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 We suppose we should preface our rants and raves with the fact that we do not announce who we are when we go to a restaurant. We are not looking for any freebies, only good service and great food, those are our requirements. Scottsdale restaurants are constantly opening and closing. Even bastions of the area are being replaced by the new and hip offerings.
Mary Elaine's a fixture in the Phoenician since the resort opened is closed to be replaced by an unknown name restaurant with Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, the chef of Jean Georges a 3 Star Michelin restaurant in Manhattan. This new restaurant at the Phoenician will join a empire of over a dozen restaurants from New York to Las Vegas to Shanghai. Super Chef comes to Scottsdale! We can't wait to try this one!
Since our list of restaurants is alphabetical, we want you to know about a revisit to Zinc,
we recently enjoyed a wonderful bottle of wine and want you to be sure to ask for it by name! It's of all things, an Arizona Wine and a recent write-up in the Wall Street Journal prompted us to try it. 2002 Alcantara Pinot Noir, we are so excited about their wines and now since Arizona can ship wine, we thought you might like to take a look at this Arizona Winery as well.
Trader Vic's - a blast from the past. A recent opening of Trader Vic's brought a much-loved name back to the Valley. The food exactly what you you would expect, A great pu-pu platter that can double for dinner if you're not too hungry, and the exotic drinks that made them famous to begin with. Our only critique - too many windows!. This place needs to be a little darker to bring out the romance of the South Seas. 6850 E. Main Street - Downtown on the same property as Valley Ho Resort Be sure to call 480 421-7799 for reservations. It is the new hot spot in town.
Pink Taco - no restaurant in recent history has stirred up as much controversy as The Pink Taco, our Mayor in an effort to get the restaurant renamed, after claiming that the name was derogatory term for a part of women's anatomy, created a bally-hoo of major proportions and now everyone wants to be seen here. Owned by Harry Morton (of Morton's Steakhouse fame), the restaurant offers trendy Mexican Food. Appetizers the size of a meal, and interesting interior, with crosses and Our Lady of Guadalupe! We understand that Caludia Shiffer also has opted to put some money in the place, but we haven't spotted her here as yet. Located at the new Scottsdale Waterfront - Scottsdale Rd and Camelback. Downtown will never be the same. Don't bother to go to their website unless you have a couple of hours to fool away. It is one of the
worst we have ever seen.
A re-visit to Acacia at the Four Seasons was so pleasurable. A nice big round table, outstanding filets, fresssh seafood, super service. Just all around superior dining experience! Plus a view from the terrace to die for. 10600 East "Crescent Moon Drive, 480-513-5086
Vu, replaces The Golden Swan - read more.....
We get lots of request for Eleanna's, a Mediterranean restaurant that has closed, but there is Eliana's in Phoenix, where you can catch the flavor of El Salavdor. Simple yet inviting. They do not accept reservations. 1627 N 24th St. 602-225-2925
Looking for a Wine Bar? Now you don't have to go all the way to Willy's in Paris. We got 'em here in little ole Scottsdale!
Wine dinners are also very popular in Scottsdale check them out.
Restaurant Closings
| Abuelo's Mexican Food Embassy - new Mexican restaurant on Mayo Blvd. (just south of 101 at Scottsdale Road Exit). A great asset to Scottsdale's Mexican food offerings. Fresh, wonderful, different! The restaurant itself is decorated with large canterra stone statues and the overall effect is upscale Colonial Mexico. We have been there three times now and each time have been so totally pleased with our selections. One of my very favorites for lunch is Huevos Rancheros, done a little differently, placed on top of cheese enchiladas, absolutely delicious. Another great dish is their Los Cabos Salad with shrimp and fruit! We highly recommend Abuelo's for Mexican food, Sam Barnett, the general manager watches over every dish that's served and the results show! Call 480-513-4445
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Arcadian Farms - no matter what you may have read, don't go. Spotty service and not-so-nice personnel If you want to have a delightful lunch downtown, go to Cafe ZuZu, located in the totally redone Valley Ho Resort, just around the corner. We had excellent food, great service and a cozy booth to dine in as well, so goodbye Arcadia Farms, this is the second time we have had an unfavorable encounter at Arcadia Farms, twice is once too many, so all you visitors who have heard "so much about Arcadia Farms" take it from a local "it's not that great". In fact there are so many other places downtown, there is no need ever to be treated with such contempt. |
Alchemy - all those stars and such a disappointment! The terrace is wonderful with views and table cloths. When you sit inside, the table cloths disappear, the tables are so close together the waiters can barely maneuver and the views literally are out of sight, due to a poorly planned dining room. Food in contrast surely deserves the high rating the restaurant has received...but. So if you go, request the terrace, if weather is suitable. 13225 N. Eagle Ridge Drive. Fountain Hills. 480-333-1880
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BARCELONA! Not the town but the ultra sophisticated new lounge and restaurant in Scottsdale. From water falling over a wall of blue glass and pottery at the entrance to every nook and cranny, Elegance with a capital E. Located at Scottsdale Rd and Greenway-Hayden Rd. Just look for the flaming torches!. Free tapas from 4-7 makes this the hot spot for Happy Hour. Also the food is great and the music fun. Be sure and try it soon!
