Caffe Boa TEMPE
Italian restaurant · Tempe ·

Caffe Boa TEMPE

Italian restaurant · Tempe ·

Housemade pastas, Balkan rakija flights, live jazz nights

fettuccine bianca
voodoo pasta
sangria
craft cocktails
live music
outdoor patio
friendly staff
lasagna
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null
Caffe Boa TEMPE by null

Information

398 S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281 Get directions

$20–30

Order delivery
See Menu
Restroom
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Dinner reservations recommended
Cozy

Information

Static Map

398 S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281 Get directions

+1 480 968 9112
cafeboa.com
@caffeboaonmill

$20–30 · Menu

Features

•Restroom
•Accepts reservations
•Popular for lunch
•Popular for dinner
•Dinner reservations recommended
•Cozy
•Romantic
•Trendy

Last updated

Jan 28, 2026

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JBF semifinalist Nicole Brisson departs Mountain’s Edge Italian restaurant Locale | Eater Vegas

"I'm told Marrone plans to open Italian Graffiti with an attached pizza window at The Bend (the new retail center under construction north of Ikea at Sunset Road and Durango Drive), and that the restaurant will serve pastas made in house when it opens in 2020." - Susan Stapleton

https://vegas.eater.com/2020/4/21/21229939/chef-nicole-brisson-leaves-mountains-edge-locale-italian-kitchen-restaurant
Caffe Boa TEMPE
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22,027 Postcards · 1,950 Cities

Mill Avenue’s grown-up refuge for housemade pastas, a smart wine list, and Balkan rakija flights. Included in Phoenix New Times’ Top 100 Restaurants and loved by locals for live jazz nights.

https://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/guide/best-phoenix-restaurants/caffe-boa-6482604
Best Restaurants in Tempe (2025)
Caffe Boa TEMPE

Yong C.

Google
The dishes were truly delicious, showcasing excellent flavors and quality. The atmosphere is equally impressive. The ambiance is awesome both inside the restaurant and on the patio. It's the perfect spot for a great meal, whether you're dining indoors or enjoying the outdoor seating.

Susann B.

Google
We had a fantastic brunch at Cafe Boa. The restaurant has a cool atmosphere with a great patio. Our server was very welcoming and attentive and provided excellent recommendations. If you love delicious craft cocktails then this place is a must-try. We each loved our cocktails and would order them again. I highly recommend the steak and eggs. It was extremely flavorful and cooked to perfection. The feta garlic sauce should be bottled and sold it was so good. We also ordered the chilaquiles which was perfection. We normally have to add hot sauce when ordered at other places, but at Cafe Boa it was seasoned expertly and didn’t require any additions. We also ordered the avocado toast with poached egg which was wonderful as well. It was the perfect meal and we are looking forward to coming back soon.

Dakota W.

Google
First things first: food is phenomenal. Highly highly HIGHLY recommend the gnocchi, the lasagna, and the tiramisu!!! Second: Nathan E was just so swag. We came in on Monday night jazz night by coincidence, and we sat outside. I asked if there was any way to turn off the outdoor music so we can hear the jazz, and he did us one better by turning off the music AND opening the door so we could hear it better. Fantastic stuff

Breanna G.

Google
I loved this place. It was the last leg of a two week business trip and I wanted a good meal and a nice place to sit outside. The service was fantastic. The owner or manager of the place walked me around the corner to show me the A mountain when I shared I was from out of town and looking for something to do. I had dinner by myself on the patio after two long weeks of travel and I couldn’t have picked a better place. For the quality of the food, service and environment, it’s a 10/10. Coming from a pretty picky girl with high standards, I approve. Looking forward to exploring the area, safe for solo travel.

Nelson B.

Google
Amazing spot. While the rest of Mill Ave is getting turned over, this long-standing Italian spot should stay forever because of how good it is. The food was amazing, the drinks were top notch, and the service was personalized and friendly. We had the calamari, voodoo penne, and cioppino, and would order all of them again. Our espresso martinis, blackberry Negroni, and glasses of wine were all exceptional. Definitely stop here for your next meal.

