19 Aug 29th-Sept 4th, 2024 phoenixnewtimes.com PHOENIX NEW TIMES | NEWS | FEATURE | FOOD & DRINK | ARTS & CULTURE | MUSIC | CONCERTS | CANNABIS | Campus Chow The 10 best restaurants near ASU’s campus in Tempe. BY PHOENIX NEW TIMES WRITERS E ach year, Tempe welcomes thousands of college students back into the fold. And though we’re sure the studious lot will be spending the majority of their time hitting the books at Hayden Library, inevitably, they’ll also need to eat. The Memorial Union and the dining halls are perfectly viable options, but we just want to make sure Arizona State University’s students know their surrounding neighborhood has lots of other dining options to offer. Here are the 10 best spots to grab a bite near ASU’s Tempe campus. Cafe Lalibela 849 W. University Drive, Tempe If you’ve never had Ethiopian food, get your fingers ready for a pretty fun dining experience. At Cafe Lalibela, on University Drive east of Hardy Road, diners dig into traditional Ethiopian stews with their fingers, because that’s the custom. Scoop up mouthfuls of beef, lamb or veggies with spongy injera bread, and wash it all down with Ethiopian coffees, teas, wines and beers. Don’t forget to bring a friend or two; it makes the whole experience that much more fun. Casey Moore’s Oyster House 850 S. Ash Ave., Tempe Those new to the Valley might question the concept of an oyster house in Tempe. But trust us, this longstanding local spot knows its way around some seafood. The oysters come raw, Rockefeller style or made into shooters. Not down to slurp up your dinner? Try the equally delicious fish and chips or fried shrimp. Other favorites include the giant and saucy wings and the French onion soup, perfect for sipping on a cool evening on the patio. The kitchen also serves a separate, entirely vegan menu. Casey Moore’s checks a lot of boxes, as it’s a dive bar, a seafood restaurant and a casual student hangout all in one. Find a seat by the pond outside or in the neon-lit bar at this Tempe classic. The Chuckbox 202 E. University Drive, Tempe The Chuckbox is older than nearly anything else in Tempe and does one thing quite well: charcoal-grilled burgers. For decades, students have been able to step off campus (but just barely) and into this rustic little cabin for an affordable burger unlike any you’ll find elsewhere in the Valley. There’s no flat top here, just the open flames of a mesquite charcoal grill that, when combined with the special secret spices, makes for one great lunch. Be sure to bring some hand money, as this place is cash only. Curry Corner 1212 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe Located on Apache Boulevard a few blocks west of campus, this popular, family- owned eatery offers flavorful Indian and Pakistani food. Many of the dishes at Curry Corner are vegetarian, but the casual restaurant still delivers on meatier options like garlic goat served with tomatoes and onions, kebabs and wings. Start with a mountain of Tikka Masala Fries and then dig into a Thali. These platters come with a little of everything, allowing newcomers to try a selection of the menu. After your first visit to Curry Corner, you’ll likely find yourself becoming a regular Haji Baba 1513 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe Stop by Haji Baba if you’re looking for some groceries, to grab takeout or to enjoy a sit-down meal. This multi-purpose culinary destination is a Tempe staple. If you’ve got time to sit and stay awhile, start with a plate of hummus to share. The creamy, tahini-laden spread is garnished with olives, pickles and olive oil and served with fluffy pita bread. Next, dig into the classic Chicken Shawarma plate or taste the tender lamb Shish Kabab. If you’re grabbing lunch to go, enjoy these juicy options wrapped up in a pita sandwich. Stop by the market on your way out to stock up on tea, snacks and spices. Harlow’s Cafe 1021 W. University Drive, Tempe Step back in time with this Tempe brunch spot. Have an early morning start or need to recover from a late night out? Harlow’s cozy booths and wood paneling are comforting and the kitchen’s giant plates are sure to make you feel better. Pick between four different football-sized burritos and a dozen varieties of breakfast plates with varying combinations of eggs, ham, sausages, bacon, potatoes, toast and more. No one leaves Harlow’s hungry. Make sure to check out the daily specials and peruse the cocktail menu as well. This old-school brunch spot is filled with everyone from retirees to undergrads fuelling up for the day. Kuka Sushi & Izakaya 1221 E. Apache Blvd. #103, Tempe Whether planning a date night or a fun dinner with friends, Kuka Sushi &Izakaya is a great option for fresh Japanese food. Located on the ground floor of Left: The Chuckbox is a staple of Tempe. Right: Perfect Pear Bistro serves tasty dishes made with fresh and healthy ingredients. (Photos by Jacob Tyler Dunn and Perfect Pear Bistro) ▼ Food & Drink Chopping Block Barrett-Jackson adds culinary competition to fall auction lineup. BY MIKE MADRIAGA B arrett-Jackson, the iconic car auction company, is gearing up for an exciting new competition. The 2024 Scottsdale Fall Auction will be held from Oct. 10 to 13 at WestWorld of Scottsdale. For the first time this October, Barrett-Jackson is collabo- rating with the World Food Championships to host the Southwest Chef Showdown. This unique fusion of car culture and culinary arts is set to ignite passions for dream cars and gourmet flavors. The heat is on for 30 chefs, ranging from home-based cooks to seasoned professionals from metro Phoenix and beyond, as they will compete in a series of kitchen challenges during the four- day auction. An arena with two kitchen setups will be staged in the Exhibitor Marketplace near the main auction pavilion. Throughout the event, 15 head-to- head, timed chef battles will unfold, offering entertainment and the opportu- nity for 15 lucky attendees to become guest judges. The judges will select one winner from each match, with 15 chefs earning their spot at the World Food Championships. The international event is in its 12th year and will be held in Indianapolis this November. The chefs will compete for a $10,000 prize in their category and a $150,000 bonus. Phoenix chefs gear up to compete Two of the 30 contestants are already gearing up for the competition. Phoenix pitmaster Phil Johnson is ready to showcase his skills. Known for >> p 20 >> p 22 2015 World Food Championship highlight. (Photo by World Food Championship)