Revisions to Barcelona! Certainly the place to see and be seen at certain times of day. They should give up on "brunch - lunch or whatever!" On Sunday - At 2:00 - no rolls (we were told they didn't have time to bake them that morning -we're talking Mother's Day here! - come on how long can that take?) And the lobster in the Lobster Salad should have still been swimming. Whoever started this trend towards "opaque" fish? Either raw or cooked is the way I like it. Also they may as well close the south end of the building this summer. With 1/2 inch gaps between glass - not only does it overwork the AC, but the customers stay hot!
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| Barrio Cafe - A new Mexican delight in town. In a strip mall that you might pass right by, if you weren't headed for the Barrio Cafe. Guacamole made table-side. Stuffed Poblano Peppers - Ole! Another specialty - seared breast of duck in sweet and sour tamarind and chipotle sauce No reservations, a long wait! 2814 N. 16th Street Phoenix. 602-636-0240
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Benihanna - Go for the show! 40 years ago when Benihanna came to New York, everyone flocked to see the slice, dice and flip with the flashing knives and the skill of those who used them, things haven't changed all that much. Rocky Aoki (a retired boxer) was responsible for bringing table-top cooking to the U.S in the 60's. The food is superb and you know the drill now, shrimp and steak, or shrimp and chicken, myriad ways. Green tea ice cream for desert. Located in The Promenade, Scottsdale Road & Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd. 480-444-0068 - a group of eight fills a teppan table
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Binkley's after all the raves, we finally had to try Binkleys. The food is superb and if you can get into the dining room, (it only seats 60) it is sophisticated in the best New York manner, however even though our reservations were made 3 weeks in advance, there was only space available on the patio. We will tell you, we did not enjoy the patio, sitting on Cave Creek Road on a unseasonably "hot" night in May was not a pleasure. There are fans, but no misters, plus the sun shades were lowered, it took 2 requests to get one of them raised so we could get some air...plus there was road noise. As I said earlier the food was wonderful, but another comment, they offer a "tasting" menu. You can order 4, 5, or 6 tastings. They start at $50.00. I truly loved mine, but the guys thought the food was a little on the light side. You might want to order an entree instead. Chef Kevin Binkley has an impressive background, having done a stint at The Little Inn at Washington and two years at The French Laundry, his food reflects his experience. It is a charming bistro...just don't sit on the Patio. 6920 E. Cave Creek Rd. 480-437-1072
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Bistro 24- Of course, everyone has heard a lot about "Bistro 24". John Johnstone is now executive chef of Bistro 24. Their French Onion soup is wonderful, but their fish dishes need help! However, the steak au poivre is very good. And someone has said, "even if the food is terrible, and you have a great desert, you'll remember it as a wonderful restaurant". The deserts here are scrumptious. So here's hoping everything else will come into line. We will be going back in a few weeks give an update where Bistro 24 is headed. Located in the Ritz Carlton at 2401 Camelback Road. Call 602-952-2424
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Bloom - one of the Fox Restaurant's Concepts, was named one of the "Best New Restaurants of 2001" by the prestigious publication Phoenix Magazine. A beautiful interior with inviting oversized leather booths, and a great bar featuring a cuvee "Wine Keeper's" system - offers 75 to 100 wines by the glass daily. 8877 North Scottsdale Road (The Shops at Gainey Ranch) Lunch and Dinner 480-922- 5666
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Bobby"s - owned by Mancuso's, great for late-night dining, dinner is served until 10:30. Located in Kierland Commons at the site of former Mezcal, it has been totally redone with an inviting sparking interior. The upstairs bar and lounge host a jazz piano, that would make you swear you were at The Carlyle in New York listening to Bobby Short, by the way one of the "Bobbys" it takes it name from. As you enter check out the various jazz Bobbys on the wall. Great Lobster Ravioli, Canneloni, we are do not recommend the Veal. Don't miss it for lunch or dinner. Lounge is open 4:00 to 1:00 am daily. 480-556-0770
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Brittle Bush, The 19thHole for Kierland Country Club. We first went to dinner at Brittle Bush about 2 months ago, and it continues to get better and better. It's casual dining at it's finest. You'll be pleasantly surprised by the warm welcome you receive. We just attended a private wine tasting this week and was overwhelmed by the attention, the food preparation and the whole scene.
