What is your Best New Restaurant?
“I’ve always groused about the Valley’s lack of Indonesian and Burmese food, so pan-Asian dining palace Kembara had my number from the get-go. Not exactly a ‘mom-and-pop,’ but boy is that rendang terrific.”
— Craig Outhier, editor
“I am also obsessed with Kembara! The noodles, dumplings, chili crab and doughnuts are to die for. I also loved the food and cocktails at Huarachis, so I was happy to see both make this year’s list.”
— Leah LeMoine, managing editor
“Mine is technically a BNB (Best New Bar), but between the house-made chips and dips, charcuterie board and seafood selections, you could make a mighty fine meal at Tell Your Friends. Exquisite mocktails, too.”
— Madison Rutherford, associate editor
“Living in downtown Glendale, there’s no shortage of Mexican cuisine. So when El Camarón Gigante Mariscos & Steakhouse opened, I didn’t think much about it until we moseyed on in for some margaritas and, well, mariscos. The experience hit all the marks – delicious, friendly, festive, clean, affordable and walkable. We were pleasantly surprised and will be going back soon!”
— Mirelle Inglefield, art director
“Glad we have chef Michael Mahalick in the West Valley. He put us on the map for speakeasies! Everything at Barley & Smoke is phenomenal. The 6-oz. ribeye comes with wild mushrooms, smoked demi and the best horseradish potatoes. The bao buns with house-made hoisin are truly one of a kind! No wonder why it made the BNR list. My runner-up is Pyro. This place is beautiful and the food is incredible. I loved the lamb chops, Ibérico pork skewers and the spicy tuna!”
— Angelina Aragon, managing art director