Matt H.

Google
Last minute choice and delicious. Very authentic dishes and great service. Added it to our come back again list.

Andrew C.

Google
Went here on a work trip after work one day. I sat at the bar and the staff were very friendly and on top of everything. The food was delicious and the cocktails were refreshing. I had the calamari appetizer, the voodoo penne pasta and the 398 cocktail. All the items were recommendations from the bartenders based on what I told them I like. None of the recommendations missed. Overall great experience and will be back next time I am in Tempe!

Josh M

Google
We always love coming here. There are so many well designed menu items and the staff is consistently friendly and helpful. You never feel rushed here and can just go on chill mode and enjoy. The menu offers some deliciously complex offerings and there's a huge list of wines or beer to enjoy. Our dogs have always been welcomed on the patio too. I am going to make a point of coming here more often because the menu changes and this place is simply a long standing gem in Tempe. Thank you for making such a welcoming, delicious and special place for the community!
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Jenna T.

Yelp
Such yummy homemade food in a very cozy spot!! I love this place so much! Their Congiglio made with rabbit is DELICIOUS!!! They also can cater to large groups very well. NOTE: this is not the location or ownership from the Gordon Ramsay tv show!!

Elizabeth P.

Yelp
It was so good The voodoo pasta and lasagna and flat breads are so good! Sangria was great. we had AMAZING service. Not sure why it's rated so low
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Chau B.

Yelp
Our reservation mix-up had us seated outside in the Arizona summer, but luckily it wasn't too hot--and we had the best waitress, Ava. She made the night fun and memorable. Her recommendation of the Antonino Street Corn was spot on, and the mains (Ossobuco, Coniglio, Ravioli Zucca, Voodoo Penne) were excellent. We ended with the amazing Zucca Gelato. Ava's great service turned a warm evening into a wonderful dining experience.
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Shelbie P.

Yelp
We came to Cafe Boa for a weekday lunch, and unfortunately, it was a pretty underwhelming experience from start to finish. While the restaurant has a nice layout and the patio seating was pleasant thanks to great weather, the positives ended there. The food was mediocre at best. My Bianco Flatbread was bland and overly oily--there was barely any flavor to it. I also tried the Reuben, which had potential, but the sauce made the bread so soggy it fell apart in my hands. The antipasti platter was fine, but it's hard to mess up a plate of cured meats and cheeses. The biggest issue, though, was the service--it was incredibly slow and inattentive. We waited far too long for everything, and our waters sat empty for most of the meal. What should have been a quick one-hour lunch turned into a two-hour ordeal, which was frustrating since we were on a work break. To top it off, a table near us actually got up and left after no one came to take their order. Maybe dinner service is better, but based on this experience, I wouldn't recommend Cafe Boa for lunch. We expected much more.
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Chris W.

Yelp
We went for thanksgiving and the turkey was very dry but then they charge 20% extra which they explain up front but they do it on the total tab which includes tax and fees. They shouldn't do that. That's ripping people off. This place has gone down hill. Avoid
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Candace C.

Yelp
Service was great, we made a reservation for dinner and were seated promptly inside. We got two pastas, 1) fettuccine Bianca with adding the wild Alaskan salmon ($34) and 2) voodoo penne blackened chicken with Cajun cream ($23). We got two drinks and the special sausage perogis as an appetizer ($24). They charged a 2% credit card fee which was not communicated to us that was strange but we paid it. 3.5 stars, overall the food was too expensive and drinks were average. I got the Haboob and it came without a straw so my first sip was all bitters. Asking for a straw helped but it was too sweet for me. My pasta was delicious, noodles were delicate for the fettuccini but the value fell short. The had other items menus that sounded intriguing (rabbit, ossobucco) that we wanted to try too but came for a pasta craving. The perogis really missed the mark for us and were not worth the $24. They have indoor and outdoor dining and some metered parking outside.
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Chance C.