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The Capitol Grille, perhaps our favorite steak house in Scottsdale at the moment. We know it's a chain, but they are doing everything right. Service, decor, private club ambiance. yes, you can get a table where you can actually talk. Dry aged in-house exceptional steaks, award-winning wines, (your own private wine locker if you're a regular). A big plus is dinner served until 10:00 pm Monday thru Thursday and until 11:00 pm on Friday and Saturday. Open Sunday night as well until 10:00 pm. Located in The Promenade, Scottsdale Road and Frank Lloyd Wright. 480-348-1700 |
Casa Mia in a new location. We hope they are just ironing out the kinks! On a recent Saturday night, we waited 5 minutes at the door for someone, anyone to come talk to us and take us to our reserved table. The service left lots to be desired even after we were seated...except for pouring of the wine. We had 2 bottles almost finished before dinner arrived. Our suggestion, take fewer reservations, so service does not suffer! After all service is part of a the dining experience. Try it on a more quiet night. 11675 N. 136th Street - 480.314.0365
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Chaparral Restaurant in the Camelback Inn is another big change on the restaurant scene. Another celebrity chef enters the picture, Chef Laurent Tourondel brings his French training to this modern American Steakhouse: BLT Steak replacing the Chaparral Restaurant. Esquire awarded BLT Steak its"Best New Restaurants of 2004 to Tourondel for his New York BLT. We do hope you'll try it. Located at 5402 E. Lincoln Drive. Call 480-948-1700.
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Charmian Private Dining Room - Choose your menu, the type of music, and get spectacular service in this one table restaurant, for two to twelve guests. Located atop Eagle Mountain in Fountain Hills, be aware that all this elegance and luxury come at a price. Dinner for two, $195; with wine $295. But it's worth every penny for that special special! Call 480-874-1123
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Cheesecake Factory - a favorite place for lunch or dinner in Scottsdale. Always a crowd, but not quite as long a wait as in Pasadena. Remember when you order to question the size of the portion. Many of the portions are easily split - or you'll have a big doggie bag to go. Which doesn't always work if you're staying at a hotel. My very favorite cheesecake is just plain. Wow! Egyptian motif, attractive in it's own way, we are in a desert, just not on the Nile. But the food or prices can't be beat. At the Kierland Commons. Scottsdale Road across from the Airpark.
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Cowboy Ciao - very interesting - the decor reminds me of a grotto in Italy, but still with a touch of Arizona. A little noisy because of the cement floors, but other than that a very nice atmosphere. A today's kind of restaurant! There were six of us and we all tried something different. Of course we all loved their Stetson Chopped Salad. It is a truly different blend of flavors and what got us there in the first place. The other winners that night were the Exotic Mushroom Pan Fry and the Halibut. However on a return trip with just the two of us, the hostess wanted to seat us smack dab in the middle of the room after we had made a reservation 2 days in advance. If you don't like the middle of the room, specify it. Email your opinion to us. Located in Old Town at 7133 E. Stetson Drive. (480) 946-3111
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Crazy Ed's Satisfied Frog - a crazy name for a crazy place. Up in Cave Creek, which is worth the trip. It seems much closer than it did the first time I went back in the late 70's. But Scottsdale grew to meet it. It was a trek out Cave Creek Road in the old days. If you like the "Old West", you'll find it here in Cave Creek. Crazy Ed's has the old western buildings for stores, etc. You know the scene. But everyone has a good time and "Ed's Original Chili Beer" packs quite a wallop! You can dance if you want to! 6245 E Cave Creek road. Call 480-488-2724. They are usually crowded.
