Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey! This guide is packed with mouth-watering visuals and descriptions of Scottsdale, AZ’s incredible food scene. If you’re a true foodie, this post might just inspire your next trip to the Sonoran Desert. What I discovered in Scottsdale was nothing short of a culinary revelation!
Just a few weeks ago, I had the incredible opportunity to visit Scottsdale, Arizona, as part of a unique “Choose Your Own Adventure” blogger press trip. This fantastic experience was generously sponsored by the Scottsdale CVB. The concept was innovative: five bloggers, each covering diverse topics like travel, style, lifestyle, and adventure, would embark on personalized itineraries designed to immerse us in Scottsdale’s distinct offerings. As a dedicated food and travel blogger, my path led me deep into the heart of Scottsdale’s burgeoning culinary world. To be entirely candid, when I first heard I’d be exploring the “culinary scene” of Scottsdale, my initial reaction was one of polite skepticism. “Really?” I thought, “Scottsdale? This will certainly be… interesting.”
Let me tell you, after four incredibly warm and vibrant days in this desert oasis, Scottsdale’s culinary landscape didn’t just meet my expectations – it utterly **blew them away**. I arrived with admittedly low expectations, primarily because Scottsdale isn’t traditionally lauded as a culinary hotspot like New York City or Chicago. It’s renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, world-class spas, and upscale shopping – earning it the affectionate moniker “Beverly Hills of the Southwest.” However, I left with profound respect and genuine awe for what Scottsdale’s chefs and restaurateurs have created. I would return in a heartbeat to explore more; there simply wasn’t enough time to experience everything! What truly distinguishes Scottsdale’s dining scene is its unwavering commitment to local ingredients and independent establishments. You won’t find a prevalence of chain restaurants here (unless you’re actively seeking them); instead, you’ll discover a collection of unique, one-of-a-kind eateries, each helmed by über-talented local chefs with captivating life stories. Every meal felt authentic, traceable, and deeply connected to the region’s culture and community. Scottsdale’s culinary star is rapidly ascending, and I wholeheartedly encourage anyone visiting to prioritize experiencing one of the remarkable places listed below. I didn’t encounter a single disappointing dish during my entire stay, and I guarantee you’ll depart with a significantly broadened perspective on what “foodie travel” in Arizona truly means.
FnB: A Scottsdale Gem of Farm-to-Table Excellence
7125 East 5th Avenue, Suite 31
Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
Website
FnB is more than just a local favorite; it’s a testament to the power of fresh, thoughtfully sourced ingredients and genuine hospitality. Nestled in a cozy and intimate setting, this restaurant champions a farm-focused menu and proudly showcases an all-Arizona wine list. At the helm are owner and executive chef Charlene Badman and co-owner Pavle Milic, a duo whose passion and personality perfectly align with FnB’s ethos. Their commitment to farm-to-table is evident in every bite – the ingredients are beyond fresh, bursting with natural flavors. The hospitality here is truly refreshing; Pavle is incredibly personable, friendly, and approachable. His deep knowledge of wine pairings and menu intricacies instills confidence in your selections, making you feel like a valued guest, almost part of the family. Chef Charlene’s talent and creativity transform conventional entrees into extraordinary culinary experiences. With each dish presented, I found myself exclaiming in delight, captivated by the eclectic flavors and exquisite presentation. Despite the sophisticated dishes, FnB maintains an unpretentious atmosphere, making it one of the most memorable dining experiences I had in Scottsdale.
The Carrot Keftedes with Tzatziki Sauce were a delightful surprise, reminiscent of a savory carrot cake, offering a unique blend of earthy sweetness and tangy creaminess.
Next, the Lamb Manti, delicate dumplings bathed in rich yogurt, urfa butter, pine nuts, and fresh cilantro, offered a comforting yet refined taste.
A true revelation were the Shishito Peppers, served with crema, cotija, lime, garlic chips, and chiltepin. Prior to this trip, I was unfamiliar with these peppers, but they are incredibly popular in Scottsdale. Their super sweet and subtly smoky flavor made them an instant favorite, and I left with a distinct craving!
The House-Pulled Mozzarella, accompanied by fresh squash, savory herbs, crisp zucchini chips, and a drizzle of balsamic, showcased the simplicity and quality of their ingredients.
A special treat was an exclusive red wine, personally made and bottled by Pavle. He generously shared a reserved bottle dedicated to his daughter, Hannah. As someone who typically shies away from red wines, I found this one absolutely fabulous – smooth and perfectly balanced.
The culinary artistry at FnB extended to every course, making each plate a visual and gastronomic masterpiece.
