Things to Do
The East Valley is not just a place to live — it is a place to explore. From desert trails at sunrise to craft breweries at sunset, air-conditioned art galleries to shaded farmers markets, here is how to make the most of life on the Eastside.
Fall on the Eastside: The Best Time of Year
The desert has finally cooled, and this is the season East Valley locals live for. The playbook: mornings at the farmers markets, weekend afternoons at festivals like Gilbert Days and the Mesa Feastival, evenings at Canal Convergence on the Scottsdale Waterfront and Old Town patios, and the holiday light displays and markets that run from Thanksgiving through New Year’s.
Fall Evenings: The East Valley's Best-Kept Secret
The monsoon has wrapped and the desert is settling into its most glorious season: warm golden days, crisp evenings, and some of the best patio weather of the year. Locals pour into the Heritage District, Old Town Scottsdale, and downtown Chandler as fall events, festivals, and al fresco dining fill the calendar. It is the payoff for a long Arizona summer.
Trail & Park of the Week
Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch: Gilbert's Undiscovered Desert Wetland
A 110-acre desert wetland in Gilbert with seven ponds, 4.5+ miles of flat trails, and more than 300 recorded bird species. At its liveliest right now as fall migration peaks over the reeds, and free from open to close.
Kids & Teens This Week
Kids & Teens This Week: Storytime Grooves, Teen Labs, and a Little Eagle Business Fair
The Eastside settles into its comfiest stretch of November this week. Queen Creek's little entrepreneurs open their pop-up shops at the Dream Builders Children's Business Fair on Saturday, Mesa rolls out its beloved Downtown Farmers Market for an easy family morning, Gilbert keeps its evening family storytime groove going, and the libraries of Chandler, Mesa, Queen Creek, and Apache Junction run their full lineup of baby and toddler storytimes, after-school LEGO, cooking classes, homework clubs, and teen makerspace labs.
Free This Weekend
Free This Weekend: Pride in Chandler, Feastival Food Trucks in Mesa, and Back to the Future Under the Stars in Apache Junction
The second full November weekend on the Eastside stays at zero dollars: Pride in Chandler fills QuartHaus with music and vendors, Mesa pairs a food-truck Feastival with an ASU watch party downtown, Gilbert serves free BBQ samples and opens its observatory after dark, the Family Market returns to Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek, and Apache Junction screens Back to the Future under the stars.
Dining & Drinks
Heritage District (Gilbert)
The heart of Gilbert's food scene. Dozens of locally owned restaurants, breweries, and cafes along tree-lined streets. Try Culinary Dropout, Rosewood, or The Mission. The new Heritage Park development has added restaurants, a public square with water features, and fresh places to gather, with more concepts like Ghost Donkey and Blue Sushi Sake Grill continuing to debut.
Downtown Chandler
SanTan Brewing Company anchors a growing food and drink scene. The new George & Gather, Born and Bred pub, and Aristocrat Coffee have joined The Stillery and Craft 64. Downtown Chandler's walkable blocks make it easy to hop between spots.
Downtown Mesa Arts District
Cider Corps, Beer Research Institute, and Gus's Fried Chicken lead Mesa's emerging food scene. The expanded Mekong Plaza nearby now features Haidilao Hot Pot, Udon Shin, bb.q Chicken, and six more new Asian restaurants. Art galleries and live music add to the atmosphere.
Old Town Scottsdale
World-class dining from The Mission to FnB. First Friday art walks turn the entire district into a social event on the first Friday of every month. Summer evenings on the patio are peak East Valley living.
Outdoor Adventures
McDowell Sonoran Preserve (Scottsdale)
30,500 acres of pristine Sonoran Desert with over 225 miles of trails. The largest urban preserve in the United States. In summer, hit the trails at sunrise before the heat sets in — the Tom's Thumb trailhead is a local favorite for early morning hikes.
Usery Mountain Regional Park (Mesa)
3,648 acres of desert terrain at the base of the Usery Mountains. The Wind Cave Trail is a local favorite, and the park offers camping and archery ranges. Shaded picnic areas make it a great summer morning destination.
Riparian Preserve (Gilbert)
Over 100 acres of wetlands, trails, and bird observation areas. One of the best birding spots in the Valley, with over 200 species recorded. Best visited early morning in summer when the birds are most active and the temperatures are cooler.
