This year brought a ton of new restaurants to the valley. I primarily focused on Phoenix proper, though you’ll see a few outliers on the list from the East valley. Below are my favorites.

Pretty Penny

Globally inspired small plates? Sign me up. This addition to Roosevelt Row is a great night out for fun food. I loved their diverse options and cocktails.

Bad Jimmy’s

This smash burger spot technically opened late 2023, but I didn’t visit until 2024 and it never got a blog mention earlier. It can have an almost-too-cool vibe, with the red nightlife-meets-diner aesthetic, but the small menu is is good and their specials are fun.

Kid Sister

This wine bar has a menu of shareable plates so good, I would come here just for dinner. The real highlight is the service. If you’re intimidated by a wine bar and/or don’t know what you like, this is the place for you— they’re friendly, approachable, and offering samples of different things.

Mensho

This Mesa spot is one of the rare US locations of a Japanese ramen chain. It’s authentic and delicious: savory, filling, and popular for a reason.

Legends Never Die

By the concept group behind Pour Bastards, Disco Dragon, and FYPM. This is my new favorite of theirs if we’re just talking about drinks. FYPM still has a larger food menu and would be a viable dinner choice, while Legends Never Die is more drink-focused (though there’s some awesome garnish snacks).

Starving Artist

I’m a huge fan of the vibe here, with games on tv, darts, and pool. Staff are great and the drinks are more interesting than your usual bar vibe. It’s a great date spot.

Harumi

I’ve said good things about this sushi restaurant before, but I’m going to consider their new location fully different. Their menu is expanded and they now have a cocktail program.

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream

This chain has locations elsewhere but they’re new to the valley this year. Their flavor options are super unique. Everything I’ve tried is incredibly delicious, and even now that it’s colder, I can’t wait to go back!

The maybes:

I’m not obsessed with these spots, but if you like what they do and you’re in the area, they’re worth a stop.

Moontower Social Club: good for a drink if you’re in the area, but I wasn’t wildly impressed with their food. Their bar is cocktail focused.

Moonpie: if you like thin, cracker crust pizza, this is probably the best place to get it. Drinks are just ok.

Pyro: This place suggests ordering family style, with Japanese-American food and a classy ambiance. It’s relegated to the maybe list because the price can only be justified for special occasions, and service can be hit or miss.