Patricia’s Pizza
As the daughter of famed restauranteur Tomaso Maggiore, Melissa Maggiore knows a thing or two about food and wine. Patricia’s Pizza is named after her parents’ first restaurant, and uses time-honored recipes to create an authentic Italian dining experience. Specialty pizzas are offered in Napolitana “whites” and “reds,” and grandma pies are inspired by Tomaso’s Sicilian square pies. In addition to pizza, the menu has pressed sourdough sandwiches, salads, nostalgic pasta dishes, and traditional Italian desserts. Stop in for the seasonal three-course menus, $10 happy hour, $5 Martini Mondays, and $28 Bottle & Board Thursdays. 32067 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.454.7290; www.patriciaspizza.com.
American
AZ88
Known for its upbeat ambiance and swanky martinis, this Scottsdale institution is always packed with visitors and locals alike. The décor features ever-changing works of art, paying homage to the neighboring arts district. The accessible yet refined menu consists of pub fare such as burgers and chicken sandwiches next to shrimp ceviche and bacon-wrapped water chestnuts and a variety of salads. The kitchen is open late and the cocktails are guest favorites. The AZ88 Experience, which includes two specialty cocktails and a four-course meal, is the only way to make a reservation. All others are first come, first served. 7353 E. Scottsdale Mall, Scottsdale; 480.994.5576; www.az88.com; $$
Belmont Kitchen & Cocktails
An elevated yet approachable dining spot offers a refined relaxed atmosphere where craft cocktails, fresh seasonal cuisine, and warm hospitality come together. The menu focuses on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients for dinner. Starters include squash blossoms with a Oaxacan/goat cheese blend, artichoke flowers, Hamachi crudo, and more. Main courses range in variety from grilled Spanish octopus to Mishima Wagyu burger, New Zealand lamb, and signature steak cuts. 8876 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale; 480.999.5599; www.belmontkitchenandcocktails.com; $$$-$$$$$
Café Monarch
The award-winning Cafe Monarch is recognized as one of the Top Three Fine Dining Restaurants in America by TripAdvisor. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, special occasions or an extravagant night out, this family-owned-and-operated restaurant offers elegant ambiance and exceptional service. The four-course, fixed-price menu changes weekly and revolves around local, organic, sustainable and responsibly procured ingredients. Reservation only. 6934 E. 1st Ave., Scottsdale; 480.970.7682; www.cafemonarch.com; $$$$
Grassroots Kitchen & Tap
Grassroots Kitchen & Tap is a family-owned and operated restaurant with a from-scratch menu of classic Southern American cuisine. Southern Shrimp & Grits, Carolina Baby Backs, and the Almost Famous Pork Chop are menu favorites, and vegetarians will appreciate the farm to table vegetable platter and the variety of salad options. End with a sweet treat of key lime pie or the chocolate toffee brownie with Ghirardelli chocolate. Craft beers and wines are both available on tap. Social hour is 3 to 6 p.m. every day. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 8120 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.699.0699; www.grassrootsaz.com; $$
Simon’s Hot Dogs
Simon’s Hot Dogs is a family-run restaurant serving hot dogs the Colombian way. Simon’s signature dog, The Colombian, is a street food staple with your choice of a premium all-beef hot dog, Colombian chorizo, a handmade German-style bratwurst, or a vegan hot dog topped with pineapple, mozzarella, Simon’s sauce and crushed potato chips for an added crunch. This fast-casual eatery offers dozens of hot dog variations and a vegan alternative for nearly every item on their menu. Try one of their imported Colombian sodas or a bottle of Arizona craft beer to pair with your meal. 4280 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.426.9218; www.simonshotdogs.net; $
UNiQ Burger
