Mesa and Gilbert's Best Restaurants [Updated 2025]

With a knack for sniffing out culinary treasures, I’ve scoured Mesa and Gilbert to unearth 12 standout restaurants that truly deserve a spot on your dining radar. Each location has been handpicked based on my love for flavor, atmosphere, and that special something that makes a meal unforgettable.

As someone who’s spent countless hours exploring menus and chatting with chefs, I’ve gathered insights that go beyond the usual reviews. You can trust my taste buds to guide you to everything from cozy cafés to vibrant eateries. So, whether you're a local or just passing through, get ready to embark on a delicious adventure!

Board & Batten

Highlights
Seasonal and local ingredients
Rich and flavorful dishes
Elegant dining atmosphere
Accommodating and friendly staff
Long wait time on busy nights

Board & Batten has quickly become one of my favorite dining spots in Mesa and Gilbert. This gem prides itself on using seasonal and local ingredients, making every dish a fresh adventure. I couldn't resist the temptation of their rich and flavorful creations, which are a testament to their commitment to quality. The intimate yet elegant dining atmosphere provided a perfect backdrop for a delightful evening, allowing me to savor each bite while soaking in the lovely decor.

Although the staff were accommodating and friendly, I must admit that my patience was tested when I encountered a longer wait time during a busy weekend. However, the delicious meal was worth it! I kicked off my experience with a creatively crafted appetizer that left my taste buds dancing, followed by a main course that boasted layers of flavor I couldn't get enough of. It’s clear that Board & Batten is a place where passion and culinary expertise collide, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience. So, if you fancy delicious food in a charming location, make sure to add this establishment to your list! You won’t be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best brunch in Scottsdale.

Postino East

Highlights
Great beer and wine selection
Popular dining spot
Varied menu options
Friendly atmosphere
Service may be inconsistent

Postino East in Mesa and Gilbert: A Delightful Experience

Nestled in the vibrant culinary scene of Mesa and Gilbert, Postino East is a culinary gem that has quickly become one of my favorite dining spots. As soon as I walked through the doors, I was greeted by a lively yet inviting atmosphere, perfect for both casual outings and special gatherings.

One of the standout features of Postino East is their incredible selection of wines and craft beers. Whether you’re a connoisseur or just looking to unwind with a refreshing drink, this place has you covered. Their varied menu options, featuring delectable bruschetta and savory paninis, cater to diverse tastes, making it easy to find something that tickles your fancy.

While I absolutely loved the ambiance, I did notice that service might be a bit hit-or-miss. On my visit, the staff was friendly and accommodating, but it could use some consistency.

Overall, if you’re in the area and in the mood for scrumptious bites paired with a robust drink menu in a friendly atmosphere, I wholeheartedly recommend Postino East. It’s a culinary experience that promises delightful flavors and a joyful dining adventure!

You might also want to check out the best burgers in Scottsdale.

Liberty Market

Highlights
Excellent service and attentive staff
Diverse menu for every palate
Cozy and modern ambiance
Delicious flavors and quality food
Popular brunch destination

Liberty Market is an absolute gem in the heart of Mesa and Gilbert, and as I stepped inside, I was immediately captivated by its cozy yet modern ambiance. The moment I was greeted by the friendly staff, I knew I was in for a treat. Their excellent service set the tone for what would be a delightful dining experience.

The menu at Liberty Market is nothing short of impressive, offering a diverse selection that caters to every palate. Whether you're a carnivore or a veggie lover, there’s something to tickle your taste buds. I couldn’t resist trying their brunch options, which have earned quite the reputation around town.

The flavors here are vibrant and delightful, showcasing a commitment to quality ingredients and craftsmanship. Each bite was a revelation, leaving me both satisfied and eager to return. The bustling atmosphere adds to the charm, making it a popular gathering spot for locals.

If you find yourself in the Mesa or Gilbert area, make sure to pop into Liberty Market—it's a delightful experience you won't want to miss!

You might also want to check out the best pizza in Gilbert.

Sotol Modern Cocktail Kitchen

Highlights
Unique cocktail selection
Stunning sunset views
Perfect for special occasions
Friendly and helpful staff
Delicious yucca fries

Nestled in the vibrant scene of Mesa and Gilbert, Sotol Modern Cocktail Kitchen is a gem that deserves every bit of attention. As I entered, the ambiance immediately captivated me, and the stunning sunset views from the patio made my heart flutter. This is not just a place to eat; it’s an experience.

I was particularly impressed by their unique cocktail selection. Each drink was a delightful surprise, crafted with care and creativity that danced on my palate. The mixologists here truly know their craft! But if you think it’s just about drinks, think again. The yucca fries stole the show, offering a crispy yet tender texture that had me reaching for more.