Red Mountain Trail System (Mesa)
Over 20 miles of trails winding through the stunning Red Mountain Formation. Suitable for all skill levels with spectacular desert scenery. Summer tip: start before 6 a.m. and bring plenty of water — especially during monsoon season when afternoon storms can roll in fast.
Culture & Arts
Mesa Arts Center
The largest arts center in Arizona with four theaters, five galleries, and over 1,500 performances annually. World-class entertainment in a striking modern campus. Free gallery visits are a perfect air-conditioned summer outing — especially when a monsoon storm makes outdoor plans impossible.
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
A curated collection of contemporary art, architecture, and design in a converted movie theater in Old Town. Cool, quiet, and thought-provoking — ideal for a hot summer afternoon or a rainy monsoon day.
Chandler Museum
Explore Chandler's history from its agricultural roots to its modern identity. Rotating exhibits and educational programs for all ages. Free admission makes it an easy afternoon stop.
HD SOUTH (Gilbert)
Home of the Gilbert Museum, celebrating the town's history and heritage in a beautifully restored building in the Heritage District. Pair a visit with lunch at one of the nearby Heritage District restaurants.
Fall & Holiday Traditions
Gilbert Days
Gilbert's signature celebration (Nov 21-22): the parade rolls through the Heritage District Saturday morning, the free festival with live music and food runs 4-9 p.m. at Gilbert Regional Park, and the half marathon, 10K, and 5K fill the morning. Softball tournaments get things going Nov 14-15.
Canal Convergence
Scottsdale Arts' free light-art festival along the Scottsdale Waterfront closes Nov 14-15 with large illuminated installations, live performances, food trucks, and a beer and wine garden. One of the best free evenings of the year.
Holiday Light Displays
December turns the Eastside into a wonderland: Christmas on Comstock and Valor Christmas in Gilbert, the Foothills Festival of Lights on Chandler Boulevard, M&S Lights in Mesa, the Mesa Temple Christmas Lights, Pratt Brothers at Rawhide, and the Riparian After Dark trail at the Water Ranch. Most are free or donation-based, so bring the hot cocoa.
Holiday Markets & Trains
The Mesa Christmas Market (Dec 11-13) brings European-style stalls to downtown Mesa, Scottsdazzle kicks off in Old Town Nov 28, the Tumbleweed Tree Lighting glows Dec 5, Hazel Avenue's Gilbert Holiday Market fills Gilbert Regional Park Dec 6, and McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park in Scottsdale runs its holiday train nightly Nov 28-Dec 30. Holiday shopping and nostalgia in one trip.
Indoor Escapes and Cool Retreats
When the desert sizzles ora monsoon storm rolls through,the East Valley has no shortage of air-conditioned escapes. From world-class arts centers to dinosaur museums,these spots keep you cool while the summer heat still lingers,and they are welcome relief all year round.
Mesa Arts Center Galleries
Five galleries with rotating exhibitions — all free to visit. Arizona's largest arts center is fully air-conditioned and perfect for a long summer afternoon.
Arizona Museum of Natural History
Dinosaur exhibits, gold mining history, and a Southwest artifact collection. A favorite for families and an ideal air-conditioned summer outing for all ages.
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
Contemporary art, architecture, and design in a converted movie theater in Old Town. Cool, quiet, and thought-provoking — ideal for a hot summer afternoon.
Chandler Fashion Center
Over 180 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options in a premier shopping destination. An air-conditioned escape with something for everyone when the heat is relentless.
Public Library Summer Programs
All four cities run free summer reading programs and family events at their public libraries. Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, and Scottsdale libraries are fully air-conditioned and host story times, craft sessions, and teen activities all summer long.
Summer Movie Nights
Several East Valley cities host free outdoor movie screenings in parks during summer evenings. Gilbert, Chandler, and Mesa all schedule family-friendly films — bring a blanket and enjoy the post-sunset cool-down under the stars.
