Gracie at Islands on Tatum Blvd in Desert Ridge was absolutely fantastic! She had great listening skills, was very attentive, and maintained such a positive attitude throughout our entire visit. Excellent customer service like hers really stands out. Gracie is the reason we'll choose Islands again the next time we decide to eat out instead of going somewhere else. Thank you for making our experience such a great one! read more

We came in today and had the best experience! Our server was named Gracie. We had a gluten allergy and she went out of her way to make sure it was safe. After she took the order the manager with brown hair and glasses came over and asked some follow up questions to make sure it was safe to eat. Between the two of them we felt so cared for and taken seriously. Thanks to both of you read more

We always end up at Islands when the kids are craving cheese fries--and honestly, you really can't go wrong with them! The portion is huge, loaded with cheese, and they come with ranch for dipping (which makes them even better) My son isn't a fan of green onions, so we usually ask for those on the side. For his meal, he loves the tiki tenders from the kids menu. They come with a side, he always picks the pineapple, and a drink, he likes their chocolate milk. My daughter usually gets the fish tacos from the regular menu. Service at Islands has been a bit hit or miss in the past, but our most recent visit was a great experience. Our server was friendly, attentive, and made sure everything came out just right. Overall, it's a solid, family-friendly spot with crowd-pleasing favorites--especially those cheese fries! read more

Islands Restaurant - Cheese Fries - American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Great place fun beach theme. Enter to smiling faces to seat you. High tables booth or low tables. It was a late lunch/ dinner for us. We ordered the fried green beans w ranch dip. We had these years ago and they still have them on the menu. Apparently they are a hit! Yum My husband ordered the Hula Burger piled high with shoots! Basket of fries as his side. These were seasoned and cooked perfectly. I had a Beach Bowl with rice chicken pineapple broccoli peppers ........ This is a big bowl more than half came home with me. It was yummy. I kinda wish I had ordered the salad due to temps being 100. Music was playing all the beach songs. Place is clean bathrooms are clean. Watching the wait staff and they are constantly cleaning when not waiting tables. Fun place for a group. They have a full bar and all kinds of yummy non alcohol drinks too. Great place great food! Our gals were very attentive to anything we needed. They run all kinds of specials. read more

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Solid 4.5 Stars! Came here with our work group today, for lunch. I got the Hawaiian Burger and fries, along with a Sprite. How was it? Hawaiian Burger- I ordered mine medium, but came out more medium rare...lots of red. It was ok though, tasted fine, and I ate all of it. The only problem was that it fell apart about halfway through, so it kind of turned into a burger salad. All good though! Fries- These are my favorite kind of fries. Fresh cut, so good! Islands has always had the bomb fries. Today's fries reminded me of how delicious they were! Perfectly fried, crunchy, soft inside. So great! Service was friendly and attentive for our large group. Refills on drinks were brought out without asking, plates cleared when someone was done. All the employees I encountered from the hostess to multiple waitresses, were all chipper and friendly. GREAT service! I will definitely come back. Forgot how bomb Islands is! read more

I honestly cannot remember the last time I had a meal at this restaurant. However, I will be returning sooner than later. My dining friend and I had the exact same thing - the big wave burger and french fries. We took a bit of order but we had constant attention by the servers and once we did order the food was brought out fairly quickly and it was hot and fresh. Unlike another burger restaurant where you get unlimited french fries they bring you a large bowl of french fries to eat from, which was more than enough to eat I even took a box home after I finished my lunch. The restaurant decor hasn't changed much in many years, but it was comfortable and an enjoyable place to eat. read more

Islands Restaurant - Delicious Island Fries - American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Great service, excellent food & fun place to eat. Love the sandpiper sandwich. Tortilla soup is always great. read more

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Fun place fun atmosphere friendly staff. We enjoyed our lunch and dessert. Friendly staff and very attentive not overwhelming. Plenty of seating and space for handicap guests which is a bonus. Food was terrific we all enjoyed everything we had. It was a return visit. Bathroom was clean. read more

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Not sure why but have not been to Islands for some time. That will change. Forgot how good the burgers and fries are. Went on July 4 for early lunch. Excellent, quick service. Lots of TVs with the World Cup games and not too loud even as restaurant started to fill. read more

The Islands on Tatum was such a great experience. Walking in brought back a lot of nostalgia from my teenage years, and it's great to see that the fun, laid-back atmosphere is still as enjoyable as ever. The food was excellent, but what really stood out was the attention to their gluten-free options. One of the managers took the time to talk with us about their gluten-free bun and explained that they choose to spend more on a higher-quality product rather than offering a cheaper alternative. You could definitely tell the difference--the bun was actually good, which is something that's hard to find with gluten-free options. Great atmosphere, friendly staff, quality food, and a genuine commitment to offering a better gluten-free experience. We'll definitely be back. read more

