Must-Visit Local Spots in Mesa, Tempe & Gilbert🌟

The East Valley is full of character, blending quirky coffee shops, craft distilleries, and cozy cafés with strong community vibes. Alongside these are beloved local eateries that have become neighborhood staples, making the area a go-to destination for authentic flavors and memorable experiences.

Mesa: Cool Cafés & Crafty Experiences

Mesa’s downtown and neighborhood districts have been buzzing with new locals-first businesses, making the area an exciting place to explore. With a focus on coffee culture, artisan spirits, and welcoming spaces that foster community, these establishments highlight Mesa’s evolving food and drink scene while staying rooted in local stories.

Coffee & Community

Pair Cupworks

31 S Robson St #103, Mesa, AZ 85210.

Pair Cupworks is a nationally award-winning specialty coffee roastery founded in 2017, with wholesale partners across the U.S. and internationally. The brand opened its first coffee bar in Arizona’s East Valley in 2020 and is known for its strong focus on quality and technical craft.

Co-founder and roaster Kimhak brings over 30 years of culinary and food-service experience, while co-founder Eugenia shapes the brand’s visual identity through her background in design and engineering.

Cup of Joey

1021 N Ellsworth Rd #103, Mesa, AZ 85207.

Rather than being just another coffee shop, Cup of Joey was designed as a space that reflects the rhythm of the neighborhood and the people who call it home.

Whether it’s hikers stopping by after exploring the Red Mountain trails, parents treating their kids to a Kandi Koala, or coffee lovers searching for a perfectly crafted “Fair Dinkum” Flat White, Cup of Joey was built with everyone in mind. It’s a place to slow down, share moments, and enjoy quality coffee in a setting that feels familiar, friendly, and inclusive.

Drinks & Distilling

Arizona Distilling Co.

155 W Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201. 

Arizona Distilling Company is dedicated to sharing the spirit of Arizona, one glass at a time. Using exceptional ingredients and careful craftsmanship, each spirit reflects a bold, outlaw-inspired character that’s impossible to forget. With every pour, the brand invites you to be part of its growing legacy.

Tempe: Urban Energy & Unique Finds

Tempe brings together vibrant student energy and a strong local business scene, creating a dynamic urban atmosphere. With walkable shopping districts and a growing number of creative small businesses, Tempe is an ideal place to explore urban culture and support local brands. From unique storefronts to community-driven spaces, the city offers a lively mix of campus life and local creativity.

Shopping & Experiences

Tempe Marketplace

2000 E Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85288. 

Tempe Marketplace is an open-air retail and dining destination with shops, events, and local flavors located in Tempe, Arizona, along the Salt River near the Loop 101 and Loop 202 interchange. Positioned near the borders of Tempe, Mesa, and the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, it offers a convenient destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment in the East Valley.

Yucatecan Imports

414 S Mill Ave #108, Tempe, AZ 85281.

Located along Mill Avenue, Yucatecan Imports is a hidden gem offering a wide range of imports from dozens of countries. The shop features unique jewelry, satchels, clothing, and accessories, each reflecting global craftsmanship and cultural tradition. It’s a perfect stop for discovering one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t find anywhere else.

Local Café & Drinks

Seattle Espresso Inc.

1840 E Warner Rd #136, Tempe, AZ 85284.

Seattle Espresso Inc. believes independent coffee shops are the heartbeat of their communities—places where culture, craft, and connection come together. As rising costs and expanding chains make it harder for small cafés to compete, the need for meaningful support has never been greater.

That’s where Seattle Espresso Inc. steps in. By providing independent coffee businesses with access to the same powerful technology used by major chains, the company is helping level the playing field. Their mission is simple: empower local cafés to thrive, grow, and continue serving as vital community hubs.

Outlaw Distillery

2125 E 5th St, Ste 102, Tempe, AZ 85281.

At Outlaw Distillery, every bottle tells a story rooted in craftsmanship and character. Built for those who value authenticity over factory-made spirits, Outlaws creates handcrafted offerings that stand apart from the ordinary. Each spirit is thoughtfully made, embracing bold flavors and a rebellious spirit that refuses to be forgettable.

Outlaw Distillery celebrates the art of small-batch production, where quality and individuality take priority over mass production. Designed for those who crave something real, their lineup invites drinkers to slow down, savor the details, and connect with the story behind every pour.

Gilbert: Community Favorites & Cafés with Character

Gilbert’s downtown and surrounding neighborhoods offer a welcoming mix of cozy brunch spots, locally loved cafés, and laid-back community hangouts that reflect the town’s small-town charm. These spaces are perfect for slow mornings, casual meetups, and discovering locally owned favorites that prioritize quality and connection. With walkable streets, friendly atmospheres, and a strong sense of community, Gilbert is an ideal setting for foodie features and small-town lifestyle stories that highlight comfort, creativity, and local flavor.

Neighborhood Coffee Spots

Little Jupiter Cafe

876 N McQueen Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85233. 

Little Jupiter began as a small café with a simple menu, limited seating, and big ambition. More than just a place for coffee, it was created as a space that feels a little cosmic and a little magical—its own world.

The name reflects that spirit. Inspired by the largest planet in the solar system, Little Jupiter is a reminder that even small beginnings can aim big. Every drink, detail, and community connection carries that energy. Welcome to the orbit.

Commons Coffeehouse & Cafe

1820 W Elliot Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85233.

Commons Coffeeshop is rooted in inspired simplicity, serving thoughtfully crafted coffee with a focus on care and quality. It’s a welcoming space designed for slowing down and enjoying the moment.

Alongside the coffee bar, the Commons Prayer Space offers a place for quiet reflection and connection. Guests are invited to write prayers, pray for others, or simply pause in contemplation, creating a shared sense of peace and community.

The Coffee Shop

3000 E Ray Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85296.

Located in the heart of Agritopia in Gilbert, The Coffee Shop is a local favorite known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious offerings served daily. From morning to afternoon, it’s a go-to spot for breakfast, lunch, and expertly crafted espresso drinks that keep regulars coming back.

Beyond the coffee, The Coffee Shop has built a reputation for its standout baked goods, often praised as some of the best in Arizona. Whether you’re starting your day, meeting a friend, or stopping in for a sweet treat, this Agritopia gem delivers comfort, flavor, and a true sense of community.

Instant Selling Solution for Arizona Sellers

Want to take advantage of Mesa’s market without the hassle of showings, staging, or long timelines? At Own AZ Real Estate, we offer an Instant Selling Solution. It’s a quick, fair, and stress-free way to sell your home on your terms.

👋 Not ready to move just yet? Stay connected with us online until you are!

📸 Instagram | 📘 Facebook | ▶️ YouTube