It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Petersen House Museum in Tempe, AZ gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Tempe, AZ is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Tom and Janné Gutierrez run Always Best Care and I've known them to be generous,”
“Great experience working with ABC. Everyone was very kind and caring.”
“Always Best Care was absolutely wonderful. They were so kind and caring with my husband”
“Great caring organization. Geana visited mom in the hospital before she was discharged and arranged”
“Always Best Care is an invaluable resource. For families who need a little extra help”
“I can't say enough good things about Janné and the team at Always Best Care. Janné”
“Wonderful people. So kind, helpful, and caring.”
“Extremely caring, strong communication with family,, understands our needs”
“Janne and her team were great to work with. Great communication and they cared about”
“The owner made several visits to coordinate my care including coming to my apartment when”
“I can’t put into words how great everyone is. They treated my mother so well”
“I had a wonderful experience with this service. Janné helped me find the right assisted”
“Conscientious caregiving and professional attendance at all times-supervision when required- immediate contact available with scheduling”
“I am deeply grateful that a friend referred us to ABC after my 82-year-old mother”
“They provided a fantastic caregiver for my father. Communicating with the office regarding any changes”
“The owner Janne and Rhonda our care coordinator are both amazing. They take the time”
“We used ABC for the better part of a year and we had great caregivers.”
“It is never easy dealing with aging parents and their increasing needs and health challenges.”
“Always Best Care took care of my brother so we could bring him home to”
“Always Best Care took care of my brother so we could bring him home to”
“ABC Senior Services came to us via a referral from an acquaintance. We had been”
“ABC was very quick to respond to a request for in home care for a”
“My mom's in-home senior care-aide is fantastic. She is a kind, patient, caring and friendly”
“The team at Always Best Care has been amazing. It isn’t easy navigating care options,”
“We had a great experience with Always Best Care. Janne worked hard to find the”
“Tom and Janné Gutierrez run Always Best Care and I've known them to be generous, caring, and professional. They treat their clients like their family - which means they go above and beyond in everything they do.”
“Great experience working with ABC. Everyone was very kind and caring.”
“Always Best Care was absolutely wonderful. They were so kind and caring with my husband who was on Home Hospice. And Keisha was very helpful with me both around the house and emotionally. I highly recomend ABC.”
“Great caring organization. Geana visited mom in the hospital before she was discharged and arranged immediate care for the following day. We utilized Always Best Care for 4 months. Caregivers were kind, knowledgeable and helpful. Would highly recommend Always Best Care.”
“Always Best Care is an invaluable resource. For families who need a little extra help with loved ones, ABC provides thoughtful and caring companionship. The team is super easy to work with and very communicative. 5 Stars!”
“I can't say enough good things about Janné and the team at Always Best Care. Janné has truly been a Godsend. She first helped our family arrange in-home care for my mother, and when the time came to transition her into an assisted living community, she was there every step of the way. Her knowledge, compassion, and genuine concern made what could have been an overwhelming process so much easier for our family. Our caregiver, Beverly, has become like family. She truly cares about my mother and spends four hours with her twice a week, taking her to doctor's appointments, helping her get her hair and nails done, and, most importantly, providing wonderful companionship. Beverly's kindness and support were especially meaningful during my mother's transition into assisted living, helping her feel comfortable, cared for, and never alone. If you're looking for someone to help care for a loved one, I wholeheartedly recommend Janné, Beverly, and the entire Always Best Care team. They have been a tremendous blessing to our family, and I will always be grateful for the care, compassion, and professionalism they have shown my mother.”
“Wonderful people. So kind, helpful, and caring.”
“Extremely caring, strong communication with family,, understands our needs”
“Janne and her team were great to work with. Great communication and they cared about us as people not just dollar signs. When we return to AZ this fall we will definitely work with them again. We had no idea what a great company they were until we worked with some other home health companies.”
“The owner made several visits to coordinate my care including coming to my apartment when I arrived from the hospital to arrange furniture and accessories to create a safe environment. She has a very professional staff for scheduling and the care givers are amazing.”