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Donovan's Steak and Chop House (formerly Harris' Restaurant) and yes, every bit as great as you may have heard. USDA Prime Beef is the star attraction, and believe me four of us had excellent dinners and service. Elegant interior, scrumptious food with several elegantly-appointed private dining rooms for parties of 8 to 120 guests. VIP treatment begins at the front door with complimentary valet parking. Visit Donovan's, be sure to call ahead (602) 955-3666. 3101 East Camelback Road Phoenix, Arizona (We know Mrs. Harris is smiling down upon your efforts, you do her proud)
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El Chorro Lodge - The very essence of the "old West". One of the oldest restaurants and still one of the best! An evening on their patio in the fall and winter looking at the stars and you'll know why everyone wants to be in Arizona! Have a drink sitting around the outdoor fireplace and listen to some music with dinner. Their country-fried steak is an old favorite of ours. Try it. They serve a lot of the old favorites, food that isn't on many menus now days and the old timers love it! Right in the heart of things at 5550 East Lincoln Drive. Call 480-948-5170 for reservations.
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Eddie-V's - voted "Best Seafood Restaurant" by Phoenix Magazine 2005, Sophisticated bar and dining room specializing in seafood. Located at the posh DC Ranch, you won't be disappointed in their all-lump crab cake appetizers, no breadcrumbs as filler. Mississippi scenes stretch round the bar. Prices are fair and ambiance is superb. Parmesan encrusted lemon sole is delicious. The Lobster bisque is too thin! If you go at Happy Hour 5 until 7:00 PM they offer some wonderful appetizers at 1/2 price and drinks are all $1.00 off. Try the Shrimp Fritters!!! Thompson Peak Pkwy and Pima Road. 480-538-8468
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Christopher's Fermier Brasserie - named for it's award winning chef Christopher Gross. Elegant restaurant, elegant food, French-American cuisine from a wood-burning oven. 2584 E. Camelback Road in the Biltmore Fashion Park. (602) 522-2344.
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Don & Charlie's - been around about 25 years or so. A very popular. place! Lots of sports related photos and old movie stars as well. Enjoy lunch, dinner or happy hour, you'll always find a crowd so be sure to make a reservation well in advance. Steaks and hickory smoked ribs are the food of choice. 7501 E Camelback Rd Phone: 480-990-0900
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Elements - located in the Sanctuary (formerly Jon Gardiner' s Tennis Ranch) beautifully renovated resort with the same outstanding views of Camelback. Hollywood used to seek out this place for it's hidden beauty and romance. Indeed a "sanctuary". Elements has outstanding food with Oriental touch. 5700 E. McDonald Dr. Paradise Valley. The drive is rather hidden - so look for it! 480.948.2100
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Fiamma - Burn baby burn, this new "flame" (actual definition of Fiamma) has certainly started a fire in downtown Scottsdale. On a recent night, our group was pleasantly pleased by the ambiance, (a little more quiet that some of the larger dining spots in town), plus an outstanding menu. Some great food served to our table were the Yellow and Red Roasted Beet Salad presented as a tower, the salmon, and my personal favorite the Lobster pasta...the best I've had for a long time. The service excellent. Be sure and try Fiama in downtown Scottsdale, located in the James Hotel, 7353 East Indian School Road. Call 480-308-1111 for your reservation!
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Fleming's Prime - Big city atmosphere. Hand-cut beef and over 100 different wines by the glass. Which is very astute to offer great wines by the glass, especially if you like White and your mate prefers Red, by the glass suits very well. So give them a try for a night out on the town, you'll like it. Some of the best steaks in Arizona, ours were superb. Service excellent. Located at 6333 North Scottsdale Road.
