Born from a vacant city morgue and an old pipe shop in 1929, Tom Higley's original burger joint and gin mill spent its existence harboring the discussions of local politicians. Today, having re-invented itself alongside an ever-developing downtown Phoenix, Tom's Tavern & 1929 Grill persists as a spot where governors, mayors, and city-council members meet to trade neckties and dine among their community. The menu of the modern incarnation lodges original recipes, such as the 1929 brisket chili, along with meats prepared using one of the eatery's modern additions—an in-house smoker. A black-and-white-striped canopy shades guests relaxing on the balcony outside, and inside, a spacious bar gives way to the dining area, which stretches back past black-framed photos of some of the tavern's esteemed visitors.
