A unique dining experience for every palate in Fountain Hills
With more than 60 eating establishments in town, the majority of which are locally owned, you clearly won’t go hungry when you visit Fountain Hills. But why just eat when you can have something a little extra with your meal? Here are a few of the restaurants our residents recommend to their out-of-town guests… and why you might want to visit one or two while you’re here.
Views of the World-Famous Fountain
Locals like Jack S. call this restaurant “very Fountain Hillsy” for the “awesome patio and view” of Fountain Park. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner is served daily except on Tuesday, along with occasional musical entertainment on the weekends. The popular restaurant has been in business for more than 20 years and is a great place to experience the Fountain Hills vibe while having a great meal.
Stop by Grapeables if you’re in the mood for a leisurely glass of wine and some good conversation. They have a limited menu of appetizers on site or a reciprocal agreement with Arrivederci if you want something more substantial. Order from your Grapeables’ server and the restaurant, located just a few doors away, will deliver.
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at this local favorite. If you sit at the bar, be sure to ask about the “bar special,” a dish only served to bar patrons. In the evening, don’t be surprised if the waiter offers you a complimentary shot of their homemade Limoncello after your meal -- no matter where you sit.
Resort Dining
Jessamyn C. says Cielo has the perfect combination of “upscale décor, delicious food, and natural beauty.” Patrons appreciate mountainous views from inside the dining room and outside on the spacious patio. If you’re lucky, you might also get the chance to catch the Star Dudes onsite, giving guests a unique look at the Fountain Hills protected dark sky through their powerful telescopes.
Pietros at Eagle Mountain
Tom L. says this restaurant has great ambience, superb service, and excellent food. Reservations are required.
International Specialties
International Specialties
This made Vicky D.’s list of favorites because, as she puts it, it’s the only place where you can dine under a giant indoor cherry tree! Don’t let the name fool you. Sushi entrees are plentiful; however, there’s a menu item to please just about everyone.
Amy A. recommends this restaurant for its authentic Puerto Rican/Latin cuisine. Sitting on the patio under the restaurant’s signature thatched straw umbrellas and listening to the Latin music adds to the ambience. Even the bathroom gets an approving nod from locals like Denise C.!
Local resident Carl L. says this restaurant is “seriously Italian” and Lisa V. says it’s the atmosphere and quality of food that makes it unique. Dining begins at 4:00 p.m. If you want dessert, we recommend dining early and ordering dessert with your meal. The homemade selections, written on the big chalkboard in the main dining room, are crossed off the list as hungry patrons eat them up.
More than just food…
Vicky D. calls this “the restaurant with a fun event calendar.” Tuesday is chess night, courtesy of the Fountain Hills Chess Club. Wednesday is Trivia Night and Thursday is BINGO. Enjoy live music with your meal on select weekend nights.
If it’s too nice to sit inside, do what many locals do and grab a hamburger, hotdog, taco, or protein bowl from the award-winning Fountain Hills Food Cart. Most days the truck is parked on Avenue of the Fountains near Chase Bank. The plentiful tables and chairs lining Avenue of the Fountains make a great place to sit outside and enjoy the complimentary great weather.
Locals gather at Phil’s for more than just good food and the display of ‘50s flash back Coca-Cola memorabilia that covers the walls. Some like to bring friends to watch the game on one of the many televisions in the bar area. Families gather on the other side for a good meal and casual conversation. Car enthusiasts park in the back with vintage rides on Saturdays (October – May).
*dog-friendly patio