“I can’t put into words how great everyone is. They treated my mother so well and with such respect. I would recommend them over and over again.”
“I had a wonderful experience with this service. Janné helped me find the right assisted living community for my 88-year-old dad, and it never felt like I was dealing with a salesperson. It felt like a caring friend stepped in to guide me through a difficult decision and process. Their support, honesty, and compassion made all the difference. I’m truly grateful and highly recommend them to anyone needing help with senior care decisions.”
“Conscientious caregiving and professional attendance at all times-supervision when required- immediate contact available with scheduling adjustments if required. Give the business a very strong A for what they are doing- highly recommend Always best Care senior services!!!!”
“I am deeply grateful that a friend referred us to ABC after my 82-year-old mother fell and broke her femur three months ago. From the very beginning, Janne and her incredible team of caregivers stepped in with compassion and expertise, guiding us through my mom’s rehabilitation journey. Thanks to their attentive support, my mom has grown stronger each day, and I truly believe her remarkable progress is a direct result of the exceptional care she received from ABC.”
“They provided a fantastic caregiver for my father. Communicating with the office regarding any changes was very easy. I would recommend them to assist in finding the right caregiver.”
“The owner Janne and Rhonda our care coordinator are both amazing. They take the time to really listen to our needs and provide the best services possible. They've helped us care for my father with Parkinson's since we moved to Arizona two years ago and we couldn't be more pleased. I would highly recommend them.”
“We used ABC for the better part of a year and we had great caregivers. Our sister was always treated with love & respect.I wouldn’t hesitate to use ABC for your loved one. We got especially attached to Cindy who was sent down from heaven!”
“It is never easy dealing with aging parents and their increasing needs and health challenges. Always Best Care has been there for us over the last 4 years to step in as needed to assist my parents as challenges arose. Initially, we hired them to assist my parents in their home after my mom suffered a terrible fall resulting in weeks of being wheelchair bound and unable to care for herself, her home, and my blind father. The team took the time to get to know my parents and their special needs, and were a great help to us during that time. Recently my dad suffered a debilitating stroke that led to him requiring a high level of care and assistance. The task of finding assisted living for him was daunting to say the least. The right placement for his particular needs and circumstances was our biggest concern, and we had no idea where to start. Always Best Care was again the answer to our prayers! They set up tours of assisted living facilities that they had already vetted, with our particular situation in mind, and connected us with the home that was the perfect fit for him. We are so grateful for their assistance through this process. Our family would highly recommend Always Best Care to care for your aging loved ones.”
“Always Best Care took care of my brother so we could bring him home to be safe and secure in his home which was his wish.”
“Always Best Care took care of my brother so we could bring him home to be safe and secure in his home which was his wish.”
“ABC Senior Services came to us via a referral from an acquaintance. We had been working with another agency as well. ABC was able to find a place nearer to our home, and at a better price. The place she recommended has a kind and caring provider, and it seems like a good fit for my mom. I SO appreciate what they did for my family, especially since we had very little time to make this transition.”
“ABC was very quick to respond to a request for in home care for a close friend of mine after her hospital stay. I was amazed at how quickly they set up care for her with a wonderful, skilled caregiver who communicated well with my friend and myself as her emergency contact. The quality of care was top notch and I would highly recommend Always Best Care.”
“My mom's in-home senior care-aide is fantastic. She is a kind, patient, caring and friendly woman who makes mom's day. Janne made the transition simple and painless. Having used one other care agency in the past, ABC is WAY better and clearly lives up to its name .. Always Best Care!”
“The team at Always Best Care has been amazing. It isn’t easy navigating care options, but Janné and her team were compassionate, patient and were able to work quickly to get our family the support we needed!”
