Top 24 lunch restaurants in Desert Ridge
Desert Ridge, a vibrant neighborhood in Phoenix, Arizona, boasts a variety of lunch restaurants to satisfy any craving. From casual eateries to upscale bistros, there's something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for classic American fare, international cuisine, or healthy options, these lunch restaurants in Desert Ridge offer delectable dishes that will hit the spot. Come explore the diverse culinary scene of this bustling area!
- 1. Yard House in Desert Ridge
- 2. Barrio Queen
- 3. Comicx Restaurant Bar & Store
- 4. The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Desert Ridge
- 5. BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
- 6. Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill
- 7. Islands Restaurant Phoenix
- 8. Pita Jungle
- 9. Kona Grill - Desert Ridge
- 10. Mimi's Cafe
- 11. Flower Child
- 12. Sizzle Korean Barbecue
- 13. Café Zupas in Desert Ridge
- 14. Tryst Cafe
- 15. Breakfast Kitchen Bar
- 16. Sid's Garage
- 17. Backyard Desert Ridge
- 18. Tia Carmen
- 19. SFIZIO Modern Italian Kitchen
- 20. MERITAGE - an urban tavern
- 21. Jin Jia in Desert Ridge
- 22. Cook & Craft - High Street
- 23. Spitz - Desert Ridge Restaurant and Bar
- 24. twenty6
1. Yard House in Desert Ridge
Extensive craft beer selection, Happy Hour specials, and daily food specials

The business provides several vegan options, including the Beyond Burger, Edamame, and Lettuce wrap. However, the almost vegan burger is served on a brioche bun, and no other vegan bun option is available. This limitation may deter some vegan customers from ordering the almost vegan burger.
In addition to the food menu, the business boasts an extensive beer selection, featuring local options. The temperature of the beer is kept cold, ensuring a refreshing experience for customers. This focus on providing a variety of beer options, particularly local ones, could attract beer enthusiasts and support the local brewing community.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
2. Barrio Queen
Vibrant atmosphere with a mix of modern and traditional decor

Barrio Queen is a restaurant that stands out for its delicious food, simple menu, and excellent service. One popular dish is the guacamole, which features pomegranate seeds and adds an exciting twist to a classic dip. For dessert, the stuffed churros with ice cream are a must-try, satisfying any sweet tooth.
The food at Barrio Queen is known for its exceptional flavors and high-quality ingredients. The tacos, in particular, have gained a reputation as the best in Phoenix. Additionally, the homemade chips are a crowd favorite, receiving rave reviews for their freshness and taste. Overall, Barrio Queen is a top choice for anyone seeking delicious Mexican cuisine in Phoenix.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
3. Comicx Restaurant Bar & Store
Comic book store integrated into the restaurant, comic-themed decor and menu

The location I'm describing is a hub of excitement and enjoyment for fans of all ages. A highlight of the menu is the Croc Burger, which is a must-try for any visitor. It's an excellent choice for a family lunch outing.
The food served is delicious, although there was a bit of a delay in receiving our lunch. The atmosphere of the place is further enhanced by its comic-themed decor, which was a big hit with the kids.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
4. The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Desert Ridge
In-house aged midwestern steaks, expansive wine list, inviting patio area

The food at the establishment is prepared only when an order is placed, and it has been well-received by many due to its delicious taste, high-quality ingredients, and extensive selection. Some of the popular menu items include prime rib, steak with lobster, a special cheesy noodle dish for children, and a decadent Billy Miner Pie dessert. Given the popularity of the restaurant, some reviewers suggest making a reservation in advance.
In terms of service, the staff is described as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, providing great customer service to guests. However, a few reviewers have noted that the service can be slow at times. Despite this, the overall impression of the service is positive, with staff going out of their way to make guests feel welcome and comfortable.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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5. BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
Brewhouse featuring housemade microbrews and inventive bar bites

BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse provides a enjoyable dining experience for many patrons. The menu features a variety of delicious dishes such as the tomato mozzarella salad, jambalaya, and brisket nachos. However, vegetarians who do not consume alcohol may find the offerings to be less satisfying.
A limited selection of vegetarian options and the focus on alcoholic beverages make it a mediocre choice for those with specific dietary preferences. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that the restaurant does offer massive baked-potatoes and is popular for its pizza, which keeps some customers returning despite the limitations.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
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6. Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill
Local craft beers, specialty cocktails, and games like giant Jenga

