Tempe City Councilmember Arlene Chin
Courtesy City of Tempe
By Tempe City Councilmember Arlene Chin
The refresh of our downtown Tempe infrastructure and streetscape is well underway, with Phase Three of the construction project advancing north between 7th Street and 6th Street and 4th Street to Rio Salado Parkway on both sides of Mill Avenue.
This summer, a new artistic destination marker will be installed above Mill Avenue at the southern gateway into downtown Tempe — also at this gateway is a fantastic new restaurant.
Filthy Animal is a new, elevated dining experience established in the heart of our city by Teddy Myers and Thor Nguyen of Pretty Decent Concepts, the creators behind some of the Valley’s best restaurants and cocktail lounges, like Wren & Wolf, Trophy Room and Chico Malo.
The plush ambiance of the restaurant echoes the exquisite dinner and beverage menu, which are both creative and delightfully intriguing. Executive Chef Rene Vargas masterfully uses the original cooking method for his fare: fire!
This ancient element creates a natural char, with the wood's flavor enhancing the taste, texture, and visual appeal of the eclectic cuisine. Of course, the dining experience would not be complete without the pairing of elegant wines and cocktails from a mixologist mastermind.
Drop Dead Gorgeous is an attached speakeasy with a separate entrance on Mill Avenue. This cool and swanky lounge has a refined but a little wild kind of vibe, just like Filthy Animal. In this space, you will find creative concoctions and top-shelf spirits infused with the pulse of lively beats from the DJ.
Currently, Filthy Animal is open for dinner reservations, with lunch and Sunday brunch offerings expected soon. Please visit www.thisisfilthyanimal.com to view their service hours and menus.
Filthy Animal’s conspicuous location is not only ideal but also reflects the evolution of the area. Downtown Tempe has more residents than ever who desire more sophisticated dining and entertainment options in our urban core.
Filthy Animal and Drop Dead Gorgeous will fulfill a desire left when Bob and Robin Trick retired and closed their memorable downtown restaurant, by providing a reasonably priced fine dining experience on the refreshed historic Mill Avenue.
Arlene Chin is a member of the Tempe City Council.