Now for something truly UNiQ. This casual dining spot offers up high-quality food made from 100 percent plant-based ingredients for takeout or dine-in. The restaurant was started to provide people with delicious burgers and sandwiches without having to consume animal products. There are also many gluten-free options on the menu, and the restaurant is a nut-free facility. Everything is vegan but tastes like the real deal. Try the fries in crinkle cut, sweet potato, parmesan truffle, fully loaded, or Southwest fully loaded varieties. 7730 E. McDowell Road, Scottsdale; 480.664.7919; www.uniqburger.com; $
Asian
Bing Bistro
Dumplings and noodle dishes are the house specialties at Bing Bistro, rooted in time-honored Chinese culinary tradition. Diners can watch as the noodles and dumplings are handmade in house. The decor is simple but the food is flavorful and fresh. The spicy beef noodles and soup dumplings are must-tries and the Beef Chow Fun is a favorite. Once you try the orange chicken, you’ll never go back to the fast-food version. For an extravagant treat, order the whole or half Peking duck. 15577 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.590.8836; www.bingbistroaz.com. $$
Hiro Sushi
Chef Hiro trained in Japan for over 25 years and brings traditional Japanese cuisine to Scottsdale. Cozy up at the sushi bar where the chef greets guests with a warm towel and dine on delicate pieces of sashimi or any of the restaurant’s savory grilled entrees like the Saba Shioyaki (grilled mackerel). If unsure what to order, check out the daily specials board behind the sushi bar. The restaurant is small, so reservations are recommended for parties of five or more. 9393 N. 90th St., Scottsdale; 480.314.4215; $$
Reign of Thai
At Reign of Thai, chefs Satsay and Sama feature traditional Thai dishes from their hometown and other regions throughout Thailand. They use fresh ingredients and create the sauces from scratch daily. Try the popular pad Thai, spicy basil chicken, drunken noodle with chicken, or the tom-kha coconut soup. Closed Monday. 12032 N. Cave Creek Road, Phoenix; 602.328.9000; www.reignofthai.com; $$
Sumomaya
The colorful and energetic decor is fitting for this Mexican-Asian fusion restaurant. The menu is a mix of Latin American and Asian small plates, including three types of guacamole, assorted sushi rolls, a variety of ceviche, and more. Fusion dishes include Pad Thai Pork Al Pastor, avocado fried rice, and Korean beef tacos.. Bottomless Brunch with unlimited shared plates, desserts and cocktails on Saturday and Sunday starting at 9 a.m. 6560 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.397.9520; www.sumomaya.com; $$-$$$
Bakery
BEG Bakery & Creamery
BEG Bakery & Creamery is a bakery reimagined offering high-quality baked goods and ice cream for all eating lifestyles. Its amazing creations are butter-free, egg-free, and gluten-free. Baker Shawna has spent years perfecting and reformulating her grandmother’s recipes using plant-based and clean ingredients while achieving traditional tastes and textures in her baked goods. The menu offers muffins, cupcakes, cookies, brownies, and cinnamon rolls, along with ice cream and beverages. No matter your dietary requirements, BEG has something tasty to offer. 3030 N. 68th St., Scottsdale; 480.590.0021; www.begbakery.com; $
Butta Cakes
What started out as a challenge to create a dessert for a dinner party has turned into a sweet dream for Butta Cakes owner Perry Hilton. She’s created over 25 flavors of her butter cakes, including banana pudding, cake batter, Key lime, and orangesicle varieties, all using all-natural, premium ingredients. These little morsels of butter cake are available as a single, half dozen or a sampler dozen and are perfect for party favors, gift-giving, or a sweet treat pick-me-up. 20801 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.938.8343; www.buttacakes.com; $
Dirty Dough
Dirty Dough’s triple-layer cookies are stuffed with gooey cookie goodness. The soft, thick cookies are “dirty” with mix-ins and fillings using their proprietary method for packing in flavor. Classic flavors include stuffed chocolate chip, Brookie (brownie cookie), raspberry toaster tart, the Reverse (fudge filling wrapped in a chocolate cookie, wrapped in a peanut butter cookie), cookies and creme, and Muscle (stuffed with peanut butter protein). Two additional flavors are added weekly. 6501 E. Greenway Pkwy., Scottsdale; 480-590-7022; and at Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix, 602.293.3122; www.dirtydoughcookies.com; $