The lunch experience at this establishment was nothing short of fantastic. The service was prompt and friendly, with staff eager to ensure a great dining experience. The food offered a delicious variety, but the Fried Chicken Mac and Cheese stood out as a must-try. For those unable to dine in, delivery proved to be a convenient and equally satisfying option. The delivered food arrived hot and fresh, retaining the quality of the in-house experience.
The drink selection was equally impressive, with each beverage prepared to the same high standard as the food. The restaurant's commitment to providing top-notch meals and service, whether in-house or through delivery, demonstrates their dedication to customer satisfaction.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
7. Islands Restaurant Phoenix
Sustainable seafood, Pacific coast inspired dishes

Islands Restaurant in Phoenix provides a Hawaiian-inspired atmosphere, known for its great burgers, grilled chicken sandwiches, tacos, and bowls. The menu offers various options, such as ground turkey and vegetarian choices, as well as a notable Mai Tai. The restaurant is praised for its tasty and filling hamburgers and cheddar bacon fries, along with exceptional service, but there have been some reports of inconsistencies.
With many positive comments about their service, Islands Restaurant also offers delicious burgers and delicious, endless french fries. Their secret menu Chili Burger is a hit among patrons, and their happy hour features exceptional deals on Beachside Sliders and Island Fries. Along with their excellent cheddar fries, their sliders are a popular choice during the restaurant's happy hour.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
8. Pita Jungle
Mediterranean-inspired dishes, fresh ingredients, eco-friendly atmosphere

Pita Jungle - Desert Ridge is a restaurant that provides a wide range of options for various dietary preferences, including vegan, vegetarian, and meat-based dishes. The restaurant has a separate vegan menu, and one of the popular vegan choices is the Macro Platter. Overall, the food is reasonably priced, providing great value for money, except for the overpriced desserts.
During my visit to Pita Jungle - Desert Ridge, I found the staff to be friendly and attentive, contributing to a pleasant dining experience. The restaurant had a nice ambiance, despite being a bit noisy due to the lunchtime crowd. I personally enjoyed the chicken pita sandwich, which was flavorful and satisfying. Therefore, based on my experience, I would recommend Pita Jungle - Desert Ridge for those looking for a quality dining experience at reasonable prices.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
9. Kona Grill - Desert Ridge
Extensive culinary options, creative cocktails, and happy hour deals

I visited Kona Grill for dinner with my son, and we opted for the $39.95 per person special, which included two glasses of wine, a shared appetizer, entree, and dessert. Tonesha 'T' provided excellent service, making our dining experience enjoyable. The California roll appetizer was delicious, and my son enjoyed his poke bowl. Although my ribeye was just okay, I still think the special offer was a good deal, and the ambiance was nice. Overall, we had a decent time and plan to return.
However, my recent experience at Kona Grill was disappointing. The restaurant charges high prices, but the quality of the food does not match up. Two people in my group wanted ribeyes, but they were informed that there were no ribeyes, strips, or filets available, only waygu cuts. When I inquired about the prime rib, I was told there was none, which was unexpected since we dined at 5 pm. With limited options, it seemed like it would be a long evening.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
10. Mimi's Cafe
Known for its comfort food and French-inspired dishes

The disappointments continued as I perused the menu. Many items were unavailable, leaving me feeling limited in my choices. The restaurant's cleanliness also left much to be desired, especially in the restroom area. Worst of all, our birthday guest of honor was shockingly overlooked and ignored throughout the meal, adding further insult to injury. A deep clean and more attentive staff are clearly in order.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Suburban
11. Flower Child
Organic, locally sourced ingredients, vegan and vegetarian options

An Unforgettable Dining Experience at Flower Child Recently visited Flower Child and left feeling nothing but satisfied? Let us paint a vivid picture of your next experience. Imagine sinking your teeth into their renowned Indian cauliflower, a dish that's sure to leave you craving more. Although the prices may be a tad higher compared to street tacos, the unparalleled quality and health benefits make it a worthwhile investment. Revel in the inviting ambiance, friendly service, and top-notch food that warrants nothing less than five stars. So, why not treat your belly to a feast it won't forget? We can't wait for your return visit to Flower Child.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Suburban
12. Sizzle Korean Barbecue
Authentic Korean BBQ experience with high-quality meats

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
13. Café Zupas in Desert Ridge
High-quality ingredients, gourmet recipes, and made-to-order meals.