What a nice surprise to find that Islands Restaurant still exists, I thought they all went away about 20 years ago. I used to love their Yaki tacos, fresh cut french fries and a bottomless passionfruit iced tea. My family and I found this location still open at Desert Ridge Marketplace right around the corner from the comedy club we'll be going to tonight. Really excited to try it, here's what we found. Service: the service was friendly and relatively prompt. No issues, everyone was happy and eager to help. Our waiter refreshed my passionfruit iced tea with a brand new glass almost before I even finished the previous one, that was great! Ambiance: it's just like the old place! And like every other Islands Restaurant you ever go into, consistency is extremely strong here, they feel the same, regardless of location, which is great. There are TVs all around with videos of surfers, it's a tiki hut feel, very tropical, surfboards on the wall walls, easy, relaxed, and comfortable. It's really cool that the entire place is all booths, there are no tables, so everyone is comfy and relaxed. It really does feel like a throwback to the old Islands I used to go to when I was in college, and I loved it. Food: i'm super happy to say that the food has also stayed consistent. I did, in fact, order the Yaki tacos, and a bottomless passionfruit iced tea, which is the best passionfruit iced tea I've ever had and they brought back great memories. Others at the table got two different burgers and the fish tacos. Fortunately, the burgers come with a basket of fries, each, which was plenty for sharing, and we found they were the same as they used to be, fresh cut in-house, skin on, double deep fried so they are crunchy on the outside and soft and steamy and delicious on the inside, this was a warm, happy treat that we all shared, and there were plenty of fries for four of us with only two baskets of them from each of the burgers. The fries were definitely one of the highlights. The burgers were large, cooked to the perfect temperature as requested, and they were loved with melting cheese and fresh toppings, and a soft, toasted, buttery bun. Nice! The Yaki tacos were very good, similar to what I remembered, and brought back great memories. The fish tacos were decent, nothing to write home about, they definitely needed a squeeze or two of the lime wedges that came with them and a bit of salt. Nice thing about all the food is that there is plenty of it, portions are large, and you won't leave hungry. Value: prices are pretty reasonable for the quality and quantity of food that you'll find in front of you. Our experience was definitely worth every penny we paid. Overall: this was a great experience. Don't expect it to be a five star, executive dining experience, but rather a relaxed, fun, easy atmosphere with strong service and good food at a decent value. It's hard to beat that and we were all very happy. If there were more Islands Restaurants around town again, particularly closer to me than just Desert Ridge marketplace or in Glendale, I'd definitely go more often. I recommend Islands Restaurant and look forward to returning when I'm in the area. read more

Islands Restaurant - Big juicy delicious burger, mmmmm! - American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Husband and I had an early dinner and it was delicious just as the last time I visited a location in Las Vegas twenty years ago! Husband has not been to an Islands before and he really enjoyed it! The burgers are perfectly cooked and our server was fast, efficient, friendly and attentive and professional. Casual atmosphere where all Are comfortable. read more

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Out on a Saturday afternoon with the hubs, always looking for places to eat. We were sat right away on this rainy day. We sat at a table in the bar, which was busy with college football games on the big tv's. The restaurant just finished up a big rush. Michael was a good server. I had and still love the Kilauea burger. read more

Islands Restaurant - American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Guys! Islands is back!! What a great experience! It's hard to enjoy a meal when there is nostalgia involved. We'd come here about 6 years ago and it was just okay. But fast forward and they've stepped up their game. Their nachos, epic cheese fries, China coast salad and kids burgers were delicious. Service was awesome- attentive and accurate. Shout out to Michael who was very friendly and provided top-notch service all around. Love the fun, unpretentious, laid back vibe here. We are immediately adding it into our monthly rotation. This place makes me feel like I'm in high school having a meal with friends after school. They cheese fries with a side of ranch are still the very best! read more

I dined for lunch on a Saturday and the place was packed. But I was seated without having to wait. My waiter was very friendly and efficient. He was very professional and attentive throughout my meal. I ordered the Hula Burger and this is where they lose a star. The top bun and meat was not on the bottom bun with the rest of the ingredients. When I tried cutting g it in half to make eating it more efficient, the entire lower contents ended up spread all over the basket. I literally ate the meat (which was cooked perfectly) with a knife and fork. That's not how one should eat a burger. The waiter offered me a new burger but, not wanting to waste food, I declined. But the server should have noticed the issue before bro f it to me. I suspect he carried it tilted causing the top and bottom to become separated. For dessert I had the ice cream Sunday and it was well presented and tasted great. This is a very casual restaurant. Some parties were obnoxiously loud a d most very respectful to others. Overall it's a nice place to visit. The menu is quite large and they have selections other than meats. I think I'll try their chicken burger next time I visit. I give them my recommendation but only ask that servers are a little more o servant of what they bring to a table. read more