Call 480-596-8265
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Flo's - Ask anyone in the neighborhood of Frank Lloyd Wright for the best Chinese cuisine and there is only one answer. Flo's. Very modern, very upbeat and very, very good! I love the Mo-Shu Pork and the Chocolate Wontons. Open for lunch and not so busy then! Located at 14850 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd. In Safeway Shopping Center. Call 480-661-8883
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Fox Sports Grill - Head for the dining room on your right when you enter Fox Sports Grill. You'll discover one of the best dining experiences in Scottsdale! A roaring fireplace as well as curtains of water - no matter what time of year, a decorative room. Chef Jeff Gosselin is doing some great things with Wine Dinners, we have attended one that blew us away in December for our own private wine group. After talking with "Chef Jeff" I was totally caught up in what he's trying to achieve with these wine and food pairings. Try the Fox Sports Grill for lunch, dinner or a special Wine Dinner. You won't be disappointed. At The Promenade, Scottsdale Rd and Frank Lloyd Wright (southwest corner of Mall) Call 480-368-0369
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Golden Swan has re-emerged as VU- The swans got a little too friendly and so the change over, or so the rumors have it. No more swans at your dining table! As a pre VU, you enter a contemporary lounge with suede chairs and couches that serves signature martinis and special appetizers.
The New VU is contemporary in feeling but maintains the elegance you have come to expect from the Hyatt at Gainey Ranch, and the Cotnemporary American Food is A+. Outdoor dining is available on the patio and in the gazebo, lakeside. Try it! Plus you can also cruise in a gondola complete with gondolier on the canals (not Venice, but not bad for the middle of the desert) For special nights or anytime. Closed on Sunday. Call (480) 991-3388 Reservations suggested.
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Handlebar-J - If you feel like two-stepping or just having some good ole western fare then try eating at Handlebar-J one night. The cowboys still go here to strut their stuff and it's lots of fun just to watch, never mind dance! The steaks are pretty good too! Oh and they give West Coast Swing and two-step lessons on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday nights. Starting about 7:00 PM. 7116 E. Becker Lane. One block North of Shea Blvd at 71st St. Call 480-948-0110
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| Hapa
- Closed!
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| jetz - Closed! |
Kazimierz - A Wine Lovers Delight. Newest offering of Peter Kasperski who runs Cowboy Ciao.
Wine from around the world. 3 oz pours priced from $10 - $35 A great light menu and wonderful deserts. Open Tuesday - Saturday. 5:00pm - 1:00am. 7137 E. Stetson Drive. Downtown!
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La Hacienda - 5 Star Mexican Restaurant at the Fairmont Princess. Not your typical Mexican food, but elegantly prepared and served gourmet dishes that might be served on the Plaza de Reforma to the Grandees of Spain. The atmosphere also lends itself to the feeling of "Mexico". If you have a group or at least more than two - go for the spit-roasted suckling pig. What an adventure. In the Princess Hotel at 7575 E. Princess Drive off Scottsdale Road north of Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd. 480. 585. 4848
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La Locanda - As good as it gets! The most wonderful signature veal dish, "Scallope al Gorgonzola, try it along with an Italian Margarita made with Amaretto. They serve a creamed spinach with the majority of their dishes and it is the best! There is also a "negro pasta with mussels and scallops" that we find very good! Make sure to save room for the Tiramisu. the atmosphere is always warn and inviting. One of the best Italian restaurants in town! At 10201 N. Scottsdale Rd, on east side just south of Shea. Call 480-998-2822 - Look for a recipe of "Scallope al Gorgonzola soon!
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La Piazza Cafe Italiano! The flaming torch lets you know you've arrived. This restaurant is a real find and just a little distance over Shea Blvd to Fountain Hills. Well worth the trip. Outdoor dining on the patio gives awesome mountain views. Tim is there to say "Welcome" and John will cook an outstanding marinated steak or wonderful seafood. Make sure and try the roast chicken some time, at $8.95 it's a steal. And if you're into dining early you can enjoy all the same great food for $11.95 between 5:00 and 6:00 PM. Great for golfers heading home or anyone. Neighborhood gourmet! Located at 11865 N. Saguaro in Fountain Hills. Also a great Wine Pairing Dinner once a month.
