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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Tempe

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43 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Top of the Rock Restaurant at the Marriott Buttes Resort restaurant
1. Top of the Rock Restaurant at the Marriott Buttes Resort
4.5
Awesome(3713)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Tempe
Booked 43 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 Gertrude's - Phoenix restaurant
2. Gertrude's - Phoenix
4.7
Exceptional(6552)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Central Phoenix
Booked 67 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.
A photo of Cafe Monarch restaurant
3. Cafe Monarch
4.9
Exceptional(7751)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Old Town Scottsdale
Booked 33 times today
Cafe Monarch, nestled in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, offers an extraordinary Global, International dining experience that is unparalleled in Arizona. Named by Trip Advisor as a Top Three Fine Dining Restaurant in the Nation, this family-owned gem is renowned for its "outstanding ambience, quality, and service." With a constantly evolving menu that boasts innovative culinary creations, diners are treated to a symphony of global flavors using premium, fresh, and sustainable ingredients. Reviewers rave about the "incredible and very tasty food and super service," affirming that Cafe Monarch is "one of the best restaurants" they've ever experienced. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a romantic dinner, Cafe Monarch ensures a memorable dining adventure.
A photo of Thirsty Lion – Tempe, AZ restaurant
4. Thirsty Lion – Tempe, AZ
4.6
Exceptional(1215)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Tempe
Booked 35 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 Arcadia Farms Café restaurant
5. Arcadia Farms Café
4.6
Exceptional(1417)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Central Scottsdale
Booked 39 times today
Arcadia Farms Café, nestled in the heart of Central Scottsdale, is a beacon of organic culinary excellence. Celebrated as Arizona's first Blue Zone project-approved restaurant, it embodies a commitment to healthful, sustainable dining. Diners rave about its "amazing authentic French food," with one review noting it feels like being "teleported to France." Their farm-to-table approach ensures each dish is fresh and flavorful, resonating with organic purity. The delightful ambiance, highlighted by charming decor and natural light, complements the "delicious" and "exquisite" menu offerings, making it a must-visit for those seeking quality organic cuisine in a picturesque setting.
A photo of The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Tempe restaurant
6. The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Tempe
4.6
Exceptional(2856)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Tempe
Booked 65 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 Virtu Honest Craft restaurant
7. Virtu Honest Craft
4.7
Exceptional(3800)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Old Town Scottsdale
Booked 6 times today
Virtu Honest Craft in Old Town Scottsdale offers an exceptional Contemporary Italian dining experience that embodies quality and authenticity. Renowned for its ever-evolving menu, Chef Gio Osso delights guests with dishes that are as inventive as they are delectable. "The pasta offerings change so often," ensuring that each visit presents a new culinary adventure. Guests rave about the "outstanding" burrata and grilled octopus, and the homemade pastas are described as "unreal." The intimate ambiance, both indoors and on the beautifully lit patio, complements the exquisite dishes, creating an atmosphere that is both inviting and unforgettable. Virtu is truly a hidden gem!
A photo of Market Cafe at the Marriott Buttes Resort restaurant
8. Market Cafe at the Marriott Buttes Resort
4.4
Awesome(54)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Tempe
Market Café offers a refreshingly unique atmosphere complete with waterfalls, outdoor dining and lush desert landscape overlooking the resort and the valley below. Join us for daily lunch specials that are perfect for a quick business lunch or relaxing meal. We are open for breakfast, lunch and weekend brunches, we also play host to corporate events, weddings, receptions and events. Our restaurant is situated inside the Buttes Resort just three miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport next to Tempe Diablo Stadium.
A photo of The House Brasserie restaurant
9. The House Brasserie
new
5.0
Exceptional(1882)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Old Town Scottsdale
Booked 20 times today
The House Brasserie in Old Town Scottsdale is a beacon of authentic Bistro cuisine, embodying the charm and elegance of a true French-inspired dining experience. Guests rave about the "phenomenal" food, with standout dishes like the Iberico pork and mushroom risotto, bringing a taste of Europe to Arizona. The atmosphere is equally captivating, featuring a Victorian-inspired dining room and a picturesque patio. The restaurant's commitment to exceptional service is reflected in glowing reviews, highlighting the staff's attentive yet unobtrusive demeanor. As one delighted diner put it, "The House Brasserie is a hidden treasure in Scottsdale," making it a must-visit for Bistro enthusiasts.
