Iconic Restaurants and Patios in Scottsdale and Phoenix

Eating well is one of the best parts of a Scottsdale trip. The Valley has nationally famous pizza, a 1930s lodge where the sticky buns are a tradition, and patios that make the most of the desert sunsets. This is not a list of every new hot spot. It is the places our team sends friends and family again and again, plus a few tips for getting a table.

The classics

• Pizzeria Bianco, Heritage Square, Phoenix. Chris Bianco started making pizza in the back of a neighborhood grocery store in 1988 and settled at 623 E. Adams Street in 1997. He has won two James Beard Awards, in 2003 and 2022. It does not take reservations or offer takeout, and it is closed Sundays, so go early and enjoy the wait in historic Heritage Square.
• El Chorro, Paradise Valley. John C. Lincoln built this lodge in 1934, and it has been a local favorite for generations. The rustic patio between Mummy and Camelback mountains is one of the best sunset seats in the Valley, and the sticky buns that come with your meal are a must.
• The Sugar Bowl, Old Town Scottsdale. A classic ice cream parlor and diner on Scottsdale Road since 1958, with burgers, double-decker sandwiches and sundaes. Perfect for families or a nostalgic dessert stop.

Patios worth planning around

• Olive and Ivy, Scottsdale Waterfront. A big, sunny patio along the Arizona Canal, with shareable Mediterranean plates and sangria.
• Proof Canteen, Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North. Views of Pinnacle Peak with breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch.
• CIELO at ADERO Scottsdale. Sweeping Sonoran Desert views by day and stargazing by night, since ADERO sits in a certified dark sky area.
• Virtu Honest Craft. A tree-lined patio glowing with hundreds of twinkle lights after dark. A favorite for a special dinner.
• Cafe Monarch, Old Town. Multi-course tasting menus and a garden-like patio. Book well ahead.
• The Canal Club at The Scott Resort. A playful 1930s Havana theme with cocktails to match.
• AZ88, near Scottsdale Civic Center. A long-time local favorite for upscale pub food and very good martinis.

After dinner

Keep the night going with Scottsdale ArtWalk on Thursdays from 7 to 9 p.m., live music at the Rusty Spur Saloon in Old Town, or a quiet swim back at your rental. Our Old Town guide maps it all out.

How to get a table

• Reserve early in peak season. From January through April, and especially during big event weeks, popular restaurants book up days or weeks ahead. Our peak season guide has the dates.
• Ask for the patio. Patio seating is the prize from October to May. Request it when you book.
• Watch the sunset time. In winter the sun sets early, so book a little before sunset for the best light.
• Big group? Call ahead. Many restaurants have limits on large parties, and a private room or a catered dinner at your vacation home can be easier.

Sources checked November 4, 2026: Pizzeria Bianco, Tasting Table on El Chorro (January 2026), Experience Scottsdale (Old Town favorites and best patios). Restaurants change hours and menus often, so confirm before you go. No business on this page paid to be included.