Bold Without Borders

Wayward brings cinematic style and global flavors to Old Town Scottsdale

By Alison Bailin Batz

Dinner should offer an escape, even an adventure, from time to time.

That philosophy is woven into every corner of Wayward, the newest dinner destination in Scottsdale’s historic Brown and Stetson District. Equal parts intimate neighborhood hideaway and globally inspired dining experience, the restaurant invites guests to indulge in thoughtfully prepared dishes and inventive cocktails amidst warm lighting, rich textures and audacious flavors.

The dining room is striking and a little moody. Guests enter through a carved 1920s front door before stepping into a space where blackened walls, exposed brick, natural stone and walnut create a timeless atmosphere with a little edge. The dark palette adds depth to the building’s long-standing original architectural details, while polished concrete floors and softly illuminated shelving introduce a taste of all things contemporary. At the heart of it all is an artistic Brazilian blue granite bar accented by handcrafted walnut millwork.

The menu was designed by executive chef CJ Kahley, acclaimed for his work across Arizona, from The Mission and The Americano to Toro Latin Rum Bar and Geordie’s at Wrigley Mansion. Throughout his career, Kahley has become known for balancing technical precision with approachable flavors. At Wayward, rather than focusing on a single culinary tradition, he draws inspiration from cultures around the world, creating a melting pot menu that celebrates both familiar flavors and unexpected combinations.

Of note on the debut menu is the signature taco board, featuring bone-in beef short rib, housemade tortillas, borracho beans, salsas and traditional accompaniments. There is also the Birria Kushiyaki, blending the rich flavors of slowly braised Mexican birria with the Japanese technique of grilled skewers; and the seasonal Summer Tartine layered with stracciatella, Castelvetrano olives and fresh market ingredients atop locally baked Noble Bread.

The cocktail program similarly takes guests on an metaphorical adventure, thanks to Kyla Hein, best known as the brains behind the cocktail menus at Rough Rider, Coabana and Pigtails. Bringing years of knowledge creating immersive guest experiences, Hein has developed a beverage program that complements the kitchen’s global perspective while remaining approachable. Signature cocktails include the Fistful of Dollars, a refined take on the dirty martini; Once Upon a Time in Martinique, a tropical rum punch; and Twilight Samurai, a bright gin sour that pairs naturally with the menu’s bold flavors. Many of the cocktails are served in whimsical vessels or with cheeky garnish, a hallmark of Hein’s menus.

Wayward is open Tuesday through Thursday from 4 to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. to midnight, and Sunday from 2 to 10 p.m. Happy hour is offered Tuesday through Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m.

Wayward, 7217 E. 4th Ave., Scottsdale; www.waywardscottsdale.com; 480.687.3955.