Best Pizza & Brew, a fast-casual pizzeria and taproom renowned for its scratch-made pizzas and house-brewed beers, is set to open in Chandler at 2855 W. Frye Road.
The company’s newest location is set to move into the former home of Gadzooks Enchiladas & Soup, according to managing partner Joey Freis, who tells What Now Phoenix that the new Best Pizza & Brew is expected to open in January 2026. When it opens, customers can expect the same New York- and Detroit-style pizzas, craft beers, and casual community-focused atmosphere that have defined the brand across Southern California.
Founded in 2013, Best Pizza & Brew currently operates eight locations in the San Diego area. Known for its high-energy environment and signature “ice towers” that chill dozens of rotating tap handles, the concept blends quality food with a lively sports bar experience. Chandler will be the company’s first out-of-state expansion.
The restaurant will neighbor The Sleepy Whale taproom on the northwest corner of Arizona Avenue and Frye Road, a high-traffic intersection near downtown Chandler. Gadzooks closed in the space earlier this year. The new location is expected to replicate the look and feel of the California originals, featuring numerous TVs, outdoor seating, and both dine-in and take-out options.
The menu features hand-tossed and Detroit-style pizzas, including customer favorites like meatball parmesan, pesto chicken burrata, and honey basil. Other offerings include wings, loaded fries, salads, and sandwiches, as well as desserts like butterscotch pudding and root beer floats. The bar program features house-brewed beers, including a blonde ale, IPA, and a hazy IPA, as well as a rotating selection of local and regional craft beers.
“We’re really excited to be bringing Best Pizza & Brew to Arizona!” Freis tells What Now Phoenix. “We’re targeting a January 2026 opening and can’t wait to share our scratch-made pizza, local craft beer, and community-focused vibe with Chandler.”
