phoenixnewtimes.com Nov. 27th - Dec. 3rd, 2025 N E W T I M E S H O L I D AY G U I D E 21 Treat Your Guests to the Best of Phoenix® ‘Tis the season for twinkling lights, cozy nights, and out-of-town guests wondering what to do in Phoenix. Whether you’re playing tour guide for the in-laws, your college besties, or that cousin who “doesn’t do winter,” we’ve got you covered. These Best of Phoenix® winners serve up everything from early morning bites to savory dinner eats, so you can spend less time stressing and more time showing off the magic of the Valley. Even if your holiday plans don’t include hosting visitors, you’ll still want to be sure to check out these award-winning spots this holiday season. Best Restaurant: The Ends Impress your guests with an unforgettable dining experience at The Ends, our 2025 pick for Best Restaurant. Located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, The Ends offers a globally inspired menu rooted in bold flavors, clean ingredients, and high culinary standards. More than just a meal, dining at The Ends is a journey shaped by the spirit of Anthony Bourdain, whose curiosity, respect for culture, and passion for food continue to inspire the space. Every dish reflects that philosophy, delivering layered, thoughtful flavors and the kind of attention to detail that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re entertaining adventurous eaters or simply want to share something exceptional, The Ends is the place to make a statement and a memory. Best Pastries: JL Patisserie Whether you’re hosting out-of-towners or staying in town solo, Best of Phoenix® Winner and 2023 James Beard Award semi-finalist JL Patisserie deserves a top spot on your must-visit list this season. Beloved by Phoenix locals, this high-end French pastry shop has recently gained national attention after an unwarranted negative review from a social media influencer led to an outpouring of community support both online and in-store. Even TikTok star, Keith Lee, made the trip to the Valley to support the bakery and try their offerings, awarding JL Patisserie’s Black Sesame Strawberry Cruffin a rare 10/10 on the Keith Lee scale. From artisan breads and delicate pastries to stunning cakes, everything is handmade in-house with premium ingredients. Stop by this holiday season and see what all the buzz is about for yourself. Best Authentic Arizona Restaurant: Fry Bread House Give your guests a true taste of Arizona with a stop at Fry Bread House, the Valley’s beloved destination for authentic Native cuisine. Our pick for “Best Authentic Arizona Restaurant” and a James Beard award winner, this Phoenix staple has been serving traditional Tohono O’odham dishes since 1992. The late founder, Cecelia Miller, built the menu as a heartfelt tribute to her heritage, blending flavors from the Tohono O’odham’s ancestral lands that stretch across the U.S.–Mexico border. Today, Fry Bread House continues to honor that legacy, dishing out hearty stews, crave-worthy fry bread tacos, and sweet fry bread treats that keep locals and visitors coming back. Fry Bread House has received national recognition over the years, including a feature on the hit Food Network show ‘Diners, Drive-ins and Dives’, but the real magic is in sharing this rich culinary tradition with loved ones. It’s comfort food with deep cultural roots and the perfect way to warm up a holiday weekend. Best Actual Hidden Gem: Dick’s Hideaway Hidden in plain sight, Dick’s Hideaway may be easy to miss from the
