update – Sadly Tempe Public Market closed in January 2020. Visit Phoenix Public Market in downtown Phoenix for similar dishes and vibe.
Tempe Public Market closed for about 5 weeks for a restaurant refresh and new menu. A few days ago we were invited to a media preview before the restaurant reopened to the public Monday, June 10th.
This was my first visit to Tempe Public Market. I have visited Ghost Ranch a few times (their sister restaurant in the same shopping center) and Phoenix Public Market (both restaurants were founded by Aaron Chamberlin although they have recently announced management changes). We loved both the indoor and outdoor spaces. Indoors is a mix of lounging sofas, tables, and larger community tables. With the reopening, servers take your orders at the table instead of order a counter. New artwork has been added and the outdoor cooling has been enhanced just in time for our warm summers.
The House Pretzel rolls are OMG amazing! What is it about something as simple as yummy rolls that can make you just fall in love with a restaurant. Freshly baked with just the right amount of chewiness and sweetness.
We sampled a lot of the new dishes with my two favorites being the Green Chili Verde Pot Pie (on the brunch menu) and the Garden Pizza (it’s vegan!). The menu has a healthy focus filled with fresh and local ingredients with lots of gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options.
BLT Salad, Beef Lasagne, Udon Noodles, Pan Seared Salmon, Cheese Pizza. I also loved the Cauliflower Wings (I forgot to snap a photo while I was gobbling them down, lol).
Drinks? of course. Delicious and colorful cocktails along with their tasty Sangria. Those are in their own list post so go check it out.
To finish your meal, don’t forget something sweet. They have an in-house pastry chef baking up delicious treats every day! The chocolate cake is vegan (if you skip the gelato and caramel sauce).
Tempe Public Market Cafe
8749 S. Rural Rd
Tempe, AZ