Where to Eat on the Eastside
The Eastside dining scene keeps evolving at a breakneck pace. Gilbert landed Bojangles' first Arizona location, Perry's Steakhouse, Mo' Bettahs, Maison William Porter bakery, Crust Simply Italian, Luna Grill, and the new Bottles & Boards wine bar, and the acclaimed Brazilian steakhouse Fogo de Chão opened its first Gilbert outpost. Chandler got the massive Seafood City food hall at Fashion Center, Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila, plus Bourbon Jim's, Brooker's Founding Flavors, Angry Crab Shack, Sazónova Taqueria, Blue Donkey Greats Greek, Chow's Ramen & Hibachi, ITLU Indian Vegetarian, and Belafia, and the beloved Instagram bakery Bad Honey just opened its brick-and-mortar shop in Rosewood. Mesa's expanded Mekong Plaza added Haidilao Hot Pot, Udon Shin, Kagawa Guys, and DZO BBQ, while Seattle Fish House, Ajo Al's, Alchemy Roast, Nadu (Michelin-recognized Indian), and Zeitouna Lebanese are new, and Il Forno Bello's wood-fired pies and a second Angry Crab Shack at Gilbert and McKellips landed this fall. Scottsdale welcomed Din Tai Fung, Il Bracco, BOA Steakhouse, Starfish Scottsdale, The Guest House, Sogno Toscano, Cielito rooftop, Vecina in McCormick Ranch, and Telefèric Barcelona at Fashion Square, and the hottest new tables of the season just landed: Kuza, a Japanese robata grill and raw bar in North Scottsdale, and Los Milic's Scottsdale Tasting Room pouring Arizona wines in Old Town. From shaded patios to air-conditioned escapes, these are the spots worth checking out right now. The newest wave keeps the story going: J. Alexander's, Miel de Agave,and Tandoori Pizza raised the bar in Chandler, Aftermath and The Mick Brasserie deepened Gilbert's chef-driven scene, Maeva brings a French tasting menu to Gilbert, Wolf by Vanderpump brought its skyline room to Caesars Republic Scottsdale,and Espiritu and the just-opened Stage 12 West restaurant and live music venue make downtown Mesa's Main Street a fresh destination. The Bonsai and Lucca Coastal Kitchen duo debuted at Downtown Ocotillo in Chandler earlier this year as well. Coming soon: Matt Carter's Dash eatery and market in Scottsdale and the EggBred breakfast brand in southeast Mesa. Queen Creek's The Switchyard is opening in phases with Postino, Shake Shack, Snooze, and Bamboo Sushi's first Arizona location, Gilbert welcomed The Crowned Egg for breakfast, and North Italia confirmed its first Chandler location for later this month.
Sotol Modern Cocktail Kitchen
A stylish new cocktail bar and kitchen at 313 N Gilbert Rd #301 in Gilbert. Modern American fare and craft cocktails from an acclaimed team. A sophisticated new addition to the Heritage District.
Bojangles
The North Carolina-based chain famous for Cajun-style fried chicken and scratch-made biscuits opened its first Arizona location at 3765 S. Val Vista Drive on July 20, 2026. This is the first of 20 planned Arizona locations. Sweet tea and perfectly crispy chicken have arrived on the Eastside.
Perry's Steakhouse & Grille
Award-winning Texas steakhouse now open at Northside at SanTan Village. Prime cuts, a legendary pork chop, and an extensive wine list — a major addition to Gilbert's dining scene.
Mo' Bettahs Hawaiian Style Food
The Hawaiian plate-lunch chain opened its first Arizona restaurant at 5378 S. Power Road in May 2026. Teriyaki chicken, kalua pig, katsu chicken, and shrimp tempura. A taste of the islands on the Eastside.
Fogo de Chão
The acclaimed Brazilian steakhouse opened its first Gilbert location, bringing its legendary endless churrasco experience with fire-roasted meats carved tableside, a gourmet market table, and a curated wine list. A major new date-night and celebration spot on the Eastside.
Maison William Porter
A French-inspired bakery in downtown Gilbert at 228 N. Gilbert Rd. Artisan breads, pastries, and croissants from chef William Porter, who studied pastry in France.
The Mission — Gilbert
Latin-inspired cuisine has arrived in Gilbert at Epicenter at Agritopia. Hand-crafted tableside guacamole, an extensive tequila list, and a stunning courtyard setting.