Yelp
Stopped in with my fiancée and a couple of friends from out of town last night. The restaurant was so nice inside and felt cozy. The wait staff was excellent too. We got a bottle of Grenache to share - it was very good. For dinner, I had the SoCal Love and it was delicious. Would definitely come back!
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Nelson L.

Yelp
Tucked away in a small inlet of businesses right off Mill Avenue. The ambiance is old luxury with a slight modern vibe. We arrived right in mid-afternoon on the weekend. The dining room was surprisingly empty. We headed to the bar where another couple were enjoying libations and conversation with one of the bartenders. Another bartender was prepping for the next service and while we made eye contact, neither staff member made an immediate effort to approach us. Upon finally being greeted, we ordered a cocktail - delicious - and a Chimay on draft! Presentation of the Cucumbersome was fitting for the atmosphere and Chimay on tap is a HUGE plus! Definitely worth returning, or so we thought at that moment. As we were waiting for other folks to partake in an event nearby, we asked for our check promptly so as to not have to wait to get the staff attention as they were in the midst of prepping. I provided my credit card and waited for the receipt to tip and pay. That's when the surprise came in... Not previously disclosed, there was an additional 2% "credit card" fee added to the final bill. If I can afford to pay $15+ for a cocktail and around $12 for a pint of beer, an additional 2% isn't an issue. The hidden way it was charged was revolting. And I hate being nickel-and-dimed! Just add a freaking $0.50 or $1 to each drink and include it as an expense! The majority of folks will pay by CC. You are just aggravating us. Turned off enough that I will never recommend the business or return.
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Courtney H.

Yelp
This place was fantastic and so cute. The environment felt upscale without being too much. We had lunch here the weekend of the iron man. We sat outside and played carts. Our waiter was 10/10. Attentive and lots of personality. I got the bruschetta at lunch and I order 3 of the normal tomato bruschettas. He said he went ahead and put it in as a dinner bruschetta because I would get more for the same price. So nice! My boyfriend got the lasagna. It looked really weird because it was orange but he really liked it and would recommend it.

Mark C.

Yelp
Awesome food and service... Zia was very attentive and knowledgeable. Wonderful first class restaurant.
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Joyce S.

Yelp
Just a short walk from the Mill Ave. stop on the light rail, step inside CAFFE BOA (est. 1994) and be transported to a world of simple elegance: a spring of rosemary nestles in with your silverware, and fresh flowers look like they are posing for a still life in the restroom.Treat yourself to an elegant lunch with unique menu items like the butter lettuce salad or a pasta dish made with pasta made fresh daily. Here's an ex: Coniglio made with Nicky Farms free range and slow roasted rabbit, foraged mushrooms, thyme, and pecorino. Perfect. Just perfect.An attentive and informative server completed my mini vacation away from the ordinary so I left satisfied and refreshed. A chalkboard announced there is live jazz on Mondays from 6-9, but call to check for that and other possible performances.
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Aileen Q.

Yelp
Received this recommendation from a local. We arrived about 20 minutes before kitchen closed and I thought we would be rushed but not at all. The waiter very kindly sat us down and allowed us to take our time. We started off with the Calamari (not pictured) which was pretty good. For entree I chose the Ravioli Zucca and wow it was delicious. It's squash filled ravioli topped with sliced almonds, ricotta, and arugula. It was amazing! There was a sweet savory touch which I really enjoyed. I would prefer less arugula but that would just be a personal preference. The waiter again was very helpful with recommendations and very attentive. The ambiance was very authentic nice Italian restaurant. Glad we went with the recommendation.
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Angie S.

Yelp
Caffè Boa was really a cute spot. We went right when they opened their doors, so for the first 30 minutes it was just us in the restaurant. We sat and enjoyed the ambiance with the seating close to the windows. I really enjoyed the Ravioli Zucca. The bruschetta was a little underwhelming. My mom enjoyed the Fettuccine. We will definitely be back when we are in the area. We had to pay for timed parking outside with a meter, but we had enough time to shop around after our meal. Paid parking is available right outside the restaurant. There's a lot of shops nearby if you want to do some shopping.
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Denise M.

