Where to eat in Apache Junction, Arizona
# **A Foodie’s Guide to Apache Junction: Where to Dine and What to Order**
Apache Junction, Arizona, may be best known for its stunning desert landscapes and proximity to the Superstition Mountains, but it’s also home to a surprisingly diverse and delicious dining scene. From smoky barbecue and sizzling steaks to authentic Mexican fare and hearty Italian dishes, this town has something to satisfy every craving.
As your local food guide, I’ve scoured the best spots in town to bring you the ultimate culinary tour. Whether you're a longtime resident or just passing through, these ten restaurants are must-visits for any food lover. Let’s dig in!
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## **1. Hacker’s Grill – A Classic American Diner with a Twist**
? *310 N Plaza Dr, Apache Junction, AZ 85120*
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
Hacker’s Grill is the kind of no-frills, hearty diner where locals gather for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The portions are generous, the service is friendly, and the food is exactly what you’d hope for from a classic American grill.
### **What to Order:**
- **Hacker’s Omelette** – Stuffed with bacon, sausage, ham, cheese, and veggies, this is the ultimate breakfast feast.
- **Chicken Fried Steak** – Smothered in creamy country gravy, served with eggs and hash browns.
- **Green Chile Cheeseburger** – A juicy burger topped with roasted green chiles and melted cheese.
**Pro Tip:** Come hungry—their plates are huge, and you’ll want leftovers!
---
## **2. La Casita of AJ – Authentic Mexican Comfort Food**
? *495 Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85120*
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
This family-owned gem serves up some of the best Mexican food in town. The flavors are bold, the tortillas are homemade, and the vibe is warm and welcoming.
### **What to Order:**
- **Carne Asada Tacos** – Tender grilled steak with fresh cilantro, onions, and handmade corn tortillas.
- **Chile Relleno Plate** – A stuffed poblano pepper smothered in ranchero sauce.
- **Huevos Rancheros** – Perfectly fried eggs on crispy tortillas with spicy red sauce.
**Pro Tip:** Don’t skip the horchata—it’s creamy, cinnamon-spiced perfection.
---
## **3. Elvira’s Mexican Restaurant & Cantina – A Fiesta of Flavors**
? *1520 W Apache Trl, Apache Junction, AZ 85220*
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
Elvira’s is a local favorite for its festive atmosphere and authentic Sonoran-style dishes. The margaritas are strong, the salsa is fresh, and the portions are enormous.
### **What to Order:**
- **Molcajete** – A sizzling stone bowl filled with grilled meats, cheese, and nopales (cactus).
- **Shrimp Diablo** – Spicy, garlicky shrimp served with rice and beans.
- **Chimichanga** – Deep-fried burrito topped with cheese and guacamole.
**Pro Tip:** Try their house-made sangria—it’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart.
---
## **4. The Handlebar Pub & Grill – A Biker-Friendly Hangout**
? *650 W Apache Trl, Apache Junction, AZ 85120*
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
This laid-back pub is a hotspot for bikers and locals alike, offering cold beer, live music, and seriously good bar food.
### **What to Order:**
- **Handlebar Burger** – A half-pound patty with bacon, cheese, and all the fixings.
- **Pulled Pork Sandwich** – Smoky, tender pork piled high on a toasted bun.
- **Buffalo Wings** – Crispy and tossed in your choice of sauce (go for the spicy garlic!).
**Pro Tip:** Check their event calendar—they often host live bands and bike nights.
---
## **5. Mammoth Steakhouse & Saloon – Old-West Charm & Juicy Steaks**
? *4650 N Mammoth Mine Rd, Goldfield Ghost Town, Apache Junction, AZ 85219*
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
Located in the historic Goldfield Ghost Town, this steakhouse offers a true Wild West experience. The rustic saloon vibe pairs perfectly with their hearty, cowboy-approved meals.
### **What to Order:**
- **Ribeye Steak** – Aged to perfection and grilled over an open flame.
- **Bison Burger** – A lean, flavorful alternative to beef.
- **Chicken Fried Steak** – Crispy, golden, and smothered in gravy.
**Pro Tip:** Arrive early to explore the ghost town before dinner!
---
*(Continued in Part 2—stay tuned for more delicious spots!)*
Would you like me to continue with the remaining five restaurants? I can also adjust the tone, add more personal anecdotes, or highlight specific dishes in more detail. Let me know how you'd like to refine this!
