The Main Ingredient Ale House & Cafe

- 2337 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006

The Main Ingredient Ale House & Cafe is a celebrated American restaurant and bar nestled in a beautifully converted historic house in Central Phoenix at 2337 N 7th St. This establishment has become a beloved fixture in the local Arizona dining scene, particularly within the Coronado neighborhood, offering a distinct blend of cozy, historic charm and a trendy, casual atmosphere. It stands out by providing an elevated take on classic American cafe fare, with a strong emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients often sourced locally. The venue successfully merges the welcoming comfort of a neighborhood cafe with the sophisticated offerings of a dedicated ale house and cocktail bar.

The restaurant's core offering revolves around a menu of "high-end sandwiches and salads," complemented by a rotating list of specialty dishes and a full bar program. It caters to a diverse crowd, from college students and groups to solo diners and tourists, making it popular for lunch, dinner, and late-night food. The historic setting, characterized by its "house-turned-restaurant vibe," provides a unique and memorable backdrop for any meal. The commitment to quality is evident in their beverage program, which boasts a "Great beer selection," a "Great wine list," and expertly crafted "Great cocktails," ensuring the perfect drink pairing for every item on the menu. Patrons consistently appreciate the dedication to using fresh components, as noted in reviews highlighting the outstanding quality of dishes like the steak salad.

Beyond the food and drink, The Main Ingredient is known for fostering a relaxed and inviting environment. Its atmosphere is often described as cozy and casual, enhanced by perfectly selected background music—loud enough to be engaging but quiet enough for comfortable conversation. The presence of a bar onsite, along with table service and a range of offerings including happy hour food and drinks, positions this venue as an excellent destination for both a planned dinner reservation and an impromptu, quick bite after hours. For the Arizona community, it represents a cherished local spot where tradition meets modern culinary and beverage excellence.

Location and Accessibility

The Main Ingredient Ale House & Cafe is conveniently located at 2337 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006, USA, placing it in a well-trafficked and historic section of Central Phoenix. Its positioning within a charming, converted house offers a distinct character that appeals to Arizona locals seeking a unique dining environment.

The establishment is fully committed to accessibility, ensuring that all members of the community can enjoy the experience. The following accessibility features are available:

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

Parking options are provided for customer convenience, an important consideration in this area of Phoenix. Guests can find both a free parking lot and free street parking. While some customers note that parking can be "tight," the availability of both options helps manage the urban setting. Additionally, the cafe offers comfortable outdoor seating, which includes misters to help patrons stay cool during warmer Arizona weather, and the patio area is explicitly dog-friendly.

Services Offered

The Main Ingredient Ale House & Cafe provides a comprehensive suite of dining and beverage services to cater to the diverse needs and schedules of its Arizona patrons. The service options are designed for both sit-down enjoyment and convenience on the go.

• Dine-in service with table seating is available for a full-service experience.
• Outdoor seating is offered, complete with misters for comfort and a dog-friendly policy.
• Takeout is provided for customers who prefer to enjoy their meal elsewhere.
• Reservations are accepted, making it easier to plan for groups or peak dining times.
• The bar onsite offers a full range of beverages, including alcohol, beer, cocktails, hard liquor, and wine.
• Happy hour deals are available for both drinks and food, offering excellent value.
• The kitchen serves a wide variety of meals, encompassing Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert.
• Offerings include healthy options, comfort food, quick bites, small plates, and late-night food.
• High chairs are available, confirming its status as a family-friendly establishment.
• Accepted payments include Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Features / Highlights

Several key features make The Main Ingredient Ale House & Cafe a notable destination in the Phoenix dining landscape, distinguishing it beyond a typical American restaurant and solidifying its reputation among locals.

• Historic and Cozy Atmosphere: Located in a "historic home," the ambiance is unique, offering a cozy and trendy setting that feels different from standard chain restaurants, making for a memorable dining out experience.
• Exceptional Beverage Program: Recognized for its "Great beer selection," "Great cocktails," and a "Great wine list," the bar is a significant draw, often featuring Arizona craft brews.
• Focus on Fresh and Local Ingredients: The menu emphasizes high-quality ingredients, with dishes like the Coronado Caprese utilizing fresh mozzarella and local heirloom tomatoes, and a commitment to serving a "local specialty."
• Diverse and Elevated Menu: Offering a sophisticated take on comfort food, specialties include the much-praised Shrimp Tacos, the savory Green Chile Stew, and elevated salads like the Fresh Beets Salad and the well-loved 7th St Steak Salad.
• Fast Service with Warmth: Although customer feedback mentions occasional slowness, the establishment is formally highlighted for its "Fast service" and is known for its friendly, courteous staff.
• Versatile Dining Times: The availability of late-night food and service across all major meal times (Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner) makes it a reliable choice throughout the day and evening.

Contact Information

Arizona residents wishing to contact The Main Ingredient Ale House & Cafe for reservations, general inquiries, or takeout orders can use the following details.

Address: 2337 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006, USA
Phone: (602) 843-6246
Mobile Phone: +1 602-843-6246

What is Worth Choosing

When visiting The Main Ingredient Ale House & Cafe, the choice of what to order should be guided by its reputation for elevated American classics and its superior beverage offerings. The menu strikes a fantastic balance between fresh, healthy options and comforting, indulgent dishes.

For lunch or a lighter dinner, the salads are highly recommended. One customer proclaimed the 7th St Steak Salad as "one of the best steak salads I've ever had," suggesting the freshness of the greens and quality of the grilled steak is exceptional. Other popular choices include the Courtney's Cobb and the uniquely refreshing Fresh Beets Salad with goat cheese and grapefruit. For those seeking comfort, the Green Chile Stew, a spicy blend of chiles, roasted pork shoulder, potatoes, and tomatillos, is a highly celebrated "local specialty" and a must-try for a taste of regional flair. Sergio's Mac & Cheese, baked with tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a pesto drizzle, is also a comforting and satisfying choice.

The taco selection is another area of distinction. While not strictly a Mexican restaurant, the Shrimp Tacos, featuring grilled shrimp on a pico-cabbage slaw with chipotle aioli, offer a fresh, zesty, and highly praised specialty dish. Similarly, the Bistec y Chile Verde Tacos provide another bold, regional flavor profile. To complement any meal, the bar offerings are non-negotiable. With its highlight on a "Great beer selection," particularly local Arizona craft brews, and its capacity to create "Great cocktails," guests should always explore the drink menu. Finally, for a distinctive dessert, the Beer Float, made with a milk stout and vanilla ice cream, offers a truly unique and enjoyable conclusion to the meal. Choosing The Main Ingredient means opting for a piece of Phoenix history that delivers excellent, fresh American cuisine alongside an expertly curated bar menu.

The Main Ingredient Ale House & Cafe

2337 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006, USA