JL Patisserie
This French-inspired bakery started out on the farmers market circuit before opening a storefront in 2019. Known for authentic French baguettes and croissants, owner Jenna Leurquin (aka JL) does things a little differently by using sourdough bases and natural fermentation for the baked goods. Don’t miss the carrot cake, a favorite of the baker herself. Gluten-free options are available. Or, learn to make authentic French eclairs, croissants, or sourdough and baguettes at one of the on-site baking classes. 7342 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.859.4459; www.jlpatisserie.com; $-$$
Barbecue
Boo and Henry’s Memphis Pit BBQ
Pitmaster Daly Thompson returns to his barbecue roots after 40 years as an executive chef in fine dining. Experience true Memphis barbecue with the world champion ribs, pulled pork or chicken, beef brisket, or blackened jumbo Gulf shrimp. Venture to other iconic culinary destinations with the Nashville hot chicken or Smokey Mountain Gumbo. Can’t decide? Two- and three-meat combo platters are available. Don’t miss the BarBQ Beans, 5 Cheese Mac’nCrack, or Radioactive Cole Slaw on the side. 16500 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale; 480.257.3081; www.booandhenrysbbq.com; $$
Bootleggers Modern American Smokehouse
This casual tavern and smokehouse features craft barbecue and housemade moonshine cocktails. Starters include boot dumplings with pork belly, shrimp, and a mango chipotle sauce; smoked chicken wings; and a bacon board. The menu also features burgers, sandwiches, smokehouse tacos, smoked prime rib, and a barbecue sampler for two or four people. The award-winning barbecue is smoked daily and available for at-home dining as well. The famous apple pie moonshine is a popular libation. Two locations: 7217 E. 1st St., Scottsdale; 480.404.9984; and 3375 E. Shea Blvd., Phoenix; 602.996.4228; www.bootleggerssmokehouse.com; $$
Handlebar J
Known as “Scottsdale’s Original Rib House,” Handlebar J is a one-of-a-kind saloon that first opened in 1966 and has been owned and operated by the Herndon family since 1975. This Western-themed establishment is famous for its slow-cooked pork ribs glazed with homemade smoky chipotle barbecue sauce. Check out the monthly calendar for live music by The Herndon Brothers and other national acts. Don’t miss the line dancing classes on Tuesday evenings. 7116 E. Becker Ln., Scottsdale; 480.948.0110; www.handlebarj.com; $$
The Thumb
The Thumb is an eclectic, one-of-a-kind place to gas up, wash your car, do a little shopping, and enjoy out-of-this-world barbecue. The Thumb opened in 2012 and has become an unlikely but enormously popular destination for barbecue in the Valley. Its melt-in-your-mouth brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken, and Kansas City barbecue sauce are big hits among customers, including Guy Fieri. Try the hardwood-smoked pulled pork with spicy house barbecue sauce or the famous breakfast brisket stack that was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Breakfast is served all day. In addition to offering delicious, award-winning BBQ, The Thumb also has a fantastic in-house bakery offering scrumptious, freshly baked pastries, muffins, and cinnamon rolls. 9393 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale; 480.513.8186; www.thethumb.com; $$
Breakfast
The Eleanor
You won’t find a DJ spinning tunes or bloody Marys piled high with outrageous toppings that could be a meal. Instead, The Eleanor is a welcoming neighborhood breakfast joint that serves high-quality, tasty breakfast items and savory sandwiches for dine-in or grab-and-go. Breakfast sandwiches and burritos; eggs prepared your way, in scrambles, omelets, chilaquiles, or hash; varieties of pancakes and French toast; quick bites like toasts and bowls; and freshly prepared handhelds like the stacked BLT and beef po’ boy, will make this site of the former Scottsdale Dry Cleaners a regular part of your morning routine. When dining in, explore the creative and fresh cocktail menu or sidle up to the coffee bar. 3027 N. Hayden Road; 480.685.2525; www.theeleanoraz.com; $-$$
