As Phoenix's dining scene continues to rapidly evolve, the past year has given both longtime residents and newcomers a taste of the unexpected, with the dramatic closures of beloved local eateries and the introduction of national and international chains. The Phoenix New Times presented some of 2025’s most notable dining dramas — from political fallouts and unanticipated fires to a scandalous "Pastrygate" — showcasing the ever-changing landscape of the city’s food culture.
Let's not forget to give credit to the newcomers that added flavors to Phoenix's melting pot. A report by azcentral chronicled the debut of 31 national and international chains. The list includes Sweetgreen, known for delectably healthy salads and bowls, and the Chinese hot pot craze Haidilao, which set up shop in Mesa, offering both personalized hot pot experiences and over-the-top service.
However, the year wasn’t only about new beginnings. Some establishments, firmly entrenched in the hearts of locals, met abrupt ends. CRUjiente’s closure, despite a show of support from the community and the landlord's temporary stay of execution, highlighted how precarious survival can be for local restaurants, as illustrated by a piece in the Phoenix New Times. This juxtaposes sharply with the excitement around national franchises finding fresh ground in Arizona's fertile business landscape.
Mixed in with the newbies like Zaxby's and their "Zax sauce," the food industry in Phoenix didn't shy away from controversy. Politics made a surprising entanglement with gastronomy at a local Mexican restaurant, Xolo, whose owners' support of Trump led to an intense community and social media backlash, according to coverage by the Phoenix New Times. Then, a saga of sweet revenge unfolded when a food influencer targeted JL Patisserie, only to be met with a community rallying behind the beloved bakery.
The drama spilled over into flagrant illegality when Mon Cheri had an unexpected and scandalous break-in followed by a spicy love affair amid rose petals that ultimately led to the arrest of the involved parties. Across the city, the thrill of the new and nostalgia for the lost create a culinary scene that reflects the pulsing vibrancy and unpredictability of Phoenix itself.
