Take-out

I happen to love going out for dinner. After a long day of work, sometimes a girl just needs great take-out. I'll introduce you to a few of my favs...

#1. DeFalco's Italian Deli & Grocery
2334 N. Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85257

On my way home from work, I used to drive by this place and a tear would fall knowing they closed early...until NOW! Open until 9pm every day of the week, this place can offer the best meatball sub I've ever had. I have tried several of their deli sammies and also the best place to get a cannoli. They have a fantastic selection of deli meats, pasta entrees, and pizza - all to go. Did I mention they have an adorable little Italian market? Everything from frozen ravioli and fresh cheeses to quite a vino selection and authentic Italian imports. This is THE place to go when you are missing your Aunt Lena and her homemade meatballs and sauce!

They get pretty busy at lunch time, but you can always call ahead for speedy service.

#2. Tott's Asian Diner
1817 E. Guadalupe Rd, Tempe, AZ 85283

I'll admit, I was a bit skeptical about this place when I was first introduced. I have always preferred Szechuan style Chinese, but the food and the service here are wonderful. The owner, Young, is such a nice man. His concept is that he serves the best from each Asian country. You have a little bit of everything...Korean, Thai, Chinese, Japanese. The Wonton soup will heal you overnight...guaranteed! I like the shrimp chow mein, but the udon is also quite good in a highly flavorful black bean sauce. The cheese puffs are better than you'd get at any fancy place for twice the price (at $4, these babies are a steal!). If you are looking for something light and healthy, he also offers a selection of stir fry flavors and they'll cook it to order.

The location is next to the Starbucks and across the street from Trader Joe's and Changing Hands Bookstore, so if you are out running errands...just stop in and grab dinner for yourself or the fam! mmmmmmmm

#3. Essence Bakery
825 W. University Dr. Tempe, AZ 85281

Alright, so not everyone gets take-out for breakfast, but believe it or not, Essence does it well. The place isn't open on Sunday, which is it's only downfall. However...if you are in the mood on a Saturday morning to grab an amazing breakfast to go back to your place, this is the spot. They also serve lunch on weekdays and make a great croissants.

I recommend the Big Breakfast which comes with two eggs, mashed potato cake (this is not your Bubby's potato latke, folks), sausage, mushrooms, and house baguette toast with jam. The mashed potato cake is perfectly seasoned and accompanies the breakfast nicely instead of hash browns. The quiche is amazing and they have something called French scrambled eggs which are made with cream, chives, dijon mustard and parmasan cheese...some of the best eggs I've ever eaten, in fact.

Treat yourself to a little brunch and never have to get out of your jammies!

#4. Delhi Palace
933 E. University Dr. Tempe, AZ 85281

I know, I've mentioned this place before. HOWEVER it is worth mentioning again. If you are in the mood for the best Indian food in town, this place is open pretty late (10pm) and the take-out is super yummy when you just don't feel like changing out of those work clothes to get dinner. Try some Lamb Boti Kebab, or maybe the Chicken Tikka Masala. If you are vegetarian, the Palak Paneer is super tasty! The naan makes a great side, but don't forget to get some papadum and mango chutney for your appetizer! OH! The Kheer....how did I almost not mention dessert?! Very unlike me.

#5. Dilly's Deli
414 W. University Dr. Tempe, AZ
3330 S. Price Rd. Tempe, AZ

So this place proves that sometimes, you just need a sandwich. I can't get over how good this place can make something as simple as bread and meat. You can call in an order to go and swing by their location off the 101 on your way home. If you are in the mood, the soups are in home-made bread bowls that are SO super yummy.

The house-made bread is partially why I love this place. The sandwiches are enormous and there is no reason you need more than a half unless you are looking for two meals. I usually order a Dilly's Dilly, but it's no longer on the menu. As far as I can remember it's turkey, avocado, sprouts, and I ask for light mayo and honey-mustard dressing instead of Catalina on mine. nom nom nom