The city of Phoenix—cultural center of the Valley of the Sun and well known for its “dry” heat. Incorporated as a city in 1881 when a few chuck wagons could still be found, today, food has taken a more permanent role. Phoenix has plenty to offer in terms of great restaurants—none of which are on wheels anymore. So, where does one begin? That’s where the Sonnhalter Insider’s Guide to Phoenix comes in. It’s our way of helping you find the city’s best restaurants, nightlife, the sights and of course, places to cool off.

We asked some of our Phoenix friends for their recommendations on the best places to sample some of the local cuisine—and not just the rattlesnake steak. We wanted those secret locales that only the locals know about. Because at Sonnhalter, we not only like to get our hands dirty…we like to get them greasy!

When you’re not convening at the convention center, make sure you have a little fun in the Valley of the Sun.