Scottsdale is a desert city that is part of the Greater Phoenix Area and is twenty minutes away from Arizona state’s capital Phoenix. Scottsdale is a beautiful city filled with art, food, culture and has something to offer to everyone. Winters in this city are mild to warm whereas summers are extremely hot.
While the city is underappreciated due to the bigger and more popular neighboring cities, Scottsdale is bubbling with great restaurants that are perfect for all occasions. Here is a list of some of the top restaurants in this beautiful city.
1. The Capital Grille
Located in The Promenade at 16489 N Scottsdale Rd, The Capital Grille is an upscale steakhouse chain. While they are known for their famous steaks, do not forget to try their wide selection of great soups. Lobster Bisque is filled with lobster and full of rich flavor. Butternut bisque is also one of the best-tasting items on the menu.
Nueske's Cherrywood Double Cut Smoked Bacon with Tomato Jam is my go-to option but pick anything from the menu and you will not be disappointed. One of their best-selling desserts is Coconut Cream Pie made with house-made caramel sauce and contains a hint of rum.
2. Virtu Honest Craft
This upbeat eatery located at 3701 N Marshall Way was awarded the prestigious James Beard Foundation for “Best New Restaurant” in 2014. Chef Osso at Virtu has wide experience and is a marvel in changing the place’s Mediterranean-inspired menu almost every week.
I cannot recommend enough the Smoked duck and the grilled pork chop. Both the delicacies are well cooked, tender, and a delight to eat. Leave some room for dessert as you do not want to miss the chocolate cake and gelatos served here. Honey-butterscotch pudding is probably the best one you can find anywhere.
3. Deseo
Deseo is a Spanish word that means “wish.” Located in The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa at 6902 East Greenway Parkway, this Latin American restaurant is perfect for a cozy date night.
The service at this place is outstanding and the staff is very knowledgeable. They are very open to answering your questions and give good recommendations.
Million Dollar Tacos and Brazilian Cheese Bread appetizers with wine are perfect to kick start your date night. The hanger steak is always well cooked and tender. You can finish off your date night with a Chocolate cigar with cappuccino gelato.
4. Franco's Italian Caffe
Located in Galleria Corporate Center at 4327 N Scottsdale Rd, Franco's Italian Caffe is an Italian restaurant that serves elevated Italian pasta & main courses in a comfy & elegant space.
This place is perfect for your date night with a great selection of wines. Pasta Erbe Aromatiche is the perfect cozy choice for your date night. Pair this with Chianti, DaVinci, Toscana, and I can guarantee that you will not be disappointed. For dessert, go for their popular Tiramisu, and do not forget to pack some extra to take home the marvel of Franco's.
5. Cafe Monarch
Cafe Monarch is usually a busy place, so it is always recommended to reserve your spot at this elegant, chandelier-lit space with beautiful patios. Located at 6939 E 1st Ave, this five-star fine dines restaurant will take up your date night one notch up.
This joint offers a great selection of food items including a four-course menu with vegetarian options available. Pork belly salad and Mishima Wagyu filet mignon is something which won my heart during my last visit to Cafe Monarch. The filet was perfectly cooked and was extremely tender and a delight to eat. Pork Belly Salad was also marinated well and not overly cooked. The service at this place is outstanding and you will leave the restaurant fully satisfied.