12 Cool Places to Eat ... and Get Out of the Heat

Unique Valley eateries get you out of the sizzle and into great dining experiences

by Jenee' Kivin

With the temperature continuously rising for what is sure to be a record breaking hot summer, it’s starting to become a constant battle to stay out of the blistering sun. Thankfully, several restaurant owners have taken this into perspective when creating their establishments. So, when you feel like running for cover, run to one of these unique and tasteful places to cool down and fill up.

1. Postino Winecafé

Postino Winecafé is a great place to sip on some vino from their famous rotating wine list and snack on the restaurant’s outstanding bruschetta or other Italian-inspired light menu pieces. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, yet because both locations are spacious, renovated historic buildings, they offer an upscale, classy ambiance.

5144 N. Central Ave., Phoenix
602.274.5144

3939 E. Campbell Ave., Phoenix
602.852.3939
www.postinowinecafe.com

2. Switch

Switch serves brunch and lunch but the best time to visit is nighttime. There's a lively atmosphere with music, regulars, cool-toned colors and an extensive number of original cocktail choices. The workers are fun and energetic and the food menu ranges from sandwiches to filet mignon. For a quick drink or a nice dinner, be sure to stop by.

26030 N. Central Ave., Phoenix
602.264.2295
www.switchofarizona.com

3. Fez

“Food. Drinks. Music.” This sums up the idea behind Fez. It is a trendy, urban eatery and, like Switch, its sister restaurant, it offers an abundance of cocktail choices and a lively environment. It has a light, fresh ambiance with its attractive green and earthy décor, and the music is uplifting and fun.

3815 N. Central Ave., Phoenix
602.287.8708
www.fezoncentral.com

4. The Salt Cellar

The Salt Cellar has been around since 1971 and remains one of the most intriguing restaurants in the state. Why, you ask? Because the location is mainly underground. After entering the above-ground section, three flights of stairs will bring you underground to a coastal dining retreat that will make you forget you were ever in Arizona. The seafood, including whole Maine lobsters, is always fresh and is superbly prepared. And for those not in the mood for seafood, they also serve steak, chicken and beef.

550 North Hayden Road, Scottsdale
480.947.0929
www.saltcellarrestaurant.com

5. Pita Jungle

In the mood for someplace fresh and hip? Then, Pita Jungle is the place for you. Typically known for their pitas and Greek food, its eclectic menu offers all sorts of healthy choices for anyone―including burgers and salads at decent prices. The locations are open and comfortable, and the outgoing servers always provide a good time.

1250 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe
480.804.0234

1949 W. Ray Rd., Chandler
480.855.3232

1431 E. Williams Field Rd., Gilbert
480.814.2535

1850 W. Southern Ave., Mesa
480.615.PITA (7482)

7366 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale
480.922.PITA (7482)

20910 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix
480.473.2321

7530 W. Bell Rd, Glendale
623.486.2615

4340 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix
602.955.PITA (7482)

320 South Regent Street, Flagstaff
928.774.0086
www.pitajungle.com

6. Joe's Crab Shack

Joe's Crab Shack is definitely the place to go to if you are in the mood for tons of fun and mounds of mouth-watering seafood. Joe's Crab Shack has an atmosphere like no other, which is evident from just looking at its beach-side shack appearance and wacky interior decor. Make sure to go with an open mind, a large sense of humor and an empty stomach.

1604 E. Southern Ave., Tempe
480.730.0303

1606 W. Baseline, Tempe
480.345.0972
www.joescrabshack.com

7. Asia de Cuba

International restaurateur Jeffrey Chodorow combines both Asian and Cuban cuisine, creating a delectable menu for Asia de Cuba. It's ambiance is sophisticated and chic, yet comfortable. And because it’s located at the Mondrian in Scottsdale, it's the perfect place to create an entire night of romance with your significant other.

7353 E. Indian School Rd., Scottsdale
480.308.1131
www.mondrianscottsdale.com

8. Wildfish Seafood Grille

With its modern atmosphere, Wildfish Seafood Grille offers fresh, delicious seafood and steaks and other delectable items. One of Wildfish Seafood Grille's most popular orders is its raw oysters―and they are fantastic! The service is prompt, friendly, knowledgeable and very helpful. This restaurant is always busy, so try to get reservations.

7135 E. Camelback Rd., Scottsdale
480.994.4040
www.eddiev.com

9. Rainforest Cafe

From the second you walk into the entrance, you’ll be instantly transported from Arizona to a wild, lush rainforest. The experience of the Rainforest Cafe is created with routine thunderstorms, plants and animals sounds throughout the restaurant as well as giant aquariums full of sea life. This is a great restaurant to visit if you have children or just want to have a fun-filled meal.

500 S. Arizona Mills Cr., Tempe
(in the Arizona Mills Mall)
480.752.9100
www.rainforestcafe.com

10. Roy's Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine

Chef and founder Roy Yamaguchi, opened his first Roy's in Honolulu, Hawaii, during the ‘80s. Although he now has 36 locations worldwide, it doesn’t feel (or taste) like a chain restaurant. The food is adventurous, beautiful, delicious and high quality. The island-like environment is relaxing and includes a lounge, large dining room and an exhibition kitchen where diners can watch all the food preparation.

7001 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale
480.905.1155

5350 E. Marriott Dr., Phoenix
480.419.7697
www.roysrestaurant.com

11. Delux

Delux is not a typical hamburger joint. The tables are set up cafeteria style (long and bustling) and it's open until 2 a.m. seven days a week. There are 40 brews on tap, and the fries are served in miniature shopping carts. Though this might sound like an overwhelming experience, the trendy yet old school surroundings make for a delightful and tasty experience.

3146 E. Camelback Rd., Scottsdale
602.522.2288
www.deluxburger.com

12. Yen Sushi and Sake Bar

Although Yen Sushi and Sake Bar is a small establishment located in the corner of a shopping center, don’t be fooled; the menu is fabulous! All orders come with a simple yet profound miso soup. Diners can watch the chef at work on all orders at his glass sushi bar, and the servers are attentive.

17037 N. 43rd Ave., Phoenix
602.978.9022