Special meal

Question

We are looking for a special meal. Type of food and cost aren’t as important as a great meal. We’d like something that is local to Scottsdale/arizona. It would be great but not necessary for a nice patio with a great view as well.

We will have some kids too but don’t need a kids centric experience.

Thanks

Answer

For a truly special dining experience in Scottsdale, you’ll want a restaurant that highlights local Arizona flavors, offers excellent cuisine, and ideally provides a beautiful patio or view. Scottsdale has a range of high-end and unique dining options that emphasize Southwestern, Sonoran, and contemporary American cuisine.

Here are several options to consider:

FnB Restaurant: Known for its farm-to-table approach, FnB highlights local Arizona ingredients and seasonal dishes. The menu changes regularly, showcasing innovative Southwestern flavors. It’s intimate, casual-elegant, and highly regarded for both food and service. Patio seating is available, though the focus is more on food than panoramic views.
Elements at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain: This upscale restaurant offers a refined dining experience with views of the desert landscape and Camelback Mountain. The cuisine combines American with Asian influences, and the patio provides one of the most scenic dining settings in Scottsdale. Perfect for a special meal with a memorable view.
Café Monarch: A classic fine-dining option in Scottsdale, Café Monarch offers a seasonal four-course menu with exceptional presentation. While it does not have sweeping desert views, the patio and indoor spaces are elegant and sophisticated. This is ideal if the focus is on a top-tier meal experience.
The Mission: A popular option for modern Latin cuisine, The Mission offers upscale Mexican dishes with a contemporary twist. The patio is charming and often features ambient lighting in the evening. The food is flavorful, creative, and memorable for a special occasion.
Olive & Ivy: Located along the Scottsdale Waterfront, Olive & Ivy offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a beautiful patio overlooking the water. It’s ideal for families with kids while still maintaining a refined, enjoyable dining atmosphere for adults.

Tips for a memorable experience:

Reserve in advance, especially for weekend dinners or sunset patio seating.
Request a patio table if a view is important; early evenings can provide beautiful sunset lighting.
Consider tasting menus if offered, as these showcase the chef’s specialties and local ingredients.
Dress comfortably but elegantly, as some of these restaurants have a refined dining ambiance.

In conclusion, for a combination of excellent local cuisine, atmosphere, and optional scenic views, Elements at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain and FnB are top choices for a special meal experience in Scottsdale, while Café Monarch and Olive & Ivy offer excellent food with elegant or waterfront settings. The Mission provides a lively, flavorful option with a Southwestern flair suitable for families as well.