We’re starting our Arizona Born & Grown series with someone who’s been building something special here in the valley. James Piazza is the owner and head chef of Bad Jimmys, a burger spot that started as a food truck and has grown into one of the most talked-about names in the Phoenix food scene.

James grew up in Arizona and got his start in the kitchen around 2012, working for Chris Bianco, a chef who’s widely known for setting a high standard when it comes to pizza. After a few years learning and cooking in his home state, James headed to LA, where he fell in love with burgers. Eventually, he made his way back to Arizona with a plan to build something of his own – something classic and built to last.

Bad Jimmys got its start in 2020, posted up outside of Cobra Arcade during the height of the pandemic. The name came from a nickname a friend gave him, and it stuck. Even during the brutal Arizona heat, people lined up for it. The first brick-and-mortar opened in November 2023, a second location followed in Scottsdale in March of 2025, and a third location is opening in Uptown Phoenix this summer.

Now running multiple locations with a growing team, James stays connected to the community that helped shape Bad Jimmys from the start. Community plays a big role in how James runs things – whether that’s working with other local businesses or collaborating with creatives around the city. It’s always been about more than just the food.

Arizona Born & Grown is all about spotlighting the people and places that make this state what it is. We’re proud to call Arizona home! Stay tuned for more Arizona Born & Grown features.
Website: badjimmys.com
Instagram: @badjimmys