@three-eyed-crow Yeah, I honestly don't know what the deal is, I just know that Filibertos are everywhere and they don't use lard in their refried beans so I can eat them, while other places require exactly 1 extra step and that's clearly TOO MUCH.
Back on topic: The East Valley (so, around Mesa/Tempe/etc) has some really, really incredible non-American food, and some super dope Americanized versions of other cultural staples. The Dhaba was mentioned, which is an incredible Indian joint in Tempe, though really I haven't found many Indian places in the valley that aren't excellent (except Curry Corner, fuck Curry Corner unless you're 19, super drunk at 5 PM, and want basic-ass food ready in 5 minutes).
If you can make your way out to Chandler, near the Chandler Mall, Tott's Asian Diner is like, the Chinese American restaurant in Phoenix. I've known people who make a ritual of stopping there whenever they come to the city. Their orange chicken is ridiculous. They also deliver on grubhub, if you're close enough.
A non-standard suggestion for the Mesa area, too. If you've a fleeting religious interest, we have a huge Mormon Temple that's pretty neat to look at if you're architecturally inclined. You won't be able to go in unless you're Mormon, but it's cute.
Mesa's Art District is super, super nice, despite always forgetting it exists. There's tons of little specialty shops and street art and exhibits set up in random buildings. It's right off the light rail too, IIRC, so it's not a bad jumping off point if you want to head down to Mill Ave or Downtown Phoenix after, too.
Also, as @Jeshin mentioned, there are many really quality Hookah Lounges in the valley, though ymmv if you've never smoked hookah before.
