10 Best Restaurants in Scottsdale: A Native’s Personal Favorites
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As someone who has been born and raised in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area, I have seen our restaurant scene absolutely explode. I would consider myself a foodie, and Scottsdale has no shortage of amazing food options. Whether you want to grab tacos, sushi, steak, or seafood, we have it all. And then some! I have personally tried so many restaurants in Scottsdale, and I have curated this list of my 10 best restaurants in Scottsdale guide so that you can taste everything Scottsdale has to offer too!
Introduction: 10 Best Restaurants in Scottsdale
Scottsdale is more than just golf courses, nightlife, and sunshine. We have some of the best restaurants that I have ever tried. Whether you a revisiting for the weekend or are a local looking for some new recs, I got you! I have put together a list of the 10 best restaurants in Scottsdale that will help navigate you through our insane culinary scene. I have tried all of these restaurants more than once, and they are places that I feel like you will continue to visit every time you come to visit or every time you are planning a dinner out. Now, let’s dig in!
1. FnB Restaurant – Seasonal & Locally Sourced Excellence
If you are into fresh and local cuisine, then FnB, in Old Town Scottsdale, is the place for you. The ingredients here are super fresh, and one of my favorite aspects of this restaurant is that the menu changes with the seasons so you are always getting something new. The chef at this restaurant creates creative dishes using Arizona home grown produce in everything that he prepares.
Pro Tip: The best time to come is during the week, as it’s much quieter, and you can enjoy chatting with the staff about all of the food and menu options.
2. Fat Ox – Italian Elegance with a Modern Twist
If your go-to is Italian food, then Fat Ox, on the boarder of Paradise Velly, needs to be added to your restaurant list. All of their pastas are home-made, and grilled meats are absolutely spectacular. This restaurant has a modern vibe and is honestly a great date night choice.
Insider Tip: Booking a table on a Thursday or Friday night after 7pm allows you to enjoy the dinner ambiance but is usually les quieter. Also, you must try the agnolotti. Trust me!
3. The Mission – Latin Fusion in a Romantic Setting
The Mission is one of my go-to places for lunch and dinner. There are two locations, one in Old Town Scottsdale and one in north Scottsdale at Kierland Commons. The have a great atmosphere at both locations, and their pork tacos literally melt in your mouth. Their tableside guac is legendary, and great for sharing.
Insider Tip: If the weather is nice, sit outside at sunset and enjoy the views, people watching, and the ambience. There are some great photo ops from here!
4. Citizen Public House – Elevated Gastropub Classics
If comfort food with a luxurious twist is more your vibe, then you will want to check out Citizen Public House. The chopped salad here is the best, and is honestly more than a meal, it’s an experience. This is a great lunch time spot, in my opinion. But honesty, they have a steady crowd from lunch to dinner.
Insider Tip: Have dinner or lunch here on Tuesday or Wednesdays for the least number of crowds.
5. SumoMaya – Where Mexico Meets Asia
SumoMaya is honestly, one of my favorites. This restaurant is located in central Scottsdale and is a fun fusion of Mexican and Asian. They do an amazing weekend brunch, and their dinner is honestly even more amazing. This is a restaurant that caters to all of the crowds: locals, out of towners, bachelorette parties, everyone! It’s a great spot any time of day and any day of the week. People watching is always the best on the weekends, but it is always buzzing with people. The ambiance is bold, colorful, and vibrant, and the menu is exactly the same!
Insider Tip: If you are coming for brunch, and I highly recommend that you do, show up at 9:30am, otherwise you will be waiting for hours.
6. Chula Seafood – Fresh from the Boat
If you love seafood and want to try some of the freshest fish that Arizona has to offer, then add Chula Seafood to your list of restaurants to try. This is a family-owned business, and shockingly enough, has some of the freshest fish in the desert. It is quite literally boat-to-table!
This restaurant is located in south Scottsdale and is very casual and low-key. Their poke bowls and fish sandwiches are next level. This is a great lunch time spot, and when the weather is nice, sitting out on the patio is a perfect spot to enjoy your lunch.
7. Cafe Monarch – Scottsdale’s Most Romantic Fine Dining
One of the most elegant restaurants in Scottsdale, is none other than Cafe Monarch. This incredible restaurant is located in Old Town Scottsdale and it the ultimate multi-course meal. This is a perfect spot for a celebration like a birthday or anniversary, and their white-glove service is top-notch.
Insider Tip: Make reservations weeks, if not months in advance, and opt for the outdoor seating if the weather permits.
8. Roaring Fork – Southwestern Comfort with a Kick
Another great casual spot that I think is great for a weekend lunch, is Roaring Fork. It’s right in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale and is a great spot to have lunch before an afternoon of shopping. They have amazing American food with a southwest flair, and the atmosphere gives you rustic-lodge vibes. I have tried several things on their menu, like the rotisserie chicken, salmon, and the green chili, and it’s all amazing. This is a great spot to bring the kids too!
9. Francine – French Riviera in the Desert
If you haven’t heard of or been to Francine’s, then I highly recommend adding this restaurant to your list. This spot is located at Fashion Square and has a fun French-Mediterranean vibe to it. The atmosphere is light, bright and airy, and you immediately feel transferred to the South of France.
Insider Tip: Come for a weekday or weekend lunch and try the Nicoise salad. You won’t regret it!
10. Original ChopShop – Healthy Fuel That Tastes Good
For a fast, fresh, and healthy option, try the Original ChopShop. There are multiple locations across Scottsdale and all of them are equally delicious. They have amazing protein bowls, fresh dishes, and my personal favorite, the acai bowls. This is great spot to have lunch after a hike or a great work out.
Insider Tip: They do mobile ahead orders, and that’s a great option to avoid the lunch time rush!
Conclusion: 10 Best Restaurants in Scottsdale
When it comes to dining, Scottsdale truly has it all. From casual lunch spots to elegant dinners, to brunch, you can honestly find it all in Scottsdale when it comes to dining. So, next time you visit, or if you are local and looking for a new spot to try, I hope this curated list of the 10 best resturants in Scottsdale helps to inspire you to try something new. If you do try a spot on this list, I would love to hear your thoughts!