Call (480) 837-1878
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LECCABAFFI (or translated "lick your mustache" - or maybe better...not translated) But anyway you say it, the food which if you haven't guessed by now is Italian. Great home-baked breads and wonderful risotto. Located at 9719 Hayden Road. Call for a reservation Tuesday thru Sunday. 480-609-0429
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Le SanSouci - For outstanding French cuisine and ambiance, at the most economical prices you cannot beat Le San Souci. During the week they serve exquisite lunches for $11.95, complete from soup or salad to desert. On Sunday the Brunch is $15.00. Dinners are equally good and priced right. Try this for a very pleasant sojourn into what's special in our area. Located at 7030 E. Bella Vista Drive in Cave Creek. (Map It) Call 480 488-2856
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LONS - One of the very nicest atmospheres that you can find in this area. Located in the Hermosa Inn, it has all the elegance of days gone by, with intimate dining and great food. Our new favorite, although it's an old place! Where to go for romance or conversation or ambiance of the southwest? Lon's at the Hermosa Inn. Fernando Divina as the new executive chef has brought new interest to Lon's. Instead of a fixed menu, Chef Divina opts for seasonal menu offerings. - you'll find some fine food and it can't be beat for atmosphere. You can dine inside or out on the patio with wonderful smell of pinon wood burning. A delectable dish to try, wood grilled filet mignon with mushrooms. Lon's is located in the Hermosa Inn 5532 North Palo Cristi Road, Paradise Valley Call 602-955-7878
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Los Olivos is one of Scottsdale oldest Mexican restaurants. And after you have the homemade flour tortillas, chimichangas and the carne asada you'll know why. It is also a fun place for dining and dancing under the stars, if you're so inclined. The dining roof slides open to expose our beautiful starry nights. For great Sonoran food this is the place. 7328 E. Second Street Downtown.
Call 480. 946.2256
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Mancuso's a great favorite for many years. Located in the Borgata on Scottsdale Road, it is a medieval castlelike setting. Imported tapestries, Belgian lamps, candlelit tables and a dazzling, entryway crystal chandelier. Since 1969, diners searching for fine fare have been rewarded with classic continental, French and Northern Italian dishes, many of which are prepared from Mancuso family recipes. A romantic restaurant - great for all special occasions
For reservations or information 480-948-9988
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The Marquesa - part of the Extreme Makeover at the Princess Resort has metamorphed into Mina's Bourbon Steak House. Celebrity Chefs come to Scottsdale! Michael Mina is known for his high-end restaurants in several Las Vegas resorts. Bourbon Steak has all great reviews for it's entry onto the Scottsdale restaurant scene!
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| Mezcal - Closed
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Mosaic, Elegance in the desert. New but settled in enough to offer the best service and food. Located at 10600 East Jomax Road, adjacent to the Four Seasons Resort. We attended a spectacular wine dinner the other night. We were warmly greeted by Matt Rinn, the Manager and Cellar Master. Matt knows his wines and that makes any evening with wine an occasion. The grilled wild boar, the breast of pheasant and other delicacies lent themselves to a thoroughly enjoyable time. A Must Try!!! Phone 480-563-9600
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Michael's at the Citadel, Closed! This one kills me. I loved Michaels!
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Nick's - A great family restaurant. When you just want good food without the hassle! Informal and great. Usually a waiting line, it's worth the wait. I always enjoy the linguine with white clam sauce. Go about 7:45 when the crowd thins out ...and bring your own bottle of wine. Located at 13910 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd. on West side going north. Nick told us the other night, he is opening his second restaurant at Pima & Pinnacle Peaks Roads. There will be a nice bar and the same good kitchen, still no reservations. Call 480-314-9445
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NORTH - a new restaurant located in Kierland Commons (the hot spot in Scottsdale for now!) with a delectable menu. My very favorites were the prosciutto and melon pizza. A flat crust pizza with a thin layer of cheese on bottom that is hot and melty, with the cold ham and melon on top. Absolutely delicious! The grilled artichokes with lemon aioli were to die for. The lasagna was a little to "al dente" on the Made to Order Chicken Lasagna. Next time I will request the lasagna "made to order". However for all the good comments there is the noise, noise and more noise on Saturday night. Bare floors, bare brick walls and a high ceiling. They call it a loft restaurant and it feels like a New York loft. Call 480-948-2055
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Ocean Club, the newest, most elegant seafood restaurant in town in the northwest section of the equally elegant Kierland Commons. Offers the best in fresh offerings from the sea. For sheer elegance and people watching, plus food that comes out of an exceptionally hot oven head for the Ocean Club, uptown in more ways than one. Ocean Club bouillabaisse is a favorite entree for many...plus outstanding steaks for the landlubbers in the group. Piano bar, upscale and great.