Rosewood
An upscale new dining concept in the Heritage District from the team behind Aftermath. Elevated American fare in a stylish downtown Gilbert setting.
Goldwater Brewing Co. — Gilbert Taproom
Gilbert's fourth Goldwater Brewing location just opened at 685 S. Gilbert Road. Award-winning craft beers, a welcoming taproom, and a great new hangout spot.
The Milkshake Factory
The beloved Pittsburgh-based milkshake and confectionery chain has expanded to Gilbert. Hand-dipped milkshakes, premium chocolates, and old-fashioned sweets.
Crust Simply Italian
A new Italian spot in Gilbert serving hand-tossed pizzas, house-made pasta, and classic Italian dishes. Part of the latest wave of exciting new restaurants on the Eastside.
Luna Grill
The California-based Mediterranean fast-casual chain opened its second Arizona location in Gilbert. Fresh, healthy Mediterranean fare including grilled kebabs, hummus, bowls, and salads.
Starfish Scottsdale
An Orange County-based coastal Asian restaurant that opened its first Arizona location at McCormick Ranch in spring 2026. Fresh seafood, sushi, and Asian-inspired dishes in an elegant, tropical-modern setting. A stylish new dining destination on the Eastside.
Seafood City
A massive 65,000 sq. ft. Filipino supermarket and food hall that just opened at Chandler Fashion Center (former Sears space). Seven restaurant concepts serving Pan-Asian dishes, bakery treats, and street foods. One of the summer's most exciting food destinations.
George & Gather
A charming all-day New American restaurant, bar, and market that opened in downtown Chandler in early 2025. Scratch kitchen, fresh pastries, specialty sandwiches, and excellent coffee.
Moka & Co.
A Yemeni coffee shop that opened its second Valley location in downtown Chandler at 58 W. Buffalo St. in May 2026. Rich Yemeni coffee, specialty lattes, and authentic pastries in a warm, inviting space.
Bourbon Jim's
A neighborhood bar that opened in June 2026 at 5945 W. Ray Road featuring 15 big screen TVs, bourbon and beer options, and a small food menu. A great new hangout spot in Chandler.
Brooker's Founding Flavors
A Utah-based Founding Fathers-themed ice cream shop that made its Arizona debut at 2560 W. Chandler Blvd. Themed ice cream scoops served by staff in period costumes. A fun summer treat.
Angry Crab Shack
Build-your-own seafood boils, catfish baskets, lobster rolls, and more now open at 3033 S. Gilbert Road in Chandler. A new spot for Cajun-inspired seafood.
Belafia
A rebranded and refreshed spot at 3245 W. Ray Road serving boba drinks, artisanal ice cream, gourmet sandwiches, and Indian specialties. A fun multi-cuisine option for any craving.
ITLU Indian Vegetarian
A new Indian vegetarian restaurant at 1890 W. Germann Road in Chandler serving dosa, curries, biryani, and fresh naan. A flavorful addition to Chandler's diverse dining scene.
Blue Donkey Greats Greek
A fresh new Greek restaurant at 3120 S. Gilbert Road in Chandler. Gyros, souvlaki, spanakopita, and classic Greek specialties in a bright, welcoming space. Family-owned and already a local favorite.
Sazónova Taqueria
A new taqueria in Chandler serving authentic Mexican street food. Tacos, burritos, and tortas made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes.
Chow's Ramen & Hibachi
A second location of this popular ramen and hibachi spot, now open in Chandler. Rich tonkotsu broths, sizzling hibachi plates, and Japanese comfort food.
DZO BBQ
Vietnamese BBQ with tabletop grilling at 4503 S. Power Road in Mesa. A unique interactive dining experience where you cook your own marinated meats, seafood, and vegetables at the table. A flavorful and fun new addition to Mesa's dining scene.
Ajo Al's
Authentic Mexican cuisine at 2336 E. Baseline Road in Mesa. A popular local chain serving classic Mexican plates, fresh tacos, and signature margaritas. A welcome new Mesa outpost.
Haidilao Hot Pot
The world-famous Chinese hot pot chain is now open at the expanded Mekong Plaza. Known for extraordinary service and a theatrical dining experience — noodles, broths, and tableside flair.
