Let me start by saying, Arizona does not get enough credit when it comes to good food. Los Angeles and New York will always be the winners in my heart but my home state is working its way up in the world. While we have the basic joints like Red Robin and TGI Friday's, we have what I like to call the best "hole in the wall" eateries around. Here are my top five for the next time you make a stop in Downtown Phoenix.

The Parlor Pizzeria

This "underground" pizzeria has some of the most amazing food, but what really does the trick is the ambiance. You would never be able to tell that this is a restaurant from the outside and when you are walking in, all you see is candlelit tables and a beautiful outside patio. When you walk in you are calmly, and nicely, greeted then directed to your table. I am a huge fan of mood lighting and this place nails it to a T. Every pizza is very delicious and different. I have had pizza with corn on it before and they MADE it work. They have amazing salads that actually fill you up and a crusted cauliflower appetizer drenched in alfredo sauce that will rock your world. My recommendation is that this is perfect for a date, because it is quiet, calm, and sets the mood.

Instagram: @theparlorpizzeria

Two Hippies

My favorite go-to burrito spot EVER to exist. Here is the thing, if the place has other options besides chicken and meat, their burritos are trustworthy. Two Hippies also provides us with veggie and fish options… I am a shrimp fanatic. This is the perfect place to bring someone who is from out of town. It is fun, bright, different, and picture-worthy. There are many different places to sit without it being overwhelming and they have a variety of drink options for when it is a bazillion degrees outside.

Instagram: No Instagram but see them on Facebook @twohippiesbeachhouse

Hopdoddy Burger Bar

Yes yes yes and more yes. I am OBSESSED with this place. Plus, it is near a Whole Foods and Trader Joes, so it completes our holy trinity of "everything organic." The burgers are AMAZING, the sauce for your fries is also incredible, and the meat is organic. So basically you can eat anything there and not worry about what you are putting into your body. Their alcohol selection is huge and they have some of the best hard cider around. You know what places I trust the most? Ones who serve their beer in freezing cold beer mugs. It is all about the pour and this place is a WHOLE drink.

Instagram: @hopdoddy

St. Francis

This place is lowkey, elegant, and allows dogs. I HAVE to rate it a 10/10. The theme I give this bar is simple elegance. The food selection is fancier and cheaper than expected. It is like going to a fancy restaurant without having to get dressed up. They have different American meals, burgers, salads, soups, etc. and a variety of appetizers. They have a french onion burger which is to die for and their soups never fail to brighten up your smile on a Fall day. I bring my parents here all the time so it's perfect for family nights (with the dog of course) or double dates.

Instagram: @stfrancisphx

Snooze

Last but certainly NOT least is Snooze. I am just going to get to the point and say…. This is the best hangover breakfast food ever to be created. The pancakes? Stupid good. The fact you can get a pancake flight of different flavors? Stupid amazing. Their Mexican breakfast options like burritos and enchiladas? It is truly unfair how much money this place has taken from my wallet on Saturday or Sunday mornings. This place isn't just for the partiers in college, but for the family as well! Their cute retro/space vibe is super fun and the color scheme could put anyone in a good mood. But seriously, come here after a late night out.

Instagram: @snoozeameatery