I wanted something different and had the kileau burger, I know I spelled it wrong, but it had a nice kick to it. It is a must try if you want a burger with a different taste. Also I ordered the sweet potato fries and they were very good. Service was great and I have no complaints at all. The restaurant had a good vibe to it and I would eat here again. read more

Gets very busy on weekends Wish they had more variety on menu ? The ambiance is good with May to choose from "

Zero stars if I could. We came in 10 minutes before closing for an early Mother's Day dinner since we weren't able to celebrate on the actual day. Right before we walked in, we saw another party get seated, but the lady with black hair wearing a black shirt immediately turned us away with an attitude. There was no kindness, no explanation, and definitely no customer service. We completely understand businesses closing, but the inconsistency and rude treatment were unnecessary. Really disappointing experience, especially for what was supposed to be a special dinner. Management seriously needs to replace her or retrain her because someone with that kind of attitude should not be working in customer service. read more

I wanted to take the time to write a review to make sure our server knew that she helped make my Mother's Day special. We went in on Mother's Day with a large party and our party slowly arrived which I'm sure would be stressful for a server but Gracie would be right at the table when someone else showed up. Our server was Gracie. She came to our table right after we were seated and honestly was so attentive the entire time that we were there. Our food was a little slow to come out but we were honestly ok with that we were a large party and Gracie was constantly making sure we had everything we needed. Overall great experience and we will definitely be coming back. Thank you Gracie for keeping a smile and staying positive with our group (we can be pretty needy). read more

We went yesterday evening. We were seated right away by a nice hostess. I had the long boarder burger with fries and a change of cheese which was no problem. My husband had the bluenomi burger with fries. Burgers were hot, cooked perfectly, the fries were hot and well seasoned. Our waiter was quick, pleasant, helpful, the food came in a good timely manor. We were checked on often to see how things were and did we need anything else. We love their burgers. The place to go for good service, good food and a tasty meal! read more

What happened to this place? It used to be one of my favorite places to get a burger. When I last went there, the burgers were dry and the fries were crunchy. The only thing keeping me from giving them one star is that their ambiance and service is good. read more

Had the Kona pie. I didn't know it was an ice cream pie but it was very good. Always great service from Zach and Michael. read more

Islands Restaurant - Kona pie - American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Been coming here for years I get the same thing, a maitai and a Maui burger. The food was fine but first off there was no straw in my mixed drink. Totally fine i understand but how am I supposed to stir my rum float. That wasn't the least of it. I understand having to scold coworkers or employees but infront of tables is just getto. I couldn't even enjoy my burger over the sound of a manager reeming someone over something. So sad to see this place fall apart read more

Stopped into the Islands Restaurant at Desert Ridge for dinner pre-concert with offspring. I had the Kaanapali Kobb Salad with grilled chicken, bacon, avocado, blue cheese crumbles, hard boiled egg, tomatoes and mixed greens. Son had the Malibu Burger and fries. Salad was very tasty, liked the low cal balsamic vinaigrette option. Could not finish. No complaints on the Malibu Burger served with lots of fries. Island ambience is different. Not your usual sports bar. Menu includes sandwiches, burgers, salads, bowls, burritos and tacos. Service was good. read more

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Great food and great service. Fries are great and burgers too. Great service and ambiance

Food was ok... chicken wrap w/ sweet potato fries & the chicken / mushroom sandwich w/ sweet potato fries. Cost is average for today's prices. Topped off with Passion Tea & cherry coke. The server, he was on point - not overbearing but close enough to check on us periodically. The ambiance was OK. Music a little on the loud side but nice beats. read more

Seating was quick, service was quick, quality of service was just ok. Asked three times over 10 minute period for napkins. Standard burger food. Nothing overwhelming great, but nothing bad either. read more

Very good Mai tias and great prices for happy hour. Really good sliders and lots of options on the happy hour menu.

