Main Event Tempe

- 8545 S Emerald Dr, Tempe, AZ 85284

For families, groups, and students across the Valley looking for a break from the Arizona heat, Main Event Tempe stands out as a premier destination that perfectly blends high-energy entertainment with a quality dining experience. Far more than just a restaurant, Main Event is a sprawling entertainment center that offers a wide array of activities, including an upscale bowling alley, state-of-the-art video arcade, and laser tag center, making it the ideal spot for a full day or night out.

The atmosphere is described by local visitors as energetic and family-friendly, designed to keep both kids and adults thoroughly entertained under one expansive roof. The venue features bright neon lights and a lively vibe, ensuring that every visit feels like a fun escape. Whether you are hosting a charity event, celebrating a child's birthday, or just seeking an affordable family fun day, Main Event delivers an experience where the excitement is palpable and the staff is committed to great service, even when the place is packed.

While the focus is on fun, the food and beverage offerings at Main Event are anything but an afterthought. The menu is diverse, featuring classic comfort food and game-day favorites designed to fuel hours of fun. Patrons rave about the quality of the 'bites' and are often pleasantly surprised by menu standouts like the legitimately crispy and tangy fried pickles. The dining experience is casual yet well-organized, with table service available and staff members like 'Roy at the bar' ensuring that food and drinks are delivered quickly and with a great attitude, even during busy hours.

The culinary selection is designed for sharing and includes popular appetizers perfect for passing around the bowling lane or arcade, hearty burgers and handhelds, fresh salads, and 'Game Changing' pizzas. The food is solid, satisfying, and designed to match the fun, energetic environment. The offerings are complete with a full bar service, featuring a great selection of beer, cocktails, and hard liquor, alongside fun mocktails for the younger crowd, ensuring that every member of the group, regardless of age, has a delicious option.

Location and Accessibility

Main Event Tempe is strategically located at 8545 S Emerald Dr, Tempe, AZ 85284, USA. Situated conveniently off major roads, the location is highly accessible for residents coming from Tempe, Chandler, Mesa, and other parts of the Southeast Valley. It is part of a commercial center, which contributes to its ease of access and parking. Accessibility for all guests is a high priority, evidenced by the following:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance and seating throughout the venue.
• Dedicated Wheelchair accessible parking lot spaces.
• Wheelchair accessible restroom facilities.
• Plenty of free parking available in the large, free parking lot, plus free street parking options.

Services Offered

• Dine-in and Table Service for a relaxed meal.
• Takeout and Curbside pickup for convenient, on-the-go orders.
• Delivery and No-contact delivery options through various services.
• Onsite services including a full bar with beer, wine, cocktails, and hard liquor.
• Venue rentals and party packages for Children's birthdays, corporate events, and group gatherings.
• Accepts reservations for groups to ensure prompt seating and service.

Features / Highlights

• Entertainment Hub: Features 26 state-of-the-art bowling lanes, a multi-level Laser Tag arena, Gravity Ropes, Billiards, Shuffleboard, and over 100 video arcade games (including classics and VR).
• Special Promotions: Hosts popular value-added programs, such as 'Kids Bowl Free' passes during the summer/spring and 'Kids Eat Free Tuesdays' (with the purchase of an eligible adult menu item).
• Full-Service Dining: Offers a chef-inspired menu featuring pizzas (like the Mega Pan Pepperoni), gourmet burgers (PBB&J Burger, Triple Lava Burger), wings, and salads.
• Great Bar Program: Features a full bar with great beer and cocktail selections, plus Happy Hour food and drink specials.
• Family-Focused Amenities: Provides a Kids' menu, has changing tables, and offers high chairs, making it truly family-friendly.
• Dining Flexibility: Serves Lunch, Dinner, Dessert, and Late-night food, accommodating various schedules.
• Atmosphere: Casual and trendy, suitable for college students, families, and large groups alike.
• Speed and Efficiency: Staff is known for fast and accommodating service, even when the venue is busy.

Contact Information

Address: 8545 S Emerald Dr, Tempe, AZ 85284, USA
Phone: (480) 753-1200

What is worth choosing

Main Event Tempe is the essential choice for Arizona residents seeking affordable, all-in-one entertainment that solves the perennial question of where to eat and play. It is worth choosing for several compelling reasons that extend beyond a standard restaurant or bowling alley. Firstly, the sheer scope of entertainment—from high-tech bowling to a vast arcade and laser tag—means there is truly something to engage every age and interest, ensuring the fun never runs out.

Secondly, the commitment to value, especially through popular promotions like Kids Bowl Free and Kids Eat Free Tuesdays, provides real, tangible value that budget-conscious Arizona families deeply appreciate. This focus on affordability ensures that a spontaneous 'Family Fun Day' is done right, as customers note, without breaking the bank, which is particularly appealing when seeking an escape from the intense summer heat.

Finally, the quality of the culinary offering is a significant factor. While it's an entertainment center, the food is noted as being solid and surprisingly good, with standouts like the fresh salads and exceptional appetizers. This, coupled with the great service and the convenience of a full bar for adults, positions Main Event Tempe as a genuinely reliable and enjoyable destination for any meal, event, or casual outing. It's the go-to spot where you can be assured of high-energy fun, surprisingly great food, and service that goes the extra mile.

Main Event Tempe

8545 S Emerald Dr, Tempe, AZ 85284, USA