The Best Comfort Food in Mesa

Republica Empanada

★★★★☆ 4.4 (1057) • $$

"I've had this spot bookmarked for years and finally visited recently. It helped that I had seen Keith Lee's review and was going to be in Mesa. We arrived around 7 on Friday night and it was busy - folks dining in, waiting to order, and hanging out on the patio with the DJ.We ordered a variety of empanadas: el capitán, elote (2), jalapeño potato popper (2), mushroom & chicken, republica chicken, and two dessert ones: dizzy fig and Nutella & banana. We were quoted a wait time of 40 minutes so we walked around the area, but our food was prepared in less time.I love that they were in labeled bags and hot and fresh. They come with a green salsa that's pretty tasty. Our favorites were the elote and Jalapeño popper - lots of flavor. I liked the addition of olives to the mushroom & chicken and the El Capitán but I wish there was more than one in each. The dizzy fig was too sweet for our liking but I'm glad we tried it. And the Nutella & banana was solid but could've used another flavor like cinnamon.Overall this place has great vibes, friendly staff, and a strong love for the city of Mesa. I would come back to support them!"

Tryst Cafe

★★★★☆ 4 (635) • $$

"My buddy and I wanted someplace healthy shortly after lunch on a Sunday. It was busy but not so busy that we had to wait for a table. The server was patient and attentive. He had some strong recommendations, which is always appreciated, as I rarely order by looking at the menu.I had the Ahi Tuna Melt and it was pretty good. I personally would have appreciated some jalapeños, or hot peppers.They had a relatively large selection of healthy-type foods. I say "healthy-type" because they looked healthy-ish but I haven't tried them, yet, so I don't know.I could definitely see going back!!"

Ranch House Grille

★★★★☆ 4 (448) • $$

"Breakfast here with a friend who recommended it. Was directed to choose a table, and ordered coffee.We both decided on Chicken fried steak, eggs over medium, hash browns and toast.Within a reasonable time, food arrived. Large, CFS, covered in the right amount of nice gravy. Big portion of crisped hash browns. Perfectly cooked eggs, and hot toast.Doesn't get much better than this!Definitely has the old school ambience of a family owned diner. Server was okay. Food was fresh, plentiful and priced right. If in the area, would eat here again."

The Kolache Cafe

★★★★☆ 4.2 (221) • $

"Amazing location, great food, great concept, Bailey behind the counter. Also, her name on the wall knew everything about the food made it really easy to make a decision definitely will be back. Don't know how I missed this place."

JJ Madisons All American Grill

★★★☆☆ 3 (298) • $$

"My mom's neighbor told her about bingo. We met up last Tuesday and had a great time. It starts at 5. You should arrive a bit early to get your cards and find a seat. It's pretty packed. It's free and they have great prizes. The menu is expansive! There are so many great options. Our service was great. There's a ton of seating. Looks like a great place to watch a game. The pulled pork was delish. My mom and I shared nachos. It was a huge dish. There was plenty for both of us. We'll definitely go back. I've told coworkers and friends how much fun it was . It was only 1.5 hours. So, don't worry too much about being late on a work night. I'd definitely recommend this establishment for fun and food!"

EVO

★★★★☆ 4.2 (148)

"Did a tasting menu and it simply wasn't enough! Can't wait to go back for the full meal, will be getting a full portion of the meatballs SO GOOD! Servers were prompt and attentive, vibe was casual to slightly above. Can't wait to go back!"

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

★★☆☆☆ 2.4 (240) • $$

"Not a good experience at all! Came in on my own, sat immediately next to 2 families with small children. They need to rethink their seating.Food took 13 minutes to come out. Chicken dippers, Mac & cheese, fried apples, and hash brown casserole. Food was good!! Coca-cola cake for dessert. Stuck a woman in a wheelchair in the corner when plenty of tables were available in main rooms. It's like they have to fill the outside area first? Staff walked by me many times, no refills of sweet tea. I am on the corner chair, banged into so many times because they don't think about the layout of their restaurant. No thought process, no service, manager sitting taking to a customer, staff does not seem happy. I will be going to another one moving forward."

Salt & Sugar Taqueria

★★★★★ 4.6 (21)

"I've seen on the News of grand opening in Mesa of this cute aesthetic, pink tacos and pink glitter cookies. That's what drove me there with my friends . And the owner was so sweet to us and provided us details of what's coming soon to her menu . Gave us some great service . The detail in this restaurant was amazingly nice to have in Mesa . The cute heart pink straws and to the pastry. The carne asada seasoning tacos was on point . They even can let you take home the seasoning for your meat . And they have this great drink that is healthy and delicious for you . And prices are fair due to the love they put into their food . Great place for a girls day , or to drag your husband out for the support of your girly authentic picture to post with the pink lol . Definitely coming back again to try other things on their menu . Btw they sell pink tortillas to take home or the pastries ."

Macology

★★★☆☆ 2.5 (26)

"We just moved to Phoenix and this food truck came to our complex. I am glad we tried it out. Lobster Mac and cheese was delicious. Burnt ends and shrimp were also good. Brisket wasn't quite as good as the others, but was solid! Young lady at the counter was friendly and helpful!"

Angel’s Naija Cuisine

★★★☆☆ 3 (3)

"Went to this Nigerian restaurant. BEST FOOD EVER. It was 5 with authentic food. I am def going again. Clearly my daughter also enjoyed her meal. Shout out to the chief !!!"