Yelp
We came here before going to a show at Gammage Auditorium. This must be a frequent stop for people on their way to Gammage, because as soon as we entered and got seated, the server asked if we were headed to a show there. We said yes, and she promised to get us out in time. Caffe Boa has a great atmosphere with lots of dark wood and exposed brick. We sat in the little sunroom separated from the dining room with our doorways. It's brighter in there. There's a separate bar and a glassed off room for more private dining. One of the best things about this place is the great art posters, all having to do with wine. The food here is fantastic. Hubby had the spaghetti and meatballs. The meatballs were delicious, although I admit I love all meatballs. I did like the red sauce, which I can be a little picky about, and would definitely order anything with the red sauce. I had the steak salad, which was very large. It was dressed greens with sliced steak on the side, and I could hardly finish it. I did, because it was soooo good, but I left feeling stuffed. Caffe Boa is a really great place in general, but especially Great for a pre-event dinner in Tempe.
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Robyn V.

Yelp
Caffe Boa is phenomenal! Please understand that sometimes it gets busy and the wait will be a bit longer, but it's totally worth it! JJ as a server was just spectacular, and the food was a 10! We went for brunch and the steak and eggs is literally to die for! Hidden secret (because it's not advertised), but if you order an entrée during brunch a (Red or Champagne) Sangria OR Mimosa pitcher is only $15! That's like 5 full drinks! What a deal! Not too sweet and just fantastic. Sit outside on the lovely shaded patio with the gorgeous bougainvillea and enjoy the relaxing vibe. Cheers!
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Debbie M.

Yelp
It was amazing! Great Food, beverages & live music on a Sunday for brunch! This is the original location and it's absolutely Gorgeous inside & out
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Marlene A.

Yelp
Had dinner on a Sunday evening, the restaurant was pretty empty. Our server was very attentive, we ordered the day boat, it was really flavorful and refreshing. I've had the fettuccine Bianca it's one of my favorite dishes there. The crème Carmel was so delicious, at the bottom of the Carmel it had a salty taste. So tiramisu was delicious definitely recommend.
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Gabriel C.

Yelp
When in Tempe, I always look for new spots to try. One place that had been on my radar--but admittedly intimidated me with its charming façade--was Caffe Boa on Mill Avenue. Tonight, after a leisurely stroll, I finally decided to step inside. Walking in, I grabbed the wine menu, feeling a little overwhelmed at first. But as I browsed the selection, I found myself at ease--especially when I noticed the prices were quite reasonable for the quality. Settling in at the bar, I chose a glass of Grenache/Syrah/Cabernet from Château de Montfrin in Languedoc, France--a smooth, well-balanced choice. Perhaps it was the late hour (around 9 PM), but the atmosphere was peaceful and intimate. This place feels like a perfect spot for a romantic evening, yet it's equally ideal for a solo stop to enjoy a high-quality glass of wine in a relaxed setting. If you appreciate good wine and a refined yet approachable ambiance, Caffe Boa is well worth a visit. I'll definitely be back.
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Alisha O.

Yelp
I loved everything about Caffe Boa other than my food. So why such a high review? The ambiance and service were excellent. We had a larger party and they sat us in a side room that was really nice. So the food. This really isn't my favorite kind of food. I'm not a huge fan of pasta and this kind of Italian food. I would have had an entree but nothing really stood out, so I just got a pasta. It was fine. We shared some appetizers that were fine. A few people got salads and most looked good. One friend really enjoyed the chopped salad but another got the SoCal Love and said it wasn't great and that the chicken was dry. I'll definitely give it another try and see if I can find some foods I enjoy.
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Nicole D.

