Swig
Move over boba tea, the latest trend in beverages is dirty soda, made popular in part by social media and celebrities like Olivia Rodrigo. Dirty soda is essentially soda with extra ingredients like cream, fruit, and other flavoring added in. Utah-based Swig brings dirty soda, revivers and refreshers to Scottsdale. Pair your favorite drink concoction with salted pretzel bites with strawberry cream cheese or white cheddar dip. 4635 E. Shea Blvd., Phoenix; www.swigdrinks.com; $
American
Atlas Bistro
Atlas Bistro is Scottsdale’s premier BYOB fine dining destination. Now celebrating its 25th year in Scottsdale, the restaurant features a seasonal five-course tasting menu. Chef Jabari Corbin hails from Barbados and brings a diverse range of flavors and techniques to the menu. Each course is carefully crafted and sourced. The spring menu includes charred Spanish octopus, lamb carnitas, Prescott K4 Copper State Reserve filet mignon, and a roasted pineapple upside down torte among its courses. Bring your own wine or make a purchase from the adjacent wine shop. 2515 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale; 480.990.2433; www.atlasbistrobyob.com; $$$$
Big Earl’s Greasy Eats
Housed in a former Standard Oil gas station, Big Earl’s is an art deco diner serving up American classics like hamburgers, sandwiches and salads alongside a full bar with a huge beer selection and spiked milkshakes. The backyard area offers sand volleyball courts for outdoor family fun. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Visit Earl’s Old Time Candy Shop next door for a sweet treat. Free drive-in movies every Saturday at sundown. 6135 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek; 480.575.7889; www.bigearlsgreasyeats.com; $$
Lon’s at The Hermosa Inn
Lon’s is consistently rated as one of Paradise Valley’s top restaurants. The region’s freshest ingredients are used to offer farm-to-table food integrated with rustic cooking methods such as roasting, smoking and wood-grilling. The outcome is globally inspired Arizona fare that reflects the Southwest landscape. Popular dishes include the Himalayan salt seared ahi tuna and steaks served with Boursin mashed potatoes, asparagus, and a cabernet and mushroom demi -glace. A new chef’s tasting menu is offered each week, and expert sommelier is always on hand to assist with wine pairings. Brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Happy hour daily from 3-6 p.m. At The Hermosa Inn, 5532 N. Palo Cristi Road, Paradise Valley; 602.955.8614; www.hermosainn.com; $$$-$$$$
Soul Café
At Soul, chef Sheila Bryson is the visionary behind the eclectic menu. She creates modern dishes representing the flavors and Southwestern culture of Arizona. Try the Mexaloaf, a meatloaf inspired entree topped with chipotle ketchup and jalapeno bacon. For a vegetarian and gluten-free option, the butternut squash enchiladas topped with roasted poblano, sage and cotija cream sauce are a favorite. Join them for nightly specials, seasonal offerings and live music. Open for brunch and dinner Tuesday-Saturday. Happy hour from 2-6 p.m. in the bar and on the patio. 7615 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale; 480.515.6254; www.soulscottsdale.com; $$
Bakery
JL Patisserie
Jenna Leurquin and her namesake patisserie recently went viral, but the French-inspired bakery has been open since 2019, after starting out on the farmers market circuit. Known for authentic French baguettes and croissants, the bakery does things a little differently by using sourdough bases and natural fermentation for the baked goods. Many of the ingredients are imported from Europe and the bakers take great care to make sure each item is baked to perfection. 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.