Scramble
Whether you’re craving a healthy breakfast or hearty comfort food, Scramble is the breakfast place for you. The Santa Fe eggs Benedict is one of the most popular entrees, and the brizzas (breakfast pizzas), are big enough to share. Not a breakfast person? Gourmet sammies—including the Hickman’s Burger with a fried egg or a tasty Cuban on a toasted hoagie—salads, and wraps are served all day as well. This fast-casual breakfast joint also has a dog-friendly patio. Gluten-free and vegan-friendly. 6590 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.404.7264; www.azscramble.com; $$
SugarJam The Southern Kitchen[BA1]
Come to SugarJam for the mouthwatering handmade baked goods, but stay for the Southern comfort dishes like buttermilk fried chicken, southern grits, catfish, and savory biscuits and country sausage gravy. Jerk chicken and sweet potato waffles are a sweet and spicy twist on an old favorite, or order your fried chicken with a Belgian waffle, flapjacks, or French toast. As the Valley’s hottest brunch spot, SugarJam is serving up a fresh lineup of fall-inspired cocktails. The Hocus Pocus Mimosa Flight features sour apple schnapps and apple juice, blackberry and Empress Indigo, and lychee with elderflower liqueur and house vodka. Another October delight is the El Diable Margarita, made with Nosotros Reposado Tequila, orange juice, orange liqueur, spicy bitters, agave, and a red wine float. Lastly, there’s the Oogie Boogie, combining house rum, pineapple juice, lemon juice, blue curacao, simple syrup, a black sugar rim, and a gummy worm garnish. Closed Monday and Tuesday. 15111 N. Hayden Rd., Scottsdale; 480.948.6210; www.sjsouthernkitchen.com; $$
Coffee Shops
Berdena’s
Berdena’s is a petite specialty coffee shop in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale that serves organic and locally sourced food and drinks. Don’t miss unique lattes such as the honey lavender and cardamom rose variations. Breakfast items include an award-winning avocado toast, a breakfast sandwich, and a variety of housemade pastries. Closed Sunday. 7051 E. 5th Ave., Scottsdale; 480.256.1403; www.berdenas.com; $-$$
Cup’d Coffee
Cup’d started as a mobile coffee truck and recently opened its first shop in Scottsdale. The goal was to create approachable coffee for experts and novices. Customize your coffee to your taste or order a Cup’d creation like Crazmel (carmel and raspberry), cinnamon roll banana split, and more. New seasonal drinks are available every month. Options include drip coffee, latte, mocha, cappuccino, Vienna, blended, Dalgona, espresso, fizzy, cold brew, and Americano. Cup’ds also offers a selection of teas and local pastry. 10105 E. Via Linda Rd., Scottsdale; www.cupdcoffee.com; $
Echo Coffee
Echo Coffee is a dog-friendly micro-coffee roaster and coffee shop in a friendly setting perfect for meetups, working, or relaxing. Along with traditional coffee and espresso drinks, Echo Coffee’s food menu consists of fresh, healthy options like a hummus plate and yogurt parfait as well as a large variety of delicious pastries. Free Wi-Fi is available for those who may want to linger, connect to the internet, and snack on a sweet treat or two. Echo donates one percent of every purchase to the Arizona Humane Society. 2902 N. 68th St., Scottsdale; 480.422.4081; www.echocoffee.com; $-$$
Sip Coffee and Beer
This neighborhood shop offers specialty coffee drinks and a large selection of rotating craft beers on tap and bottled beers. Menu items include a breakfast burrito, avocado toast, a sandwich, and protein shakes. Sip often hosts community events, supports charitable causes in the local community, and provides an eclectic space for locals to meet up, enjoy a beverage and a snack. 3617 N. Goldwater Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.625.3878; www.sipcoffeeandbeerhouse.com; $-$$
