When you think of exploring international restaurants, the city of Glendale in Arizona may not come to mind. But thanks to the city earning a spot in America’s Emerging Travel Destinations, more people are noticing Glendale as a hot spot with cultural events, warm year-round weather, major sports events, and most recently a rising food scene.

Glendale has become a popular culinary spot thanks to its variety of international restaurants. According to Visit Glendale, the city offers a “feast of worldly flavors” with unique dining establishments ranging from traditional German or Polish cuisine to contemporary Chinese or Mexican fare. Check out these neighborhoods that are home to some of the best international restaurants. You’ll feel like you’re traveling around the world right inside the boundaries of Glendale. 

Haus Murphy’s of Glendale - Catlin Court

Photo courtesy of Haus Murphy’s of Glendale

The historic downtown district of Catlin Court is the location of Haus Murphy’s of Glendale. Serving the finest German food for the past 20 years, owner and chef Brett Hoffmann displays authenticity in every meal, from his Nurnberger Bratwurstchen, pork sausages with sauerkraut, potato pancakes, pork schnitzel, and German potato salad to the giant Bavarian pretzels adored by locals. Enjoy a towering glass of ice-cold Spaten lager while listening to the Haus Oompah Band during dinner hours on Friday and Saturday evenings. If you don’t take our word for it, watch Food Network’s Guy Fieri, as he features the restaurant on an episode of “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.”

A Touch of European Cafe - Floralcroft

Photo courtesy of A Touch of European Cafe

Near the neighborhood of Floralcroft, you’ll find the quaint cottage-like atmosphere of A Touch of European Cafe. Boasting homemade Polish cuisine by self-made chef and owner Waldemar Okula, this establishment features fan-favorites like goulash, stuffed cabbage, pierogis, kielbasa, and sour pickle soup. They also offer “shots” of their daily soups that allow patrons to sample before buying a bowl. Best of all, they have a BYOB policy, inviting you to bring your own bottles of beer or wine as you feast on the culinary imagination of the chef.

Little Saigon Restaurant - Sugar

Photo courtesy of Little Saigon Restaurant

Just north of the Sugar neighborhood in Glendale, you’ll find a Vietnamese eatery called Little Saigon Restaurant. Offering a variety of noodle soups, fire pot soups, and peppery main dishes, this Vietnamese restaurant has been a staple in the area for over 18 years, garnering attention for its exotic dishes. This cozy eatery is also known for serving the best Pho in the area so plan on arriving early to beat the crowds. If you’re planning to stop by, be aware that they close the restaurant between 2:30 p.m and 5:00 p.m, so timing is key.

La Santisima - Hadsell

Photo courtesy of La Santisima

 Other location: Phoenix

West of Route 60 near the Hadsell neighborhood, you’ll find La Santisima, a cozy restaurant serving up classic Mexican dishes. La Santisima, which was previously called La Condesa, showcases flavors from the Baja and Cancun areas as well as the Sierra Madre region. Earning an almost perfect score for their tacos, La Santisima is also known for having an excellent salsa bar with 14 to 18 different salsas ranging from peanut and tomatillo to cilantro and roasted red pepper. Not only are fresh flavors and ingredients found at this Mexican restaurant but a lively dining experience as well. The restaurant features a rustic interior with Day of the Dead images, displays of masked luchadores, and colorful art from local artists. WIth the vibrant interior and authentic dishes, you’ll feel like you took a trip south of the border without leaving the confines of your patio table. There’s also another location in Phoenix if you’re traveling that way and searching for Mexican cuisine. 

Babbo Italian Eatery - Arrowhead Ranch

Photo courtesy of Babbo Italian Eatery

In the Arrowhead Ranch neighborhood, Babbo Italian Eatery is the place to go for classic and contemporary Italian cuisine. Enjoy traditional dishes like spaghetti and meatballs, neapolitan style pizzas, house-made focaccia bread, or toasted ravioli with sausage ragu. Patrons can also try new dishes like roasted garlic tomato and basil topped with feta cheese or the sauteed asparagus with tequila, lime, jalapeno, onion, and cilantro for a spicy kick. Picked as one of 10 Bests Restaurants by USA Today, Babbo Italian Eatery is a crowd pleaser for families with diverse palettes.