The Local Donut
This donut shop has built a reputation for its delicious and photogenic fancy donuts. Offering yeasted and cake donuts, the sweet spot’s specialties include the PB&J and s’mores with a toasted marshmallow on top. Donuts range from traditional (think classics like old fashions, devil’s food, and sprinkles) to fancy (maple bacon, caramel coconut, salted caramel), with seasonal flavors added monthly. The infamous croissant doughnuts are available on Saturday and Sunday only. 3213 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale; 480.500.5236; www.thelocaldonutshop.com; $
PIEfection
If desserts are a priority, PIEfection belongs at the top of any sweet tooth list. All pies are made from scratch with lots of love. The menu consists of sweet and savory pies, cheesecake-based pies, traditional pies and orchard fruit pies including country apple, triple berry, strawberry rhubarb and wild blueberry. French crumb pie – a traditional fruit pie, finished with a buttery, streusel crumb topping – is also available. PIEfection also provides take-and-bake potpies and an ever-changing pie of the month. 9015 E. Via Linda, Scottsdale; 480.218.7437; www.piefectionaz.com; $$
Randy’s Donuts
The giant rooftop donut may draw the crowds, but it’s the sweet treats inside the shop that make Randy’s Donuts an icon and keeps them coming back. Started in 1952 in Los Angeles, the brand has expanded around the world, now in Scottsdale. Whether you prefer classic, deluxe, fancy, or premium donuts, Randy’s has them all, along with frozen and iced refreshers, milkshakes, classic and specialty coffee, and boba. 16500 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.716.1999; www.randysdonuts.com; $
Sugar Jam
This must-try spot specializes in addictive handmade baked goods like pies (large and personal-sized), brownies, cupcakes, cookies, scones, and muffins. Don’t forget to try the namesake sugar jams, cookie sandwiches jammed with peach cobbler, lemon raspberry, strawberry passionfruit, or almond amaretto. Many items are seasonal, and the menu rotates frequently. The “kitchen” part of Sugar Jam features traditional Southern comfort classics like buttermilk fried chicken, southern grits, catfish, and savory biscuits and country sausage gravy. Custom cakes, holiday pies, and larger quantities can be preordered. Brunch is served every day. 15111 N. Hayden Rd., Scottsdale; 480.948.6210; www.sjsouthernkitchen.com; $$
Breakfast
Butterfield’s Pancake House & Restaurant
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and the Butterfield’s menu can satisfy the heartiest appetite and please those who are looking for something nutritious and healthful. The pancake house offers more than a dozen different specialty pancakes, including the Oreo cookie s’mores cakes and the cinnamon roll cakes. There are even Dutch Baby and apple oven-baked pancakes with maximum fluffiness and flavor – just bring your patience as they require a 30-minute bake time. If you’re feeling lunchy rather than brunchy, the menu also features salads and sandwiches. Open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 7388 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.951.6002; www.butterfieldsrestaurant.com; $$
Daily Dose
Daily Dose is famous for made-from-scratch dishes like the cinnamon roll pancakes, breakfast nachos, banana bread French toast, and the hangover sandwich. The three-berry compote is made in-house daily, as are the dressings and famous turkey sausage. Coffee is brewed locally at Coffee Roasters and the bread comes from Capistrano Bakery. Brunch cocktails like the Spicy Watermelon Margarita and Bacon Bloody Mary, and spiked coffee drinks complement the breakfast menu. Several gluten-free and vegetarian options are available. 4020 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.994.3673; www.dailydosegrill.com; $$
JOJO Coffeehouse
JOJO Coffeehouse in Old Town Scottsdale focuses on craft and locally sourced menu items. The food and drink menus are carefully crafted with conscious ingredients avoiding GMOs, high fructose corn syrup and preservatives where possible. Popular breakfast items include cinnamon roll pancakes, banana foster French toast, and breakfast tacos. New seasonal menu items are added regularly. Diners also enjoy signature coffee and mimosa flights, along with a full menu of craft cocktails and seasonal specials. Check out the live music during brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. 3712 N Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.907.6100; www.jojocoffeehouse.com; $$
U.S. Egg