Yelp
Went in for dinner last night because we found this place recommended on Resy. So happy we did because it was so good! We started with two drinks. I asked for something sweet and the white wine sangria with the fruits really did the trick. The fresh fruit made it super fresh and sweet which was exactly what I was looking for. The 368 cocktail was STRONG. We like a good balance but if you like strong drinks, this is a good place to go to. Now for the appetizer, we started with the calamari and they were good! The sauce was balancing the slight oiliness of the calamari but I really loved the garlic addition. Good calamari, I wish the batter had a little more spices. (Just a suggestion) . As for the main course. I LOVED MY DISH. I got the Fettuccine Bianca and they were so good. Light, creamy and flavorful. My partners dish was the Voodoo Penne which everyone loves here, he liked them too BUT the amount of bell pepper was a bit heavier than expected. It's good for flavor but not good when it overpowers the whole dish. Now overall, we love a place that is not shy on their pasta sauce and this place was not so we will be back just for this! Let me talk about the service. Our server was outstanding. Gave great recommendations, was very attentive and was really easy to interact with. He improved our experience for sure! One piece of advice that I would recommend to improve the ambiance of this restaurant would be the music. It's such a cute Italian restaurant, great location, great patio etc but they were playing "2000's pop music" or something like that. Don't get me wrong I love my throwbacks but I feel like the vibe of the restaurant would improve if they played something a little nicer and more ambiental... Overall great experience just made some small suggestions
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Josh D.

Yelp
Holy S*****. Yup. Pasta guy. Get here. That voodoo pasta is REAL good. Spice yes. Flavor. Yes. Cool bar - but the pasta outshines it all. Eat up yelpers. Again and again.
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Heather F.

Yelp
The dining experience at Caffe Boa was absolutely wonderful! I met with a group of girlfriends at Caffe Boa for lunch and, oh my goodness, we left with full bellies and happy hearts! The staff was so fun and so kind. The menu options were fabulous and the food we ordered was fantastic! We had the opportunity to meet Jessalyn Italiano, the owner of this highly-recommended restaurant, and she was absolutely lovely. I highly, highly recommend coming here for lunch with friends, an intimate dinner, and a group event. Ask for JJ to take care of your party. He's so great! Be sure to order the charcuterie boards! They have beautiful salads and mouth-watering pasta dishes with a gluten free option! I will be sure to come back!
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Jennifer R.

Yelp
The bruschetta, sangria, ravioli and dessert were 100/10! Loved the cozy vibe of the establishment and the great service.
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José A.

Yelp
Live jazz on Wednesday nights. Cool and romantic atmosphere. Friendly staff. Large portions. Great location, seating and scenery.

Anaya R.

Yelp
So good! Cute and cozy place with great food! I ordered the lasagna and it was amazing!
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Paula B.

Yelp
Caffe Boa has become my favorite! I live in California and have now twice eaten at Cafe Boa while visiting our daughter and son in law in AZ. Each time, the food was exquisite! The service is top notch and the atmosphere is welcoming and relaxing, while keeping an upscale vibe. We will most definitely go back again for a third time and more!
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Joshua A.

Yelp
I was in town for business and made a reservation through Rezy. Dinner was on a Monday night so a reservation wasn't necessary but it's always nice to have just in case. Our server, Chris J (according to the receipt), was very friendly and attentive. There was live music! On a Monday! I was impressed. The band played laid-back jazz consisting of a piano player, upright bass and I couldn't see what the other musician was playing from my vantage point. Anyways, the food... Calamari (4/5) - lightly battered and covered in garlic and parsley. It was a bit oily but still tasty. Served with a spicy aioli SoCal Salad (4/5) - light tasty dressing. I loved that the tomato slices were seasoned and not just thrown on the plate for garnish only. Chris knew we were sharing the salad and split it on separate plates for us. Sicilian Cioppino (4/5) - i don't get this often so i don't have much to compare it to but it was so tasty. Filled with seafood and ground Italian sausage.
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Jennifer S.

