With the promise of warm weather and an exciting game at the University of Phoenix Stadium, it's time to start packing your bags for the 49th Annual Super Bowl. Be sure to eat more than just stadium food, because there are plenty of delicious dining experiences to enjoy during your stay. While some restaurants are about a five- to 15-minute trip from the Glendale-housed stadium, others are a little further into Phoenix (about 20 to 30 minutes). Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed a delicious meal to accompany your Super Bowl experience.
Near the Stadium
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Choose from a selection of 100 wines at this upscale steakhouse, located just three miles (or one exit away) from the main event. Featuring steaks that have been aged at least 21 days, the award-winning restaurant serves up porcini-rubbed filet mignon, barbecue Scottish salmon fillet, Prime ribeye, and much more.
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
Chef Kyle Harned ensures that your Firebirds dining experience is always a good one, with new winter menu items that range from citrus grilled chicken, with pineapple salsa, to the mouth-watering banana coconut custard. And, of course, his signature hand-cut steak and seafood options (many of which are gluten-free) make this mainstay a top pick.
Brushfire Tacos y Tapas
Serving up tapas and tacos, this restaurant uses both Mexican and Spanish elements to create a menu with the perfect blend of both. Choose from empanadas, shrimp en fuego, or al pastor pork at this reasonably priced hot spot, located approximately seven miles from the stadium.
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Leo’s Island BBQ
Recommended by the Phoenix New Times for its filled-to-the-top plate lunches, this locally owned restaurant will give you a taste of Hawaii. The plate lunches all cost under $9 and come in a wide variety of combinations and flavors, from island short ribs to Maui pineapple chicken.
Yard House
Just a short walk away from the stadium, this American-style restaurant boasts a wide range of craft beer to choose from. With a rotating and limited quantity of “chalkboard series” drinks, you can currently pick from selections like Founders Imperial Stout or Rough Draft Southern Triangle, along with seasonal drafts like the Samuel Adams Winter Lager. And the menu has it all, with burgers, pizza, tacos, and more.
Farther Away
FEZ
After settling into its new location on West Portland Street, Fez still provides visitors with memorable dining experiences. The “American fare with a Moroccan flair” includes a delicious grilled Angus FEZ burger and flatbread pizzas (kisras). The restaurant, located just over 15 minutes from the big game, also offers specialty drinks.
Compass Arizona Grill
Located inside the Hyatt Regency Phoenix, the view alone is enough to draw visitors to the Compass Arizona Grill, which features a 360-degree look at the Valley of the Sun in its revolving rooftop restaurant. Enjoy one of the main courses, such as grilled top sirloin or herb-crusted salmon, and top the evening off with the crème brûlée trio.
Pane Bianco
Since James Beard Award-winning chef Chris Bianco opened Pane Bianco in 2005, he’s been serving up delicious sandwiches and salads during the day and pizza and pasta dishes in the evening. Be sure to sample the “Wiseguy,” a pizza topped with onion, sausage, fennel, and mozzarella.
Pepe’s Taco Villa
Just 20 minutes away from the University of Phoenix stadium, this Mexican eatery offers must-try tacos rancheros and green-corn tamales. To accompany your meal, the family-run restaurant also features tasty margaritas and a delicious mole sauce, made from chiles and chocolate.
Wright’s at the Biltmore
Your dining experience at the Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, will leave you completely satisfied, whether you come for the Sunday brunch (with a menu that changes each week) or opt for the uniquely crafted dinner menu, which also changes regularly to integrate each season’s flavors.