Street Brew Coffee
Serving up locally roasted coffee, and housemade pastries, this coffee joint has everything needed to get that buzz – caffeine, that is. Fresh, locally roasted coffee can be served hot or iced with a fresh pastry on the side. The shop also serves Cactus Liquor products, including cold brew, CBD cold brew, and energy drinks. Customize your beverage with a variety of syrups and dairy or non-dairy milks. Street Brew also serves smoothies or tea if coffee isn’t your jam. 10634 N. 71st Place, Scottsdale; 480.525.2060; www.streetbrewcoffee.com; $
The Village Coffee and Creperie
Locally owned by Marina Matatov, known as the Crepe Queen, The Village was created as an establishment to share her grandmother’s famous sweet and savory crepes. Crepes Started as a small two-table space, The Village is now a 16-table restaurant with five crepe griddles and an extensive coffee bar. The coffee and espresso drinks are made using a fine selection of organic coffee beans from Roastery of Cave Creek. Order a latte, chai macchiato, cappuccino breve, or a tea or smoothie. At Stagecoach Village, 7100 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek; 480.488.3835; thevillagecoffeeshop.com; $$
European
Brat Haus
Brat Haus is Scottsdale’s premier beer garden and is widely known for its housemade bratwursts and craft beer selection. Guests can order a la carte or take on a flight of gourmet brats and beer if they want to sample a little of everything. Don’t pass up on the soft pretzel and warm beer cheese fondue or the thick-cut Belgian fries. Inside or on the dog-friendly open-air patio, enjoy from-scratch cuisine inspired by European food craftsman. Prost! 3622 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale; 480.947.4006; www.brathausaz.com; $$
CAVA
CAVA was started in Maryland by three friends with a love of Greek food and family time. In 2018, CAVA joined forces with Zoës Kitchen to bring its bold craveable bowls, dips and pitas to the market. Chef-curated bowls with fresh ingredients like lentil avocado, Greens + Grains, Greek salad, tahini, harissa and more are healthy, tasty and satisfying. Pita wraps are also available. Vegetarian eggplant dips, tzatziki, and varieties of hummus, spreads, and sauces are prepared daily, free of additives and preservatives. 14601 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale and five other Arizona locations, 602.805.7957; www.cava.com; $$
Cornish Pasty Co.
These hearty hand pies called pasties have taken the Valley by storm since Cornwall native Dean Thomas founded the original Tempe Cornish Pasty Co. in 2005. The restaurant serves pasties with dozens of filling and flavor combinations like the spicy asiago chicken and the Oggie, a traditional pasty with steak, potatoes, onions and rutabaga. Pasties can also be ordered partially baked to take home and cook at your leisure. Vegetarian friendly. 3800 N. Goldwater Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.945.1220; www.cornishpastyco.com; $$
Italian
Local Bistro
Local Bistro offers a contemporary approach to Italian cuisine. The chef-driven, seasonal menu consists of small plates, wood-fired pizzas, pasta, salads, and both traditional and modern meat and seafood entrees. For starters, try the fondue-like drunk bread or the handmade burrata with crispy eggplant, Calabrian chili marmalade, and mint. Gluten-free options and a kids’ menu are available. Social hour daily, and Sunday bottomless brunch. 20581 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.302.6050; www.localbistroaz.com; $$
North Italia
North offers Italian cuisine made from scratch. Shareable starters include prosciutto and asparagus bruschetta and white truffle garlic bread. Menu favorites include the Tuscan kale salad with crispy pancetta, any of the pizzas, and the house specialty Bolognese. At Kierland Commons, 15024 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.948.2055; www.northitaliarestaurant.com; $$
Parma Italian Roots