Family owned and operated, U.S. Egg has been one the Valley’s favorite breakfast and lunch establishments since 1986. They are home to the Original Protein Pancake, which you can pair with a half-order of one of their Idaho hot skillets topped with melted cheese and two eggs. Along with a selection of omelets and classic breakfast entrees, they also serve Angus burgers, classic American sandwiches and gourmet salads. Gluten-free menu available. Two Scottsdale locations: North Scottsdale on Shea Boulevard and Old Town Scottsdale; www.useggrestaurant.com; $$
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! Closed Monday and Tuesday. 3622 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale; 480.947.4006; www.brathausaz.com; $$
Cornish Pasty
These hearty hand pies called pasties have taken the Valley by storm since Cornwall native Dean Thomas founded the original Tempe Cornish Pasty Co. in 2005. The restaurant serves pasties with dozens of filling and flavor combinations like the spicy asiago chicken and the Oggie, a traditional pasty with steak, potatoes, onions and rutabaga. Pasties can also be ordered partially baked to take home and cook at your leisure. Vegetarian friendly. Open at 11 a.m. daily. 3800 N. Goldwater Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.945.1220; www.cornishpastyco.com; $$
Soup & Sausage Bistro
If you’re looking for comfort food that isn’t “elevated” or “re-imagined,” this is the place for you. Traditional Eastern European dishes like hearty borshcht and savory pierogi and holubtsi (cabbage rolls) are flavorful, and authentic. While the restaurant serves more than its namesake dishes, the soups, particularly the chicken soup and solyanka, are absolute standouts. Beef cabbage rolls are made from scratch with cabbage leaves, ground beef, and rice. Pork ribs under cherry sauce and the hunter stew are tasty entrée selections. 4030 E. Bell Road, Phoenix; 602.525.5061; www.soupnsausagebistro.com; $$
Italian
Il Bracco
Originally founded in Dallas in 2019, il Bracco quickly gained a following for its elevated take on Italian classics. Its Scottsdale location is the first outside of Texas. The menu is a mix of elevated comfort dishes and Italian classics. The emphasis is on its house-made pastas, particularly the spicy gemelli with a spicy vodka sauce, basil and reggiano. Other signature dishes include the simple but refined Cacio e Pepe, and the fan favorite sandwich “The Combo,” stacked with Italian charcuterie, fresh mozzarella, cherry pepper spread, and oil and vinegar. Try a classic cocktails like The Bracco, a frozen Aperol greyhound; the Italian martini; or the Negroni Chinato. Open for lunch and dinner. 6160 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.550.7238; www.ilbraccorestaurant.com. $$-$$$$
Luna by Giada
Giada de Laurentiis brings her passion for Italian cooking to Scottsdale with her restaurant at Caesars Republic Scottsdale. She cultivated her signature style in the kitchen of her grandfather’s restaurant. Pasta is handmade in-house, and popular dishes include lemon spaghetti and lobster bucatini for two. Start with the cioppino shellfish tower, bresaola carpaccio, or bacon-wrapped dates. The menu also includes pizza, seafood, and meat dishes with an Italian flair. 4747 N. Goldwater Blvd., Scottsdale; 480-914-6829; www.lunabygiadascottsdale.com; $$$$
Maggiano’s Little Italy
Originally founded in Chicago in 1991, Maggiano’s Little Italy is a nationwide chain with a popular location in North Scottsdale. They specialize in Southern Italian cuisine served family style. Feed the family with a selection of Italian classics like the four-cheese ravioli, baked ziti and chicken parmesan. At Scottsdale Promenade, 16405 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.333.4100; www.maggianos.com; $$
Pasta Brioni
For 25 years, Pasta Brioni has been a favorite neighborhood Italian restaurant in Old Town Scottsdale. All pastas are made from scratch, meatballs are hand-rolled, and rolls are baked fresh each morning. The menu features a lobster and a vegetarian mushroom version of its daily homemade ravioli stuffed with creamy mascarpone. 4416 N. Miller Road, Scottsdale; 480.994.0028; www.pastabrioni.com; $$
Sapori D’Italia
Sapori D’Italia is one of Fountain Hills’ premier spots for casual Italian dining. Husband and wife Gasper and Maria Manno are native Sicilians who have teamed up to serve authentic pizzas and classic entrees, using house-made pasta and mozzarella and imported San Marzano tomatoes and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Marinara, Bolognese, alfredo, pesto, puttnesca, carbonara – you name it, it can be served on your pasta. Seafood and steak entrees are also available, and pizzas are made in the wood-fired oven that is the centerpiece of the restaurant. 11865 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills; 480.816.9535; www.saporiditaliaaz.com; $$
Latin/Mexican
Carlos O’Brien’s
