with the Houston Oilers than the Philadelphia Eagles. During the next 35 years, he created five different restaurant concepts, including a breakfast concept, a sports bar, and three different Chinese restaurants. Ready for another success, Lou set out to create something unique – not just another wing, burger, or pizza place.

Combining bold flavors in Asian food with his knowledge of seafood, Lou launched Angry Crab Shack in 2013 in Mesa, AZ. A family-friendly neighborhood restaurant, Angry Crab Shack offers a vibrant, memorable dining environment and high-quality seafood at a more affordable price.”

4. Green Corner Restaurant

Try the: Baklava

“Mediterranean food in Mesa cooked by a Professional Chef who has more than 10 years of experience in the field cooking in passion, love and health.

In the perfect, most beautiful setting, can exist only the most amazing restaurant. What started out as a personal desire for quality Mediterranean restaurant food options, has turned into a thriving family-owned restaurant. We take great pride in offering only the freshest organic foods and maintaining five-star quality ratings.”

5. Worth Takeaway

Try the: Crispy Chicken Sandwich

“We want to be the Cheers of sandwiches…

When we decided to open a sandwich shop it wasn’t about craft sandwiches and clean decor, it was about community. This meant providing food and services that gave back in as many ways as possible. This is why we found local partners, high quality products and set reasonable prices to make sure that you feel it’s WORTH your time to visit us. You can eat anywhere, your money and time are valuable and we respect that. You may not have known that you needed a neighborhood ‘spot’ but now you’ve got one. We are excited to meet you.”

6. Republica Empanada

Try the: Empanada Platter

“Arizona’s largest selection of South American-style savory empanadas. Our empanadas, as well as our dishes, represent the different regions and tastes of Latin American comfort food.

Republica Empanada is located in the Southside Heights Neighborhood of downtown Mesa on the NE corner of 1st Avenue & Hibbert. The mid-century architecture is a unique contrast to the brick row showcased along Main Street.”

7. The Original Blue Adobe Grille

Try the: Enchiladas

“Located just blocks away from the Mesa Arts Center, Hohokam Stadium, The Museum, and all Downtown Mesa has to offer. Don’t let the exterior of the A-frame building fool you. Once inside it is quite simply one of those “unexpected gems” you hope to find in your travels.

The loyal patrons and staff are responsible for the Blue Adobe’s long standing success and popularity. They are an welcoming bunch who enjoy the camaraderie found only at the “Original Blue Adobe”. As one of our customers was overheard saying, “the sophisticated traveler will always recommend the “Blue Adobe Grille”.”

8. Steak And Stone

Try the: Garlic Mashed Potatoes

“The best steakhouse near you is Steak and Stone Steakhouse and BBQ. Featuring artisan cuts of meat served on a 500 degree cooking stone and soulful savory BBQ.

We offer banquet event dinning as well as off site catering. Check out our full dinner menu or our full lunch menu and be sure to like our interactive Facebook fan page.”

9. Crackers & Co. Cafe

Try the: California Eggs Benedict

“Crackers & Co. Café has been a popular destination spot for people from all corners of the valley since 1984. The concept was founded on the European owner’s heritage and principle of “from scratch cooking”. Today, with three locations in the Valley, this principle still remains unchanged. We take great pride in maintaining the high standards that make our food so outstanding and which have won much local acclaim, from both our clientele, food critics and local media alike.

The service is personable and friendly, complimenting the warm, rural Tuscan ambiance found inside. This perfect combination of outstanding food and ambiance makes it a favorite for all ages . . . Crackers is for anyone who truly appreciates good food.”

10. Red White & Brew

Try the: Sirloin Steak and Coconut Shrimp Combo

“Don’t let the name fool you, Red, White & Brew is a true restaurant that was designed from the ground up to offer the community a place to eat, drink and relax. The Brew prides itself on providing an exceptional dining experience that is fun and family friendly, creating a place guests can call home.”