Parma combines coastal California cuisine with fresh Italian food with menu items like cioppino, pan-seared salmon, butternut squash-filled agnolotti, grilled Spanish octopus with red pepper romesco sauce, and charcuterie and cheese board with chef-selected options. The craft cocktail selection includes the Primrose with tequila, grapefruit juice, and cinnamon, Mellow Cello with vodka and limoncello, and the Bellini Float with bourbon, prosecco, and raspberry sorbet. Happy hour daily from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. 20831 N. Scottsdale Road; Scottsdale; 480.292.9900; www.parmaitalianaz.com; $$-$$$
S&V Urban Italian
This contemporary Italian restaurant offers wood-fired brick oven pizza and classic pasta dishes. S&V is great for groups as many of their items can be shared, and they have dozens of wines by the glass and bottle. The meatballs, bruschetta, and panini are all excellent options for lunch or dinner or try a specialty pizza like Sophia’s — with homemade mozzarella and meatballs, topped with arugula, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese — or the prosciutto and fig variety. A gluten-free menu is available. Happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m. daily. 9343 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.451.1850; www.sandvurbanitalian.com; $$
Latin/Mexican
Caliente Mexican Grill
The Diaz family opened Caliente in July 2020, bringing their authentic recipes and 25 years of restaurant experience to Scottsdale. All of their dishes are made in-house, from scratch, drawing on family recipes from Jalisco, Mexico. All-day breakfast, including revueltos, burritos, chilaquiles, and huevos rancheros are highlights, as are the variety of tacos like adovado, chorizo, blackened fish, lobster or traditional favorites like chicken, ground beef or carne asasda. Burritos and bowls, and lunch and dinner speicalties like rellenos, enchiladas, mixed plates, and camarones a la tequila are not to be missed. Friendly service and delicious food. 15600 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.597.6467; www.calienteaz.com; $$
Cien Agaves
With casual, upbeat cantina vibe, Cien Agaves gets its name from the collection of more than 100 tequilas with flights ideal for sampling. Margaritas and sangria are also must-trys. The food menu includes housemade guacamole, nachos, quesadillas, tacos from chicken tinga to island shrimp, and fajitas. Bowls and salads with a variety of dressing options and grilled chicken, diabla shrimp, and grilled steak are also available. 7228 E. 1st Ave, Scottsdale; 480.970.9002; www.cienagaves.com; $$
Dilla Libre Dos
Originally the United Luchadores/Luncha Libre local food truck, Dilla Libre is the brand’s official brick-and-mortar operation. In addition to more than a dozen gourmet, signature quesadillas (also available as bowls) the menu features street tacos, burritos, and shareables. Signature cocktails, beer and wine available. 8018 E. Thomas Road, Scottsdale; 480.947.5100; www.dillalibre.com; $$
Gordo’s Tacos
Taco Tuesday will never be the same once you try the variety of tacos available from Chef Albert Hernandez’s restaurant. Inspired by his mother’s culinary creativity, he brings a variety of traditional and specialty tacos to Gordo’s. Classics like chicken tinga, the exceptional quesa birria, and breakfast tacos share the menu with a Nashville crispy chicken taco and the 1950 Gringo. Burritos, bowls, and other Mexican dishes like enchiladas and nachos are available. 9015 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale; 480-398-8132; www.tacosgordos.com; $$-$$$
Sofrita
Sofrita is a unique eatery in Fountain Hills featuring food influenced by Puerto Rico and Latin America. They are known for their seafood and fish tacos, mango salsa and fresh guacamole. The tapas menu unites Spanish and Latin flavors in a wide selection of brucheettas and mixed Caribbean plates. You’ll also find traditional items like tamales and black bean soup, and a variety of salads. Breakfast served all day. Vegan options available. 1684 E. Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills; 480.816.5316; www.sofrita.com; $$
Talavera
