High-quality grub plus spectacular beverage programs make these North Phoenix restaurants worth the drive from anywhere in the Valley.
- Aftermath
In a neighborhood bursting with neighborhood restaurants, Aftermath offers a casual but sophisticated setting for wildly creative New American eats, including big, satisfying entrées such as harissa-glazed short ribs.
1534 E. Bethany Home Rd., 602-607-5240, aftermathphoenix.com - Lovecraft Ale House
Two things to love here: a food menu marrying spicy New Mexico cuisine and smoky Texas barbecue, and an outstanding craft beverage program including 24 beers on tap, cocktails, wine, mead, cider and more.
3128 E. Cactus Rd., 602-237-5046, lovecraftphx.com - Rusconi’s American Kitchen
From talented chef Michael Rusconi comes a snug and unpretentious home-away-from-home. it’s not uncommon for him to launch into tableside explanations of gastronomic technique over breakfast, lunch and dinner. Try the curried rack of lamb and luscious Durham Ranch buffalo sirloin with pungent, wholesome apple-blue cheese.
10637 N. Tatum Blvd., 480-483-0009, rusconiskitchen.com