A Valley staple since 1978, Carlos O’Brien’s is a unique fusion of a Mexican restaurant and an Irish pub that combines Mexican staples like chimichangas, fajitas and enchiladas with a few Irish favorites like fish and chips. To drink, Irish beers and whiskeys are served alongside Mexican beers and tequilas. 7000 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix; 480.367.0469; www.carlosobriens.com; $$
El Carbon Mexican Eatery
El Carbon Mexican Eatery is the perfect blend of authentic Mexican flavors and a lively bar atmosphere. The menu features traditional dishes, from sizzling fajitas to handcrafted tacos made with the freshest ingredients. Of course, you’ll find those favorite but delve into the heartier entrees for a true Mexican culinary journey. The Cochinita Pibil is a Yucatan favorite, or try the Guaymas shrimp, and Tampiqueña . Sip on expertly crafted margaritas, premium tequilas, and an impressive selection of cocktails. 7705 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, Scottsdale; 480.687.7046; www.elcarbonmexicaneatery.com. $$
El Encanto
The original El Encanto is an Old-World-Mission-style restaurant in the heart of Cave Creek. The eatery, which has been serving up the classics since 1989, is a celebration for the senses, with a vast list of margaritas and authentic Mexican cuisine. The slow-roasted pork carnitas and cheesy pollo fundido are some of the most popular entrees. The cantina carries more than 40 different tequilas and a distinctive wine menu, along with a tapas menu with smaller, specialized dishes meant for sharing. Locations in Cave Creek, Desert Hills, and Fountain Hills; www.elencantorestaurants.com; $$
Taco Papi
Taco Papi is a lively, casual spot, with a laid-back vibe perfect for quick lunches or relaxed dinners. Standout tacos include birria tacos, carne asada, and hearty burritos. For something a little different, try the Indian Fusion Tacos with a choice of chicken tikka or paneer. Dress those tacos up at the salsa bar, and don’t forget to drop in for breakfast to try the ham, egg, potato and cheese breakfast burrito, huevos rancheros, chilaquiles, or steak and eggs burrito. 14891 N. Northsight Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.794.1404. www.tacopapi.com. $
Seafood
Chula Seafood
A family-owned-and-operated fishery that sources sustainable seafood from the Pacific coast, Chula Seafood provides fresh seafood to several local restaurants. The restaurant’s menu can change daily, based on availability, but often features fresh Hawaiian-style poke bowls, sashimi, and the famous green chile tuna melt. Patrons can purchase never-frozen, sustainable fish by the pound, poke, smoked fish, and daily specials from Chula’s fish market. All-day happy hour on Sundays. Two Scottsdale locations: South Scottsdale, 8015 E. Roosevelt St.; 480.621.5121; Grayhawk, 20581 N. Hayden Road; 480.597.9125; www.chulaseafood.com; $$
Modern Corner Grill
Modern Corner Grill is a family-owned-and-operated restaurant with an open kitchen and a full-size seafood bar with fresh oysters and seafood brought in daily. Can’t decide what to try from the oyster bar? Order the sampler that includes two fried, two grilled, and two Rockefeller style. Fish & Chips, Modern Scampi, and House Mussels make excellent dinner entrees or, for a non-seafood option, order the fried chicken and ribs, pork Bolognese, or chicken pasta. Conclude your meal with the bacon French toast bread pudding or salted caramel crème brulee. Happy hour Tuesday-Saturday, 4-6 p.m. 10050 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.531.1400; www.moderncornergrill.com; $$$
Ocean Prime
From renowned restauranteur Cameron Mitchell, Ocean Prime is an award-winning restaurant and lounge that specializes in exquisite seafood, steaks, and exceptional service with locations across the U.S. Custom build a shellfish tower or choose from East Coast or West Coast oysters on the half shell to start. Menu favorites include the Chilean sea bass with champagne truffle sauce, the filet mignon, and the sea scallops with parmesan risotto. 5455 E. High St., Phoenix; 480.347.1313; www.ocean-prime.com; $$$$-$$$$$
Ocean Trail
Located in Talking Stick Resort, this small New Orleans-themed seafood bar is popular for its Creole-inspired menu. Offerings include raw oysters, steamers, Cajun-style boils, and of course, delicious clam chowder. The pan roast (lobster citrus broth simmered with seafood and finished with tomato cream) and crawfish étouffée are the signature dishes. Everything is prepared to order in the open cooking station, so guests can customize their spice level between one and 10. Cajun cuisine meets fine dining. Happy hour weekdays from 4 to 7 p.m. 9800 Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale; 480.850.7777; www.talkingstickresort.com; $$-$$$
Poke Bar
