Pita Jungle is a relative newbie to the downtown lunch scene. Located in the Roosevelt Historic District, PJ became a local’s favorite seemingly over night.
Perhaps the opened beam, loft-like feel of the place touched into the soul of the historic district residents. Maybe it’s the reasonably priced food, the Pita Jungle name, the excellent patio space, or killer happy hours specials; most likely it’s a combination of all these things and more.
I had a chance to chat with Andreane, the proprietor, about her place. We met several months past at a Radiate Phoenix meeting. She loves her place and is not shy about her passion.
It took her nearly two years jumping hurdles to open the place. Part of it was the City’s love affair with red tape, while much of the time was spent fine tuning the space to achieve an authentic urban feel and honor the heritage of Gold Spot building… one of the oldest commercial buildings in downtown Phoenix. The exposed brink walls, exposed ceiling and metal works definitely give this Pita Jungle a special flair.
Most people rave about the many styles of humus and the happy hour specials. I am a big fan of their Philly Chicken Pita and Gyros sandwiches. Rather that go over the menu and such, take a trip to Yelp for reader comments. Personally, I’d discount the reviews on bad service as many came from when they first opened.
I seldom recommend franchise restaurants when writing about downtown Phoenix. As you know, I am a big fan of locally owned places. Pita Jungle downtown is a rare exception. Andreane has made her place part of the community. Plus, Pita Jungle is a great example of adaptive reuse and has been added much value to life in the Roosevelt Historic District.
Pita Jungle in downtown Phoenix is on the Urban Connection 100 Things To Do and Places to Go in Downtown Phoenix.
The Details:
Pita Jungle Downtown Phoenix
1001 N. 3rd Avenue (near the Central & Roosevelt Light Rail Station)
Phoenix, AZ 85003
602-258-7482
Hours
Mon – Thurs 10:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Fri – Sat, 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Sun 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
(brunch served Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.)