Phoenix has begun its beautiful metamorphosis into a culinary scene to be reckoned with. Thankfully, our little hub in downtown Phoenix has become one of the best places for these innovative concepts to land.   

Monroe’s Hot Chicken

Bringing the heat – Nashville style! Monroe’s is a fast-casual restaurant serving hot chicken tenders, sandwiches and more.  This spicy creation comes from the infamous owner of LoLo’s Chicken & Waffles. This is the first restaurant in Phoenix dedicated to the Nashville Style hot chicken dishes.  The restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays.  

45 W. Jefferson St., Phoenix. monroeshotchicken.com.

Little Rituals

Perhaps best saved for date night, or drinks with the boys, Little Rituals is ready to be the unexpected new favorite. From the owners of downtown cocktail lounge Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour, Little Rituals is a hotel bar like no other. In addition to a list of some 30 mesmerizing cocktails, expect a Miller High Life vending machine, creative food, and some of the best views of downtown Phoenix.

132 S. Central Ave., fourth floor, Phoenix. littleritualsbar.com.

Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co.

Sometimes, you just need a good, local, cold beer after a long Arizona summer day. Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. has brought its award-winning craft beers to downtown Phoenix. The new downtown brewpub serves the brewery’s Arizona-inspired beers, as well as wine, vegan food options and burgers made with grass-raised local beef. Do we need to say any more?

201 E. Roosevelt St., Phoenix. azwbeer.com.

While not mentioned in our list, downtown Phoenix did become home to Arizona’s first Taco Bell Cantina … think your favorite Taco Bell dishes and a nice adult beverage to finish it off. Hey – it could be a good option when the kids aren’t looking, right?

Downtown Phoenix has become a destination for innovative restaurants! From chicken, to beers, to wine bars and breakfast spots, there is bound to be something for everyone!