Phoenix's culinary scene is booming, and a significant part of that boom is the rise of gastropubs. These aren't your average pubs; they elevate the pub experience with creative, high-quality food, often featuring locally sourced ingredients and innovative takes on classic dishes. This guide explores fourteen of the best gastropubs Phoenix has to offer, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Whether you're craving gourmet burgers, craft beers, or sophisticated pub fare, you'll find something to love on this list.
Finding Your Perfect Phoenix Gastropub: A Quick Overview
Before diving into the specifics, let's consider what makes a gastropub great and how to choose one that's right for you. Key factors include:
- Food Quality: Look for gastropubs using fresh, high-quality ingredients and showcasing culinary skill beyond basic pub fare.
- Beer Selection: A wide variety of craft beers on tap, including local brews, is a hallmark of a good gastropub.
- Ambiance: Consider the atmosphere – do you prefer a lively, bustling pub or a more intimate, relaxed setting?
- Location and Convenience: Choose a gastropub conveniently located for you, whether it's close to home, work, or your planned activities.
- Price Point: Gastropubs range in price, so consider your budget when making your selection.
Top 14 Phoenix Gastropubs: A Deep Dive
This list showcases a variety of options to satisfy diverse palates and preferences. Each entry includes a brief description, highlighting unique features and making it easier to choose your next gastropub adventure.
1. The Churchill: Upscale Gastropub Experience
The Churchill offers a sophisticated ambiance with an extensive menu of refined pub fare. Their focus on quality ingredients shines through in dishes like their pan-seared scallops and braised short ribs. The wine list is equally impressive, complementing the elevated pub food perfectly.
- Highlight: Impeccable service and a refined atmosphere.
2. Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour: Craft Cocktails and Elevated Pub Grub
While primarily known for its expertly crafted cocktails, Bitter & Twisted also boasts a surprisingly delicious menu of gastropub classics with a modern twist. Their burger is legendary, and their creative small plates are perfect for sharing.
- Highlight: Unparalleled cocktail program.
3. Pizzeria Bianco: More Than Just Pizza (But the Pizza is Amazing!)
While technically a pizzeria, Pizzeria Bianco transcends the typical pizza joint. Their incredible pizza is complemented by a thoughtfully curated wine list and a selection of high-quality appetizers and salads, making it a fantastic gastropub experience.
- Highlight: World-renowned pizza.
4. Postino Annex: Wine, Cheese, and More
Postino Annex offers a relaxed atmosphere with a fantastic selection of wines, cheeses, and charcuterie boards. This makes it perfect for a casual gathering or a romantic date night. Their bruschetta is a must-try!
- Highlight: Extensive wine selection and charming atmosphere.
5. Four Peaks Brewing Company: Brewery and Gastropub Combined
Four Peaks is a local favorite, combining a brewery with a gastropub. Enjoy fresh, locally brewed beers alongside hearty pub fare. Their seasonal offerings keep things interesting.
- Highlight: Fresh, locally brewed beer paired with delicious pub food.
6. Matt's Big Breakfast: Hearty Gastropub Fare, All Day
Matt's Big Breakfast is a beloved Phoenix institution, offering a delicious menu of breakfast items alongside more traditional gastropub dishes, making it a great choice any time of day.
- Highlight: Delicious breakfast-style items and all-day availability.
7. Valley Bar: Live Music and Gastropub Delights
Valley Bar is a unique Phoenix gastropub, seamlessly combining live music with a vibrant gastropub menu. This creates an energetic and lively atmosphere perfect for a night out.
- Highlight: Live music and a lively atmosphere.
8. Cobra Arcade Bar: Retro Gaming and Gastropub Food
Cobra Arcade Bar offers a unique twist on the gastropub experience, combining classic arcade games with a fun, casual atmosphere and delicious gastropub fare. It's a great option for a fun night out with friends.
- Highlight: Retro arcade games and a fun, energetic atmosphere.
9. Culinary Dropout: Gastropub with a Modern Twist
Culinary Dropout delivers a modern take on the classic gastropub. Their menu is creative and interesting, showcasing a commitment to fresh, quality ingredients. Their burger options are particularly impressive.
- Highlight: Modern gastropub fare with a creative flair.
10. Greenway Bakery & Cafe: Gastropub with a Focus on Fresh Ingredients
Greenway Bakery & Cafe is another Phoenix institution, well-known for its fresh ingredients and delicious menu items. Their focus on quality extends to their gastropub offerings, creating a refined and satisfying dining experience.
- Highlight: Commitment to freshness and quality ingredients.
11. The Gladly: Neighborhood Gastropub with a Cozy Vibe
The Gladly is a beloved neighborhood gastropub, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere alongside a diverse and flavorful menu. It's perfect for a casual evening with friends or family.
- Highlight: Cozy and inviting neighborhood atmosphere.
12. House of Tricks: Elevated Gastropub Experience
House of Tricks delivers a highly-rated gastropub experience, emphasizing a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere with an extensive menu of high-quality food.
- Highlight: High-quality food and sophisticated atmosphere.
13. Durant's: Historic Phoenix Gastropub
Durant's is a Phoenix institution with a rich history. Their gastropub fare is delicious and classic, reflecting their enduring place in the city's culinary scene.
- Highlight: Historic charm and delicious, classic dishes.
14. Wren House: Modern Gastropub with a Rooftop Bar
Wren House combines a modern gastropub experience with a rooftop bar, offering stunning city views alongside delicious food and drinks. It's a perfect choice for a special occasion or a fun night out.
- Highlight: Rooftop bar with city views.
Conclusion: Your Phoenix Gastropub Adventure Awaits!
Phoenix offers a fantastic selection of gastropubs, each with its own unique character and charm. This guide provides a starting point for your culinary journey, allowing you to explore the city's vibrant food scene. So, grab your friends, explore this list, and discover your new favorite Phoenix gastropub! Remember to check websites for menus, hours, and reservations, especially on weekends. Happy eating!
