Finding the perfect french fry can be a quest, a delicious adventure! Downtown Phoenix boasts a surprisingly diverse fry scene, ranging from classic diner styles to gourmet creations. This guide dives deep into the crispy, salty goodness, highlighting 18 of the best places to satisfy your fry cravings. We'll explore different styles, toppings, and the overall fry experience to help you navigate this delicious landscape.
The Classics: Traditional French Fry Experiences
These establishments offer the quintessential french fry experience, the kind you crave after a long day. The focus here is on perfectly cooked potatoes, seasoned simply, and served hot.
1. Matt's Big Breakfast: The Home-Style Comfort
Matt's Big Breakfast isn't just about breakfast; their fries are a legendary side dish. Think thick-cut, perfectly seasoned, and incredibly satisfying. They’re a classic for a reason.
2. Durant's: A Touch of Elegance
While known for its upscale dining, Durant's surprisingly offers excellent french fries. They're crispier, thinner, and a great complement to their sophisticated menu.
3. Pizzeria Bianco: A Unexpected Fry Delight
While known for its pizza, Pizzeria Bianco's fries are a hidden gem. Simple, well-seasoned, and perfectly cooked, they're the ideal accompaniment to a delicious pizza.
4. The Gladly: The Gastropub Fry
The Gladly offers a gastropub take on fries. Expect a well-executed classic, perfectly cooked and ready to pair with their selection of craft beers.
Gourmet Fries: Elevated Spud Experiences
These restaurants take the humble french fry to the next level, incorporating unique flavors and toppings.
5. Postino: Bruschetta and Fries, A Perfect Pair
Postino is famous for its bruschetta, but their fries are also a hit. Often served with unique dipping sauces, they elevate the simple fry to a gourmet experience.
6. Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour: A Boozy Fry Adventure
Bitter & Twisted pairs their creative cocktails with equally innovative fries. Expect unusual seasonings and gourmet toppings.
7. Cobra Arcade Bar: Retro Games and Gourmet Fries
Cobra Arcade Bar offers a fun, retro atmosphere and surprisingly sophisticated fries. Their selection changes regularly, so each visit is a new adventure.
8. Valley Bar: Late-Night Fry Perfection
Valley Bar is a popular late-night spot. Their fries are a late-night staple, often seasoned perfectly and served hot.
Unique Fry Styles: Beyond the Traditional
This section explores establishments that offer french fries with a unique twist, from different cuts to unexpected flavors.
9. The Churchill: Elevated Pub Fare
The Churchill, a gastropub, offers a unique take on fries with interesting seasonings and pairings.
10. Steak 44: A Luxurious Fry Experience
Steak 44 isn't just about the steaks. Their french fries, often served with a side of aioli, are a luxurious experience.
11. Hash Kitchen: The Brunch Fry
Hash Kitchen is known for its brunch, and their fries often complement their unique breakfast and brunch dishes.
Fast Food Favorites: Quick Bites of Fry Perfection
Sometimes you just need a quick and satisfying fry fix. These fast-food options offer a reliable and tasty experience.
12. In-N-Out Burger: A West Coast Classic
In-N-Out Burger's fries are a classic, known for their simplicity and satisfying crunch. A West Coast staple.
13. McDonald's: The Ubiquitous Fry
A McDonald's fry is a globally recognized experience, consistent and satisfying, although simplicity is their main asset.
14. Five Guys: The Customizable Fry
Five Guys lets you customize your fry order, from the size to the seasoning. This makes for a personalized experience.
Hidden Gems and Unexpected Fry Finds: The Unsung Heroes
Sometimes, the best fries are found in the most unexpected places.
15. Different Pointe of View: A Scenic Fry
Different Pointe of View offers incredible views along with decent fries that are a great complement to their stunning perspective.
16. Cornish Pasty Co.: A Surprisingly Good Fry
Don't let the name fool you. Cornish Pasty Co. serves fries that are a delightful surprise.
Sweet Potato & Beyond: Exploring Variations
This category highlights restaurants that offer fries made from different potatoes or with unique flavor profiles.
17. Someburros: Southwest Spud Delights
Someburros offers a Southwestern twist on fries, often incorporating unique spices and flavors.
18. Consider a local brewery: Many breweries offer fries as a side dish, so check out your favorites!
This list is just a starting point. Downtown Phoenix's culinary scene is constantly evolving, so be sure to explore and discover your own personal favorites! What are your go-to fry spots in Downtown Phoenix? Share your recommendations in the comments below!