The evening felt warm, steady, and well-orchestrated. The team created a welcoming atmosphere without any sense of rush or pressure. It left a lasting positive impression. read more

Upon entering we were seated immediately - nice. Our server was very friendly and attentive. The food came out quickly and was very good for the price. The place was very busy for a week day. I'd recommend if your in the Desert Ridge area and want a decently priced sandwich or burger. read more

Islands Restaurant - Menu pic - American Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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I have memories going to an Islands Restaurant near me when I was younger, though it closed many years ago. Only in the last few years did I learn that there was one finally near me again at Desert Ridge Marketplace. I finally recently made it to one. It reminded me of what I loved way back when but with more options. Meal options now include burgers, starters, fries (various ways to be prepared), soups & salads, tacos & bowls, sandwiches, shakes & smoothies, and desserts. I used to always order the Toucan (grilled chicken breast, teriyaki sauce, fresh pineapple, swiss, lettuce, tomato & mayo) or a burger. This time, however, I chose to try Islands Classic Tacos, the Yaki, which consists of three flour tortillas stuffed w/grilled chicken, fresh pineapple, teriyaki sauce, jack & cheddar blend, lettuce & tomatoes. While I am sure the Toucan will have tasted the same as it did years ago, I really enjoyed the Yaki, which was perfect for filling me up with what felt like a healthier option. My wife got a sandwich, and we decided to splurge with a shared Chocolate Lava dessert. Everything was delicious! We look forward to coming back and trying other options soon. While we didn't take advantage of them, there are lunch and happy hour specials. Lunch specials include a Double Stack Burger, Northshore Tacos, The Wedge (BLT), Mainlander SaladTM, Islands Classic Patty Melt, Chicken Club Wrap, and Soup & Salad. You can add your choice of an endless mug for only $2.19 more with any lunch special. There are happy hour specials on weekdays from 3-6:30 PM. The bar serves cocktails, brews, wines, and hard seltzers. Anyone can sign up for the rewards program for a free order of chips, salsa, and guacamole. You can then keep track of your rewards on the Islands Restaurant app. In addition to rewards, you can then be notified about sneak peeks, pro tips, secret menu items, and more. I found that while the server could have been more attentive, it didn't take too long to be seated after putting our name down, and the food came out rather quickly. We still had a good experience and plan to return again soon. read more

Food was really good , but service was far beyond . Great happy hour deals , crispy green beans yummy and all salads we had are wonderful , will be back to try burgers soon read more

Service was nice, but the food was not. We did not tell them so it is not their fault. We weren't offered something else. Got a chicken sandwich and it tasted like it had been cooked with fish. It was not good. Got a cheddar fries for the table and it was congealed and cold. And also strangely bland. The service was very nice, they were busy and we got checked on fairly frequently. I think it's a great place to bring kids or people who are happy with a burger. read more

Food is amazing and order always to perfection !!! Servers are so friendly and so many options for dietary needs

It was just perfect! A bit over-served, I guess, but we all enjoyed the visit! Great beer selection too!

Saturday, stopped in after grandsons football game. Kinda busy, but we got a booth right away. Service was immediate (drinks and orders) and the food came out relatively fast, unfortunately it just wasn't great. My wife used to love this place (she always gets the hawaiian burger), but it wasn't pretty raw and just not as good as she remembers. Grandsons got the chicken tenders and the kids bruger. I had the spicy burger - mine was actually pretty good. I also ordered the garlic fries. Overall, everything was just OK, just not as good as we hoped, although my wife didn't like the fries at all and she's not interested in going back. We can get better burgers and fries at other places. read more

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The staff was great and the food was average. They have nice seating inside and a small outside area. We got the nachos and a couple burgers. They do have a long list of drinks which we didn't try. read more

We had the best Mother's Day lunch at Islands, and our server Sarah is the reason it was so special! From the moment we sat down, she made us feel like VIPs. She made sure I felt completely taken care of on my day. It's rare to find someone who's not only on top of things with great service but also brings real joy to the table. She's the kind of person who turns a regular meal into a memory. Thank you, Sarah, for making our Mother's Day so amazing--we'll definitely be asking for you next time! Management: Please bring back the endless fries!! read more

Islands was one of my favorite restaurants growing up and I love their food and their drinks. Employees are always so friendly and it's hardly ever busy when we go. The wings were absolutely delicious and same with their burgers. The mangorita was very well made. read more

I can definitely see why there aren't many islands around anymore. It still looks fine inside, but boy the booths are small and there's barely any tables. I got a big family, that just isn't realistic in fat America. Server was nice, nothing too special. Mai tai was tasty but not too hard to nail that. The burger and fries as well as chicken sandwiches are the height of mediocrity. Was it good? Sure, it was serviceable. I was full, but it was just okay and the fries weren't even as good as some frozen fries I've made at home. With so many options around this location, I'm shocked it's still around. Maybe old drunks keeping it afloat from the bar, I do love tiki drinks! Won't be returning. read more