Talavera is a contemporary Spanish steakhouse serving tapas, charcutería, paella, jámon ibérico, and dry-aged steak. Entrees are complemented by a selection of more than 500 new and old world wines and crafted cocktails. Dramatic desert views accompany indoor and outdoor dining, where traditional Latin flavours come alive in the vibrant dishes. At Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, 10600 E. Crescent Moon Drive, Scottsdale; 480.513.5085; www.fourseasons.com/scottsdale; $$$$
The Canal Club
The Canal Club brings Cuban flair to the heart of Scottsdale, offering a fusion of American and Cuban cuisine and inspiring craft cocktails among the colors and comforts of a 1930s Havana aesthetic. Get island fever with the morning-time Caribbean Benedict – layered with plantains, poached eggs, smoked ham and jalapeno hollandaise – or their signature Cubano sandwich served with chipotle aioli at lunch. From the bar, pick a unique rum punch or sangria to complement your meal. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. At The Scott Resort & Spa, 4925 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.424.6095; www.thecanalclubaz.com; $$
Pizza
Humble Bistro Pizza
Perfectly blistered, Neapolitan-inspired wood oven pizza with names like Sweet & Fiesty, Truffled & Wild, and This Lil Figgy elevate pizza to new heights. Classic, artisan and vegan pies occupy the menu, alongside signature sandwiches, fresh crafted burgers, craveable pastas, and sharable appetizers like antipasto, meatballs, wings, and more. Enjoy the extensive wine list, and “off the vine” cocktails. The “lunch steal” is available weekdays from 12 to 3 p.m. Happy hour every day until 5 p.m. 5415 E. High St., Phoenix; 480.502.2121; www.humblepieusa.com; $$
NYPD Pizza
Any New Yorker will tell you that the key to great pizza is in the water. At NYPD Pizza, the water is filtered just like they do it in New York, giving their pizza dough the distinct flavor and texture East Coasters love. Build your own or order specialty pizzas like buffalo chicken, the Wall Street (with pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and mushrooms), Mott Street Meat Lover, or the Veganizza. Pair your slice with Upstate, Hell’s Kitchen, or honey BBQ wings. NYPD also offers salads, pastas, calzones, and desserts. An Arizona favorite for 25 years, NYPD Pizza has seven Valley locations. 14884 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale; 480.451.6973; www.aznypdpizza.com; $$
Spinato’s Pizza
The Spinato family opened their first pizzeria after moving from Chicago to Phoenix in 1974. Now, with six locations, including one in Scottsdale, guests are treated like family, and the focus is on fresh ingredients. Specialty pizza options range from Mamma’s signature spinach pizza to the Chicago with Italian sausage, red onion, and bell peppers. Don’t miss the baked spaghetti calzone. 9210 E. Via de Ventura., Scottsdale; 480.527.2450; www.spinatospizzeria.com; $$
Strad Pizza
Grab a whole pie or just a slice. Simple, tasty pizza is the specialty at Strad where guests can enjoy classic cheese, pepperoni, veggie, or meat lover with a cold fountain drink or IBC soda. Have a sweet or savory knot in cheesy garlic truffle, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, or Nutella-stuffed varieties. 13802 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; www.stradpizza.com. $
Steakhouse
Cholla Prime Steakhouse & Lounge
Cholla is the fine dining choice at Casino Arizona, offering an intimate retreat from the gaming floor. The menu features steakhouse classics such as filet mignon and rib-eye steak. Appetizers include salads, soups, and shareables like crispy calamari. Wines are offered by the glass, as well as in half and full bottles. At Casino Arizona, 524 N. 92nd St., Scottsdale; 480.850.7736; www.casinoarizona.com; $$$
Ember