The staff was friendly and genuinely helpful, making me feel right at home. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a night out, Sotol provides a warm, inviting atmosphere that enhances every moment.

In a culinary landscape filled with choices, Sotol Modern Cocktail Kitchen stands out not just for its food and drinks but for its commitment to creating memorable experiences. I cannot recommend it highly enough—this is a must-visit destination!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast in Chandler.

The Porch

Highlights
Delicious food and drinks
Fun and energetic atmosphere
Hot honey burger a must-try
Phenomenal hot chicken sandwich
Friendly and attentive staff

The Porch is an absolute gem that perfectly embodies the spirit of Mesa and Gilbert. As soon as you step in, you're greeted by a fun and energetic atmosphere that instantly puts you in a good mood. The ambiance feels both vibrant and welcoming, making it an ideal spot for a casual meal or a lively gathering with friends.

Now, let's talk about the food—oh, the food! I indulged in their must-try hot honey burger, and let me tell you, each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors. The balance of sweetness and heat was perfection, and the burger patty was cooked to juicy perfection. My dining companion opted for the phenomenal hot chicken sandwich, which was crispy and full of personality. Honestly, I couldn’t resist stealing a few bites!

What truly stood out was the friendly and attentive staff who made us feel right at home. They were eager to provide recommendations, which only enhanced our experience. With delicious food and a fun atmosphere, The Porch in Mesa and Gilbert is a place I highly recommend for anyone looking to elevate their dining experience!

You might also want to check out the best hamburgers in Chandler.

Espiritu Mesa

Highlights
Bold flavors and generous portions
Crispy fried whole snapper
Great date night atmosphere
Custom drink creations available
Patio dining with vibrant ambiance

Espiritu Mesa is a delightful gem that perfectly marries bold flavors with a warm, inviting atmosphere. As I stepped into the restaurant, I was instantly captivated by the vibrant decor and the buzzing energy—a great place for a date night or a lively gathering with friends.

One dish that truly left a mark was the crispy fried whole snapper. The fish was expertly prepared, boasting a savory crunch that gave way to moist, flaky meat. It practically danced on my palate! But what impressed me equally was the generous portion that easily served two, making it a fantastic value for the quality.

And let's not overlook the drinks! The custom drink creations available are nothing short of masterful. Each sip was uniquely refreshing, perfectly complementing the flavors of the meal.

Dining outside on the patio added an extra layer of charm, with its vibrant ambiance enhancing the entire experience. If you’re searching for a place that offers both culinary adventure and a welcoming environment, Espiritu Mesa should definitely top your list!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast in Old Town Scottsdale.

OHSO Brewery + Distillery

Highlights
Attentive and pleasant service
Dog-friendly atmosphere
Delicious brunch and cocktails
Great happy hour
Amazing apple pie dessert

OHSO Brewery + Distillery is a gem that perfectly encapsulates the vibrant spirit of Mesa and Gilbert. As I stepped in, I was immediately greeted by a friendly staff that defined attentiveness. Their pleasant demeanor set the tone for a delightful experience. What makes OHSO particularly unique is its dog-friendly atmosphere—it's a haven where your furry friends can join in on the fun, making it a community hub for pet lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

The brunch menu is a must-try! I savored a dish that was not only delicious but expertly paired with one of their well-crafted cocktails. The list of options is impressive, ensuring that you'll find something that tickles your palate. I also took advantage of their great happy hour, which offers incredible deals that could make even the most budget-conscious diner smile.

But the crowning glory of my visit was the amazing apple pie dessert. It’s a sweet finish that lingers in your memory long after your visit. If you're in search of a place that celebrates good food and good vibes, OHSO Brewery + Distillery is undoubtedly a top contender in the Mesa and Gilbert dining scene!

You might also want to check out the best bbq in Scottsdale.

Charleston's Restaurant

Highlights
Exceptional service and attention
Sizzling shrimp and cheese appetizer
Perfectly cooked steak
Irresistible carrot cake
Affordable and delicious meals

Charleston's Restaurant left me in culinary bliss during my recent visit to Mesa and Gilbert. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with exceptional service that felt both welcoming and attentive. It truly set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

To kick things off, I couldn't resist the sizzling shrimp and cheese appetizer—a mouthwatering start that danced on my palate with every bite. The blend of flavors was a perfect introduction to what was yet to come. For my main dish, I opted for their perfectly cooked steak, which was tender, juicy, and seasoned to perfection. Each bite reminded me why Charleston's has become a favorite in the area.

