The vibrant restaurant scene in Peoria, a northwest suburb of Phoenix, includes everything from modern bistros and fusion eateries to traditional steakhouses and barbecue spots.
Peoria draws some of the top chefs and restaurants in the state because of its proximity to Scottsdale and Phoenix. Here is our selection of the top 13 restaurants in Peoria that you simply must visit, ranging from quaint cafés to upscale dining venues.
13 Best Restaurants in Peoria, Arizona
Beckett’s Table
One of the most sophisticated restaurants in the West Valley is still Beckett’s Table, the Wigwam Resort’s namesake eatery. Snacking on modern fare and fine wines while taking in views of the resort’s verdant golf courses is ideal in the dining area. Dave Vincent, the executive chef, crafts sophisticated dishes such as cauliflower tempura with crushed cashews, currants, and champagne vinaigrette by focusing on vegetables.
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Entrées and main courses sometimes feature uncommon foods like Nantucket Bay scallops and Australian Wagyu beef. Sommelier Nikka Nordin’s vast wine list features tiny boutique producers. Offering a fresh menu that changes frequently, excellent service, and a vast wine selection, Beckett’s Table guarantees a special occasion experience that rivals any fine dining destination in Scottsdale or Phoenix.
Creations in Cuisine
Ron Plotnik, the chef and proprietor of Creations, is the most surprise culinary find, tucked away along the bike paths just blocks from Peoria Stadium. Chef Ron, who has experience working in opulent hotels and resorts, infuses his American fusion tasting menus with sophisticated techniques and flavors from around the world.
His “Cuisine without Borders” philosophy serves up unexpected pairings of flavors, such as coffee-crusted filet mignon with gjetost cheese and lingonberry gastrique, or duck breast with sweet potato gnocchi and pomegranate demi glaze. Monthly tasting menus feature seasonal dishes that are acquired from nearby farmers and suppliers.
In this humble setting, the tasteful plating of the meals contrasts with the clean white linens thanks to the subtle décor. Chef Ron’s status as Peoria’s leading culinary creative has been solidified by Creations in Cuisine, which offers one of the most innovative fine dining experiences in the West Valley.
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Tacos Chiwas
Under the direction of head chef Armando Hernandez, Tacos Chiwas serves you authentic Mexican fare from the state of Chihuahua in a colorful array of flavors. Tender barbacoa, spicy cueritos, and smokey chorizo links imported straight from Chihuahua are just a few of the well-seasoned meats that top house specialties like gorditas, sopes, tortas, and of course, tacos. Their range of Mexican aguas frescas in flavors like jamaica, tamarindo, and horchata promise to both quench your thirst and transport your taste buds. Their authentic menudo tripe soup is the perfect remedy for a hangover.
The lively dining area with its peach and tangerine décor and vibrant Mexican oilcloth tablecloths provide a cozy haven for savoring real delights from over the border. Tacos Chiwas offers Old Town Peoria a taste of colorful Mexican culture and food, whether you choose to eat at the walk-up window or relax at the bar watching fresh tortillas being cooked.
State 48 Kitchen and Bar
Chef-driven pub fare inspired by regional ingredients from Arizona and multicultural cooking methods learned from the founders’ international travels is served at State 48. Situated in a former vintage airplane hangar at Phoenix-Glendale airport, State 48 offers an unparalleled dining experience because to its high ceilings, exposed beams, and view of antique airplanes through hangar door windows.
With dishes like the well-known chicken mole enchiladas drenched in black mole sauce and the Thai peanut curry, which consists of udon noodles sautéed with vegetables and spicy peanut sauce, executive chef Anthony Garcia takes customers on a gastronomic trip. In addition to a wide selection of domestic and craft beers, its drink menu offers inventive house cocktails such the jalapeño cucumber margarita. One of the more innovative and fascinating dining experiences in the West Valley can be found at State 48, with its inviting atmosphere, globally influenced cuisine, and distinctive setting on a bustling tarmac.
Republica Empanada
The flaky hot pocket pastries from Republica Empanada, which come in both sweet and savory flavors, are a taste of Argentina and Cuba brought by husband and wife combination Samantha and Raul Rodriguez. Whereas unconventional fillings like Thai chicken curry, Philly cheesesteak, and apple churro promise to startle the palette, traditional fillings like picadillo ground beef and sweet plantains offer well-known flavor characteristics.
These densely packed pastries go well with a glass of South American wine or a locally brewed artisan draft beer. Republica Empanada offers Old Town Peoria a fun and reasonably priced dining experience with its laid-back vibe and combination of Latin American flavors.
Litchfield’s
Litchfield’s, regarded as the “best restaurant in Peoria” for nearly two decades, has built a solid reputation for serving modern food in a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. The menu’s diversified offerings incorporate tastes from the Mediterranean, Asian, and Southwestern regions into well-crafted entrees and wood-fired pizzas. Known for his unique meals like sesame crusted fish with ponzu glaze, pickled vegetables, and jasmine rice, Chef de Cuisine Greg LaPrad also creates signature appetizers like tenderloin carpaccio, which is topped with arugula, capers, red onion, and shaved parmesan.
The modern decor, with its exposed brick, dark wood furnishings, and plush leather banquettes, provide a stylish setting for milestone celebrations or professional power lunches. Litchfield’s is Peoria’s dining scene’s jewel because to its excellent modern cuisine, posh décor, and impeccable service.
