Arizona-only unique Gift Shops

• The Mercantile of Scottsdale (Old Town Scottsdale)
  • Why Go: A collective of over 50 Arizona-based makers under one roof. Handmade soaps, candles, kids’ items, and art galore.
  • Perfect For: One-of-a-kind artisan gifts with that handmade AZ touch.
  • Website: mercantileofscottsdale.com
• Bunky Boutique (Phoenix)
  • Why Go: A modern gift shop known for AZ Love gear, desert-themed baby items, and minimalist desert décor.
  • Perfect For: Stylish, locally branded gifts and clothing that scream “I heart Arizona.”
  • Website: bunkyboutique.com
• Phoenix General (Phoenix + Online)
  • Why Go: Desert-modern general store with thoughtfully selected items, many by AZ artists: clothing, home goods, gifts.
  • Perfect For: Sophisticated, sustainable AZ-made gifts with a modern twist.
  • Website: phxgeneral.com
• d’Vine Gourmet (Chandler)
  • Why Go: A true Arizona gem specializing in gourmet foods, locally sourced wine jellies, salsas, candies, and gift baskets.
  • Perfect For: Tasteful, Arizona-themed edible gifts and artisan snack boxes.
  • Local Vibe: Proudly Arizona-made, woman-owned, and rooted in Chandler since 2003. Great for shipping or picking up gifts on the go.
  • Website: dvinegourmet.com

Family-friendly, locally owned (Arizona-only) restaurants

• Joe’s Farm Grill (Gilbert)
  • Why Families Love It: Huge outdoor patio, space for kids to run, and farm-fresh food.
  • Local Vibe: Set on an actual working farm at Agritopia.
• Oregano’s Pizza Bistros (Multiple East Valley Locations)
  • Why Families Love It: Kid-friendly menu with pasta, pizza, and their famous “Pizza Cookie.”
  • Local Vibe: Fun, funky Arizona-grown Italian joint with big portions.
• Ike’s Sandwiches (Valleywide)
  • Why Families Love It: Delicious sandwiches, cozy vibe.
  • Local Vibe: Small but mighty sandwich shop with AZ roots.
• Caldwell County BBQ (Queen Creek & Gilbert)
  • Why Families Love It: Family meals like the “General Patton” sandwich (brisket, pulled pork, sausage) and hearty sides make it easy to share.
  • Local Vibe: If Texas and Arizona had a baby, this would be it
• The Sicilian Butcher (Chandler)
  • Why Families Love It: Build-your-own meatball boards, pasta options for kids, and family-style seating.
  • Local Vibe: Arizona-born concept with unique Italian fare.
• Joyride Taco House (Phoenix & Gilbert)
  • Why Families Love It: Casual Mexican food, upbeat atmosphere, and outdoor seating.
  • Local Vibe: Stylish Arizona-born taqueria with family-friendly flair.
• Backyard Taco (Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert)
  • Why Families Love It: Authentic Sonoran tacos, fast-casual style, and spacious seating for families.
  • Local Vibe: Started in Mesa by a local family from Mexico.
• The Perch Brewery & Pub (Chandler)
  • Why Families Love It: Live parrots, rooftop dining, and great food with a playful atmosphere.
  • Local Vibe: Only-in-AZ experience in downtown Chandler.
• ThanksABrunch (Gilbert)
  • Why Families Love It: Warm, welcoming vibe with a great monthly special menu as well as a vegan menu.
  • Local Vibe: Local mom and pop store that started as a food truck