“We had a great experience with Always Best Care. Janne worked hard to find the right caregiver for my husband and checked in at various times to ensure that he was comfortable and well taken care of.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Rio Salado Park in Tempe, AZ with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Top of the Rock Restaurant or visit Tempe History Museum, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Tempe, AZ, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Tempe, AZ understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Tempe, AZ 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
TEMPE, AZ — Street League Skateboarding's Tempe Takeover brings a star back to her roots this weekend, as Tempe native Paige Heyn prepares to skate in front of a home crowd for the first time.The 18-year-old has built an impressive résumé in her young career. At 14, she won the USA Skateboarding National Championships women's street title. She finished third at the SLS Super Crown World Championship as a rookie in 2023. And at 16, she placed sixth at the Paris Olympics as one of the youngest athletes on Team USA....
TEMPE, AZ — Street League Skateboarding's Tempe Takeover brings a star back to her roots this weekend, as Tempe native Paige Heyn prepares to skate in front of a home crowd for the first time.
The 18-year-old has built an impressive résumé in her young career. At 14, she won the USA Skateboarding National Championships women's street title. She finished third at the SLS Super Crown World Championship as a rookie in 2023. And at 16, she placed sixth at the Paris Olympics as one of the youngest athletes on Team USA.
Heyn said performing in Paris felt surreal.
"To this day, I'm still processing that I was there, and I did that, and I skated in front of all those people."
SLS' Tempe stop carries a deeper layer of history: the league held its inaugural event in Glendale back in 2010 when Heyn was just two years old.
"Didn't even have a thought in my brain yet when they were here," Heyn said. "[SLS] coming back and me being in it--that is super exciting."
Her path in the sport started at age four, fueled by a competitive nature against her older brother and inspired by a skateboard her uncle gifted her.
"He had my name carved into the grip tape, and that was super cool to me when I was younger," Heyn recalled.
Now, she hopes young girls learning to skate see her as inspiration.
“I feel like having more girls in sports is just like such an amazing thing,” Heyn grinned. “I want every girl that’s younger—like the age I started—to pick up a skateboard and try it, and fall in love with it how I did.”
Her message to young dreamers is simple: don’t listen to doubters.
“Everyone's gonna have an opinion," Heyn said. "Being yourself, and doing what you love, is most important.”
Heyn isn't alone as a Valley native competing on home turf this weekend. Dashawn Jordan, who grew up honing his craft at Tempe Skate Park and designed a signature Nike SB sneaker highlighting Arizona, and Mesa’s Jagger Eaton will compete in the men’s contest.
The SLS Tempe Takeover comes to Mullett Arena at Arizona State University Saturday, Aug. 29.
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
Tempe is perhaps most widely known as the home of Arizona State University. But the wonderful thing about students winding up here from all over the world is the diversity of the restaurants it inspires. Tempe is home to exceptional Ethiopian food, Punjabi and Sichuan restaurants, Italian joints and more.Of course, you’ve also got your steakhouses and sandwich shops, and Tempe happens to have some of the best versions in the Valley.Here are the top 10 best restaurants in Tempe right now.Bar Capri17...
Tempe is perhaps most widely known as the home of Arizona State University. But the wonderful thing about students winding up here from all over the world is the diversity of the restaurants it inspires. Tempe is home to exceptional Ethiopian food, Punjabi and Sichuan restaurants, Italian joints and more.
Of course, you’ve also got your steakhouses and sandwich shops, and Tempe happens to have some of the best versions in the Valley.
Here are the top 10 best restaurants in Tempe right now.
1730 E. Warner Road, #10, TempeBar Capri, on the northwest corner of McClintock Drive and Warner Road, fills up fast, so reservations are highly recommended. But the crowd is there for a reason. The ambiance, service, drinks and food are all individually exceptional, and come together to create one of the best neighborhood dining destinations in town. Dark green paint envelops the walls, accented with brushed gold fixtures and antique-looking artwork. Every detail is measured, down to the ornate knives and forks. Start with a cocktail and pick between Italian classics or a few options with a tiki twist. If you’re feeling wine, choose from the curated selection of unique bottles. The food menu skews Mediterranean, blending Italian dishes with a few Middle Eastern influences. Share an order of lamb skewers and enjoy the spiced, ground meat dipped in a light, creamy yogurt and mint sauce before digging into a hearty yet tender lasagna. Appetizers for the table include flavor-packed arancini, creamy burrata with plenty of toasted bread, baked meatballs in a rich tomato sauce and stellar calamari. This new spot feels celebratory, but is casual enough for regular visits. It’s the type of spot everyone wishes would open in their neck of the woods.