Yelp
Highway robbery! My friend and I went for lunch on Ash Wednesday. First we waited five minutes to be greeted and sat. It appeared they had one person working the lunch shift and she had about 10 tables. I asked for a side of pasta in marinara sauce with no meat in order to honor the first day of lent. They accommodated my request and served me a side portion of pasta. The waitress never brought us our bill and we were going to be late back for work so I took her our credit cards. When i saw my charge receipt they charged me $24 for a meatballs entree!!! I didn't have meatballs and I didn't have an entree size portion of pasta!! No time to argue I decided I'd email them via their website....no response!! I'm so disappointed in the entire experience. Sad thing is on that side of Tempe it's the only decent place to eat in walking distance of my office . Most likely won't be back.
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Beth L.

Yelp
This place was recommended by the concierge at the hotel. We showed up a little after 5 and were told they weren't taking walk ins so we sat at the bar. Our server came over after 10 minutes and gave us menus to look at. We ordered what most people had recommended- fettuccini and the voodoo pasta. The food was ok- nothing exciting. We were there over an hour and the server only gave us one drink. Never refilled our waters or asked if we needed anything. Service was not that great considering it was not that busy. Both couples next to us also had to wait 10 minutes to even get menus. Our kids were never given silverware or napkins either.
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Beach L.

Yelp
I love the fettuccine pasta here. It's best fettuccine I've had in the US and I've been to Italy, New York and San Francisco many times! The texture is fantastic as I like thin noodle threads not the thick doughy fettuccine so the white crème sauce adds so much flavor. The Aiyana music band outdoors in the beautiful patio on Sundays was fantastic to hear live music. Super family friendly with great drinks and sangria for a family and friends get together. Highly recommend coming for Aiyana Music band.
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Lane C.

Yelp
This place is the best! We called ahead for a large party reservation (over 10 people). In my experience, many restaurants will charge table minimums for groups this size. Caffe Boa allowed us to call a month in save the table with no added fee (note: there are options for private rooms here, which are available for a charge, but we were ok with being seated in the common area). The server was wonderful and was able to provide excellent food and drink recommendations. We ordered the Conglio and Fettuccine Bianca - both 10/10. This place also has great cocktails and mocktails. We ordered a fresh strawberry lemonade, the 398, queen's gambit, and black Anastasia. The server also offered us a complimentary dessert for our celebration. Strongly recommend this place.
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Hans K.

Yelp
This is a wonderful restaurant. One of the last few gems in Tempe. If you dine here you will not regret it.
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Lilly K.

Yelp
The food was excellent. The flavor of the Congilio was scrumptious and the rabbit was tender and not too gamey. The halibut was cooked to perfection. We were a little disappointed with the server. Many misses. Did not tell us about specials until we asked after overhearing from the other server. Same with free dessert if going to Gamage. We overheard and asked. Then proceed to ask about 4 times during our meal what we wanted. When we did she brought it when we were not done with our delicious meal so the ice cream melted by the time we were done. We asked for a replacement which she did. But should have noticed not done with meal so why bring the dessert. During our time we felt rushed even though we were not in a hurry nor was there a line waiting.
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Natalie V.

Yelp
The food was amazing! We split two entrees and an appetizer and it was all really good. The actual place itself is very welcoming and aesthetically pleasing. The food did take a while to come out, and our server was a little M.I.A at times, but the overall experience was great. Not a place to go if you just want a quick bite, but if you have the time to wait, it is so worth it.
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Brent K.

