In Scottsdale, eating is so much more than just basic means of survival. This culinary oasis was just named the No. 2 “Foodie City, 2014” by Livability.com, and we couldn’t agree more. Rankings were determined by exploring U.S. cities that had most established farmer’s markets (check), restaurants that use locally grown ingredients (check), and cities with the most critically acclaimed chefs, restaurants, and winners of James Beard Foundation Awards (check, check, and check!). Scottsdale’s restaurant scene is finally getting the recognition it deserves, but the city has been home to incredible restaurants for ages with more than 600 options to choose from. There’s a place for every taste bud in Scottsdale – old favorites and new spots alike. Now, let’s eat.
Old Favorites
LON’s is the culinary centerpiece of Scottsdale’s historic The Hermosa Inn. This celebrated Four Diamond restaurant open in 1994 is famous for its “artful American” cuisine, utilizing authentic Arizona flavors with cutting-edge trends. For a light bite, the Himalayan Salt Seared Ahi Tuna is a must. Or try the Roasted Duck Breast with duck confit, semolina gnocchi, roasted baby vegetables, and orange duck jus for a truly mouthwatering meal. LON’s boasts one of the finest wine programs in Arizona, recognized by the Wine Spectator’s coveted Award of Excellence continuously since 1996.
Characterized by the Mediterranean principles of fresh, seasonal, local, and ingredient-driven cuisine, T. Cook’s at Royal Palms Resort and Spa has received both local and national acclaim for two decades. Executive Chef Paul McCabe’s menu incorporates cooking techniques that reflect the evolving culinary scene in Scottsdale. Table 31, one of the most cherished tables at T. Cook’s, debuted a new and exclusive dining experience called #PM31, an improvisational multiple-course meal designed for a limited number of diners every Wednesday.
Open since 1988, AZ88 is renowned for its great cocktails, quirky modern art, delicious food, and jaw-dropping washrooms. This contemporary restaurant is the ultimate “see-and-be-seen” spot, with a patio overlooking the outdoor Scottsdale Civic Center Mall in the heart of downtown. AZ88 keeps it simple and scrumptious with their extensive burger list and classic martinis. Try the sweet and sour Key Lime martini or the Salty Dog cocktail made with fresh grapefruit juice, Finlandia grapefruit vodka, and pink Himalayan sea salt.
El Chorro is a Scottsdale culinary landmark featuring fresh, innovative cuisine using organic and locally-grown ingredients – including herbs and produce from the restaurant’s garden located just outside the kitchen. Since 1937, El Chorro has invited diners to take in the spectacular views nestled between Camelback and Mummy Mountains; an authentic Arizona setting. Don’t miss out on the Pan Roasted Giant Shrimp with banana chipotle polenta, crispy sweet potatoes, and citrus butter. Save room for the famous El Chorro Sticky Buns – they will not disappoint.
Cowboy Ciao was just a neighborhood joint when it first opened in 1997, but over the years it has evolved into one of downtown Scottsdale’s most notable eateries. Its award-winning cuisine highlights American food with global influences from Italy, Mexico, and the American Southwest. Cowboy Ciao’s extensive wine list of more than 2,000 selections has received the prestigious Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for five consecutive years.
New Spots
Sumo Maya Mexican Asian Kitchen , which opened in June 2014, offers the unexpected blend of tapas-style small plates and dim sum. The menu takes restaurant goers on a first-class trip from Latin America to Asia, with fusion recipes like the tasty Korean Beef Taco, Pad Thai Al Pastor, and Arroz Con Pato, a spicy poblano fried rice. After just a few bites, you’ll be hooked on this delicious cultural journey.
Another new kid on the culinary block is Fox Restaurant Concept’s latest installment, The Henry , which made its debut in December 2013. Think of The Henry as an extension of your own home with its open dining space that bursts with energy and warmth. It is the perfect spot to grab a quick coffee, a late lunch with friends, dinner with the family, or a cocktail. Simple yet hearty is the mantra at The Henry as the menu features everything from chopped salads and delicious steaks to homemade sodas.
The classic tiki bars of the 1950s and 60s are making a comeback in the restaurant scene, and we welcomed Hula’s Modern Tiki in downtown Scottsdale in February 2014. Get a taste of Polynesian paradise with the Bali Hai BBQ Ribs with a mango barbecue sauce, sweet potato fries and slaw paired with their signature Hula’s Mai Tai. This fusion of Polynesian and American flavors brings the South Pacific to the Southwest.
Driven by passion and storytelling, The Second Story Liquor Bar features the art of savory, modern American cuisine and perfectly crafted cocktails. The vintage dining lounge opened in March 2014 and offers a 2nd story patio overlooking downtown. Executive Chef Josh Bracher puts on the ultimate show with the Sweet Corn Agnolotti, served with crab leg meat, truffle butter, lobster mushroom, and sorrel greens, and resident mixologist John Christie makes magic with his avant-garde cocktails. Try the Divine Intervention, made with 10 Cane Agricole Rum, strawberry balsamic gastrique, lemon juice and sparkling water.
The dynamic duo Dave Andrea and Payton Curry, who previously captured our hearts and our stomachs with Brat Haüs, unveiled their latest endeavor in January 2014. Taco Haüs puts a healthy spin on tacos, empanadas and ceviche. Diners won’t feel guilty diving into these delicious Latin dishes as Curry uses the only the freshest ingredients plucked straight from McClendon’s Select local organic farm. You won’t want to miss out on the side of StrEAT Corn, served with Sriracha aioli, lime, cilantro, and heirloom popcorn. Not to mention their wide array of mouthwatering tacos, all served on “haüs-made” tortillas paired with the “delicioso” Horchata.
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