Dine Around the World in City Limitless®

A true melting pot of cultures, nothing reflects Mesa’s diversity better than its culinary scene. Filled with restaurants serving food from all over the world, the city offers authentic cuisine from Mexico, South America, Asia and the Navajo Nation, to name just a few. If you’re looking for a departure from the ordinary, leave your passport at home and satisfy your adventurous palette by immersing yourself in Mesa’s international dining scene. Here are a few must-tries:

República Empanada

Offering the largest selection of South American-style empanadas in Arizona, this eatery does not skimp when it comes to these flaky filled pastries fried to perfection. Sample traditional flavors like the El Capitan (ground beef, potato, boiled egg, green olives, golden raisins) or branch out with more unique offerings like the Cubana, an ode to the classic Cuban sandwich. Finish off your feast with sweet banana cream pie empanada for dessert.


Espiritu Cocktails & Comida

A modern ode to coastal Mexico, Espiritu blends innovative mixology with elevated yet soulful Mexican cuisine. This Downtown Mesa gem fuses tradition with flair in every bite and sip.


Must Try Dishes:

- Whole Fried Pescado: A show-stopping red snapper served crispy and golden, paired with a refreshing chayote and jicama salad and aguachile verde. A perfect harmony of crunch, heat, and brightness.

- Birria Dumplings: A creative fusion dish that brings together rich birria, tender gai lan, and a chiltepin garlic soy caldo—comforting and unexpected in the best way.

Jerk Island AZ

Get a taste of the Caribbean right here in Mesa with Jerk Island AZ, a casual eatery serving up bold, spicy flavors from Jamaica. It’s all about smoky meats, island spices, and feel-good vibes.

Must-Try Dishes

- Jerk Chicken: Marinated for hours and grilled to perfection, this signature dish is both fiery and flavorful.

- Curry Goat: Fall-off-the-bone tender and swimming in aromatic curry sauce—best enjoyed with a side of rice and peas.

Pete's Fish & Chips

A Mesa staple since 1947, Pete’s brings a touch of English seaside tradition to the desert. This old-school counter-service spot delivers crispy, golden comfort food with a nostalgic twist.

Must-Try Dishes:

- Fish & Chips: A classic for a reason—light, flaky fish with a crunchy exterior, served alongside Pete’s signature tartar sauce.

- Shrimp & Chips: Perfectly breaded shrimp with a side of the thick-cut fries you’ll be thinking about long after your meal.

Pacific Rim & Sushi

Craving a taste of Japan with a pan-Asian twist? Pacific Rim & Sushi has you covered with artfully plated sushi and hearty entrees that span the Pacific.

Must-Try Dishes:

- Hawaiian Plate Lunch: A hearty sampler featuring kalua pig, lomi salmon, squid luau, laulau, rice and mac salad—authentic flavors that bring island vibes to the desert.

- Loco Moco: The ultimate Hawaiian comfort food—juicy hamburger patty, sunny-side-up egg, rich brown gravy, all served over rice with a scoop of mac salad.

Mensho

Comforting, complex, and soul-warming, Mesho Ramen is a cozy Downtown Mesa stop offering up authentic Japanese ramen bowls and small plates in a relaxed setting.

Must-Try Dishes:

- Spicy Toripaitan: A rich, velvety chicken broth kicked up with spice, topped with tender chashu and a signature branded smoked egg—it’s as bold as it is beautiful.

Duck Matcha Ramen: A unique fusion of earthy matcha and savory duck, this standout bowl is both delicate and deeply flavorful.

Related Content