Tempe’s rooftop dining scene just got even more compelling. Lucero Rooftop Lounge & Terrace, perched atop Omni Tempe Hotel at ASU, has introduced a new seasonal menu that signals a new chapter under the direction of Chef de Cuisine Cesar Ruiz. Already known as one of the city’s most sought-after rooftop destinations, Lucero continues to lean into its elevated setting and social energy, pairing sweeping sunset views with shareable flavors designed for lingering evenings above the city.
An Arizona native, Chef Ruiz brings an ingredient-driven and globally influenced approach shaped by early experiences in Sonora, Mexico, and later refined in Sedona’s resort kitchens. His culinary perspective comes through in dishes that balance comfort and creativity, all rooted in Southwestern character and seasonal inspiration. At Lucero, that translates to plates meant for the table rather than the individual, encouraging a style of dining that feels celebratory, relaxed, and perfect for groups.
The winter menu reflects that philosophy with offerings like fondant patata with sofrito aioli and coriander gremolata, black garlic chicken kabob with piquillo romesco, grilled scallion, and amaranth popcorn, steak tostada layered with smoky queso and poblano chimichurri, and grilled stuffed piquillo filled with Applewood-smoked bacon, herb cheese, garlic crema, and cilantro oil. Each dish plays with texture and flavor, ideal companions to Lucero’s craft cocktail program and rooftop atmosphere.
The setting is as much a part of the experience as the food. Inspired by the starry desert sky and infused with Southwestern spirit, Lucero offers a day-to-night ambiance that shifts from sunset dinners to lively late-night gatherings. From its vantage point above downtown Tempe, the terrace delivers panoramic views that stretch across the city, making it a natural backdrop for casual meetups to special occasions.
Lucero is part of the broader culinary story unfolding at the Omni Tempe Hotel at ASU. Opened in April 2023 at the intersection of University Drive and Mill Avenue, the 330-room hotel has quickly established itself as a modern hub for travelers and locals. With multiple dining concepts, a rooftop pool deck, and design that reflects the energy of its university surroundings, the property blends urban exploration with elevated hospitality, positioning itself as a dynamic base for discovering the Valley.
With Chef Ruiz now guiding the kitchen and a menu built for social dining, Lucero Rooftop Lounge & Terrace continues to define what rooftop dining in Tempe can look and taste like. Learn more at omnihotels.com.
