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Phoenix is a city of night owls, and the dining scene rises to meet them with an eclectic mix of late night spots that serve everything from authentic Mexican to New American small plates.
After Hours Essentials
The Duce is a historic warehouse turned restaurant, bar, and vintage market that stays hopping late. The outdoor patio is massive, and the late night menu features Street Tacos, Tostadas, and Sonoran Hot Dogs the citys signature wrapped in bacon and smothered in beans, onions, and salsa. The atmosphere is always lively, with a boxing ring in the center that occasionally hosts amateur matches. Welcome Diner on 7th Avenue is a classic diner with a twist it is housed in a vintage dining car and serves late night comfort food until 2 a.m. on weekends. The Welcome Burger is a double smashburger with cheese, pickles, and special sauce. The Fried Bologna Sandwich is a nostalgic delight, and the Malted Milkshakes are thick and old fashioned. Bitter and Twisted Cocktail Parlour downtown serves small plates until 1 a.m. The Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice and the Korean Fried Chicken Wings are perfect bar snacks. The cocktail program is award winning, and the vibe is upscale but not stuffy.
Mexican Late Night
Carolinas Mexican Food has a location near the airport that stays open until 2 a.m. on weekends. The Carne Asada Burrito is stuffed with grilled steak, beans, rice, and cheese, and the Fresh Flour Tortillas are made in house and are legendary. The Chimichanga is another favorite, crispy and loaded with your choice of meat. Taqueria Yaqui in Tempe is a tiny, no frills spot that serves tacos until 3 a.m. on weekends. The Al Pastor and Carnitas are the standouts, and the Salsa Bar offers a range of heat levels. It is cash only and the line can get long, but it is worth the wait.
Diner Classics
Dennys might be a chain, but the location on Van Buren Street has a classic neon sign and a late night crowd that makes it feel like a local gem. The Moons Over My Hammy and the Grand Slam are exactly what you need after a night out. Oreganos Pizza Bistro in multiple locations serves pizza and Italian American classics until 2 a.m. on weekends. The Chicago Style Stuffed Pizza is the star, but the Garlic Cheese Bread and the Cannoli are also excellent.
The Takeaway
No matter what time it is, Phoenix has a diner waiting for you.
About the Author
Sarah is a culinary historian who spends her time tracing the origins of classic American comfort food and diner culture.