A comforting pasta dish with fresh green beans, tender potatoes, aromatic ramp pesto, and sharp pecorino cheese was another highlight.
Roasted Spaghetti Squash, subtly sweet with camparis and a hint of spicy harissa, demonstrated innovative vegetable preparation.
The Roast Chicken Leg Adobo, infused with coconut milk, served with fluffy rice and tender carrots, was a rich and flavorful main.
For meat lovers, the Creekstone Farms Ribeye, perfectly cooked and complemented by sweet corn, juicy peaches, crunchy almonds, and a vibrant basil salsa verde, was exquisite.
Finally, the King Salmon, paired with wholesome Arizona wheat berries and a robust salbitxada sauce, showcased sustainable sourcing and masterful preparation.
Witnessing Chef Charlene Badman in her element, orchestrating the kitchen with precision and passion, added another layer to the appreciation of FnB’s excellence.
Barrio Queen Tequileria and Restaurant: Authentic Mexican Flavors in Scottsdale
7114 E. Stetson Drive, Suite 105
Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
Website
Barrio Queen is a vibrant culinary destination offering authentic Mexican cuisine, crafted with love and a rich personal history by executive chef Silvana. Sitting down with Chef Silvana was an inspiring experience; she shared the fascinating journey that led her to open Barrio Queen. After leaving her hometown in Southern California, she embarked on a transformative two-year adventure, traveling extensively throughout Mexico. During this time, she immersed herself in the diverse regional cuisines and vibrant culture, drawing immense inspiration that, combined with her mother’s traditional home cooking, forms the heart of Barrio Queen’s menu. Her philosophy is beautifully simple and profound: “With love, you can change anything.” Chef Silvana’s warm, well-rounded, and genuinely homey approach makes every dish feel like a lovingly prepared meal from a cherished family kitchen.
My first taste of horchata at Barrio Queen was nothing short of divine – it was incredibly refreshing and utterly delicious. I could have easily finished the entire goblet!
The tableside guacamole service is a theatrical and delightful experience, ensuring peak freshness and customization.
Their guacamole often features an unexpected yet welcome addition of either pomegranate seeds or dried cranberries, adding a burst of sweet-tart flavor and texture.
If you thought other burritos were substantial, Barrio Queen’s burritos are on another level – truly enormous and packed with flavor!
For taco enthusiasts, their “mix and match three tacos” option (around $10) is a fantastic way to sample various authentic flavors. The Cochinita Pibil, featuring pork marinated in sour orange and achiote paste, topped with pickled sour orange onions and fresh pico de gallo, was incredibly tender and zesty.
The Carne Asada Chorizo Azul taco was a revelation – if you’ve never had tacos topped with blue cheese, you’re missing out on an amazing flavor combination!
The Al Pastor taco, with its chile and spice marinated pork, diced onion, cilantro, fresh pineapple, and vibrant red salsa, offered a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
Each dish at Barrio Queen tells a story of tradition, travel, and passion.
Meeting Chef Silvana, whose warmth and dedication infuse every aspect of Barrio Queen, was a highlight.
For dessert, the Homemade Churros were perfectly crispy and dusted with cinnamon sugar, ideal for dipping.
And the Tres Leches Cake, impossibly moist and sweet, was a sublime end to an incredible meal.
AZ88: Scottsdale’s Chic Lounge for Cocktails and Bites
7353 Scottsdale Mall
Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
Website
AZ88 is not just a bar; it’s a sophisticated lounge experience, embodying modern elegance in the heart of Scottsdale. I absolutely adored the cool, sleek ambiance of this establishment. Known for its truly exceptional cocktails, AZ88 also boasts an impressive commitment to local art, frequently changing its decor with new installations almost monthly or bi-monthly. This dynamic display of creativity makes every visit feel fresh and exciting. It’s the perfect spot for a stylish evening out, whether you’re seeking impeccably crafted drinks or delicious appetizers to complement your night.
The contemporary design and attention to detail create an inviting atmosphere for socializing and relaxation.
AZ88’s mixologists are renowned for their skill, crafting visually stunning and incredibly flavorful beverages.
The ever-evolving art installations contribute to AZ88’s distinctive character, making it a cultural as well as a culinary highlight.
Cartel Coffee Lab: Scottsdale’s Haven for Coffee Aficionados
7124 E 5th Ave.
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Website
For those who appreciate the nuanced art of a perfect cup of coffee, Cartel Coffee Lab is an essential stop in Scottsdale. If you consider yourself a coffee snob, much like myself, you’ll feel right at home here. This establishment takes its coffee seriously, offering meticulously roasted and expertly brewed selections that cater to the most discerning palates. Beyond their exceptional coffee, Cartel Coffee Lab also offers a curated selection of craft brews and fine wines, making it a versatile spot for any time of day or preference. It’s a place where quality and craftsmanship are paramount, providing a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere for true connoisseurs.
