I fly out of PHX often. Its a great layover airport as there is always plenty of available seating and charging stations. However, I hate the terminal situation there. Terminal 2 is off in la la land. The food options in this terminal are bunk and there is not a whole lot of seating. Its home to Alaska Airlines, United, Spirit and a couple others. The security lines are just whacky and move way slower than the other 2 terminals. Terminals 3 and 4 are better and provide more food options. Terminal 4 is the main vein of the airport and provides access to the sky train and parking. The only thing I really don't like about Terminal 4 is this terminal will have you burning calories trying to find the food and there are not many options for magazine stands. Conveniently Starbucks is right off each security line, before and after so no issues there. Each wing of the terminal has its own small little food court w/ a few options. The thing is, if you're not sure what you want to eat you have to scope out each wing of Terminal 4 or find a map. Security in this terminal though moves quick. The staff is always helpful and friendly. The restroom lines are never long. The airport does allow dogs to be out of their carriers as long as they're on a leash. All terminals are always super clean. The Sky Train is easily accessible from Terminal 4 which takes you right to long term parking and the light rail station. The Sky Train is free which is great for travelers on a budget, in a hurry, or just super jet lagged.
The pick up situation is kind of a pain. Baggage claim is a little whacky. The airport is a giant oval and if you miss your terminal exit for departures or arrivals you have to loop alllllll the way around and circle back. There is no option to shortcut through the middle of the airport grounds. All in all its a nice clean airport. TSA moves the lines quickly. The layout of PHX is just funky which creates a lot of opportunity for inconvenience.