Environmental Programs

Phoenix: Let's Eat Local - Miracle Mile

Most Phoenix residents are familiar with the moniker “Miracle Mile.” Some think of the New York-style delicatessen, a Phoenix food institution, that has been serving up delicious dishes since 1949. But, the other “Miracle Mile” is a little older and isn’t known for its pastrami sandwiches. Miracle Mile is a busy Phoenix thoroughfare, a stretch of McDowell Road between 7th Street and the Piestewa Freeway (SR 51), that is lined with locally-owned eateries that showcase a diversity of ethnic cuisine.

A Transformed Stretch

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Miracle Mile earned its name through the 1940 and 50s, when it was considered the premier destination for shopping—up until the arrival of the state’s first true shopping mall. But, before becoming a hotspot for streetfront retail and commercial businesses, Miracle Mile was home to historic residences that eventually gave way to development. The historical architecture can still be seen along this strip. Medical campuses, including the former Good Samaritan Hospital, for example, exemplify the historical architectural flair.

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As time inspired change along Miracle Mile, the local food scene transformed from one offering drive-in burgers and all-night coffee to one that now boasts authentic ethnic cuisine and eateries—from tacos to gyros and pupusas—and coffee that is roasted with care.

Miracle Mile is home to an evolving flavor profile, pulling in ingredients from a variety of locales.

Find Local Food on Miracle Mile

There are even more opportunities to eat local and support local food businesses along the Miracle Mile stretch. Use the interactive map below to find locally made goods and eats in the neighborhood.

If you’re a local food producer or artisan, farm, or restaurant along Miracle Mile and would like to get listed, please complete the form here to get added to the directory.

Want to become a Phoenix: Let's Eat Local certified restaurant?

Please contact Kailey Mullis at kailey.mullis@phoenix.gov or 602-534-2488.

Supporting a Resilient Local Food System

cropped city of phoenix bird.png The City of Phoenix’s Resilient Food Systems Initiative offers a variety of programs and resources to help develop a stronger, connected local food system with more accessible and sustainable food options for Phoenix residents. Some of these programs include:

Providing pathways to build sustainable business models: The Sustainable Cooperative Food Business Training program, which focuses on developing cooperative food business skills and provides participants with training on all business areas needed to implement a business plan.
Training the next generation of growers: The Phoenix Urban Agriculture Fellowship program provides hands-on experience and training for those interested in growing within the City of Phoenix. A local host farm trains participating fellows on various growing methods and exposes them to all relevant aspects of the farm.
Encouraging residents to adopt sustainable practices in everyday life: The Food Waste and Composting Education Project will be a free, one-year program that provides food waste and composting education, training, and access to a compost service for up to 500 residents living in food insecure areas.
Empowering residents to grow their own food: The Backyard Garden Program offers funding for up to 178 residents located in food-insecure neighborhoods to create backyard gardens and community gardens using aquaponics, raised beds, and other water-conservation growing methods.