A photo of Wren & Wolf restaurant
10. Wren & Wolf
4.7
Exceptional(2530)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown Phoenix
Booked 88 times today
Wren & Wolf, nestled in the heart of Downtown Phoenix, is redefining steakhouse dining with its inventive fare and vibrant atmosphere. Revered for its "phenomenal" food and "attentive" service, this hotspot promises a memorable dining experience. Diners rave about the "perfectly cooked steak" and the "wonderful experience" of the tableside Wagyu steak presentation. Guests frequently highlight the "extraordinary and memorable" ambiance, making it a prime choice for both intimate dinners and energetic nights out. Whether you're savoring the acclaimed Beef Wellington or indulging in the steak and egg sandwich, Wren & Wolf ensures a delightful culinary journey that beckons you back.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Diane
    Phoenix / Arizona •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    My husband and I went to Gertrude's for dinner on 12/28 before attending Las Noches de Las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden. We sat outside and Josh was our server and he was excellent! What a perfect night! We started with the Elote Fritters, which were amazing! Such a wonderful combination of flavors. For our entrée, we split the Gertie's Burger - ordered it medium well, and it was cooked perfectly. It came with a side of fingerling potatoes, which are one of my favorite things at Gertrude's. To drink we had a glass of their delicious Berry Basil Lemonade. If you've never been to Gertrude's, I highly recommend it. We've eaten there on several occasions and have never been disappointed.
    More info
    Gertrude's - PhoenixPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Central Phoenix
    •
    4.7
  • Sabrina
    Phoenix / Arizona •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    When you walk through the gates you feel like you’re in Europe. We were immediately greeted upon walking in. Once seated we were quickly given menus and met our servers. They went through the menus (wine, cocktail, caviar, and the different courses) with great detail. We chose 2 cocktails and the four courses. My partner and I ordered all the courses so we could try everything. I chose the rack of lamb and he chose the surf and turf as the final course. Everything was fantastic. The dishes were cooked to perfection and packed with unique flavors. We finished off with the pear creme brûlée for dessert, which was very good, but the four course meal was definitely the star of the show. We had a wonderful evening, and we would highly recommend for a special occasion to treat yourself at Cafe Monarch.
    More info
    Cafe MonarchPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Old Town Scottsdale
    •
    4.9
  • Greg
    Utah •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Diana was fabulous! Food was very good! Fun place!
    More info
    Thirsty Lion – Tempe, AZPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Tempe
    •
    4.6
  • Diana
    Phoenix / Arizona •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Lovely breakfast catching up with a friend. The short rib hash could have been a lot more tender- was more like tough stew meat. Arcadia was great, recognizing it was not the best meal they had served, and removed it from my final bill. Everything else was wonderful.
    More info
    Arcadia Farms CaféPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Central Scottsdale
    •
    4.6
  • Elizabeth
    Phoenix / Arizona •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Great food and a spectacular view of the valley. We decided to book reservations for Christmas 2024 Brunch and we were very impressed with the service & food. Unfortunately our reservations were booked the week of Christmas so the only option available was for outdoor seating. Winter in Phoenix can be a bit cold when dining outdoors so they were nice enough to provide blankets to guests seated outdoors, which we thought was excellent. Overall we had a great experience and will definitely dine sometime again.
    More info
    Top of the Rock Restaurant at the Marriott Buttes ResortPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Tempe
    •
    4.5

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Tempe

Discover the vibrant and sophisticated dining scene of Tempe in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, renowned for its contemporary American cuisine. The area boasts an array of restaurants that celebrate the integration of local flavors with modern culinary techniques, ensuring a unique and delightful dining experience for all. These establishments prioritize the use of seasonal and regional ingredients, reflecting the rich agricultural backdrop of Arizona. From innovative cocktails to meticulously crafted dishes, each restaurant offers a distinct ambiance that complements its high-quality offerings. The dining scene in Tempe is characterized by its dedication to excellence and creativity, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike. Whether you're looking for an intimate dinner spot or a lively gathering place, Tempe's contemporary American restaurants provide the perfect setting for any occasion, underscored by exceptional service and unforgettable culinary creations.

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