Call 480-443-8555, 15045 Northern Kierland Boulevard.
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Omaha Steakhouse - We had friends visiting this week and staying in Phoenix. We decided to stay right in the hotel and have dinner at the "Omaha Steakhouse" and I say it was absolutely superb. We each had a different steak and everyone was very pleased. The special flat bread they bring to the table in the beginning is a real winner. I almost ruined my appetite. (I said almost!) And the treat for the evening was our waiter Sam, probably one the most polished and accommodating waiters in the area. Service is so important. Keep up the good work, Sam. Try this out, you won't be disappointed. In the Embassy Suites Hotel, north side of Camelback, east of 24th Street. Call (602) 553-8970
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P.F Chang's - This restaurant is revered by locals and visitors alike. No reservations and sometimes a 2 hour wait. Lettuce wraps are the favorite thing here, but it's up to you it you're into the wait. 7132 Greenway Parkway, Scottsdale 480-367-2999
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Pinnacle Peak Patio - this place has been here a long time! Now of course how great a location can you get with the upscale Four Seasons Resort right across the road. We tired all their stuff, the consensus was that the ribs were the best, (besides the wonderful cowboy singing) Gary is his name and he's great. Hard to believe he's from England as he has this western stuff down pat. Try this you'll like it for a taste of the Old West. 10426 E Jomax Road North (north) Scottsdale. 480-585-1599
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Quill Creek Cafe - If you're not a golfer or don't live here, you've probably not thought of dinner at the Grayhawk Clubhouse. Lunch (which is a pure delight overlooking the 18th hole) and dinner are excellent. The ambiance would be hard to beat anywhere. And the food is scrumptious. Try the Corn Chowder with it's southwestern tang or the Banana Rum Pudding. We can't say anymore than it's a great place to go! One of the best golf courses and restaurants. Grayhawk Golf Club on Thompson Peak Pkwy off Pima Road. Call 480-502-1700
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| RA Sushi Bar & Restaurant - an favorite of Old Scottsdale, just moved to Kierland Commons. 4,000 Sq FT of water features, music features and lots of red! Try baked green mussels, Pineapple cheese wontons, meat and noodle entres and of course all the sushi you can think of. 7012 E. Greenway Pkwy. 480-951-5888
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Razz's Restaurant & Bar - "Razz" Kamnitzer has established himself as a chef par excellance in his restaurant tucked away in an older shopping center on the southeast corner of Shea and Scottsdale road. Now Razz has moved, but not far - just across the parking lot as a matter of fact into a little larger and more elegant quarters. The ambiance is still as great and the food is inventive, unique and beautifully served. What more could you want? You also might get to visit with the owner himself. Who is as warm and inviting as his food. The salmon is out of this world! And I love all the little curly kews they serve on top. 10321 N. Scottsdale road. 480. 905.1308
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Remington's- We love this place for the "Jazz Bar" and dinner afterwards. It's elegant, fun and just plain good, try their Pork Tenderloin with Red Eye Gravy. And it's convenient to all parts of town, located on the NW corner of Scottsdale & Indian Bend Roads. They also have "Cigar " and "Winemaker" dinners. Make sure to check out the painted ceiling in the main dining area! Call 480-951-5101
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Roaring Fork in it's new location and Chef Robert McGrath is busier than ever. Everyone has followed him right over to Scottsdale Road. His brand of American Western Cooking (name of his cook book as well) will please the most jaded palettes. We stopped in on our way to the theater, so tried to eat light. The grilled salmon was superior as were the vegetables. I'm sure that anything we could add to this chef's outstanding reputation would be superfluous. Just go try it and see for yourself that the Roaring Fork is truly a taste sensation. Also the best hamburgers in town. Located in the Finova Building 4800 N. Scottsdale Road. Call 480- 947-0795 for reservations.
