Disclaimer: If you're hungry please don't read this as it will cause increased hunger.
D'Lish - 1135 E. Apache Blvd.
D'Lish provides a healthy alternative to 'fast food' without sacrificing taste or convenience for people on-the-go. They offer organic and all natural fresh ingredients, including locally grown produce when available. D'Lish chooses to reduce an impact on the environment by recycling and using earth friendly products. I recommend the protein burger; it will fill you up.
The Original ChopShop Co. - 222 E. University
The Original ChopShop Co. is for the person who appreciates fresh flowers, the warmth of the sunshine on their face, and is reminded daily of the refreshing feeling that comes along with a healthy lifestyle and spirit. The environment is second to nothing. They provide people with the familiarity of family recipes, combined with the excitement to share a surprising twist of ingredients. Their protein bowls and sandwiches are delicious.
Fuzzy's Taco Shop - 414 S Mill Ave #115
Fuzzy's Tacos set out to share their perfect combination of tacos, drinks and success nationwide. They landed on Mill Avenue, and the shop has been booming. Laced with feta and Fuzzy’s sauce, the baja style tacos quickly led to unstoppable addictions. Make sure to go on Taco Tuesday to enjoy discounted tacos and a great time.
Essence Bakery - 825 W University Dr.
This boutique bakery and café has had great publicity from The Arizona Republic, Phoenix Magazine and Arizona Highroads. Essence Bakery's talents are rooted in tradition and technique, as head Chef Eugenia lived, worked and trained in Paris, perfecting European favorites like pastries, croissants, and French macarons. Essence’s use of local and organic produce and procurement methods whenever possible results in tremendously satisfying tastes and textures. Sounds good to me!
Sushi 101 - 920 E University Dr. D-101
Sushi 101 has been serving Tempe sushi lovers for almost 15 years! Originally founded by siblings with true talent for entrepreneurship and a passion for sushi, they have consistently taken great strides to ensure only the best quality ingredients are used by expertly trained chefs. After all these years, Sushi 101 remains ASU’s #1 sushi spot! Happy Hour is everyday from 4:00pm-7:00pm and 9:00pm-Close.
Caffe Boa - 398 S Mill Ave
Caffe Boa on Mill Avenue has one objective - to satisfy their guests with the finest quality dishes from the finest available organic and all natural ingredients. All of their pastas are made by hand daily in-house. All of their seafood is wild caught and flown in fresh, as well as their poultry being free-range and free of antibiotics. Caffe Boa is pricier, but you will not be disappointed.
Postino Annex - 615 S College Ave
ASU’s red brick schoolhouse-turned-art-studio-turned-wine-cafe is an ultimate adaptive reuse project. In the shadow of Sun Devil Stadium and at the gateway to campus, Postino Annex responsibly restored and tricked out this midcentury gem with its trademark garage doors, a huge indoor/outdoor bar, and two intimate patios. It is known for its unique wines, delicious food prepared with local ingredients, and a warm, edgy culture that brings everyone together.
Culinary Dropout - 149 S Farmer
Culinary Dropout has one of the best atmospheres out of all of these restaurants. This restaurant serves the very best in unique gastro-pub fare that quietly seeks out future musical venue superstars who wouldn’t mind being paid at the bar in whiskey and pretzel bites. They say, "we're not easily definable and even harder to forget". You have to check this place out!
Snooze AM - 615 S College Ave
Snooze AM set out to evolve the A.M. dining experience through culinary innovation, an eclectic and energetic atmosphere, and friendly service. They have done just that and much more. They call their customers "Snoozers," and have led the way serving creative twists on America’s favorite breakfast classics. Breakfast has never been as fun as it is as Snooze.
Cornish Pasty Company - 960 W University Dr
As soon as the Cornish Pasty Company opened in January of 2005 in Tempe it was a roaring success. Yes, there’s always a friendly atmosphere and a great drink to be had at the bar, but the real secret to success was sticking to the original Cornish ingredients for the "Oggie," the classic pasty that is still savored in Cornwall and all over the UK today. Try something different and head over to this joint.
The Chuckbox - 202 E. University Drive
Probably my favorite on the list, The Chuckbox has been the valley's favorite place for mesquite-grilled hamburgers for over 35 years. I used to go here with my dad before ASU Football and Basketball games growing up. Burgers, sandwiches, and a variety of other things are cooked right in front of you over an open flame, and then you pile on your own fixings. It is a staple of ASU and the greater Tempe community.
Ncounter - 310 S Mill Ave
You have to taste the fresh-from-scratch difference. Ncounter's breakfast, lunch, brunch menu are served daily in an indoor/outdoor atmosphere with an urban cool vibe. Ncounter has won dozens of awards, garnered beaucoup great press, and most importantly, have endless fans of their creative and superbly delicious menus.
Oregano’s Pizza Bistro - 523 W University Dr
Walk through the door at Oregano's and take a step back in time, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the 1950s and a casual, lively atmosphere. Oregano's offers a huge selection of Chicago-style deep-dish or thin-crust pizzas with an extensive list of toppings, wings, pasta dishes, sandwiches, salads and a selection of dreamy, half-pound Original Pizza Cookies topped with vanilla bean ice cream. You will leave this restaurant with a smile on your face and a stuffed stomach.
La Bocca Urban Pizzeria - 699 S Mill Ave
La Bocca is a trendy spot serving locally sourced pasta, pizza, plus dozens of wines by the glass. It has a beautiful outside patio and is a little more expensive like Caffe Boa. Guys, this is a perfect place to dress up and take your girl on a date. The Bruschetta as an appetizer is to die for, and the ambiance itself is first class.
Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers - 960 E University Dr
I could not leave this one off the list. Cane's is well-known by ASU students, unlike some of the others on this list. It is the perfect meal after a long day when you need somewhere to go with friends, or coming back from a party. The "Box Combo" is the way to go. You get 4 Chicken Fingers, Fries, Coleslaw, Texas Toast, Cane's Sauce, and a Regular Drink all at a great price. Check it out!
I hope you aren't too hungry after reading this list, but I hope you're more informed about the culinary potential around ASU.