Phoenix knows food. Behind closed doors, the city has been slowly growing into a foodie's paradise. Like usual, Phoenix went its own way with food; instead of relying on tired French cuisine, Phoenix kept the Arizona food culture alive with home-cooked vibes. From BBQ and Tex-Mex to Chicken and Waffles, Phoenix has spawned a food culture that personifies comfort. With a food selection that is everything that modern food culture isn't, Phoenix is morphing into a legendary eatery. Don't expect small portions, plated masterpieces with pink flowers, or overpriced appetizers posing as entrees; Phoenix is pushing back against shows like the Chef's Table by relying on what's most important, the taste. Here is our pick for the top places to eat in Phoenix, Arizona.

BBQ

When people think of Phoenix BBQ, they expect smoke pits, white napkins tossed on a plate, and an authentic eatery set to the backdrop of a barn. Bobby-Q personifies this and more, with their authentic BBQ and interesting choice of sides. Can anything beat juicy slow cooked pork sandwiches smothered in sweet BBQ paired with bread and pecan coleslaw? Probably not. Even though Bobby-Q stacks the awards up, it hasn't changed their vibe or prices. Make no mistake, this is barbeque at its finest.

What would we get?

You can go for the classics like ribs, pulled pork, or brisket; that's more of a personal choice. We suggest, however, that you start an order of Cajun shrimp. Seafood may seem like a secondary option in a place known for slabs of pork and beef, but make no mistake, these Cajun rubbed spice machines will become the star of the meal. 

Location: 8501 N 27th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85051

Bobby-Q Website:  http://bobbyq.net/

Bobby-Q Telephone Number:  (602) 995-5982

Chicken and Waffles

Crispy breaded chicken on a bed of fluffy syrup-drowned waffles has deep ties to the South. It's a little surprising that Phoenix is home to one of the world's best chicken and waffle joints aptly named Lo-Lo's Chicken & Waffles. If you live in Phoenix, you know Lo-Lo's. It seems to be a spot that's central to antics and vibrancy of the Phoenix nightlife. But, if you aren't local, it probably seems strange to find a little soul food haven in the middle of the desert, but at Lo-Lo's that's exactly what you're going to get. 

What would we get?

Chicken and Waffles of course! Lo-Lo's (the dish's name) golden crisp battered chicken smothered in maple syrup on a bed of airy waffles is as close to heaven as it's possible to get.

Location: 1220 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003

Lo-Lo's Website:  http://loloschickenandwaffles.com/

Lo-Lo's Telephone Number:  (602) 340-1304  

Mexican Food

We prefer our Mexican food simple. No fancy place settings with 17 cheese dips and American spins on burritos that end up as arm-sized chicken tubes. Don't get us wrong, Chipotle has it's placed, but it's nothing to Rito's. Rito's is a staple in Arizona for a reason. It's just plain good. Don't expect to be taken to another land filled with decadence here; instead expect to be blown away by all of the traditional flavors. You may think it's like every other Mexican restaurant until you take a bite.

What would we get?

Try the guacamole tostada. It may seem like a simple dish, but perfectly salted and peppered avocado on a crispy corn tortilla never seems to disappoint. We would say try their salsa, but that's not really necessary since they will throw it on your table anyway.

Location: 907 N 14th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006

Rito's Website:  http://www.ritosmexicanfood.com/

Rito's Telephone Number:  (602) 262-9842

If you are out eating some delicious barbeque and decide that you want to make a career change, or just need more money to spend on all of that delicious Cajun shrimp,  contact us  about a potential career as a contractor.