If you ever find yourself scrolling through glossy travel blogs that all point to the same polished patios and chain‑friendly brunch spots, you’ll understand why I love deviating from the map.
A few years ago I decided to ditch the itinerary and let curiosity steer my fork, and what I discovered was a network of unassuming doors tucked behind laundromats, tucked‑in parking lots, and tucked‑away behind colorful murals that most visitors never even notice.
These are the places where the kitchen staff are practically family, where the recipes have been handed down through generations, and where the vibe is as relaxed as a Sunday afternoon in the Arizona desert…