We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort has a hidden gem of a steakhouse. Ember’s steaks and seafood are prepared over a wood-fired grill and can be accompanied by a specialty cocktail, a pour from the whisky library, or a glass from the extensive wine list. Japanese A-5 Wagyu beef is served with shaved radish, daikon, kosho aioli, and ponzu. The 32-ounce dry-aged tomahawk steak comes with two sides and is prepared with black truffle butter. Durham Ranch bison tenderloin, braised buffalo short rib, and volcano lamb shank are among the meat offerings. Start with the ujih hot stone appetizer for a special treat. Vegetarian and seafood options are available. 104 WeKoPa Way, Fort McDowell; 480.789.4957; www.wekopacasinoresort.com; $$$$$
Mastro’s
The Mastro’s family of restaurants is a favorite for fine steak and seafood dining with impeccable service. Notable menu favorites include the lobster cocktail and bone-in filet mignon with a choice of savory sides like garlic mashed potatoes. The famous 2-foot seafood tower served “smoking” with dry ice also serves as a succulent spectacle. Complete the dining experience with a bottle of wine from the broad list or order an infamous dry-ice martini. Three concepts in Scottsdale: Mastro’s City Hall, Mastro’s Ocean Club, and Mastro’s Steakhouse; www.mastrosrestaurants.com; $$$$
Orange Sky
Located on the 15th floor of Talking Stick Resort, Orange Sky is the signature fine dining destination with panoramic views of Scottsdale at sunset. The high-back seating enclaves in the dining room provide privacy for a romantic dinner or small group event. Guests can select a bottle from their award-winning wine list to pair with the new American menu, featuring Alaskan king crab legs and Australian Tajima wagyu beef carved and served tableside for two. Open daily for dinner starting at 5 p.m. 9800 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale; www.talkingstickresort.com; $$$
Wine Bars & Lounges
Brix Wines
Try and buy a variety of wines at this charming wine bar and store. Brix has an impressive selection of hard-to-find collector wines, alongside high-end and accessible wines which can be enjoyed at home or on-site with no corkage fees. Guests can create their own cheese plate to accompany their wine selection. 37636 N. Tom Darlington Drive, Carefree; 480.595.2749; www.brixwinesaz.com; $$
The Living Room
“Love, laugh and lounge” is The Living Room’s motto. The wine lounge concept focuses on hospitality and good food. Guests can get cozy on plush sofas and seating inside or on the patio and socialize over glasses of wine and an eclectic menu that serves everything from sushi rolls to sliders to bruschetta. The restaurant has an extensive cocktail menu and whisky library, but the extensive wine list is where it’s at, featuring more than 200 varieties. The “wine wall” is a panel of self-serve dispensers where guests can help themselves to small tastes or larger pours of 30 different wines. Happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday; brunch on Saturday and Sunday from Ranch, 20751 N. Pima Rd.; www.livingroomwinebar.com. $$
Pinard Wine Bar
Sip and savor wine from across the globe, from Italian prosecco and chianti, French Bordeaux, and Argentinian malbec to California cabernet, Portuguese port, Spanish cava and many more. The wine list is hand curated and a visit here is a culinary adventure around the world. Pinard is also a full-service European restaurant, with meals that capture the spirit of their countries of origin. Small plates, boards, and entrees pair well with any wine on the menu. 20469 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 623.401.9463; www.pinardwinebar.com. $$-$$$
Wine Girl
With locations in Napa Valley and Scottsdale, Wine Girl is a fun, pastel pink, Insta-ready wine bar that’s perfect for a girls night out, bachelorette party, or a casual tasting experience. Wine cocktails, bubbles, reds, or whites can all be found here. The wine menu is diverse, with offerings from Oregon, California, Washington, and some European varietals. Adventurous types might venture a taste of the Valkenberg Sweet Red from Germany. Of course, flights are available, which can be accompanied by small bites or wood-fired pizza. Have a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream with a cabernet pour over to cap off the experience. 4205 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.686.9077; www.winegirl.com. $$