Udon Shin
The first U.S. location of the renowned Tokyo noodle restaurant at Mekong Plaza (138 S. Dobson Rd.). Known for its viral carbonara udon, crispy tempura, and authentic hand-made fresh udon noodles.
Seattle Fish House
A husband-and-wife-run seafood spot that opened at 4419 E. Main St. in Mesa in June 2026. Pacific Northwest-style fish and chips with pollock, salmon, or clam strips, plus fish tacos and seafood chowder.
Kagawa Guys
A sister concept to Phoenix's Ramen Kagawa that opened at 2121 W. Guadalupe Rd., Suite 6 in Mesa. Specializes in omurice (Japanese omelette rice), wagyu hamburg steaks, and tonkotsu-style ramen.
Alchemy Roast
A new brick-and-mortar coffee shop in Mesa after serving at local farmers markets. Artisan roasts, pour-overs, and a cozy atmosphere perfect for a morning work session or afternoon break.
Angie's
A new restaurant in Mesa generating buzz for its creative menu and warm atmosphere. A welcome addition to the East Valley dining scene that locals are already raving about.
Nadu
A Michelin-recognized Indian restaurant from acclaimed chef Sujan Sarkar that opened at Desert Ridge Marketplace in June 2026. Modern Indian cuisine in an elegant, art-filled setting.
Sablé Boulangerie
A charming French bakery that opened in Mesa in May 2026. Fresh-baked croissants, baguettes, and delicate pastries — a perfect morning stop.
Pinnacle Beer Company
The Scottsdale-based brewery opened a second taproom and kitchen in downtown Mesa in spring 2026. Great craft beer and elevated pub fare in the growing arts district.
Din Tai Fung
The world-famous Michelin-starred dumpling house opened its first Arizona location at Scottsdale Fashion Square in April 2026. Signature soup dumplings, hand-pulled noodles, and xiao long bao. Expect a wait — and worth every minute.
Vecina — Now Open in McCormick Ranch
The acclaimed James Beard semifinalist Latin-inspired restaurant opened its second location in McCormick Ranch (8300 Hayden Road) in late August 2026. Expanded menu with lunch, brunch, happy hour, and a lakeside patio. Now open and welcoming guests.
BOA Steakhouse
Innovative Dining Group's award-winning modern steakhouse opened at Scottsdale Waterfront (Southbridge) in 2026. Waterfront views, premium beef cuts, and an upscale dining experience.
Il Bracco
A Texas-based neighborhood Italian restaurant that opened its first Arizona location in North Scottsdale in March 2026. Handmade pasta, Neapolitan pizza, and a curated wine list in a warm setting.
Sogno Toscano
An authentic Tuscan Italian restaurant bringing the flavors of Tuscany to Scottsdale. House-made pastas, wood-fired dishes, and an extensive Italian wine list in a warm, rustic-chic setting.
The Guest House Scottsdale
Elevated New American cuisine in Scottsdale Quarter featuring a standout Wagyu steak program, craft cocktails, and an elegant dining room. A sophisticated new addition to the Eastside dining scene.
Cielito Rooftop Restaurant
A stunning rooftop dining experience at 7117 E 3rd Ave atop the AC Hotel Scottsdale Old Town. Latin-inspired cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and panoramic views of Old Town and the McDowell Mountains.
Cien Agaves Tacos & Tequila
A new Chandler location of this popular Mexican restaurant now open at 900 N 54th St. Tacos, margaritas, agave spirits, and a lively atmosphere in Chandler.
Bottles & Boards Wine Bar
A new wine bar at 1525 N Gilbert Rd featuring an eclectic selection of wines, craft beers, and small plates. A warm neighborhood spot perfect for an evening out in Gilbert.
Zeitouna Lebanese Restaurant
A new Lebanese restaurant at East Gate Plaza in Mesa serving authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Falafel, shawarma, hummus, and traditional Lebanese specialties in a welcoming setting.
Wetzel's Pretzels
The beloved California-based soft pretzel chain landed its first Mesa outpost in late summer 2026. Fresh-baked pretzels, cheese sauce,dips,and sweet bites make a perfect mall treat after a day of Mesa exploring.
