Tastes of Fame

by Mike Hunter

La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop

The Food Network’s Guy Fieri likes our Valley of the Sun. Nearly 30 of our restaurants have his signature on the premises. He’s been bringing “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” here for 10 years; here are three of his more recent stops.

Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse

The long menu here is long on BBQ and smoked — including the vegetable sides. From appetizers to desserts, with creative tacos along with sandwiches, it’s comfort food in a comfortable setting.
7217 E. 1st St., Scottsdale
(480) 404-9984

Republica Empanada

This is a standout for more than its mid-century architecture in a row of brick storefronts. While there is more to the menu than empanadas, it is overwhelmingly empanadas — for lunch and dessert – representing myriad tastes and of South America.
204 E. 1st Ave., Mesa
(480) 969-1343

La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop

The restaurant’s name promises tacos, and the menu doesn’t disappoint, but there’s even more variety and creativity among the handmade corn quesadillas. No Tex-Mex; flavors here draw from the distinctive regions of Mexico.
1919 N. 16th St., Phoenix
(602) 254-6330

5932 W. Glendale Ave., Glendale
(623) 939-3292

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