Pier 54

- 5394 S Lakeshore Dr, Tempe, AZ 85283

Nestled on the picturesque lakeshore of The Lakes community in Tempe, Pier 54 stands out as a unique and charming destination for Arizona diners seeking a waterside escape. This family-owned and operated establishment is not just an American restaurant; it’s a full-service experience that combines the laid-back atmosphere of a neighborhood bar with the culinary focus of a quality scratch-made kitchen. Pier 54 prides itself on offering a relaxed, outdoor-only patio setting that makes you feel as though you've left the Arizona desert for a coastal retreat, making it an especially attractive choice during the region's pleasant seasons.

The menu at Pier 54 is a robust representation of modern American comfort food, elevated by global influences and a clear commitment to fresh ingredients. From the moment you peruse the appetizers, which include upscale options like the Charcuterie Board and Tuna Mango Ceviche alongside classics like Fried Calamari and Crispy Brussels Sprouts & Cauliflower, it’s clear this is not a typical pub fare offering. This varied selection ensures there is something to satisfy every craving, whether you are in for a quick bite, a late-night snack, or a full dinner.

A major draw is the exceptional variety of signature burgers and tacos. The burger list is particularly impressive, featuring gourmet selections such as the rich Wagyu Burger, the flavorful Lamb Burger, and the inventive Goat Cheese Burger, with options to substitute keto-friendly or gluten-free bread. The tacos section is equally enticing, highlighted by seafood options like the popular Fish Tacos and Baja Shrimp Tacos, perfect for a sunny day by the water. These core offerings demonstrate the restaurant's versatility, blending classic American tastes with fresh, bold flavors.

Beyond the burgers and tacos, the Entrees menu offers satisfying dishes like Grilled Salmon, Bacon Wrapped Shrimp, and comforting favorites such as Chicken Carbonara and Pork Green Chilli Verde. Diners can round out their meal with the decadent Chef's Mac 'n Cheese or fresh, seasonal sautéed vegetables. With weekly specials like the "Dinner for 2 by the Lake," "Taco Tuesday," and "Wild Women Wednesday," Pier 54 actively encourages regular visits and provides excellent value to the local Tempe community.

This venue is also a celebrated social hub, offering a full bar with a great selection of beer, cocktails, and wine, complemented by a friendly and lively atmosphere. The commitment to providing live music on weekends, often on Friday and Saturday evenings, transforms the outdoor patio into a premier entertainment destination. The focus on fast service and a cozy, trendy environment makes Pier 54 popular for lunch, dinner, solo dining, or an enjoyable evening out with groups and family.

Location and Accessibility

Pier 54 boasts an enviable location that contributes significantly to its charm, offering a waterside view that is rare in the Greater Phoenix area.

The restaurant is situated at:

5394 S Lakeshore Dr, Tempe, AZ 85283, USA

It is located on Lakeshore Drive, right on the lake in the beautiful Lakes neighborhood of South Tempe. This provides a serene, almost vacation-like ambiance that is distinct from the typical desert dining experience. Accessibility is a key feature, as the restaurant has taken care to accommodate all guests. Patrons will find a free parking lot, along with free street parking, making arrival hassle-free.

The venue is fully committed to accessibility, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the waterfront dining experience. This includes:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot
• Wheelchair accessible restroom
• Wheelchair accessible seating

Being an outdoor-only venue, guests can enjoy the Arizona climate and lake views. The casual, family-friendly setting also includes provisions for the smallest guests, such as high chairs, and is welcoming to furry friends, as dogs are allowed in the outside seating areas.

Services Offered

Pier 54 provides a comprehensive range of dining and hospitality services to cater to the diverse needs of the local community:

• Dine-in: Full table service is provided with ample outdoor seating.
• Outdoor Seating: The entire restaurant is a beautiful outdoor patio situated directly on the lake.
• Takeout: Meals can be ordered for convenient pickup.
• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, highly recommended for prime dining times and live music nights.
• Table Service: Full service provided for all meals, including Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert.
• Event Hosting: The unique lakefront venue is available for hosting private events, parties, and small gatherings.
• Full Bar Service: Alcohol, beer, cocktails, hard liquor, and an extensive wine list are offered.
• Payment Options: Accepts Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC mobile payments for customer convenience.

Features / Highlights

Pier 54’s defining characteristics create a memorable dining experience in the Tempe area:

• Lakeside Outdoor Patio: A one-of-a-kind, waterfront, outdoor-only setting that offers beautiful views and a serene ambiance.
• Live Music Bar: Features live music on weekends, establishing it as a key local entertainment venue.
• Gourmet Burger Selection: An exceptional variety of signature burgers, including Wagyu, Lamb, and specialty Salmon and Veggie options.
• Great Drink Selection: Highlights include a fantastic selection of beer, creative cocktails, and a quality wine list.
• Scratch-Made Food: A commitment to fresh, homemade food, including hand-cut fries and house-made sauces.
• Flexible Menu Options: Offers healthy options and substitutions for dietary needs, such as keto-friendly or gluten-free bread.
• Dog-Friendly: Pets are welcome on the outdoor patio, making it a great spot for dog owners.
• Atmosphere: Described as casual, cozy, romantic, and trendy, suitable for a wide variety of occasions.
• Specialty Menu Items: Unique offerings like the Charcuterie Board, Tuna Mango Ceviche, and Pork Green Chilli Verde.

Contact Information

To make a reservation, inquire about a special event, or place a takeout order, please use the following contact information:

Address: 5394 S Lakeshore Dr, Tempe, AZ 85283, USA

Phone: (480) 820-0660

Mobile Phone: +1 480-820-0660

For updated hours of operation, especially for late-night food service or specific live music schedules (which are typically offered Friday and Saturday evenings), it is recommended to call ahead or check the restaurant’s official online channels.

What is Worth Choosing Pier 54

For residents and visitors in Arizona, Pier 54 offers a dining experience that perfectly captures the relaxed, social side of the Southwest. What makes it genuinely worth choosing is its incredible combination of ambiance and quality cuisine, a blend few other local spots can match. The absolute best reason to visit is the stunning, year-round outdoor dining experience right on the water. It’s an instant mood-booster that transports you away from the daily grind and is particularly popular for romantic evenings or laid-back Sunday brunches.

The food quality is another compelling factor. This is not basic bar food; it is scratch-made, high-quality American cuisine with a sophisticated edge, evidenced by menu items like the Wagyu Burger, Lamb Burger, and fresh Seafood options. The ability to find healthy choices, keto substitutions, and a great kids' menu ensures that Pier 54 caters thoughtfully to families and diverse dietary needs. The fast service and willingness to accommodate various requests underscore a commitment to hospitality.

Finally, the role Pier 54 plays as a local social spot—complete with live music on weekends, a fantastic selection of alcoholic beverages (including happy hour deals), and a trendy, cozy vibe—cements its status as a community highlight. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick, quality lunch, enjoying Taco Tuesday, or looking for a full dinner for two by the lake, Pier 54 delivers an immersive, high-value, and utterly enjoyable outdoor dining adventure that is truly a gem in the Tempe, Arizona, restaurant landscape.

Pier 54

5394 S Lakeshore Dr, Tempe, AZ 85283, USA