Din Tai Fung (Coming Soon to Chandler)
The world-famous Michelin-starred dumpling house has been confirmed with a second East Valley location in Chandler. Alongside its Scottsdale Fashion Square flagship, this will bring signature soup dumplings and hand-pulled noodles to another Eastside city.
Wayward
A brand-new restaurant and bar taking over the former Liquor Pig space in Old Town Scottsdale. A stylish new reason to explore the neighborhood's dining scene.
Ni Hao Bao
A new restaurant on North Shea Boulevard in Scottsdale, the latest addition to the North Scottsdale dining scene.
Aftermath Bar & Kitchen
The acclaimed Phoenix cocktail bar and kitchen opened its second Valley location in the Heritage District in early 2026. Inventive drinks, sharable plates,and a stylishly relaxed room in the heart of downtown Gilbert.
The Mick Brasserie
A contemporary French brasserie that opened its second Valley location in Gilbert in early 2026. Steak frites, duck,and refined bistro classics in a warm neighborhood setting.
J. Alexander's at SanTan Village
The American steakhouse and seafood mainstay announced its November opening near SanTan Village Parkway in Gilbert. Prime steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list make it a polished new option for date night.
Miel de Agave
A modern Mexican dining room and cocktail bar at the Shops on Frye in downtown Chandler. Elevated twists on classics, agave spirits,and a lively evening scene.
Tandoori Pizza
The California-based Indian pizza chain made its Arizona debut in Chandler. Naan-crust pizzas topped with tandoori chicken, paneer,and classic Indian flavors make for a playful, share-worthy fusion stop.
Bonsai & Lucca Coastal Kitchen
The first new dining concepts at Downtown Ocotillo opened in spring 2026,with sushi and teriyaki bowls at Bonsai alongside Peruvian-inspired coastal fare at Lucca.
Espiritu
Chiwas Hospitality Group doubled the size of this intimate downtown Mesa bar and restaurant at123 W Main St. An ambitious menu and crafted cocktails fill a warm, art-filled space that made it one of the most anticipated Mesa openings of the year.
Main Street Market
A Local First Arizona project incubating seven food concepts along Main Street near the corner of Main and MacDonald in downtown Mesa. Opening soon, watch for the big day.
Stage 12 West
A brand-new restaurant and live entertainment venue on Main Street in downtown Mesa, opened October 2, 2026. Live music, elevated pub fare, and a fresh reason to spend an evening in the Arts District.
Wolf by Vanderpump
Elevated takes on comfort food opened mid-2026 on the 7th floor of Caesars Republic Scottsdale. Small-plate sharing, crafted cocktails,and skyline views.
Élephante
A Mediterranean concept slated for Scottsdale Fashion Square,adding another feather to the center's red-hot dining lineup. Watch for an opening date announcement.
Bombay House
The popular Indian restaurant from Tempe opened its second Valley location in Gilbert. Curries, tandoori, biryani,and fresh naan from a local favorite make the move to the Eastside.
Jing
An upscale Asian concept from the team behind acclaimed Aspen, Denver,and Las Vegas restaurants now calls Chandler home. Sushi, shareable plates,and an elegant dining room make it a polished new date-night option.
Pho J&N
A new Vietnamese restaurant in west Chandler serving steaming bowls of pho, banh mi,and traditional Vietnamese favorites in a warm, family-run setting.
The Henry
A polished neighborhood cafe and all-day restaurant from Fox Restaurant Concepts at the Loop 101 and Scottsdale Road. Great coffee, warm hospitality,and patio seating with desert views.
Desert Orchard
A garden-driven restaurant at Four Seasons Scottsdale at Troon North, opened earlier this year. Arizona-grown produce, seasonal plates,anda stunning desert-garden setting.
East Gate Plaza Openings
The big new southeast Mesa development at East Gate Plaza keeps filling: Starbucks, Einstein Bros, Bagels, WingSnob, Senor Taco, Farmer Boys, Zeitouna, Fresh Monkee, Port of Subs, Ono Hawaiian BBQ, Playa Bowls,and Kolache Cafe all landed there this past year, giving Mesa residents a growing roster of convenient new eats.
