Besides seeing my friends and family, I make sure to eat from as many local restaurants as I can when I visit Phoenix. I am so thankful to have been able to revisit old favorites on our January trip to Arizona. Planning a trip to Phoenix? I’m sharing my meals at three spots, plus linking older posts about local restaurants. Hope it inspires you to visit one of these places and gives you an idea about what to order (or not order).
Flower Child
I usually get the Late Riser bowl at Flower Child, but I decided to try something different last time. I kind of regret my decision. I chose the ramen bowl, which contains spicy tofu, pickled cucumber, roasted corn, bok choy, bean sprout, and miso sesame broth. Not sure what I was expecting, but it just doesn’t compare to any ramen I’ve had. It wasn’t that spicy either. I would pass on the ramen bowl in favor of a build-your-own plate. This restaurant, which is on Central Avenue and Camelback Road but has three other locations, doesn’t serve soda, but you can enjoy fresh juices and lemonades, cold brew, teas and other beverages.
Delux (Now Closed)
Graham and I were able to go on our first date night in months, too. We wanted sushi but our old place has closed, so we decided to try Delux. I used to eat here regularly when I worked nights at the newspaper, but I would mostly stick to burgers. We asked for a spicy sushi roll and we got what we asked for, but not in the best way. The Delux Phoenix roll is a super spicy roll that contains jalapeño, chili paste and spicy mayo, but I prefer a nice crunch or balancing flavor, like avocado. I would never order it again. The other rolls were decent. I did love the sweet potato fries, which are typically presented in mini shopping carts. (I asked for a half order, which apparently is just served on a plain plate.) Your best bet when eating at Delux, near 32nd Street and Camelback Road, is grabbing one of their delicious burgers. They are what the place is known for.
Chompie’s
It’s been many years since I’ve been to Chompie’s, a New York deli and bakery at Paradise Valley Mall. The menu is so extensive it can be difficult to choose what to eat. I went with breakfast for lunch on my visit because why not? It was delicious and SO MUCH FOOD. My skillet came with a bagel and cream cheese, and I picked the jalapeño option. I ate every bite. So good.
Have you visited Phoenix or any of these restaurants? Update: Delux has now closed.