849 W. University Drive, Tempe Cafe Lalibela has introduced generations of ASU students to Ethiopian food since it opened in Tempe 30 years ago. And there’s a strong argument to be made that this welcoming, family-style spot serves the best African food in all of metro Phoenix. Stews and vegetables are served on top of fluffy injera, a bubbly flatbread made with teff flour. Tear off strips to scoop up the rich meats and fragrant veggies with your hands. This spot is a standout option for vegan and vegetarian meals, but serves plenty of meat as well. The tender stewed chicken in the berbere-spiced Doro Wat is a favorite. Stick around after your meal to enjoy a traditional Ethiopian clay pot coffee service.
398 S. Mill Ave., TempeOn any given day at Tempe staple Caffe Boa, you’ll see a wide variety of customers. Young couples looking to impress on first dates fill tables in the cozy dining room next to ASU students celebrating milestones, groups of friends grabbing a sophisticated bite before heading to a Gammage show or professors showing off the best of Tempe to new faculty members. The restaurant serves Italian classics with a modern twist, such as lasagna with hint of cream in the rich tomato sauce, ravioli filled with butternut squash swimming in sage and garlic butter, flatbreads, salads and customizable charcuterie boards. Cocktails are served in cut-glass coupes, the wine list is extensive and there’s a selection of rakijas, which the menu describes as a Serbo-Croatian alcoholic drink made from distilled fermented fruit. Brunch is served on the weekends until it’s time for candles to cast light on the brick walls of this romantic setting.
2001 E. Apache Blvd., TempeCocina Chiwas builds on the familial traditions of Armando Hernandez and Nadia Holguin, while also bringing new flavors and dishes inspired by what the couple have learned while eating and working around the Valley. They may be better known for their Tacos Chiwas taquerias, but this restaurant, which opened in 2023 in a slick contemporary building as part of Culdesac Tempe, started a new chapter in their culinary journey. Start with an order of oysters with hibiscus and jalapeno mignonette and smoked salmon caviar before diving into some carnitas tacos on heirloom corn tortillas or Korean short ribs with egg fried rice. The desserts are equally impressive. The sweet corn panna cotta is a rich and surprising treat. Fruit compote adds a tartness that cuts through the sweetness from the corn. It adds up to an experience that differs from a traditional Mexican restaurant but is true to Hernandez and Holguin.
1872 Apache Blvd., TempeIt’s easy to know when you’ve reached The Dhaba, or even when you’ve arrived in the restaurant’s general neighborhood. The warm, enticing aroma of toasted spices forms a fragrant bubble around this Tempe classic. The restaurant serves a selection of Punjabi food ranging from snackable appetizers to hearty stews and curries. Specialties come straight from the tandoor, and each dish has an accompanying wine recommendation on the menu. For an excellent cross-section of the restaurant’s offerings, order one of the three Thali options. These sampler platters offer a veggie of the day and multiple varieties of chicken or lamb, as well as yellow veggie-studded rice, cool yogurt raita and fluffy naan. They also include a warming mug of chai plus a small sweet to end the meal. The Dhaba also serves imported soft drinks, beers and lassis in flavors including mango, rose, sweet, salty and plain.
1845 E. Broadway Road, TempeThough Old Town Taste offers food from a few regions of China, plus some Americanized eats, most of its greatest hits are Sichuan. An instant classic is the Chongqing-style chicken, a pile of crisp-fried chicken charged with mouth-numbing Sichuan peppercorns. We also love the piping-hot spicy fish and tofu soup, which features hunks of fish so soft they fall apart the second you nudge them with a spoon. Bring a group of friends and grab a table with a Lazy Susan, perfect for spinning as you taste your way across the menu, or settle into a turquoise booth at this Tempe staple.
7660 S. McClintock Drive #104, TempeThe Peppermill is a perfect example of how metro Phoenix gems can be hidden in unsuspecting strip malls. From the outside, this joint looks just like its neighbors, including a nail salon and a UPS store. But inside, the chefs are doing some seriously outstanding work. The narrow space includes a high-top bar, one row of tables and a row of booths. An open kitchen spans the length of the room, giving customers a first-row seat to the action. Flames periodically shoot up to kiss giant steaks and grilled veggies. The Peppermill technically is a steakhouse, but it surely isn’t the crusty kind. The steak frites and a massive, juicy burger come with thick-cut, piping hot crispy potato wedges. Roasted duck is cooked two ways, with duck breast and a confit duck leg served with creamed spinach gnocchi and a rack of lamb is elevated with a Moroccan honey spice rub. Wash it all down with a top-notch cocktail, a local or imported draft beer or a strong pour of wine. The plates are huge, so bring a big appetite and prepare to leave stuffed and happy.
603 W. University Drive, Tempe9845 S. Priest Drive, TempePerfect Pear Bistro has been a destination for fresh salads, well-stacked sandwiches and massive bowls of pasta for more than a decade. The rustic eatery has two Tempe outposts — one right by campus and the other on the south end of town. No matter which location you visit, you’ll find an ample all-day menu and a full bar, making it the kind of neighborhood spot you can duck into solo for a casual lunch or meet a group for dinner. The strawberry, bacon and gorgonzola-loaded Strawberry Fields salad and brie-stuffed Perfectly Grilled Cheese are popular picks at the bistro. Still, we’ll often opt for the namesake Perfect Pear, a customizable combo of soup, salad or pasta. The restaurant’s Creamy Mushroom Marsala packs comfort and umami into every bite thanks to roasted garlic and caramelized onions. We crave this rigatoni dish in the cooler months, but it’s the kind of cozy staple that Perfect Pear serves year-round.
1740 E. Broadway Road, #106, TempeThe tiny dining room at Sala Thai serves big flavor. The restaurant is the most recent addition to the local mini-chain owned by the Pluemjit family and its menu puts a twist on tradition. This is the only location that offers a street food menu with skewers and fried bites perfect for late-night eats. Start with an order of Khao Moo Dang, or barbecue red pork. Tender strips of pork are threaded onto skewers and grilled to perfection, with just the right amount of char. They’re served with white rice with a fried egg on top. The creamy yolk offers some respite from the spicy vinegar dipping sauce. For something fresh and bright, try the Som Tum, or papaya salad with shredded papaya, carrots, tomatoes, green beans and crushed peanuts. Order the salad E-San style to add a little funk with fish sauce and fermented crab. Sala Thai also offers exceptional curries and noodle dishes, such as a Panang Curry that tastes of fresh makrut lime leaves and Khao Soi, a yellow curry noodle bowl that will leave you slurping up every drop.
601 W. University Drive, TempeYou’ll know you’ve found Wild Barbecue before you see the red brick smokehouse. The warm aroma of slow-burning post oak tips you off. The Texas-style barbecue joint founded by brothers Ahmad and Mo Abu Ghazal has settled into Tempe since opening in 2025. Now, customers line up to sample the brothers’ take on Lone Star ’cue that’s infused with their Jordanian heritage. While traditionalists will be pleased to find moist brisket, gargantuan beef ribs and snappy jalapeño-cheddar smoked sausages, don’t miss Wild Barbecue’s boldly spiced, juicy tandoori turkey or tender smoked lamb. Round out your plate with Mediterranean rice or a Mexican corn salad inspired by esquites. Wild Barbecue brings patiently smoked meats to an area where it was lacking, and they’re adding a fresh perspective to barbecue that we hope to see more of in the Valley.
TEMPE, AZ (AZFamily) — One of Tempe’s most popular and longstanding bars is playing its final song this weekend.Low Key Piano Bar, located along Mill Avenue and just blocks away from Arizona State University, announced it would be closing after more than 12 years. The bar shared that August 8-9 would be its last weekend.The piano bar has become a staple among ASU students and visitors, situated underneath Mill Avenue. Look for the unmistakable piano sign and go down the staircase, where you’ll be greete...