Social Hall
Located in the historic heart of Old Town Peoria, Social Hall is a gastropub serving up some of the greatest whiskey selections in the West Valley along with well-restored Craftsman bungalow fare. Executive chef Brian Archibald’s menu includes composed dishes such as seared ahi tuna salad with avocado, cucumber, heirloom tomato, and ginger vinaigrette, as well as a raw bar with oysters and sushi-grade options. With aged white cheddar, applewood smoked bacon onion relish, and truffle fries, their burger has a gourmet touch.
When the weather is warm, patrons gather by the two-sided transparent fireplace to stay warm, and when the sun is shining, the bustling group moves outside onto the rear patio under the glittering lights. Social Hall provides an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere for a night out with its modern yet rustic feel.
Grassroots Kitchen & Tap
Farm-fresh cuisine is served at Grassroots Kitchen & Tap, a lively gastropub owned and operated by chef Matt Maenpaa. In order to find sustainable ingredients for his modern takes on comfort food favorites and bar nibbles, he collaborates closely with nearby farmers and food artisans. Salads, sandwiches, and appetizers such as the well-known burrata bruschetta with creamy burrata, funky blue cheese, marcona almonds, and micro basil are all available on the menu.
While thin and crispy pizzas come out of the gas-fired pizza oven sizzling hot, burgers fed grass sizzle on the grill. Specialty cocktails and microbrews, primarily Arizona craft beers, are creatively mixed at the copper bar top. With its dedication to providing sustainable food and a friendly atmosphere, Grassroots Kitchen & Tap has grown to be a popular local hangout as well as a citywide attraction.
Taco Guild
Taco Guild, led by head chef Victor Davila, offers mouthwatering Mexican cuisine in a lively, kid-friendly environment in Peoria. They make all of their salsas and tortillas by hand in-house, and their modern smokers allow the meats to be perfectly smoked. Tacos include crunchy Baja fish, spicy cochinita pibil pig shoulder, and tender brisket barbacoa. The ideal complement are their house margaritas, which are made entirely of blue agave tequilas.
Taco Guild’s menu excels not only in taco selection but also in well-prepared delicacies like the stuffed chilli relleno, which is topped with jack cheese and Oaxaca and covered in roasted tomato salsa. For a delicious finish, save room for sopapillas or churros sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. Taco Guild promises a vibrant and festive ambiance equaled only by its delicious gourmet tacos and Margaritas, whether dining indoors amid colorful Mexican textures and decor or alfresco on the bustling terrace.
The Wild Thaiger
The Wild Thaiger in Peoria features Chef Bank Atcharawan of Los Angeles’ Jitlada restaurant, bringing his robust Thai flavors. This trendy Thai restaurant serves up street cuisine classics with real spices in a laid-back atmosphere. The spicy flavors go well with handcrafted drinks served tableside in vintage coupes and Riedel glassware.
The pad kee mao “drunken noodles” with plump shrimp, green beans, basil, and peppers, and the nam khao tod rice crispy salad, bursting with fresh herbs, lime, and chiles, are must-tries. Tofu aficionados will drool over the crunchy fried tofu covered with sweet chili sauce, while vegetarians will enjoy the rich flavors of the yellow curry. The Wild Thaiger promises an exciting gastronomic experience with its fiery Thai cuisine and lively atmosphere.
Crust Italian Kitchen
Under the direction of chef de cuisine Mario Russo, Crust Italian Kitchen reinvents traditional Italian cuisine for a modern audience. Neapolitan-style pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven are served with handcrafted artisanal pastas and imported ingredients on the seasonally inspired menu. Some of the restaurant’s signature dishes include the gorgonzola and pear pizza, which features gorgonzola dollops, caramelized pears, and speck ham. These meals are sure to please large crowds.
For special occasion festivities, work dinners, or romantic nights, the sleek and contemporary décor makes a suitable backdrop. Known for its freshly prepared food, excellent service, and trendy atmosphere, Crust Italian Kitchen is one of the most popular restaurants in town.
The Corner Grill
A beloved neighborhood restaurant, The Corner Grill is well-known for its hearty comfort food that is served in hearty servings. Classics like tender burgers, grilled sandwiches, salads, and steaks are available on the menu, along with daily specials like pot roast, chicken fried steak, and meatloaf.
The French Dip sandwich, which is stuffed with thinly sliced roast beef and melted provolone cheese, and the chicken tenders—which are usually hot and crispy with a delicious breading—are two of the standout meals. Remember to save room for their warm apple cobbler with ice cream on top for a delicious dessert. A warm place to have a filling lunch, just like mom used to make, is The Corner Grill, with its laid-back atmosphere, welcoming staff, and reasonable costs.
Conclusion
Peoria has a diverse range of culinary alternatives to satisfy all taste buds, ranging from gourmet empanadas to street tacos and jalapeño margaritas to apple churro desserts. Newcomers like Wild Thaiger and longtime stalwarts like Litchfield’s are raising the standard with chef-inspired dishes delivered in distinctive settings that have personality.
The evolving culinary scene in Peoria is made even more excitingly varied and lively by farm-fresh gastropubs, handcrafted pizzas, modern Mexican cuisine, and concepts that emphasize whiskey and wine. So remember to set your GPS to Peoria the next time you’re traveling through the West Valley, and arrive hungry—very hungry.