DTPHX Light Rail Series: Van Buren/Central Ave. Station
by Downtown Phoenix Inc.
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Welcome to Downtown Phoenix Inc.’s light rail series. This is your handy guide of restaurants and retailers that are within walking distance from each Valley Metro light rail station Downtown.
The Valley Metro light rail system makes it easy to get around Downtown Phoenix.
Whether you’re Downtown for mega events like the 2024 Men’s Final Four®, the March Madness® Music Festival, or you simply want to explore the walkable neighborhood, the light rail will get you there stress-free.
Hop off the Van Buren/Central Ave. station for cool places to enjoy delicious food and drinks and fulfill all your shopping needs.
Jacy and Dakota’s in Downtown Phoenix. (Photo: Fara Illich)
Taylor Mall is the open pedestrian walkway between the ASU University Center and the Cronkite Building. It is home to several restaurants, including Boba Cutea, Bowl of Greens, Rush Bowls, Panda Express, Starbucks, Chick-fil-A, and Taste Budzz.
Details: 555 N. Central Ave.
A desert oasis in the center of the city, Jacy & Dakota’s is a modern restaurant with cuisine inspired by traditional dishes with fresh ingredients. Stop by for a latte, lunch, craft cocktail, or dinner and enjoy their beautiful indoor/outdoor seating areas.
Details: 333 N. Central Ave.
This Arizona-based specialty coffee roaster is located inside the EVB building, home to the Arizona Republic and 12News newsrooms. Press offers Phoenix locals and visitors high-quality specialty coffee, tea, to-go menu items, pastries by Chacónne Patisserie, and more.
Details: 200 E. Van Buren St.
Located inside the Hampton Inn and Suites by Hilton Downtown Phoenix, this bar and restaurant offers small bites, salads, wraps, and pizza.
Details: 77 E. Polk St.
DTPHX StoryWalk is located in the grotto at Arizona Center. (Photo: Contributed)
This open-air retail and office development features shops, restaurants, AMC Theatre, gardens and office space. The Center offers a variety of food options, including Omoide Sushi, Cold Stone Creamery, Chocolate Bash, and Jersey Mike’s. It is also a popular spot for family-friendly events and entertainment, including the DTPHX Storywalk, The Rose Theater, home of Drunk Shakespeare, and Family First Fridays.
Details: 455 N. 3rd St.
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Céntrico offers authentic tacos and Mexican dishes with patio seating on the ground floor of the historic San Carlos Hotel.
Details: 202 N. Central Ave.
Brothers Luis and Ramon Osuna opened their first brewery in Hermosillo, Sonora, in 2016 to bring more craft beer options to Mexico. Today, the brewery has grown to include five taprooms in Mexico and Downtown Phoenix. Buqui Bichi brews up a selection of beers from a Hazy IPA to a Coffee Stout and a full food menu with burgers, tacos, and appetizers.
Details: 21 W. Van Buren St.
Known for its gourmet hot dogs topped with creative and indulgent ingredients, Loaded Wiener has gained popularity for its unique take on classic hot dogs and its causal, laid-back atmosphere. Open late until 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Details: 21 W. Van Buren St.
Downtown Phoenix’s original Irish pub. Full selection of draft beers, single-malt scotch, Irish whiskey, and bourbons. Offering corned beef and cabbage, Irish stew, fish and chips, boxtys, and live entertainment.
Details: 18 W. Monroe St.
The patio at Carcara in Downtown Phoenix. (Photo: Contributed)
Located inside the Sheraton Phoenix Downtown, Carcara is a bar and restaurant curated to provide a dining experience that evokes the heritage and history of the local Phoenix community and welcomes all to immerse themselves in the destination.
Details: 340 N. 3rd St.
This public park features environmentally friendly elements, a floating sculpture by renowned artist Janet Echelman, interactive lighting, and a multitude of special events hosted by local organizations.
Details: 424 N. Central Ave.