Café Zupas is known for providing delicious and high-quality food at a reasonable price. The staff is dedicated to providing excellent service, often going above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction. However, there may be some unconventional moments, such as cups being thrown or mix-ups in orders. Despite these rare occurrences, the overall experience of dining at Café Zupas is a positive one.
Café Zupas offers a variety of soup, salad, and sandwich options with a few unique twists. While the cheddar cauliflower soup was a bit chalky, the tomato basil soup was thick and full of flavor. However, the ultimate grilled cheese sandwich was disappointing and seemed more like a thinly pressed panini with minimal filling. The portion size of the combo meal also appeared small, leaving some customers feeling hungry after their meal.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- American Cuisine
- Suburban
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14. Tryst Cafe
Eco-conscious, uses local ingredients, and offers catering

Tryst Cafe, known for its organic, natural and gluten-free menu, serves a delicious trio of hummus. Enjoy traditional homemade cilantro and red pepper hummus, served with fresh pita and cucumbers. Tryst Cafe is located in Phoenix on Tatum Boulevard, just south of Deer Valley Road. trystcafe.com
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
15. Breakfast Kitchen Bar
Cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and free Wi-Fi.

The breakfast I had at this restaurant was absolutely delicious. The menu offered a wide variety of options, including a keto menu for those with dietary restrictions. I ordered the southwest eggs benedict, which was loaded with flavorful pulled pork. The coffee was strong and full-bodied, making it a great start to my day. I only wish I had a breakfast place like this in my own neighborhood.
The food and service at this restaurant were both outstanding. My dining companions and I tried the Bloody Mary's, which were excellent and came in a variety of flavors. There were plenty of options for vegetarians and those with other dietary needs. We even joined the waitlist before arriving and were seated in just 10 minutes on a busy Sunday morning. Our server, Sydni, provided exceptional service and went out of her way to accommodate my dietary restrictions with my Bloody Mary order.
TOPICS
- Holiday Celebrations
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
16. Sid's Garage
Features local ingredients, community-oriented garage theme

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Suburban
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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17. Backyard Desert Ridge
Beer and wine selection, happy hour specials, and televisions for sports

The music at the venue is excessively loud, with decibel levels surpassing Phoenix's sound ordinance. This issue negatively impacted the dining experience. However, the food served at the venue received mixed reviews, with one complaint being that it was only average.
TOPICS
- Affordable Nightlife
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
18. Tia Carmen
Upscale Mexican cuisine in a resort setting

Tia Carmen, a new restaurant by renowned chef Angelo Sosa, has recently opened at the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort + Spa. The restaurant offers a variety of dining options, including breakfast, lunch, sunset hour, and dinner. Tia Carmen boasts an extensive menu, showcasing Sosa's culinary talents and innovative dishes. Guests can enjoy a range of culinary delights, from traditional to contemporary Mexican cuisine, made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
The restaurant, located at 5350 E Marriott Dr in Phoenix, has been garnering rave reviews from diners and critics alike. The stylish and sophisticated atmosphere of Tia Carmen, coupled with the exceptional service and mouth-watering food, has made it a must-visit destination for food lovers in Phoenix. Patrons can complement their dining experience with Tia Carmen's impressive selection of wines, cocktails, and other beverages. Additionally, the restaurant offers stunning views, making it the perfect spot for special occasions and events.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Vegetarian Options
19. SFIZIO Modern Italian Kitchen
Modern Italian cuisine, sophisticated ambiance, outdoor seating

TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Vegetarian Options
20. MERITAGE - an urban tavern
Seasonal ingredients, local beers, and happy hour specials.

My husband and I visited a restaurant and ordered the Duck Steamed Buns to start. The Meatloaf was our main course, and it was a satisfying choice. The portion was generous, and the flavor was delightful. However, the service experiencing was disappointing. We waited for an extended period after being seated before our order was taken, which took approximately 50 minutes.
Regrettably, the waiting time did not end there. It took another two hours for our food to arrive, making the service extremely slow and unacceptable. Despite the tasty dishes, the slow service overshadowed our dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
21. Jin Jia in Desert Ridge
Modern setting, offers catering services, and has a rewards program for frequent customers.

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Chinese Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
22. Cook & Craft - High Street
Offers catering services and a variety of vegetarian options

Cook & Craft - High Street is a restaurant that provides a pleasant dining experience, known for its popular mac and cheese and well-cooked wings. The restaurant also offers a happy hour daily from 3:30 pm to 6:3
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Vegetarian Options
23. Spitz - Desert Ridge Restaurant and Bar
Authentic German cuisine and lively atmosphere

TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
24. twenty6

TOPICS
- Rooftop
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options