Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Phoenix / Arizona

Best Southwest American Restaurants in Tempe

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

171 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Tempe restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(56)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Tempe
Booked 28 times today
Blanco’s fresh twist on Sonoran style Mexican food is all you need to satisfy every craving in Tempe. Lounge long and drink on with tantalizing tequila flights, delectable tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and the best margaritas you will ever drink. Whether you’re hungry for something flavorful or thirsty for something fun, we’ve got everything you want at Blanco.
A photo of Filthy Animal restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(112)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Tempe
Booked 113 times today
From the Pretty Decent Concepts team comes Filthy Animal. Elegant and wild, this concept is inspired by the beauty and brutality of the jungle. Featuring a wood fire cooking pit as the focal point of the restaurant, this concept is delivering a dining experience like no other in Arizona.
A photo of Culinary Dropout at the Yard - Tempe restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3743)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Tempe
Booked 45 times today
Culinary Dropout at the Yard in Tempe is a cocktail lover's paradise, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and stellar drink offerings. This cocktail bar boasts a menu of expertly crafted beverages that leave patrons raving. Guests frequently highlight the "delicious cocktails and mocktails" as exceptional, complementing the lively vibe and fantastic live music. The restaurant's dedication to providing a memorable experience is evident with its friendly and attentive staff, ensuring every visit is seamless. Whether you're unwinding after a long day or celebrating with friends, Culinary Dropout's cocktail bar delivers a perfect blend of flavor, fun, and flair, making it a must-visit destination.
A photo of The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Tempe restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2937)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Tempe
Booked 32 times today
At The Keg Steakhouse + Bar in Tempe, seafood enthusiasts are in for a treat with their mouthwatering seafood offerings that truly stand out. Renowned for its "best calamari ever," diners consistently rave about the exquisite taste and freshness of the seafood dishes. From crab cakes to other delightful seafood delicacies, each dish is prepared with exceptional quality and authenticity that reflects the restaurant's dedication to culinary excellence. The Keg’s seafood menu promises a unique and delicious experience that complements its warm ambiance and attentive service, making it a must-visit spot for seafood lovers in Tempe.
A photo of King's Fish House - Tempe restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2041)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Tempe
Booked 13 times today
King's Fish House in Tempe is a shining beacon of American seafood excellence, offering a fresh and authentic culinary experience. With a menu that showcases a vibrant selection of daily catches, oysters, and shellfish, it’s no wonder diners rave about its “outstanding menu selection” and “absolutely delicious” offerings. The restaurant is celebrated for its high-quality seafood, which guests describe as “the best fresh seafood” in the area. Stellar service complements the mouth-watering dishes, with patrons praising the “super nice folk” and attentive staff. For anyone seeking an American seafood adventure, King’s Fish House is a must-visit gem in Tempe.
A photo of Thirsty Lion – Tempe, AZ restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1250)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Tempe
Booked 16 times today
Thirsty Lion in Tempe, AZ is a shining example of authentic Gastro Pub cuisine with a unique commitment to "from-scratch cooking" using local and seasonal ingredients. This culinary destination offers bold and craveable dishes that keep patrons coming back for more. Reviews rave about its "excellent service" and "fantastic food," with standout items like the Ahi Poke Bowl and Pork Carnitas receiving high praise. Diners appreciate the diverse menu and vibrant atmosphere, making it perfect for any occasion. With a wide selection of local craft beers, craft cocktails, and wines, Thirsty Lion ensures a delightful experience for all gastronomic enthusiasts.
A photo of Cocina Chiwas restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(70)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Tempe
Booked 2 times today
Cocina Chiwas in Tempe, Arizona, is not just a culinary gem but a cocktail haven that promises an unforgettable experience. The bar, helmed by talented mixologists, is celebrated for crafting "the best craft cocktails" that diners rave about. Each cocktail is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to quality and creativity, with drinks "fantastic" enough to warrant their price. Adrian, a standout bartender, is praised for "slinging cocktails and making guests feel very welcome," ensuring every sip is an adventure. The vibrant atmosphere perfectly complements the innovative cocktail menu, making Cocina Chiwas a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts seeking excellence in every glass.
A photo of Top of the Rock Restaurant at the Marriott Buttes Resort restaurant
4.5
Awesome(3898)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • Tempe
Booked 61 times today
At Top of the Rock Restaurant, located in the scenic Tempe, Arizona, Vegan cuisine takes on a whole new level of excellence. Diners rave about the "amazing and delicious" plant-based dishes, crafted with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients that truly highlight the flavors of the Southwest. The restaurant's commitment to authenticity and quality is evident in every bite, with the gnocchi being described as "phenomenal" and melting in your mouth. Coupled with the breathtaking panoramic views of the Valley of the Sun and attentive service, this dining experience is not one to miss for Vegan enthusiasts seeking a memorable outing.
A photo of Barrio Queen- Tempe restaurant
4.4
Awesome(106)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Tempe
Booked 14 times today
Barrio Queen in Tempe is a standout destination for cocktail enthusiasts, offering an impressive selection of craft cocktails that perfectly complement its authentic Mexican cuisine. Guests are consistently delighted by the "fun and delicious cocktails" that showcase an extensive range of tequilas and mezcals, each drink crafted with its own unique personality. The vibrant Día de los Muertos décor enhances the lively and social atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a memorable night out. Reviewers rave about the "amazing service" and "fabulous drinks," ensuring that every visit is a delightful experience that leaves a lasting impression.
A photo of Gertrude's - Phoenix restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(6834)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Central Phoenix
Booked 70 times today
Gertrude's in Central Phoenix is a shining example of authentic American cuisine, seamlessly blending tradition with innovation. Nestled within the breathtaking Desert Botanical Garden, the restaurant offers a dining experience that is as much about the ambiance as it is about the "delicious and stunningly presented" dishes. This charming eatery is lauded for its commitment to local ingredients, showcasing the best of Arizona's produce and wines. Diners rave about the "fabulous food and outstanding service," with standout dishes like the Gertie Burger and braised boar leaving lasting impressions. Whether enjoying a meal on the patio or indoors, Gertrude's promises a memorable culinary journey.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you

Discover best Mexican / Southwestern restaurants in Tempe

Discover the vibrant Mexican dining scene in Tempe, located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, where a rich array of Mexican restaurants cater to every palate. Tempe's culinary landscape is dotted with establishments offering a tantalizing mix of traditional and contemporary Mexican dishes, ensuring an authentic flavor experience. These restaurants are celebrated for their dedication to true Mexican cuisine, featuring menu items such as tacos, burritos, and specialty dishes like Tres Rellenoes and queso fundito. Patrons often praise the genuine tastes and high-quality ingredients, alongside the warm, inviting atmospheres that embody the spirit of Mexican dining. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Mexican restaurants in Tempe provide a delightful culinary journey with their rich flavors and cultural authenticity. Each location strives to deliver not only excellent food but also an enjoyable dining experience, making them must-visit destinations for anyone craving Mexican cuisine in the East Valley.

OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Businesses
  • Restaurant reservation software
  • Industry insights
  • Hospitality resources
  • Marketing resources
  • Operation resources
  • How to open a restaurant
  • For restaurants
  • For restaurant groups
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2025 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo