Ever since its opening in 2020, Drink Me! Tea Room in Tempe has been a growing phenomenon, attracting visitors from all over Arizona — and the rest of the country. In addition to serving premium brewed tea and irresistible, sweet and savory treats, this cherished Tempe gem offers guests an unforgettable immersive experience. But Drink Me! Tea Room is one of many Tempe treasures that should be on your summer must-visit list.
For the entire month of July, visitors can take advantage of Taste in Tempe’s pre-fixe menu deal at Drink Me! Tea Room (don’t be late for this very important date!) and other amazing Tempe treasures. From comfort food to a transformed art annex, here are six Tempe experiences— in alphabetical order — that will make you want to go back for more.
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Caffe Boa
Caffe Boa on Mill Avenue is a charming Tempe gem, blending handcrafted Italian cuisine — house-made pasta, wild-caught seafood, organic produce — with a warm, inviting ambiance. More than food, it’s a destination: a premier natural‑wine bar, moonlit patio seating, live jazz and a 30-year legacy at the heart of downtown Tempe.
Drink Me! Tea Room
Those in pursuit of a fun and charming adventure find exactly what they need in an atmosphere of pure whimsy (complete with delightful photo backdrops). And, for the entire month of July, visitors can take advantage of Taste in Tempe’s Drink Me! Tea Room pre-fixe menu deal (don’t be late for this very important date!)
“As a longtime Tempe resident, I wanted to bring the afternoon tea experience to my own neighborhood; a place that values creativity and community,” says Melissa Harlan, founder and owner of Drink Me! Tea Room. “Tempe’s supportive, vibrant energy made it the perfect home for something as unique and inclusive as Drink Me! Tea Room.”
Not only do people come to Drink Me! Tea Room to experience a variety of specialty teas and delectable treats, but they’re also immersed in a one-of-a-kind experience.
“It’s like stepping into a storybook where you can sip tea, savor whimsical treats and forget the outside world for a bit,” Harlan says. “We specialize in plant-based, gluten-free, themed afternoon tea experiences that are both elegant and playful.”
Foch Café & Bistro
Locally owned and French-inspired (it’s actually named after a street in Paris), Foch Café in Tempe offers a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere with eclectic décor and creative, flavorful dishes. Known for its artisan coffee, creative craft cocktails and inventive brunch menu — fried chicken n’ gravy crêpe? Yes, please! — Foch Café is a perfect gathering spot for friends and locals alike. Its cozy charm, live music, and unique vibe make every visit memorable.
“As a chef, it has always been a dream of mine to open a restaurant and I am excited to share delectable French inspired cuisine with the wonderful residents and visitors of Tempe,” says Chef Timothy Richardson, co-founder of Foch Café & Bistro. “Foch is an open, bright and happy space for people to gather and celebrate community once again.”
Four Peaks Brewing Company
Four Peaks Brewing in Tempe, named the No. 1 brewery in the 2023 edition of Ranking Arizona, is an iconic destination known for its historic 1892 creamery setting, award‑winning craft beers like Kilt Lifter, and welcoming brewpub atmosphere. Renowned for community impact, ghost tours and spacious indoor‑outdoor seating, Four Peaks blends local heritage with vibrant culture—and remains a must‑visit for beer lovers statewide
Passage to India
Passage to India in Tempe is a must-visit destination, offering authentic, richly flavored Indian cuisine with a modern twist. From aromatic curries and tandoori specialties to elegant plating, every dish delights the senses. Its warm, upscale ambiance and impeccable service create a dining experience that consistently exceeds expectations.
Postino Annex
Postino Annex in Tempe offers a unique blend of historic charm and vibrant energy: A repurposed 1950s ASU art annex transformed into an indoor‑outdoor wine café embraced by lush patios and roll‑up doors. Guests are drawn to its lively atmosphere, communal bruschetta boards, craft cocktails and extensive wine list — all enjoyed under shade umbrellas or cozy lounges. Whether hosting group gatherings or savoring solo brunch, Postino Annex delivers memorable flavors and infectious energy in the heart of downtown Tempe.
To learn more about exciting and must-try dining deals in Tempe, check out Taste in Tempe for a full look at prix fixe menus available through July.
