Looking for a place in Tempe to have a bite to eat, or maybe just grab a drink? Head away from the old standbys of Mill Avenue and check out a couple of my favorite spots:

Mucho delicioso: One of my recent favorite discoveries in Tempe is Mucho Gusto Taqueria & Mexican Bistro. Thanks to recommendations from several friends, I stopped in and immediately fell in love with their patio (think fireplace, lanterns and white lights) and delicious fish tacos. Oh, and don’t be scared by their lack of a drink menu – just cut right to the chase and order a hibiscus margarita.

The other side of the pond: Cornish Pasty, hidden in a  Tempe strip mall, is where you’ll find delicious pasties to fit every taste ranging from traditional meat and potatoes to vegetarian. (What’s a pasty, you ask? I like to describe it as a sophisticated Hot Pocket.) One thing to note – this isn’t a place for crowds. With such a limited space,  you’re better off saving Cornish Pasty for a date or dinner for two. Leave the crowds to my next spot.

Four the beer: Tempe’s very own Four Peaks Brewery is the perfect place to celebrate a birthday, stop by for a drink after work, or spend an evening with friends. Their delicious selection of mainstay and seasonal brews, in addition to yummy pub eats (you had me at beer battered fries), makes this one of my favorite spots. My menu favorites include the Oatmeal Stout and spinach artichoke dip. I’ve also heard amazing things about the Oatmeal Stout Shake (but really, how could you go wrong with beer and ice cream…)