My husband and I have two local restaurant/bars that we regularly visit in our home town. We’re there so often that we’re known by name, and when they see us coming they plunk our preferred beverages, sitting all nice and frosty on the bar, before we can even plunk ourselves down on the bar stool. So, if you’re looking for a great place to hang out in Chandler, Arizona, look no further!

Sandstone Cafe - Chandler, AZ

The Sandstone Cafe is a tiny establishment (but expanding at the end of December!) which seamlessly mixes sophisticated cuisine and aperitifs with a great neighborhood bar atmosphere. The owner, chef, and staff considers every one of their customers to be family, and you’re treated to a personalized experience every time you come back. The Sandstone holds regular brewery events, and wine and tapas parties, which educate patrons on brewery techniques and winery processes, hosted by local and domestic brewery and vineyard representatives.

They have a fantastic menu (the lasagna is to die for), which is constantly evolving and offering wonderful surprises (my husband and I had portobello caps stuffed with crab meat and finished with a vegetable demiglaze just last night). Food and drink specials run on a daily basis, and the football game/baseball game/basketball game/UFC fight/boxing match is always shown on several TV’s. The atmosphere is a nice balance of comfortable, sophisticated, and sociable. A merry band of regular customers (my husband and I are members) keeps the place lively.

The Sandstone Cafe is located at 4959 W. Ray Road in Chandler, on the south-east corner of Ray and Rural Roads, just off of the I-10 or Loop 101. Prices are extremely reasonable for food and beverages, and it is a family-friendly establishment.

Jersey's Tavern and Grill in Chandler, AZ

Another of our personal favorite hang-outs is Jersey’s Tavern and Grill. Jersey’s is very firmly rooted in the neighborhood as the best sports bar to hang out in, and watch the game (any game, all games!). Word to the wise, though, they’re crazy about the Philadelphia Eagles, so if you’re a hater, you’ve been warned! Jersey’s has what I devotedly believe is the best burger in town (I recommended the Jalapeno Burger), plus a dizzying array of beers – bottled and on tap. They have live music every Friday and Saturday night, featuring local and regional bands that are high on skill, personality, and uniqueness.

A friendlier bar and wait staff just can’t be found, anywhere, and they make it their personal goal to ensure you have a terrific time when you’re visiting their establishment. Shoot a game of pool, toss a game of bags, socialize on the patio, and enjoy the completely comfortable, cheerful, and convivial atmosphere (score for alliteration!). Prices are exceedingly reasonable for all of their foods and beverages, and Jersey’s is family-friendly – though it does get rambunctious sometimes at night! Never let it be said that these folks don’t know how to party.

Jersey’s Tavern and Grill is located at 5945 West Ray Road in Chandler, on the south side of the road between Ray and Kyrene Roads. It’s also within easy reach of the I-10 and Loop 101 freeways!

If you decide to visit either establishment, drop a comment and let me know! Chances are, we can meet and say hello!

Photo Credits (all): Snerkology Media.