Arizona’s culinary landscape in 2025 presents a mix of closures and emerging favorites. Here’s a guide to restaurants that locals are steering clear of, and those that are earning their praise.
On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina
On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina was once a beloved spot for Tex-Mex aficionados across Arizona. However, in 2025, locals are avoiding it due to several closures scattered throughout the state, including key locations in Phoenix, Mesa, and Peoria. These closures are a result of financial struggles and changing consumer preferences. Once bustling with vibrant energy and flavorful dishes, these locations now stand eerily quiet. The shift in dining trends has led to a decline in popularity, marking the end of an era for this chain.
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, famous for its deep-dish delights, has closed its Phoenix Uptown and Mesa locations. The Arizona market proved to be a tough nut to crack, with operational challenges hindering success. Fans of the Chicago-based chain are now left craving the rich, cheesy slices that once drew crowds. The empty seating areas and dark interiors echo the challenges faced by out-of-state chains venturing into Arizona. Despite its rich history and delicious offerings, locals are now steering clear of these locations.
ComicX
ComicX, known for its unique comic-themed dining experience, has shuttered its doors in Phoenix. In 2025, locals have moved on from themed restaurants, leaving ComicX struggling to maintain interest. Superhero statues, once a draw for comic enthusiasts, now stand in an empty hall. The colorful murals adorn walls that echo with silence. The concept, while initially exciting, couldn’t sustain the dynamic tastes of the modern diner, leading to its downfall. It’s a chapter closed on a once lively storybook setting.
Huss Brewing Co. Taprooms
Huss Brewing Co. has made a strategic decision to shutter its Uptown Plaza taproom in Phoenix and the Papago Brewing Co. location in Mesa. As 2025 unfolds, locals are avoiding these empty spots, as the company turns its focus toward distribution and new ventures. The vacant tables and removed taps signify a shift in business focus. Once a popular gathering spot for craft beer enthusiasts, these locations now serve as reminders of changing business strategies in the brewing industry.
Sticky Fingers
Sticky Fingers, a BBQ chain loved by many, now faces a different reality as it files for Chapter 11 protection. Several Arizona locations, previously bustling with BBQ lovers, are now closed. The once lively outdoor seating is empty, and the smell of smoked meats no longer wafts through the air. Inconsistent leadership and declining sales have led to this downfall, leaving locals searching for new BBQ havens. Sticky Fingers’ story is a testament to the challenges within the restaurant industry.
eeges
Eeges, a Southern Arizona-based fast-food chain, is facing hard times in 2025. With five locations closed amid financial difficulties and ownership changes, it’s no longer the go-to spot for locals. The deserted drive-thru lanes and empty parking lots paint a picture of a once-thriving business now in turmoil. Eeges’ signature frozen drinks and subs have become a memory for many. This chain’s predicament highlights the volatility and challenges within the fast-food industry as consumer preferences evolve.
Santo
Santo, once a popular dining destination in Phoenix, has closed its doors with plans to relocate. In 2025, the decision to close reflects the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the restaurant industry. The darkened windows and empty interiors convey a pause in its culinary journey. As locals await its relocation, the anticipation builds for a rebirth at a new site. Santo’s closure is a reminder of the ever-changing landscape where adaptability is key to survival.
Rock Springs Cafe
Established in 1918, Rock Springs Cafe is a beloved culinary landmark in Arizona. Known for its homemade pies, including the famed Jack Daniel’s pecan pie, it’s a must-visit for travelers and locals alike in 2025. The rustic charm of the cafe, combined with hearty American fare, draws crowds eager to relive nostalgic dining experiences. This historic spot continues to thrive, offering a slice of Americana that remains deeply rooted in Arizona’s cultural tapestry. A visit here is a journey back in time.
El Charro Café
El Charro Café, the oldest Mexican restaurant continuously operated by the same family since 1922, continues to be a culinary gem in Tucson. Offering authentic Sonoran cuisine, the café is a testament to tradition and excellence in 2025. Vibrant decor and a warm atmosphere welcome diners eager to savor dishes passed down through generations. It’s a place where history and flavor intertwine, creating a dining experience rich in culture. El Charro Café remains a cherished establishment in Arizona’s dining scene.
The Fry Bread House
Owned by the Tohono O’odham Nation, The Fry Bread House is a distinguished culinary destination in Phoenix. Recognized as an American Classic by the James Beard Foundation in 2012, it continues to shine in 2025. The restaurant offers traditional Native American fry bread, drawing a diverse crowd seeking authentic flavors. Its welcoming facade and commitment to cultural heritage make it a standout in the dining landscape. A visit here offers not just a meal, but a connection to Native American traditions.
Mr. Baan’s Bar and Mookata
Featured in The New York Times’ 2024 list of the 50 best restaurants in the U.S., Mr. Baan’s offers a unique Thai barbecue experience in downtown Phoenix. In 2025, it remains a culinary hotspot, delighting patrons with its interactive Mookata grill and vibrant atmosphere. The lively interiors are filled with the aromatic scents of Thai spices and the cheerful chatter of diners. Mr. Baan’s is not just a dining spot; it’s an experience that celebrates the rich flavors and traditions of Thai cuisine.
De Babel
Ranked #3 on Yelp’s Top 100 Places to Eat in the U.S. for 2025, De Babel in Scottsdale is famed for its Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. The restaurant’s elegant decor sets the stage for a dining experience filled with vibrant flavors and artistic presentation. Guests are treated to a culinary journey that marries tradition with modernity. In a city known for its diverse dining scene, De Babel stands out as a must-visit, offering a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Course
Led by award-winning chef Cory Oppold, Course offers an elegant fine-dining experience in Scottsdale. The restaurant’s sophisticated interior and artfully presented dishes blend nostalgia with innovation in 2025. Chef Oppold crafts each plate with precision, turning meals into artistic expressions. Diners are invited to embark on a culinary journey that challenges the senses and elevates the dining experience. Course is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of culinary artistry and creative expression.
Ta’Carbon
Celebrated for its authentic Mexican tacos, Ta’Carbon in Glendale continues to be a favorite in 2025. Recognized by USA TODAY as one of the best restaurants of the year, it draws taco lovers to its vibrant setting. The bustling atmosphere is filled with the tantalizing aroma of grilled meats and the lively chatter of happy diners. Ta’Carbon offers more than just food; it delivers a genuine taste of Mexico that keeps patrons coming back for more. It’s a vibrant hub for taco enthusiasts.
Leave a comment