Yelp
Let me take you back to the mid-90s, when Friends was must-see TV, cargo pants were inexplicably cool, and I discovered a little slice of Italy tucked away on Mill Avenue called Caffe Boa. Back then, my idea of fine dining was successfully not burning my Top Ramen, but this place? This place was fancy with a capital F. Fast forward to today, and while my hair has gotten thinner and Mill Avenue's seen more changes than a chameleon in a crayon factory, Caffe Boa stands there like your reliable Italian uncle who still makes the best sauce in town. The surrounding bars may be playing music that makes me feel ancient, but step inside Boa, and suddenly I'm that college kid again (just with better taste in wine and the ability to actually afford it). Working on Mill these days, I've developed what I call the "Boa Gravitational Pull." It's a scientific phenomenon where around dinner time, my feet automatically start shuffling in Boa's direction, as if drawn by the magnetic force of their garlic bread. The fact that it's walking distance from my office is both a blessing and a curse - blessing for my soul, curse for my attempts at portion control. Let's talk about their lasagna - or as I like to call it, "The Great Wall of Pasta." This isn't just a serving of lasagna; it's a geometric miracle. It arrives at your table looking like it was designed by an Italian architect, swimming in a bolognese sauce so good it should have its own Instagram account. The cream-tinted sauce isn't just a sauce; it's a silk robe for your taste buds. Then there's the Ravioli Zucca, which is Italian for "pillows of joy stuffed with butternut squash." Topped with hazelnuts and sage in a garlic butter sauce, it's the kind of dish that makes you want to hug the chef and ask if they're taking adoption applications. The hazelnuts add a crunch that says, "Hey, you're eating something fancy!" while the garlic butter sauce whispers, "Don't you dare leave a single drop on this plate." The drink menu is where things get interesting. Sure, you could go for a classic cocktail or wine (their wine list is longer than my college thesis), but then there's Rakija. For the uninitiated, Rakija is a Balkan fruit brandy that puts hair on your chest (metaphorically speaking - I hope). It comes in flights, which is perfect because after the first taste, you might need your taste buds to call in reinforcements. Caffe Boa has hosted more first dates than a dating app and more graduation dinners than I can count. It's where awkward first date conversations have blossomed into marriages, and where "I can't believe we're graduating" has turned into "I can't believe our kids are graduating." While Mill Avenue around it has morphed from record stores to whatever-young-people-are-into-these-days, Boa remains steadfast, like that one friend who never went through an embarrassing fashion phase. It's still the perfect escape from the thumping bass of nearby clubs, offering a slice of serenity with a side of perfectly al dente pasta. Pro tip: If you're going for dinner, make a reservation. Nothing says "I should have planned better" like watching couples inside enjoying their romantic pasta while you're outside contemplating the life choices that led to this moment. P.S. To all my fellow Mill Avenue workers - yes, that was me you saw power-walking toward Boa at 5:01 PM. No, I will not apologize for my pasta enthusiasm.

Barry S.

Yelp
I've been a regular customer at this place for many years. I've NEVER had a bad meal, bad service, or bad experience. The food is always superb. They use local sourced farm to table staples to create wonderful and unique dishes. The staff and owners are always pleasant. You simply can't go wrong here!

Safin S.

Yelp
I ordered the Lamb Shank and it was very good but my friend got the Prime Rib and the steak was undercooked, unseasoned, and visually unappealing as well. Our waitress was great and the atmosphere is nice but the management didn't seem to care about our concern with the steak. Aside from the steak, it was a good meal and I had a good time.
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E D.

Yelp
What happened to this place? As I was leaving, I saw a server who had just finished their shift. They were in tears next to their car. Not my business but they seemed in distressed. They were like a waterfall of emotions. So many issues with the way they and other employee's are treated so poorly. The food is fine. But treating minimum wagers like garbage is inexcusable. If the management were ever on site, I'd let them know face to face.
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Tianna S.

Yelp
I've been to Caffe Boa on Mill several times and I ALWAYS look forward to it. Not only is the food delicious, but you can find more than just your run-of-the-mill Italian fare on the menu. The vibes in the dining area are spot on, and the staff has always been friendly! I've enjoyed everything I've tried there whether it came from the kitchen or the bar. Definitely recommend!
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Jason G.

Yelp
Great food. Diverse menu. Friendly service. In a cool location in downtown Tempe. Been there a few times since the mid 1990s.
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Tina S.