The minimalist and industrial-chic interior design reflects a focus on the craft of coffee making.
Super Chunk: Unique Hand-Crafted Sweets in Scottsdale
7120 E. 6th Ave., Sweet 19 (ha!)
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Website
Super Chunk is a delightful boutique shop dedicated to small-batch, hand-crafted sweets and treats, offering a modern and unique twist on classic confections. This charming establishment was opened by Country Velador, the executive pastry chef of Cowboy Ciao, and her husband, Sergio, about seven months prior to my visit. Chef Velador’s claim to fame is her truly unique caramel corn, and for good reason! The flavors are absolutely incredible, and I found myself wishing I had enough space in my carry-on to bring home every single variety. I ultimately settled on the chocolate bacon caramel corn, which I enthusiastically devoured half of on the plane ride home. Their other inventive flavors include “Junk Food,” “Brown Butter Fleur de Sel,” and “Cioccolato Pretzel Roma,” each offering a distinct and memorable taste experience. Super Chunk is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth looking for artisan quality and imaginative flavors.
The Duck Fat Toffee was a revelation – rich, buttery, and utterly decadent, showcasing the creative genius behind Super Chunk’s offerings.
The entire store’s charming decor revolved around a distinctive wallpaper, which once installed, brought the whole whimsical vision to life.
Each popcorn bag features a cute sticker that tells a little story behind its flavor name, adding a playful touch to these gourmet treats. For instance, the “Junk Food” flavor appropriately depicts a couch and television, hinting at its indulgent nature.
Sweet Republic: Artisanal Ice Cream Crafted with Local Ingredients in Scottsdale
9160 E Shea Blvd
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Website
Sweet Republic is a delightful ice cream shop that quickly captured my heart with its commitment to quality and local sourcing. They pride themselves on using all-natural and locally sourced dairy for their ice creams, ensuring a fresh and authentic flavor in every scoop. Everything at Sweet Republic is made from scratch, a testament to their dedication to artisanal craftsmanship. The variety of unique and classic flavors is impressive, and the creamy texture of their ice cream is simply divine. However, I must offer a constructive note regarding their ice cream sandwiches: while the ice cream itself was superb, I wished the cookies were soft and chewy rather than hard and crunchy. This made the ice cream sandwiches quite challenging to eat, often resulting in the ice cream being squeezed out with the first bite. Despite this minor point, Sweet Republic remains a fantastic spot for a delicious, high-quality ice cream treat in Scottsdale, especially if you opt for a cup or cone to fully savor their incredible flavors.
The inviting storefront of Sweet Republic promises cool, delectable treats.
A peek at the enticing array of hand-crafted ice cream flavors available.
A closer look at their creative, albeit challenging to eat, ice cream sandwiches.
A classic waffle cone filled with rich, creamy goodness, showcasing the quality of their product.
ZuZu at The Hotel Valley Ho: Retro Chic Dining in Scottsdale
6850 E. Main Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Website
ZuZu is the vibrant restaurant and cafe located within the iconic Hotel Valley Ho, a truly spectacular hotel where we had the pleasure of staying during our Scottsdale visit. The hotel itself, with its distinct retro-chic vibe and mid-century modern architecture, is a destination in its own right, and ZuZu perfectly complements its stylish ambiance. This wasn’t just hotel dining; it was an exceptional culinary experience that seamlessly blended classic comfort with contemporary flair. The food here is genuinely good, offering a range of dishes that are both comforting and elegantly prepared. (More on the spectacular hotel itself later this week!).
The Double-Fried Fries here are legendary – perfectly crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they are simply irresistible.
The Scallops and Corn Grits dish was nothing short of phenomenal. The scallops were perfectly seared, tender and sweet, while the creamy grits provided a delightful counterpoint. I literally scraped every last bit from my plate and yearned for a second helping!
ZuZu consistently delivers high-quality, flavorful plates that impress both locals and hotel guests.
Jade Bar and Elements at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa: Luxury Dining and Cocktails in Paradise Valley
5700 East McDonald Drive
Paradise Valley, Arizona 85253
Website
Perched within the exquisite Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa, Jade Bar and Elements offer a luxurious and unforgettable dining experience. Jade Bar, a recently renovated and expanded addition, is particularly renowned for its exceptional mixologists who craft killer cocktails with precision and artistry. Here, you can simply tell them your preferred liquors, favored flavors, and ingredient preferences, and they will whip up a super tasty, personalized concoction. They even offer mixology classes for those eager to learn the secrets! The bar itself is stunning, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that perfectly frame breathtaking views of the mountains, making it an ideal spot to catch the most gorgeous Arizona sunsets. The appetizers served at Jade Bar are thoughtfully designed to perfectly complement their exquisite cocktails, making for a truly harmonious pre-dinner experience.