TEMPE, AZ (AZFamily) — One of Tempe’s most popular and longstanding bars is playing its final song this weekend.
Low Key Piano Bar, located along Mill Avenue and just blocks away from Arizona State University, announced it would be closing after more than 12 years. The bar shared that August 8-9 would be its last weekend.
The piano bar has become a staple among ASU students and visitors, situated underneath Mill Avenue. Look for the unmistakable piano sign and go down the staircase, where you’ll be greeted with fun tunes.
Low Key has also seen its share of celebrities come through its doors, including Craig Robinson, who plays Darryl Philbin in The Office. Robinson treated guests to a theme song.
The bar didn’t share the reason behind its closing, but thanked guests for countless memories throughout the years.
See the full statement below:
After 12+ unforgettable years on Mill Ave, it’s time for us to play our final song.
Low Key has been so much more than a piano bar. It’s been a place where strangers became friends, birthdays turned into traditions, celebrations became unforgettable memories, and thousands of voices came together around the piano night after night.
To every guest who ever requested a song, sang at the top of their lungs, celebrated with us, tipped our entertainers, or simply walked through our doors… thank you. You gave this place its soul.
This weekend will be our final weekend. If Low Key has ever been a part of your story, we’d love the chance to see you one last time. Let’s fill the room, sing every chorus a little louder, raise one last toast, and give this place the farewell it deserves.
From the bottom of our hearts…
Thank you for 12+ incredible years.
One last weekend. One last song. One last chance to make a memory.
Low Key Piano Bar
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TEMPE, AZ (AZFamily) — A Tempe business is offering couples and singles the chance to create a custom perfume as a date idea.Customers spend about $35 per bottle to make a custom scent at Beauty and Body By Olivia.One customer said, “It’s a super unique experience. It’s something like I’ve never done before.”How the process worksOwner and founder Olivia Walden draws on her esthetician background to guide customers through the process. Customers can customize items on th...
TEMPE, AZ (AZFamily) — A Tempe business is offering couples and singles the chance to create a custom perfume as a date idea.
Customers spend about $35 per bottle to make a custom scent at Beauty and Body By Olivia.
One customer said, “It’s a super unique experience. It’s something like I’ve never done before.”
Owner and founder Olivia Walden draws on her esthetician background to guide customers through the process. Customers can customize items on the body care menu ranging from lip gloss to body oils, but one featured date activity is making a custom perfume.
Walden first asks customers what types of scents they are typically drawn to. She then teaches them about base, middle and top notes.
“We’ll start out with the base. You can choose up to three scents that you like after sniffing out our pairings,” Walden said.
Customers rub the scent on the inside of their wrist to test it against their body chemistry.
“How something smells like in the air is completely different from how it smells on your skin because we have like natural pheromones and just like our natural hormones and body chemistry,” Walden said. “Because a lot of times you’ll like it on the stick, but however it mixes with your pH and things like that, it changes a little bit, and sometimes you need to come back and tweak your scent a little bit, so I always have people do that.”
After choosing scents, customers blend them together until they reach a marked line in the mixing container.
Walden said she sees many couples at the studio.
“I was honestly not expecting it to be so many couples coming in, but it is a lot of people coming in to create their wedding fragrance, or they like to come in before a date to make a scent for each other, or I’ve had some first dates,” Walden said. “It’s just a lot more personal than creating a perfume. You learn a lot about the person, why they like those certain notes.”
One customer said she’s even visited the studio with a friend.
“I came in here with my male bestie. This was just a fun way for us to come in and test different things out,” the customer said. “I was really like shocked what I was more into. Something that shocked me that I liked, like powdery scents. I don’t normally like lean towards powdery scents, so I kind of discovered that about myself.”
Customers can also add crystals and floral pieces to their bottles and finish with a custom label.
Walden offered a final tip on applying the finished perfume.
“It’s not necessarily about how far away you go. You just, obviously, you don’t want to be too close, and you never want to rub your wrist together after you spray perfume,” Walden said. “It actually breaks the molecules of your scent down faster and it makes the scent disappear quicker.”
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