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The Salt Cellar (and we do mean cellar as in underground) at the corner of Hayden Rd and McKellips, The Salt Cellar an old, tried and true offering a cozy environment with a nautical theme offers the "fresh catch of the day" on a big blackboard which harkens back to another time, it is a great favorite among locals with excellent service. A true New England clam chowder filled with clams - not thick and pasty. Call 480-947-1963, 550 North Hayden Road.
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Sassi - Chef Wade Moises presides over the the new Sassi, a $10,000,000 Tuscan Villa, with 6 dining rooms and impressive terraces, built on 6 acres to give the feeling of a true villa. The menu is extensive, with offerings like olives in warmed olive oil and spices. Sardines, Risotto balls, marinated mushrooms. When you get to the pasta course be sure and try a linguini prepared in lemon, olive oil and spices that is a sheer delight. Located at 10455 East Pinnacle peak Pkwy. Call 480-502-9095 for your reservation.
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T. Cook's - One of our favorites for lunch or dinner! Ambiance alone is worth the price. The Royal Palms Resort remodeled and giving a lot of other resorts a run for their money when it comes to romantic spots is home to T. Cook's. So if you're looking to romance that certain someone - no matter the occasion - you'll find great food and scrumptious deserts. Chef Derek Morgan's menu features Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant also received an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator in 2001. 5200 E. Camelback Road 602.808.0766
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Tommy Bahama Restaurant - cafe and emporium at the West End of Kierland Commons. Not only will you find a fantastic restaurant and bar, but a wonderful Home Store showcasing Tommy Bahama's collection of home furnishings and accessories. There is also a great selection of the Tommy Bahama's Sportswear for men and women, that works so well for our desert climate. The Tropical Cafe offers food choices that range from great steaks, to signature ribs, coconut shrimp appetizers, pastas, salads and more...and trust us we know Chef Patrick Pobletti from his former stint at Brittlebush, part of the Westin operation. You'll love the Tropical Cafe or more casual dining on the patio. Phone 480.505.3668
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Tonto Bar & Grill. A wonderful restaurant up north in Cave Creek. Located at Rancho Manana Golf Resort. A menu serving old fashioned food with new twists. Try the Veal Liver with Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage or Port Piccata with Warm potato Salad (my personal favorite). Also the Sand Dabs are mighty good. You'll love the old west atmosphere!
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Un-Bacio - Recently opened in their new uptown location. Un-Bacio is getting a great reception and no wonder. The "tortellini en brodo" is out of this world, also the "caprese" salad. Our waiter Gitano was engaging and very professional. Service and more service! The piano bar adds to a fun evening. 7704 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, just east of the Hyatt on north side of the road.
Call (480) 609-6969
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ZINC - With a capital Z - for the newest French Bistro on the scene. Located (where else) in Kierland Commons. 4 of us to try the "newest". I had the Dorade (a wonderful Mediterranean fish) and I was assured it was the real thing. I must say it was delicious. Chanterelle mushroom soup creamy, rich and very tasty. The 2 of my partners had the steak (not an entrecote) but also very good as were the crispy pomme frites. Just for fun we ordered a kid's portion of macaroni and cheese - real comfort food - although I have never seen it on a menu in French Bistro. The Celeriac salad was also delectable. The only thing we could have done without is the "cold - too hard bread". And since it continues in the noisy vane that seems to be the trend, I would request the inner patio with hopes of hearing my dining companions better. Oh and the unusual name - Zinc bars are the mainstay of bistros in Paris. At Willi's Wine Bar you'll find the Zinc Bar on your left when you enter, here at Zinc - on the right but Zinc is truly reminiscent of Willie's down to the red leather booths and brass trim. Someone has been there! So if you can't make it to Paris, Zinc at Kierland Commons would be the next best thing.
Restaurants that closed
| Acqua de Sale has changed to Daniel's
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Altos - Closed
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| Crew - Closed
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Oceana - Closed
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| Roxsand - Closed
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Ridge Cafe - Closed
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| Eleanna's - Closed
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BYOB - Bistro Closed
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