Arizona’s third-largest city, Mesa is a planet of its own: arts-filled downtown, cactus-studded suburbs, and a food scene that runs from heartland Mexican to espresso-fueled specialty shops and bold new American kitchens.
1. Organ Stop Pizza
More than just a meal, Organ Stop is a local icon—cheesy, crispy-crust pies served alongside the world’s largest Wurlitzer pipe organ.
As families dig into pepperoni or “Arizona special” (jalapeno and beef), organists play everything from Disney to Queen.
Long tables, good views of the keys and pipes, and a wall of applause make it an unforgettable dinner.
2. Republica Empanada
A festival of Latin flavors, Republica is devoted to the empanada in all forms—Jamaican beef, Argentinian ham and cheese, Brazilian hearts of palm, and house specialty Sonoran chicken.
Craft beer and agua fresca keep things casual, and big muraled walls provide an ever-gathering city vibe.
The staff loves to offer tasting tours of fillings, and their tres leches cake is a standby dessert.
3. Vito’s Pizza & Italian Ristorante
Since 1986, Vito’s has been the “family Italian night” destination: New York-style pizza, spicy sausage linguine, veal marsala, and melted cheese breadsticks dripping from the oven.
The service is boisterous and sincere; expect singing waiters on birthdays and little kids learning to twirl spaghetti like pros.
4. The Nile Coffee Shop
A hybrid of indie coffee shop, vegan bakery and alternative music venue, The Nile pulses with downtown’s creative core: cold brew on nitro, gooey cinnamon rolls, open-mic poetry, and burritos for breakfast and lunch. By evening, it’s a club for touring bands or local acts.
5. The Hidden House
Chef-driven and atmospheric, The Hidden House thrills with elevated plates: tender duck, cedar plank salmon, jewel-like salads, and craft cocktails with house infusions.
Tucked inside a beautiful converted home, with a shady patio for spring, it’s the go-to for birthdays, wedding proposals, or just showing off “the new Mesa” to out-of-town guests.
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