TEMPE, AZ (AZFamily) — A jungle-themed Tempe eatery is the newest hotspot among foodies not only in the Valley, but nationwide.
Filthy Animal claimed the No. 1 spot on Yelp’s Best New Restaurants of 2026 list. Chef Rene Vargas is putting a wild spin on his global-inspired dishes. From wood-fired beef tartare to pibil dumplings to campfire sea bass and ancho chili-glazed pork chops, each dish is a must-try.
Once guests are inside, they’ll be transported to an immersive, safari-inspired atmosphere surrounded by lush green trees and leopard print.
Hungry for brunch instead? Try the wood-fired steak and eggs, chai pancakes, pork belly eggs benedict or the crab cake eggs Benedict.
Don’t forget to wash everything down with a refreshing cocktail. The “Bee Something” cocktail features vodka, bee pollen-infused espresso liqueur, vanilla cold brew, pineapple and clove. Or, try the “Wise Decision,” filled with reposado tequila, raspberry sage, ginger and Fever Tree sparkling water.
The restaurant is located near Mill Avenue and University Drive.
Filthy Animal claimed the No. 1 spot on Yelp’s Best New Restaurants of 2026 list.(Yelp)
Filthy Animal wasn’t the only Arizona restaurant to crack the top 15!
Society Swan, tucked away inside Scottsdale Fashion Square, came in at No. 14 on the list. The menu puts a spin on French classics and modern American cuisine.
Customers can start the evening with the truffle Brie baguette, fresh fig tartlet or snow crab claws. However, an appetizer favorite among Yelpers was the wagyu pigs in a blanket.
An appetizer favorite among Yelpers were the wagyu pigs in a blanket.(Yelp)
Move on to the main dish, where you can sink your teeth into spicy vodka pasta, lobster carbonara or classic fish and chips, just to name a few.
Still hungry for dessert? The black forest sticky toffee pudding, praline butter crunch cake or the southern buttermilk tart are sure to satisfy your cravings.
See the full best new restaurants list here.
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Dining and Cooking