Local love: Make the pledge to go local

The Valley is home to some of the best locally owned restaurants and businesses. As an Arizona-based organization ourselves, we wanted to give some local love and share how interacting with businesses in our own neighborhoods can be rewarding for both the business and the customer.

And it doesn’t end with the delicious flavors, the once-in-a-lifetime finds or even the friendships you make when you become a regular somewhere. It’s about the heartbeat of the community and coming together to support each other and see everyone thrive. So, shop local and spend local at these Valley favorites.

State staples: Great shopping and better food

Every state has its classics. Those places that are so unique to the community that they become local legends that thrive via word of mouth and are constants in the lives of true locals. Here are a couple examples!

• Luci’s Marketplace: The perfect representation of Phoenix connection, Luci’s has natural, sustainable food and products while promoting the latest activities in the community.
• La Grande Orange: With an eclectic shop and an excellent kitchen, “LGO” (as we like to call it) is the home of delicious treats and better vibes. Try the pizza!

Ingredients for success: Arizona’s hottest restaurants

Arizona is the home to a steadily growing food scene that has regularly captured the attention of critics across the country, as well as the stomachs of Valley residents. It’s always nice to know we’re just a stone’s throw away from a delicious meal at one of these awesome spots.

• Sophia’s Brunch Counter: One of the most popular brunch spots in the Valley is making headlines for its quick service and heavenly stuffed French toast!
• Il Bosco Pizza: Winner of the Phoenix Pizza Poll’s popular vote, Il Bosco opened its fourth location in Tempe, making it easier for folks across the Valley to give it a try.
• First & Last: Known for their massive sandwiches, First & Last is a great place for a casual lunch or a delicious dinner date.
• Valentine: With award-winning pasties, a great atmosphere and a Phoenix flare, Valentine is one of the hottest restaurants not just in the Melrose District but in all of Arizona.
• Vovomeena: While a bit hidden, no hunt would be too much for the tasty breakfast and brunch at Vovomeena. Though the wide variety of flavors could please anyone, the b.m.o.c. and the johnnycakes are the headliners.

Unique and quality gifts: Spend local at these spots

Small businesses are also a cornerstone of a community, which is why it’s important to support them and their needs. These places — where you can find personal connections and diverse goods —help produce new jobs, grow entrepreneurship and boost the local economy. Here are some places to check out.

• Frances: Local artists, designers and business owners bring their best to Frances for one of the Valley’s most extensive collections of unique clothing, jewelry, home essentials and more.
• Local Nomad: With a focus on women’s fashion, Local Nomad emphasizes ethically sourced clothing and accessories from Arizona and worldwide designers.
• Kei Collective: With unique products and reasonable prices, Kei Collective gives small shops a place to gather and sell clothes, jewelry, art and more.
• Stinkweeds: If you ever get lonely, just go to the record store and visit your friends. Stinkweeds has a great selection with a classic record store vibe.
• Terror Trader: Located in Chandler, Terror Trader doesn’t believe in spooky season. You can find horror-themed toys, art and more throughout the entire year.

Hot state, hot cup of coffee: Try these Arizona gems

Many Valley cafés create both community and delicious drinks! Skip the national coffee chains and opt for a cup of coffee that supports local business, is made from quality ingredients and keeps your hard-earned money in the neighborhood. Here are just some of our favorites.

• Window Coffee Bar: Starting out of one window, they now serve up one of the Valley’s best cups at three locations. Try the local pastries and the burnt cream latte!
• Coffee Builders: This is for thrill seekers in the coffee world. While certainly stylish, they don’t sacrifice taste to make a cup you won’t forget.
• Moxie Coffee Co.: Few shops brew a cup with a flavor profile as complex as Moxie. You’ll taste every note, as well as the high quality of their coffee. Their matcha is also tasty!
• AT Oasis Coffee & Tea Shop: Sourcing beans from Ethiopia and roasting in small batches, AT Oasis makes a cup of coffee that shows the difference made by attention to detail.
• Sagebrush Coffee Shop & Roastery: For those in the East Valley, Sagebrush has a wide variety of drink offerings and a great atmosphere.

From farm to fridge: the Valley’s best farmers markets

Where else can you experience the best local shopping and eating than at your local farmers market? Farmers markets have rapidly grown in popularity as social, shopping and eating hubs for the community to experience over the last 20 years. 

• Downtown Phoenix: Now conveniently inside Arizona Center, the Downtown PHX Farmers Market is every Saturday, rain or shine. Grab a breakfast burrito to chow on while you walk around.
• Gilbert: Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon, you can visit the Gilbert Farmers Market on the Chandler-Gilbert Community College campus!
• Scottsdale: In the heart of Old Town, this farmers market hosts some of the best local growers and food producers every Saturday while the weather is nice.
• Uptown: Head over to Bethany Home and Central for the Uptown Farmers Market every Wednesday and Saturday morning.
• High Street: More of a Sunday person? The Farmers Market on High Street might be for you. Check out baked goods, pizza and fresh food in one of the Valley’s best entertainment districts.

 Pro tip: To find a farmers market near you, check out Arizona Community Farmers Markets 

Love spending and shopping local? You might also love banking local with a partner who puts the community first! To get started with a partner in your neighborhood, start here!