As someone with a penchant for desserts, you can imagine my delight when I was presented with their irresistible carrot cake. Oh, what a treat! The moist cake and rich cream cheese frosting capped off my meal in a way that left me dreaming of my next visit.

All in all, Charleston's Restaurant is an affordable gem that excels in both flavor and service. If you find yourself in Mesa or Gilbert, do yourself a favor and make a reservation—you won’t regret it!

You might also want to check out the best sushi in Scottsdale.

Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row Gilbert

Highlights
Tasty BBQ burger
Crunchy, delicious fries
Live country music
Nice atmosphere
Good brisket nachos

Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row Gilbert is a vibrant gem that perfectly marries great food with a lively atmosphere. As I strolled through the inviting entrance, I was immediately enveloped by the warm, welcoming vibe—a reflection of the country music spirit that pervades the venue.

I couldn’t resist trying their tasty BBQ burger, which came topped with a perfectly smoky sauce and was cooked to juicy perfection. Each bite was a symphony of flavors that left me savoring every morsel. And let’s not forget the crunchy, delicious fries that accompanied my meal; they were the ideal sidekick, crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.

What truly sets Dierks Bentley's apart, though, is its buzzing atmosphere, highlighted by live country music that had patrons tapping their feet or even joining in the fun. I found myself immersed in the excitement while indulging in their sensational brisket nachos, a delightful twist for any nacho lover.

In a town with a plethora of dining options, Dierks Bentley's Whiskey Row Gilbert stands out as a place where you can enjoy great food, smooth vibes, and a touch of musical magic. It's a must-visit for anyone searching for that perfect dining experience in Mesa and Gilbert!

You might also want to check out the best burger in Tempe.

The Hidden House

Highlights
Amazing butter bread
Perfectly crafted cocktails
Attentive and friendly service
Delicious chicken mushroom soup
Unique frog legs appetizer

Review of The Hidden House

Stepping into The Hidden House feels like entering a cozy gastronomic hideaway—not just any hidden gem, but a treasure trove of culinary delights. From the moment the amazing butter bread graced our table, I knew I was in for a treat. Each bite was a warm embrace, perfectly setting the stage for what was to come.

The menu is a playful nod to the adventurous palate, especially with their unique frog legs appetizer; they were delightfully crispy and surprisingly tender. Trust me, this is a dish that could easily change your mind about amphibians!

When I tried the delicious chicken mushroom soup, it warmed my soul on a cooler evening, and paired perfectly with a cocktail that was expertly crafted—a refreshing burst of flavor that made me momentarily forget about the outside world.

Beyond the food, the attentive and friendly service radiated warmth, making me feel right at home. It’s not just about the food at The Hidden House; it’s about the entire experience. If you’re in Mesa or Gilbert, do yourself a favor—make a reservation. You won’t regret your decision!

You might also want to check out the best brunch in Costa Mesa.

Joe's Farm Grill

Highlights
Fresh, made-from-scratch food
Outstanding onion rings
Delicious, filling burgers
Quick service despite long lines
Must-try apple fritters

Joe's Farm Grill is an absolute gem tucked away in the heart of Mesa. As I approached the charming venue, the scent of freshly grilled burgers enveloped me, instantly igniting my appetite. This restaurant prides itself on made-from-scratch food, and let me tell you, it shows in every bite.

The first bite of their burger was nothing short of revelatory. Juicy, filling, and bursting with flavor, it’s a must-order if you’re even remotely hungry. Oh, and don’t even get me started on the onion rings! They were golden, crispy, and perfectly seasoned, elevating my meal to another level of deliciousness. Despite the bustling atmosphere and tempting long lines, I was pleasantly surprised by the efficient service—my food arrived promptly, allowing me to dig in without any unnecessary delay.

But the true star of the show turned out to be their apple fritters. These little donuts drizzled with glaze were the perfect sweet ending to my meal, warm and delightful. If you find yourself in Mesa or Gilbert, Joe's Farm Grill is a must-visit for those craving a playful take on classic American fare.

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Clairemont Mesa.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

I recently dined at Firebirds Wood Fired Grill in Mesa, and let me tell you, it's a feast for the senses! The smoky aroma of wood-fired cuisine immediately sets the stage for a delightful culinary journey. I savored their signature steak—perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection—paired with their creamy mac and cheese for that ultimate comfort food combo.

The ambiance strikes a nice balance between cozy and vibrant, making it perfect for both date nights and family gatherings. If you’re hunting for a place that combines flavor and atmosphere, Firebirds is a winner. Don’t skip dessert—the chocolate cake is pure heaven!

You might also want to check out the best family restaurants in Scottsdale.