Kuza
A Japanese robata grill, raw bar, and craft cocktail lounge from Clive Collective that opened in North Scottsdale in September 2026. Live-fire robata skewers, fresh sashimi, and an intimate modern room make it one of the season's most anticipated new tables.
Los Milic's Scottsdale Tasting Room
This Arizona wine tasting room opened in Old Town Scottsdale in late September 2026, pouring locally crafted wines with a sharing menu and two patios. A relaxed new way to taste Arizona terroir on the Eastside.
Dash (Coming Soon)
Chef Matt Carter's new eatery and market is on the way to Scottsdale, promising a polished all-day menu alongside a grab-and-go market. Watch for the opening announcement.
EggBred (Coming Soon)
The California breakfast brand is bringing its egg-heavy, bakery-forward morning menu to southeast Mesa near Elliot and Ellsworth. A welcome new reason for breakfast lovers to cross town.
Bad Honey
The popular Instagram bakery opened its brick-and-mortar shop in Chandler's Rosewood in September 2026. Whimsical cakes, pastries, and sweet treats from a bakery with a devoted local following.
Il Forno Bello
A wood-fired pizzeria in Mesa from a Pizzeria Bianco veteran, newly open this fall. Blistered crusts, classic Italian pies, and a warm neighborhood room make it one of the season's most talked-about Mesa openings.
Angry Crab Shack: North Mesa
The Cajun-inspired seafood chain opened its 19th Valley location at Gilbert and McKellips in north Mesa. Build-your-own seafood boils, catfish baskets, and lobster rolls in a lively, hands-on setting.
Maeva
A French tasting-menu restaurant at 50 W. Vaughan Ave. in Gilbert, serving an intimate multi-course experience. A polished new addition to Gilbert's chef-driven dining scene.
Telefèric Barcelona
The acclaimed Spanish tapas and pinxtos restaurant opened at Scottsdale Fashion Square, bringing its lively Barcelona-style dining room, sangria, and shareable small plates to the Eastside.
The Crowned Egg
The beloved Valley breakfast and lunch spot opened its second location at 911 S. Lindsay Rd, Suite B106 in Gilbert. Signature breakfast sandwiches, loaded tots, and a cheerful all-morning energy.
North Italia
The popular Italian kitchen confirmed its first Chandler location in west Chandler, with an opening announced for October 2026. Handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and seasonal Italian plates.
The Switchyard at Queen Creek
The big new mixed-use district at Ellsworth and Ocotillo is opening in phases, bringing Postino, Shake Shack, Snooze an A.M. Eatery, The Porch, and Bamboo Sushi, the Portland chain's first Arizona location, plus local shops and services to Queen Creek.
Alma at The Citadel
A new North Scottsdale restaurant at The Citadel, part of the wave of fall openings redefining North Scottsdale dining. Watch for the opening announcement.
Tap N Taco
The New Mexico street-taco-and-beer brand opened its first Arizona location on October 12 at 141 S Arizona Ave in downtown Chandler, in the former Serrano's space. A fresh, quick stop for tacos and cold beer on the walkable downtown strip.
Quiriego Cocina Rustica
Sonoran cuisine from Hermosillo with wood-fired cooking opened at 17007 N Scottsdale Rd in October 2026. One of the most talked-about new tables on the North Scottsdale dining scene this fall.
Cowboy Seafood
Chef Christopher Collins brings fresh seafood to the East Valley with Cowboy Seafood in Queen Creek, opened October 9, 2026. One of the most buzzed-about new plates on the Eastside, worth the drive for seafood lovers.
Clare House Social (Coming Soon)
A late-November opening from the Prep & Pastry team, built around the historic Clare House at 309 N Gilbert Rd in the Heritage District. The most anticipated restaurant arrival in downtown Gilbert this fall.
Salad and Go Comeback
The drive-through salad chain returns under new ownership, reopening its Gilbert location at 3299 E Williams Field Rd the first week of November, with the Mesa store at 1040 W Southern Ave to follow. Fast, affordable salads are back on the Eastside.
Local Coffee Spots
Good coffee is the backbone of any great morning. These are some of the local spots worth waking up for — especially now that fall has returned and the early hours are crisp and perfect for a patio cup. During monsoon season, a coffee shop is the perfect shelter when a surprise afternoon storm rolls in.
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