Kitchen 56, located the heart of Arcadia on the Southeast corner of 56th Street and Indian School, is such an adorable spot that we jumped at the chance to try out the menu.
The structure itself is unmistakably charming – as it was originally constructed in 1961 as a Humble/Enco full-service gas station and automotive repair shop. In 1988, the gas station closed, and the building operated as just an automotive repair shop. Since then, the building has been renovated for Kitchen 56, however, most of the original building was incorporated into the new design. When you first walk in to the restaurant, you’ll notice a huge, enlarged photo of the original structure that spans on the entire wall of the dining room.
The menu features everyday American fare prepared in unique ways. Classic comfort-foods like spicy chicken wings, fried onion rings, pizzas and pastas are updated with a new modern flare – creating a unique menu of old favorites.
When we first arrived, we immediately eyed the menu of six “adult lemonades” (each priced at $8) and swiftly made our choices. I opted for the “Backporch Lemonade” (citrus vodka + ginger syrup + lemonade + cranberry) and found it incredibly refreshing and the perfect beverage to enjoy out on the restaurant’s patio.
While Taryn chose the Black Cherry Lemonade (effen black cherry vodka + lemonade + amarena cherries + lemon wheels).
Later in the evening, I also had the opportunity to try the Pink Panther (pearl blueberry + lemonade + wild maine blueberries that many had raved about and, I even convinced Taryn to order a Pickle Back! (pbr + a shot of jameson + pickle juice chaser). There’s been talk recently of where to order a pickle back – now you know… Kitchen 56!
We also had the opportunity to sample a few of these dishes:
The Spicy Garlic & Cilantro Chicken Wings with Bleu Cheese Dip ($8) were almost addicting. I have a weakness for traditional spicy chicken wings, but these were that much better. They really pack a punch, so be sure to have your lemonade handy!
Spicy Garlic & Cilantro Chicken Wings
The Cornmeal Crusted Calamari over Asian Slaw with Thai Peanut & Miso Caramel Sauce ($8) had a sweet-sour-and-spicy vibe going on that seemed to win the crowd over quickly.
The Grilled Corn Cakes topped with Pulled Pork ($8) were an absolutely favorite of mine – true comfort food at its best.
However, the Arcadia Pie (Goat Cheese, Leeks, Scallions, Garlic & Bacon) ($13) was the real winner for me – the tanginess of the goat cheese with smoky, salty bacon… I was in heaven.
Arcadia Pie
Drunk Bread “pan borracho” ($10). Hands down, the Drunk Bread was the most-talked about dish from the evening which was so charmingly described as “bread covered in macaroni and cheese sauce”. It’s a must try!
Kitcen 56 is open Tuesday through Sunday for happy hour and dinner beginning at 3pm. For more information, visit kitchen56.com.
Kitchen 56 | 3433 N. 56th Street | Phoenix, AZ | 85018 | 480-994-5656
*This meal was provided to us complimentary as a part of a media invitation. However, this has no effect on our opinions and comments regarding our experience. View our Disclosure Policy for further explanation.
