Here Are 10 Classic Mom-And-Pop Restaurants in Phoenix You Should Consider Trying

Here’s a question: What do you usually look for in a restaurant if you plan to dine in and try their amazing dishes? One of the factors that people are looking for is the “feeling of being at home.” If that is the case, you must be looking for family-owned restaurants that are being managed by a husband-and-wife tandem. We’d love nothing more than to help you find your new favorite spot. If you’re looking for a place to eat this weekend, here are the classic mom-and-pop restaurants in Phoenix that you need to try right away:

Check out the best mom-and-pop restaurants in Phoenix area:

1. Republica Empanada

Source: Facebook

Who doesn’t love empanadas? These tasty snacks are very convenient to eat and filling! If you find yourself suddenly craving for empanadas, don’t think twice and just go straight to Downtown Mesa and visit Republica Empanada. The restaurant is owned by Jinette and Edmundo Meraz. They offer Arizona’s largest selection of South American-style savory empanadas. Aside from the empanadas, their other dishes are also just as tasty, and represents the different regions and tastes of Latin American comfort food well.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re looking for something savory or sweet, their empanadas got you covered! Before you leave, make sure to also try their classics such as arroz con pollo.

Note: This is one of the authentic Mexican restaurants in Arizona that do not disappoint. Order their chicken, pork (pernil), and peanut butter and banana dessert empanadas. You may also try their salsa verde. Lastly, enjoy the mural art while you are there.

Store Hours: 10:30 am to 8:00 pm from Mondays to Saturdays, and 10:30 am to 6:00 pm on Sundays

Location: 204 E 1st Ave, Mesa, Arizona

2. Arcadia Premium

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If you need a different kind of booze, this should exactly be the place for you! Arcadia Premium is owned by Joel LaTondress and Lara Mulchay who strives to offer craft beers and wine that won’t break the bank. This place may be small, but you’ll be surprised at their curated selection of American artisan cheese, charcuterie, and other local goods. Make sure you partner your drinks with some tangy salami, that would be the bomb.

Note: Did you know that you can actually break down packs of beers into singles so you can enjoy your own sampler pack? That’s one of the reasons why you should skip the big box stores and head over here instead!

Store Hours: 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Mondays, 12:00 nn to 8:00 pm from Tuesdays to Thursdays, 11:00 am to 8:00 pm from Fridays to Saturdays, and 11:00 am to 6:00 pm on Sundays

Location: 5618 E Thomas Rd #100, Phoenix, Arizona

3. A Touch of European Cafe

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Drive to the West Valley and try European-themed dishes in this humble cafe owned by Polish couple Margaret and Waldemar Okula. This is a cozy cottage-like destination that will make you taste the flavors of traditional Polish specialties. You should try their stuffed cabbage rolls when you visit because it’s truly a crowd-favorite!

Note: The cabbage roll and smoked sausage are the highlights of A Touch of European Cafe. But you should also order the corn and green chile soup, and the potato and cheese pierogi. There’s no doubt you’ll leave feeling extremely satisfied.

Store Hours: 11:00 am to 3:00 pm from Tuesdays to Thursdays, and 11:00 am to 8:00 pm from Fridays to Saturdays

Location: 7146 N 57th Dr C, Glendale, Arizona

4. Ezekiel’s Restaurant

Source: Facebook

Feel at home and have your wonderful lunch at this mom-and-pop restaurant in Phoenix owned by Laurita and Brad Carr. The ambiance really feels like home because they have framed family photos as decor.

Note: This is your go-to place if you want soul food dinners & sides. Try their ribs or chicken partnered with the side dish of your choice. This dish is truly heaven on earth!

Store Hours: 11:00 am to 7:00 pm from Tuesdays to Saturdays, 12:00 nn to 6:00 pm on Sundays

Location: 4825 Warner Rd, Phoenix, Arizona

5. New Wave Market

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Can’t choose between breakfast or lunch? The New Wave Market will offer you both. Enjoy savory treats like their new wave bagels. If you are conscious about what you are eating, you’ll be happy to know that the restaurant uses organic flours for house-made sandwich breads & fresh local produce.

Note: Try their newest musubi-style bagel sandwich or the muffeletta bread.

