A standout destination for modern American cuisine in Phoenix, Aftermath is synonymous with inventive dishes, expertly crafted cocktails, and a high-energy atmosphere. Perfect for those who appreciate exceptional dining experiences, Aftermath brings a fresh, contemporary twist to the culinary scene.
With a focus on hyper-local ingredients and partnerships with Phoenix’s finest purveyors, Aftermath takes pride in celebrating quality food and great company. Every plate is a testament to its commitment to fresh, vibrant flavors, making it a sensory delight for all who visit.
Founded by restaurateur Charles Barber of Aftermath Projects, the American restaurant has quickly gained a reputation for delivering unforgettable dining experiences equivalent to its fan-favorite sister concept, Born & Bred (located in Chandler and Scottsdale). Like Born & Bred, Aftermath offers a scratch menu, utilizing ingredients from local sources like Noble Bread and Frites Street Fries, among many other farmers’ market favorites guests will recognize.
Upon arrival, guests are welcomed into a moody, high-energy atmosphere where trendy music fills the air, setting the tone for an exciting experience. Pop-culture art pieces adorn the walls, while light wood tables, accented by the warm glow of low candlelight and vibrant botanicals, create an inviting and visually captivating space. Art pieces include paintings of icons like Anthony Bourdain and Kurt Cobain.
To eat, the menu at Aftermath is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to pushing culinary boundaries while honoring the seasonality of its ingredients. Signature, year-round dishes like the award-winning Aftermath Burger and wood-fired pizzas have long been staples, but the menu continues to evolve with seasonal creations, like its current winter lineup.
These seasonal plates include the roasted cauliflower with heirloom cauliflower paired with smoky baba ganoush, bright chermoula, and tangy pickled red onion, and the jalapeño-bacon burger, which elevates a classic with Arizona grass-fed beef, jalapeño-bacon jam, garlic aioli, and crispy onion strings on a soft buttermilk roll. For heartier fare, the braised short rib, served with creamy Geechie rice grits, black lentils, house-made giardiniera, and robust beef jus, offers a comforting yet refined option. Seafood lovers can indulge in the grilled jumbo shrimp (pictured above) featuring Paruano beans, Iberico chorizo, Castelvetrano olives, and poached leeks.
Aftermath’s bar program is equally impressive, with a cocktail menu that highlights inventive sips like the smoky Old Fashioned, enhanced with cherry smoke, or the After-Mathattan, which features rye whiskey, strawberry Madeira, and French Amer for a bold and slightly sweet finish. Other standout options include the Oaxacan Nights, a mezcal-based cocktail with notes of coconut, rose, and bergamot, and the Mind On My Money, a refreshing blend of Japanese Roku gin, elderflower, cucumber, and citrus.
Aftermath is open daily from 4 to 10 p.m., with a happy hour taking place from 4 to 6 p.m. each night.
For more information, visit aftermathphoenix.com.
1534 E. Bethany Home Rd.
Phoenix, AZ 85014