Poke Bar is a nationwide chain that serves custom poke bowls. Traditional sushi roots merge with Hawaiian-style poke with fresh-daily fish, premium sauces, and quality ingredients. As guests make their way down the poke bar, choose from a variety of diced seafood, vibrant sauces and fresh mix-ins to build a bowl. Try ordering your poke nacho-style with chips as the base. 10701 N. Scottsdale Road; www.ilovepokebar.com; $$
Steakhouse
Collins Bros. Chophouse
Scottsdale’s chophouse goes beyond the usual steakhouse menu to include fresh seafood and pasta alongside their quality cuts of meat. You’ll find center-cut filet, blackened New York strip, Sonoma ribeye, and 12- and 16-ounce prime rib, as well as pork chops, ribs and three styles of rotisserie chicken. Pair them with goat cheese whipped potatoes, wilted greens and reggiano, or a good old loaded baked potato. Oysters, shrimp, ahi tuna, and salmon tartare comprise the Seafood Station, and salads and sandwiches round out the selection. Happy hour daily from 3 to 6 p.m. 8220 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, 480.699.0811; www.collinsbrothersaz.com; $$$-$$$$
Frashers Tavern
George Frasher is well known in the Valley dining scene as owner of Frashers Smokehouse and Mrs. Chicken in Phoenix While steak is the specialty, the menu also features fresh seafood sourced from Chula Seafood, poultry, and vegetarian options. But the steak is the main event, and Frasher’s serves only the finest cuts of Iowa premium aged beef. Prime rib is served on weekends only. Frashers is also home to Arizona’s original butter cake, a gooey treat straight from George’s mother’s recipe. Happy hour daily from 4-6 p.m. 4180 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale; 480.429.9545; www.frasherstavern.com; $$$$
Houston’s
Houston’s has been part of the Scottsdale food landscape since 1991. Its longevity can be attributed to the excellent, reliably consistent menu stellar service. The restaurant serves up familiar steakhouse plates like a chilled jumbo shrimp cocktail, an iceberg wedge salad, and a USDA prime center-cut filet. Originals such as a kale and rotisserie chicken salad tossed in a roasted peanut vinaigrette and a Hawaiian ribeye are favorites. The French dip sandwich is cooked to perfection and served au jus. At Hilton Village, 6113 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale; 480.922.7775; www.houstons.com; $$$
Keeler’s Neighborhood Steakhouse
Keeler’s is a family-run steakhouse by the owners of Liberty Station American Tavern & Smokehouse. The establishment serves only Certified Angus Beef, and the freshest available seafood, chicken, and seasonal features. The vibe is upscale, yet social with the rooftop patio open Wednesday through Sunday, with music on the rooftop every Thursday. Happy hour daily from 3 to 5 p.m. At Historic Spanish Village, 7212 E. Ho Hum Road, Carefree; 602.374.4784; www.keelerssteakhouse.com; $$$
STK Steakhouse
At this Old Town Scottsdale establishment, diners can indulge in delicious steaks set to the background music of a dynamic DJ. The famous cuisine and atmosphere can be enjoyed during brunch, lunch, and dinner. The menu showcases USDA beef from farms in Iowa and Nebraska, market salads, seafood platters, and a plethora of sides. The restaurant was in Forbes’ 100 best steakhouses in America and dubbed “a steakhouse for the stiletto set” by Thrillist. 7134 E. Stetson Dr., Scottsdale; 480.581.5171; www.stksteakhouse.com; $$$$-$$$$$$
Wine Bars & Lounges
Cooper’s Hawk
Come in for the wine tasting, stay for the food. Cooper’s Hawk includes four different experiences all in one location: an upscale casual dining restaurant, full-service bar, private dining room, and a Napa-style tasting room and gift store. Become a member and enjoy monthly wine club dinners with paired multi-course meals. The extensive restaurant menu features pasta and risotto, steak and chops, surf and turf, soup, and appetizers. The wine menu features core varietals, international varietals, and even non-alcoholic selections. Reservations are recommended for dinner, but wine tastings are walk-in only. Wine O’Clock Happy Hour is Monday-Friday, 3-5:30 p.m. 7361 E. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale; 623.473.9463. www.chwinery.com.
The Beverly on Main
The Beverly on Main is an intimate and upscale cocktail lounge in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. Let its bartenders craft you a stiff classic martini or try one of its seasonal cocktails. The kitchen offers gastropub fare like deviled eggs, French dip sliders, burgers, flatbreads, and more. Vegan, gluten-free, and keto options are available. Happy hour Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. 7018 E. Main St., Scottsdale; 480.889.5580; www.beverlyonmain.com; $$