Store Hours: 11:00 am to 3:30 pm from Tuesdays to Fridays, and 9:30 am to 2:30 pm on Saturdays

Location: 7120 E 6th Ave #20, Scottsdale, Arizona

6. Super Chunk Sweets & Treats

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You should visit Super Chunk right after getting a meal from New Wave. Owned by Sergio and Country Velador, this humble cafe doesn’t only offer sweet and delightful treats, but also their place is really adorable! It’s safe to say that this place is perfect for your Instagram-worthy moments. Just come here if you’re in need of breakfast, lunch, drinks, sweets, and provisions.

Note: Their chicken pot pie is absolutely mouth-watering. Aside from that, other tasty recommendations include the dynamite tuna melt, pastrami sandwich, and buffalo chicken. For dessert, don’t miss out on their delectable peanut butter cookie made in-house with slow-roasted peanuts. The chocolate chip cookies will also be your comfort food with its crispy edge, gooey center, and lots of chocolate chunks. Plus, if you like to order a dozen bagels, a two-day notice is required.

Store Hours: 9:30 am to 3:30 pm from Tuesdays to Sundays

Location: 7120 E 6th Ave #19, Scottsdale, Arizona

7. Matt’s Big Breakfast

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This restaurant lives up to its name by offering a handful of breakfast to their customers. Matt’s is the brainchild of Ernie and Matt Pool which is one of the famous breakfast places in Phoenix. Anything in their menu is superb as long as they come with hash browns and eggs.

Note: Go early so you don’t have to wait in line. A lot of people can’t get enough of Matt’s Big Breakfast. The restaurant is famous for having a big plate of traditional breaking goodies done well. The hashbrowns are salty and massive. Not to mention, the bacon, thick and crispy. You should also try the Monday special and the traditional egg, protein, and toast breakfast.

Store Hours: 7:00 am to 2:00 pm daily

Location: 825 N 1st St, Phoenix, Arizona 85004

8. Carly’s Bistro

Source: Facebook

If you’re looking for a place to eat while getting to experience other things in between, then you should try this restaurant owned by John and Carly Logan. They offer a variety of soups, salads, sandwiches, and drinks. Sometimes they also showcase art exhibits and live music, so don’t miss out on that!

Note: Try their Caprese Bruschetta, Side Greek Salad, Fruit & Nut Salad, Southwest Chicken, or Vietnamese Chicken. Don’t think mom-and-pop restaurants in Phoenix are “just like the typical restaurants.” For instance, you also won’t be disappointed if you want a portion of real Vegan food when you come to Carly’s Bistro.

Store Hours: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm

Location: 128 E Roosevelt St, Phoenix, Arizona

9. Best of Philly

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If Philly cheesesteaks aren’t your guilty pleasure, then you’re probably missing out. In fact, that’s probably what the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air will tell you! Spouses Awriana and Welfy Youkhana started their business in the ‘90s and it is still standing tall today. They are focused on their work because the husband grills the cheesesteaks by himself while the wife takes the orders. Talk about a good combination, huh? If you’re not a fan of meat, no worries. You may opt to try their vegetarian options.

Note: Many Phoenix locals know about this place. When you come, make sure you also try anything from their large selection of hot and cold subs, gyros, burgers and salads. Whatever it is you are craving for, you will surely find something delicious to eat. Man, there sure are plenty of mom-and-pop restaurants in Phoenix to choose from!

Store Hours: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm from Mondays to Fridays, and 10:30 am to 4:00 pm on Saturdays

Location: 2818 N Central Ave, Phoenix, Arizona

10. Cafe Lalibela

Source: Facebook

If you’re looking for an Ethiopian restaurant in Arizona, you should try this cafe owned by Salem and Anibal Bayene. You will enjoy having gluten-free injera while having a glass of wine! Doesn’t this seem perfect for a dinner with your significant other?

Note: Share a big meal with your family and friends by ordering the Lalibela Deluxe combination plate. This is more than enough for 3 people. It already comes with two types of Sega Wat, Dora Wat, Yebeg Alicha, Fosolia, Misir Wat, Tikil Gomez, and Yekik Alicha.

Store Hours: 12:00pm to 8:00 pm from Saturdays to Mondays, and 11:00 am to 8:00 pm from Tuesdays to Fridays

Location: 849 W University Dr, Tempe, Arizona

Which among these mom-and-pop restaurants in Phoenix (or nearby) are you looking forward to visiting? Feel free to share it with us in the comments.

Before you go, why don’t you check out other related articles: 6 Best Places to Have Lunch in Prescott Arizona and Visit These 10 Amazing Hispanic Restaurants to Indulge in the Most Scrumptious Burritos in All of Phoenix.