The panoramic mountain views from Jade Bar create a spectacular backdrop for an evening out.
Each cocktail at Jade Bar is a masterpiece, carefully balanced and beautifully presented.
Once again, those famous Shishito peppers made an appearance! Their prevalence across different Scottsdale establishments truly highlights their popularity in the local culinary scene.
The Braised Short Rib and Truffle Mac ‘n Cheese was a decadent combination of rich, tender meat and creamy, earthy pasta – a perfect pairing with their sophisticated cocktails.
After enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite drinks at Jade Bar, we moved to Elements, where executive chef Beau MacMillan works his culinary magic. You might recognize Chef MacMillan from Food Network’s Iron Chef competition, where he famously triumphed over Bobby Flay! His philosophy at Elements is deeply rooted in quality and sustainability: he smokes his own meats, and the kitchen exclusively uses organic produce, sustainable seafood, and hormone-free meats. This commitment translates into dishes that are not only incredibly flavorful but also thoughtfully prepared and ethically sourced, offering a truly high-end dining experience with integrity.
Every dish at Elements is meticulously plated, showcasing the artistic vision of Chef MacMillan and his team.
The innovative menu at Elements combines fresh ingredients with unexpected, harmonious flavor profiles.
The focus on organic and sustainable ingredients shines through in the vibrant taste and quality of each offering.
Citizen Public House: Elevated Pub Fare and a Secret Speakeasy in Old Town Scottsdale
Craftsman Court & 5th Ave
Old Town Scottsdale
Website
Despite its somewhat formal name, Citizen Public House is anything but pretentious. Located in the lively Old Town Scottsdale, this establishment offers a genuinely laid-back atmosphere paired with pub-style food that’s been elevated several notches. Its stylish and sleek interior creates a perfect backdrop for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight happy hour or a lively weekend dinner party with friends. What truly sets Citizen Public House apart is its innovative approach to comfort food, transforming familiar dishes into gourmet delights.
Starting with their Bacon Fat Popcorn, the indulgence begins immediately – a wonderfully savory and addictive snack.
The Piggy and Waffle offered a delightful sweet and savory contrast, a sophisticated take on a classic comfort food pairing.
Then there was the Kilt Lifter Fondue – a name I absolutely loved, and a dish I loved even more. This incredible three-cheese fondue, notably featuring Gruyère, is infused with beer, creating a rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible appetizer. So incredibly good!
No visit is complete without trying their famous “The Original Chopped Salad,” a dish so beloved it even has its own Facebook page. And rightly so – it’s a perfectly balanced and flavorful creation.
The salad’s vibrant ingredients and harmonious dressing make it a standout on the menu.
After enjoying our appetizers, Owen, the general manager, led us upstairs to R+D, an exclusive speakeasy that truly encapsulates the clandestine charm of old-fashioned hidden bars. Open only on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, entry is akin to a secret ritual: you approach a secluded door, make a call (though I imagine phone calls weren’t quite the same back in the day!), and if there’s room, a bouncer escorts you up. The line can be famously long, and for good reason – the drinks are meticulously handcrafted by some of Scottsdale’s greatest mixologists, often incorporating fire, sugar, and even candy for innovative concoctions. The intimate lounge area is designed to seat only 28, making for a cozy yet buzzing atmosphere, especially on a busy night.
One of the fascinating pieces of equipment used for their whiskey, resembling a science lab, highlights their dedication to the craft.
A truly unique offering was their salt barrel-aged whiskey cask. Aged underground for many years, the resulting whiskey boasted an incredibly smooth flavor profile, devoid of the harsh, spicy bite often found in other whiskeys. It was a remarkable tasting experience.
This innovative aging process imparts a distinctive character to their spirits.
Echoing the excellence experienced at ZuZu, the scallop and corn grit dish here was equally fabulous, a testament to the popular and well-executed combination in Scottsdale.
A neat cocktail, elegantly presented with a touch of rock candy, perfectly exemplified the speakeasy’s creative flair.
For dessert, the Loaded Fudge Brownie with Toasted Marshmallow Ice Cream was an absolute dream – rich, gooey, and utterly delightful!
The PB&B pudding jar offered a comforting blend of peanut butter and banana flavors, served in a charming individual portion.
And the Choco-Chile Bread Pudding provided an exciting kick, blending sweet chocolate with a subtle hint of spice, a perfect adventurous dessert.
