Growing up in Las Vegas, I have high expectations when it comes to “going out on the town” because Vegas pulls out all the stops when it comes to wining and dining. Upon moving to Phoenix last year, I was worried that my husband and I would no longer experience the same quality of date nights on the town. I quickly learned just how wrong I was. 

Phoenix, sprawling from one end of the valley to the other, is packed with more restaurants than I even know what to do with. I’ve a never-ending list of spots I want to check out and each place seems better than the last. I’ve also stumbled upon a few gems that quickly became my favorites. 

From the ambiance to the drinks and especially the food, I’ve put together my list of the best establishments in the Phoenix area. I’ve no doubt that you won’t leave any of these spots feeling disappointed (or hungry).

Bobby Q - North Mountain Village

Photo by Bailey Weitzel

Other Locations: Mesa and Biltmore

My husband and I have always been big fans of barbecue. I’d always felt like I had my share of decent barbecue and wasn’t missing out on anything, but Bobby Q proved me wrong. My typical experience with barbecue food was very casual, southern-themed restaurants that all felt fairly similar as far as atmosphere goes. Bobby Q instantly sets itself apart just moments after walking in the door. While it certainly pulls from the southern vibes that inspire its food, it also ads a twist of class that makes it the perfect date night/post-work dinner spot. 

Their happy hour is from 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and features $5 pitchers of beer and a variety of $6 cocktails. Personally, I highly recommend experiencing a full dinner here. My go-to order is the beef brisket with mac ’n cheese, and mashed potatoes paired with a red sangria. It’s a massive amount of food (especially when you include the homemade cornbread and complimentary to-go donuts), but I can assure you the leftovers are just as delicious as the first go-round. 

The only negative thing that I could possibly say about Bobby Q is that they probably destroyed my hopes of ever enjoying barbecue food anywhere else.

Postino Wine Cafe - Arcadia

Photo by Bailey Weitzel

Other Locations: Arcadia, Central Phoenix, Gilbert, Tempe, and Scottsdale

Probably one of the most well-known spots in Phoenix to grab a drink and a snack, Postino grabbed our attention before we ever even moved to the area. The first thing to catch my eye was the wine display in the front of the restaurant because, well, what Italian girl isn’t mesmerized by row after row of bottled wine?

I’ve been to the Tempe, Scottsdale, and Gilbert locations and have been just as happy with each of them. Every location offers a variety of seating options, from booths to lounge chairs to patio seating—perfect for whatever vibe you’re going for. 

The staff is always very attentive, laid back, and knowledgeable about all of the drink options. I don’t know if a bad bruschetta even exists on their menu, and this place is a carb lover’s dream. Best part? They offer $5 pitchers (yes, you read that right...PITCHERS), and $5 glasses of wine until 5 p.m. every day. Do yourself a favor, and don’t leave without trying one of their bellinis. 

Blanco Tacos + Tequila - Biltmore

Photo by Bailey Weitzel

Other Locations: Sky Harbor Airport and Scottsdale

Blanco is my favorite spot on this list. The place is fun, bright, and modern. Their indoor seating is nice, but I highly recommend sitting outdoor to experience Blanco at its best. Within moments of sitting, you’ll be served some of the best chips and salsa that you can find in Phoenix, and the experience only goes up from there. 

If you are looking for a good buzz, I suggest the blood orange margarita. Let’s just say they’re not stingy with the tequila. Wanting something a little lighter? Consider the red sangria. 

As for food, you might as well close your eyes and point to any item on the menu. My personal favorite is any item containing the braised short rib, particularly the braised short rib enchiladas. Not quite the “traditional” enchiladas in your mind, these unique twists had me at first bite. Happy hour is between 3 p.m. - 6 p.m., but with a restaurant this good, any hour will probably feel like happy hour.

Sorso Wine Room - Scottsdale

Photo by Bailey Weitzel

Situated close to Kierland, right in the heart of Scottsdale, Sorso is a unique and fun spot for grabbing some drinks. Being a wine bar, wine is obviously their expertise. However, they also have plenty of great options for the strange people in your life who are not winos. While I wouldn’t recommend coming on an empty stomach, they certainly have plenty of delicious options to snack on. 

What makes Sorso truly unique is that they offer a self-serve wine bar. They’ll give you a card to swipe, and you simply select the wine you want and serve yourself. Think fro-yo but with wine. Pretty much every wine drinker’s dreams come true.

As if that wasn’t cool enough, each table is provided with a tablet containing photos and detailed descriptions of the menu items. If you’re visual like I am, it’s so nice to be able to get an image of what you’ll be ordering before it arrives at your table. While I chose to opt out of the self-serve wine bar (because heels), I did thoroughly enjoy a couple glasses of house Cabernet served at my table. The prices are a little steep because you’re paying for the atmosphere, but this place does make for a fun and unique little date night spot.

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Bailie Weitzel is a wine enthusiast and blogger based in Phoenix, Arizona. You can follow her adventures on Instagram as well as on her blog.