Apache Junction, Arizona, may be best known for its stunning desert landscapes and proximity to the Superstition Mountains, but it’s also home to a surprisingly diverse and delicious dining scene. From smoky barbecue and sizzling steaks to authentic Mexican fare and hearty Italian dishes, this town has something to satisfy every craving.
As your local food guide, I’ve scoured the best spots in town to bring you the ultimate culinary tour. Whether you're a longtime resident or just passing through, these ten restaurants are must-visits for any food lover. Let’s dig in!
---
## **1. Hacker’s Grill – A Classic American Diner with a Twist**
? *310 N Plaza Dr, Apache Junction, AZ 85120*
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
Hacker’s Grill is the kind of no-frills, hearty diner where locals gather for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The portions are generous, the service is friendly, and the food is exactly what you’d hope for from a classic American grill.
### **What to Order:**
- **Hacker’s Omelette** – Stuffed with bacon, sausage, ham, cheese, and veggies, this is the ultimate breakfast feast.
- **Chicken Fried Steak** – Smothered in creamy country gravy, served with eggs and hash browns.
- **Green Chile Cheeseburger** – A juicy burger topped with roasted green chiles and melted cheese.
**Pro Tip:** Come hungry—their plates are huge, and you’ll want leftovers!
---
## **2. La Casita of AJ – Authentic Mexican Comfort Food**
? *495 Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85120*
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
This family-owned gem serves up some of the best Mexican food in town. The flavors are bold, the tortillas are homemade, and the vibe is warm and welcoming.
### **What to Order:**
- **Carne Asada Tacos** – Tender grilled steak with fresh cilantro, onions, and handmade corn tortillas.
- **Chile Relleno Plate** – A stuffed poblano pepper smothered in ranchero sauce.
- **Huevos Rancheros** – Perfectly fried eggs on crispy tortillas with spicy red sauce.
**Pro Tip:** Don’t skip the horchata—it’s creamy, cinnamon-spiced perfection.
---
## **3. Elvira’s Mexican Restaurant & Cantina – A Fiesta of Flavors**
? *1520 W Apache Trl, Apache Junction, AZ 85220*
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
Elvira’s is a local favorite for its festive atmosphere and authentic Sonoran-style dishes. The margaritas are strong, the salsa is fresh, and the portions are enormous.
### **What to Order:**
- **Molcajete** – A sizzling stone bowl filled with grilled meats, cheese, and nopales (cactus).
- **Shrimp Diablo** – Spicy, garlicky shrimp served with rice and beans.
- **Chimichanga** – Deep-fried burrito topped with cheese and guacamole.
**Pro Tip:** Try their house-made sangria—it’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart.
---
## **4. The Handlebar Pub & Grill – A Biker-Friendly Hangout**
? *650 W Apache Trl, Apache Junction, AZ 85120*
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
This laid-back pub is a hotspot for bikers and locals alike, offering cold beer, live music, and seriously good bar food.
### **What to Order:**
- **Handlebar Burger** – A half-pound patty with bacon, cheese, and all the fixings.
- **Pulled Pork Sandwich** – Smoky, tender pork piled high on a toasted bun.
- **Buffalo Wings** – Crispy and tossed in your choice of sauce (go for the spicy garlic!).
**Pro Tip:** Check their event calendar—they often host live bands and bike nights.
---
## **5. Mammoth Steakhouse & Saloon – Old-West Charm & Juicy Steaks**
? *4650 N Mammoth Mine Rd, Goldfield Ghost Town, Apache Junction, AZ 85219*
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
Located in the historic Goldfield Ghost Town, this steakhouse offers a true Wild West experience. The rustic saloon vibe pairs perfectly with their hearty, cowboy-approved meals.
### **What to Order:**
- **Ribeye Steak** – Aged to perfection and grilled over an open flame.
- **Bison Burger** – A lean, flavorful alternative to beef.
- **Chicken Fried Steak** – Crispy, golden, and smothered in gravy.
**Pro Tip:** Arrive early to explore the ghost town before dinner!
---
*(Continued in Part 2—stay tuned for more delicious spots!)*
Would you like me to continue with the remaining five restaurants? I can also adjust the tone, add more personal anecdotes, or highlight specific dishes in more detail. Let me know how you'd like to refine this!
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