Tempe Conventions & Visitors Bureau

I’d be hard pressed to find anything pleasant or comforting about coal mining, except for maybe one thing: the pasty.  The pasty is a little pie-like concoction of pastry crust surrounding a filling.  It was sort of the coal miners’ version of a sandwich and it originated in coal mining town of  Cornwall, England many years ago.

Fortunately, one does not have to be a coal miner or live in Cornwall to savor this yummy delight because right here in Tempe, AZ the Cornish Pasty Company is turning out the most wonderful assortment of pasties with all sorts of delectable fillings. 

After hearing from friends and associates and reading rave reviews of this place, I finally decided it was high time I gave it a try.  I ordered the aromatic and heavenly rosemary chicken, an amazing amalgam of roasted chicken, red potatoes, roasted red peppers and brie all contained in a wonderful flaky, tender pastry.  It came with an equally amazing side of mustard cream sauce.  I can’t even begin to tell you how good it was.  Everyone in our party ordered something different. I tasted all of them – the Greek, the Chicken Tikka Masala, the Pesto Chicken and they were all superb.

Located in strip mall on the corner of University and Hardy, the interior was a real surprise. It’s a narrow space, kind of dark, a little reminiscent of a mine, only cozier and full of atmosphere and good vibes.  of There’s a counter overlooking the kitchen and I noticed a lot of activity and conversation between the patrons and the cooks. Our server mentioned that sitting at the counter can be lively and fun and really adds to the whole experience.  There are also several small tables all along the wall.  Old black and white photos of miners at work dot the walls and add interest and ambiance.

I love this place and plan on going back again and again. The food is indescribably delicious, it has great atmosphere, friendly servers and customers and the prices are so reasonable. Next time I’m going to sit at the counter.  Give it a try and let me know what you think.