This guide explores 10 of the best restaurants in Glendale based on food, atmosphere, and popularity with both locals and visitors. Whether you’re looking for a special occasion dinner or a low-key lunch spot, these top-rated establishments are sure to satisfy your appetite.
T. Cook’s at the Camby
T. Cook’s at the Camby is a must-visit for any steak lover. Located inside the luxurious Camby hotel, the elegant dining room has an upscale yet casual vibe perfect for a nice dinner. Chef Ted Cook is renowned for his perfectly aged and superbly prepared steaks, served simply with chef’s sides like blue cheese whipped potatoes or grilled asparagus.
For those not in the mood for red meat, the seared tuna with heirloom tomatoes and quinoa salad offers a delicious plant-based alternative. Desserts like hot brownie sundaes satisfy any lingering sweet tooth. With attentive yet unintrusive service and an extensive wine list, T. Cook’s at the Camby provides an indulgent steakhouse experience worth the price.
The Gladly
The Gladly oozes a laidback neighborhood charm befitting its historic buildings. Formerly known as the Golden Mall, this revitalized shopping center now houses a collection of locally-owned boutiques and eateries. As one of the most popular spots, The Gladly earns high praise for its seasonal menu focused on globally-inspired small plates and craft cocktails.
On sunny days, dine al fresco on the front patio enjoying items like truffle mushroom flatbread, crispy brussels sprouts, and salmon avocado toast washed down with fun cocktails made with herbs from their own rooftop garden. The warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect place to while away an afternoon or evening chatting with friends over shareable dishes and drinks.
Pomo Pizzeria
Authentic Neapolitan-style pies are the star at family-run Pomo Pizzeria. Housed in a casual space decorated with vintage film posters, this hip pizza joint sources high-quality ingredients from Italy and the Valley to craft signature menu items.
Must-tries include the Margherita, topped simply with San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and torn basil leaves, as well as the breakfast pizza piled with potatoes, pancetta, and poached eggs. Get there early, as lines tend to form during peak lunch and dinner hours. If you want to guarantee a table, place an order for takeout or delivery on their user-friendly website. With crisp, cheesy pies and inviting ambiance, Pomo satisfies pizza cravings better than the big chains.
Pita Jungle
Craving healthy Mediterranean fare? Look no further than Pita Jungle, a staple in the Valley since the ’80s. Its inviting interior decorated with colorful mosaics makes diners feel like they’ve stepped into Istanbul. Start with tabbouleh, hummus, or baba ghanoush for dipping warm pita bread, or share mezze-style appetizers like kebabs or falafel.
Signature sandwiches are easily customized by selecting your choice of grilled proteins including chicken, beef, and lamb to be piled high and rolled inside whole wheat or spinach pitas with fresh toppings. Entrees like gyro platters, shawarma bowls, and Greek salads satisfy with balanced, filling combinations of grains, veggies, and proteins. Pita Jungle’s commitment to fresh, healthy ingredients has kept locals and visitors alike loyal for decades.
Kai Restaurant
Kai celebrates the diverse regional cuisines of Native America through thoughtful, locally-sourced dishes. Contemporary preparations showcase ingredients like southwestern game, Arizona grown produce, and microgreens from their rooftop garden. The space itself reflects Native traditions through earthy materials, pottery artwork, and cultural touches like hanging dreamcatchers.
Start with shareable small plates like elk skewers glazed with cherry barbecue sauce or raw oysters with cilantro mignonette. Entrees shine a spotlight on native ingredients through presentations like grilled quail over cornbread with chili jam or scallops paired with corn succotash and smoked corn sauce. Paired with craft cocktails and beers highlighting Native American brewers and distillers, Kai provides a unique culinary experience honoring indigenous roots.
Little Miss BBQ
Authentic Texas-style barbecue is the name of the game at family-owned Little Miss BBQ. Pull up to the window or grab picnic tables outside for pulled pork, beef brisket, and sausage smoked low and slow over pecan wood for up to 14 hours. Meats are just as tender and juicy as they appear, coated in savory house rubs before their woodsmoke treatment.
Customer favorites include the loaded baked potato stuffed with meats and all the fixings or the Fritos pie casserole loaded with pulled pork, beans, and Fritos. Wash it down with a classic cream soda or vibrant artisanal shake. With generous portion sizes, friendly service, and an unbeatable barbecue flair, it’s easy to see why hungry patrons line up out the door during peak hours at this local treasure.
Nacional Tequila Kitchen
For a modern twist on authentic Mexican dishes, look no further than Nacional Tequila Kitchen. Originally hailing from Tucson, this small chain brings an upscale yet approachable vibe to its cheerful Glendale location. Start with agave-based cocktails and small bites like street corn with cotija cheese, chipotle mayo, and cilantro or crispy pork belly empanadas.
Entrees shine a spotlight on regional specialties through preparations like lamb barbacoa tacos, enchiladas verdes topped with tomatillo salsa, and whole fried red snapper. Don’t miss out on sharing mainstays like the churros with housemade chocolate dipping sauce for dessert. With attentive staff, lively ambiance, and playful takes on Mexican comfort food, Nacional transports diners south of the border.
The Henry
Channeling old-fashioned style and hospitality, The Henry transports diners back to a bygone era. Nestled in a historic Glendale home equipped with a cozy patio and charming living room-like dining area, this upscale gastropub aims to please with thoughtful cocktails, seasonal American fare, and an extensive craft beer and wine list.
Menu highlights shine a spotlight on high-quality ingredients through preparations like wild mushroom risotto paired with duck confit or seared scallops complemented by cauliflower puree and heritage carrot salad. Sumptuous desserts like housemade pie or olive oil cake keep guests lingering long after their meal. With elegant yet unpretentious service in sumptuous surroundings, The Henry offers an unforgettable experience suited for any special celebration.
Chelsea’s Kitchen
Billing itself as a “nostalgic neighborhood joint,” Chelsea’s Kitchen offers cozy comfort through globally-inspired American classics. Pop in for breakfast tacos piled high with fluffy eggs, potatoes and cheese or stop by later in the day to sample wood-fired pizzas topped with toppings like mushroom confit, crispy kale, and truffle cream. Shareable plates overflowing with pulled pork sliders, fried chicken tenders, and crab cakes satisfy appetites of all sizes.
Dessert highlights feature comforting indulgences like pie of the day a la mode or skillet cookie served warm with ice cream. Complete the homestyle experience over coffee or cocktails in a warm, lived-in setting with caring staff. With its emphasis on timeless fare and hospitality, Chelsea’s Kitchen feels like your new favorite neighborhood go-to.
Conclusion
From upscale steakhouses and modern Mexican spots to casual pizza joints and bbq outposts, Glendale’s diverse culinary landscape has something delicious for every craving and budget. The restaurants highlighted offer truly memorable dining whether you’re looking for a special date night, casual drinks and snacks with friends, or family-friendly options.
With talented chefs showcasing seasonal local ingredients and warm hospitality, it’s no wonder Glendale has become a destination for food-lovers in the Valley. Be sure to save room to sample multiple noteworthy establishments on your next visit to the culinary gem that is Glendale, Arizona.