Yelp
Have been going there for years... Love their eclectic menu and their proximity to Mill Avenue and close hotels. If you haven't been there, you have to give this place a try... You won't be sorry.!!!
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Craig P.

Yelp
Caffe Boa is never disappointing!! The staff and the food is simply amazing. such a cool place to hang out with friends and family. Highly recommend that you take your group there for an awesome experience- love love love them

Russell R.

Yelp
A lot like most places that fancy themselves as upscale. The only thing upscale is the price. Chicken was dry. Pasta dishes weren't any better than fast food places. Also they don't have soda or fountain drinks at all, so if you don't / can't drink alcohol, you're mostly out of luck. The one in Ahwatukee is far better.
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Brittany F.

Yelp
Ambiance was different, was dead on a Wednesday evening. Sat at the bar and just got the vibe something was off. No music so super quiet. I ordered a glass of wine and the butternut squash ravioli. I was disappointed in the portion of my meal.... It was very good though. I was pleasantly surprised when I got my bill though, it was like $22 for my wine and meal. Had I known the prices I would have ordered more and likely been satisfied.

Sheree E. D.

Yelp
Caffe Boa is a great little place to eat or just go for a drink. The service we received from our server Christina was exemplary. She was obviously very busy but still took the time to check on us often. We enjoyed a great meal and were treated so well, we will definitely return and will ask for the same server!

Susan V.

Yelp
This place was not on our radar, but we happened to be in Downtown Tempe, and we were HONGRY. We thought Italian food? Can't go wrong with that. We came during the day time, and there was not a lot of folks, before dinner rush hour started pouring in. And it was the sweetest vibe. It was relaxed, but romantic. The brick walls, and the windows were set in a modernistic style, but had a luxurious feel. The gentleman that helped us was very attentive and charming. The food was good, and filled us up quite well. I would recommend coming here to have eats with wines. It seems they lean quite heavily on that part. We came here last year, idr when exactly.
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Jennifer C.

Yelp
This was an excellent Mother's Day location. Two of my sons took me out and we had brunch and a picture of sangria. Oh boy sangria! Glad I wasn't driving.
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Temple R.

Yelp
I love stopping by this place every time I am in Tempe. It has an amazing vibe. Its centrally located and close to the shopping. I like to come here on the weekends to grab food or drinks before heading out to a bar or club. The service is always amazing, especially at the bar. The wine list is extensive and you'll have no issues finding something you like. I lean more towards cocktails so i usually get something off the specialty cocktails menu. I don't even like gin but the Queen's Gambit is my favorite drink. The fettuccine is amazing, its a must have and the tiramisu is a perfect way to end the night. I definitely recommend this place. The food is delicious, the service is amazing and the restaurant is clean and well taken care of.
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Blanche G.

Yelp
We recently went here for a casual anniversary dinner during their happy hour. If you sit by in the bar area (there are high tables and low tables), you can order from their happy hour menu that includes both drinks and food. It was such a good deal given the price and portion. We had the happy hour calamari and mussels. The calamari was lightly battered and paired with a tangy and creamy sauce. The mussels were well seasoned although they were a bit too savory to my taste. We had two whiskey cocktails as our round 1 drinks. The presentation for my drink was worth a picture if not a video. The bartender came to my table and lit a fresh bunch of rosemary on fire and placed it on top of the glass. The drink was good but I prefer to have a spirit-forward taste instead. My partner's drink on the other hand was not that great. It was super sour for some reason, almost like tasting white vinegar. He had a Belgian dark beer to finish the meal, which was definitely better than the cocktail that he got. We also ordered the voodoo penne, which was amazing. I did not expect it to be this good at first, but the sauce was creamy and flavorful. We had to dip the bread that came with the mussels into the pasta sauce, which was a genius move. I also tried dipping the calamari into the sauce, which was another smart combination. The ambiance of this place was cozy while classic. It felt like an authentic European restaurant when you first walked in. But as you sat down and took a look at the decorations around you, it felt young, lively, and inviting. We are excited to come back for their wine and charcuterie boards!