La Bomba. That Skinny B**** Burrito. Frybread. Good Wine and Drinks. Scottsdale is having a major foodie moment, with restaurants so good you’ll want to keep them to yourself. But in the spirit of sharing, here’s my not-so-secret list of must-visit spots in the Copper State—places you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. From comfort food done right to dishes with deep roots in the region’s heritage, Scottsdale’s food scene has something for every craving. So, loosen your belt, grab a fork, and let’s dig into the desert’s delicious side.
FnB
FnB is highly praised in Scottsdale, led by James Beard Award-winning chef Charleen Badman, known for her vegetable-focused, globally inspired dishes.The menu, which changes with the seasons, might feature dishes like deep-fried flatbread with Slovakian Liptauer cheese, cured salmon, and pickled butter pickles. The roasted carrot slices, a signature dish, showcase Badman’s vegetable expertise, served with harissa mayo, avocado, and dukkha. The vegetarian momos with mushrooms, paired with tomato-pepper chutney and sunflower seeds, also showoff her talent. While vegetables take center stage, meats make appearances, too. One standout is Badman’s twist on Hungary’s paprikash—chicken served with spaetzle and tangy dill sour cream. Pair your dish with a cocktail or an Arizona wine from co-owner and Los Milics Vineyards founder, Pavle Milic, making for an unforgettable dining experience. 
La Zozzona
Located in the newly renovated Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort & Spa, La Zozzona is Chef Richard Blais’s homage to Southern Italian cuisine, with a name that means “dirty” or “filthy” in Italian—and is nod to the cuisine’s connection with indulgence. Menu highlights include the Celery and Romaine Hearts, their take on Caesar Salad, features crisp romaine, tangy dressing, Parmesan, anchovy, and garlic. Employees at the hotel give the Rigatoni “alla Zozzona” high praises, it comes with guanciale, sausage, tomato, chili, and pecorino romano. It goes exceptionally well with a bold Italian red. For dessert, the Chocolate Hazelnut Cake delivers layers of hazelnut crème, caramel, stracciatella gelato, and praline cocoa sauce. The restaurant’s warm glow and intimate nooks make it a perfect option for date nights or even popping the big question.
The Thumb
Often, the unassuming spots, like a gas station, serve up the best bites—and The Thumb is no exception. Featured twice on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, this hidden gem in Scottsdale is worth the drive. Inside, the atmosphere is lively, with staff ringing up orders while the gas station offers quirky desert-themed trinkets and stickers for your Stanley water jug. While the chorizo burrito has gotten much attention, don’t overlook the brisket, which fills the gas station with an aroma to make your stomach grumble. The real surprise, though, is That Skinny B**** Burrito. As Guy would say, it’s a flavor bomb. A major one. One bite and scrambled egg whites with caramelized onions, mushrooms, cheese blend, and spinach spill out from the whole wheat tortilla, punching flavor in every mouthful. They nailed the perfect ratio of filling to the thickness of the burrito. The Thumb might be a gas station that says it’s ordinary, but it’s quite the opposite—it’s extraordinary.
Sel
Why you’re booking a reservation at Sel: You’re searching for a special night out and want to experience Chef Branden Levine’s creative global flavors. What You’re Ordering: If visiting during the holiday season, consider indulging in the three-course menu. While menu items change, you can start a fresh shrimp salad to start. For the main try the tender grilled Snake River Farm Wagyu beef that comes with a velvety potato purée topped with white truffles, and roasted cauliflower gratin.
Zinc Bistro
Since 2002, Arizona native Matt Carter has been serving French-inspired cuisine at Zinc Bistro, a spot that channels the charm of a New York Parisian bistro. Picture porcelain vases, red gingham tablecloths atop round marble bistro tables, and wicker chairs spilling onto the sidewalk. In the evening, moody candlelight and a romantic patio also help to capture the spirit of the city. While lunch at Zinc is perfect for sipping coffee and people-watching like you would along Boulevard Saint-Germain, dinner here is the move. Some of the menu highlights are confit duck legs with butter beans—a dish that epitomizes richness. The bone marrow with bacon butter is another indulgent French classic, delivering decadence with every bite. If you’re lucky enough to have Myra as your server, don’t hesitate when she suggests dessert. If you are a chocolate lover, go for The Valrhona Chocolate Soufflé, if not then you can’t go wrong with the tiramisu. Keep in mind the while Soufflé takes about 25 minutes to prepare, it’s well worth the wait. In the meantime, enjoy a glass of exceptional French wine and take in the ambiance. These dishes are a testament to Carter’s culinary mastery, earning him recognition as one of the top chefs in the Valley of the Sun.
The Montauk
Montauk, a beach-inspired eatery that feels like a Long Island summer transported to Scottsdale, with food that perfectly complements the relaxed setting. Inside, you’ll find friends and families enjoying holiday cocktails, laughing, and exchanging that unspoken look that says, “You’re going to love it here.” Start with their clam chowder, a solid choice for a light lunch or a starter to a larger meal. When you’re in Montauk, a lobster roll is a must—and this place does it justice. The lobster roll is perfectly crafted, with just the right lobster to buttery bread ratio.
Toro Scottsdale
If we’re borrowing the Puerto Rican definition of La Bomba, meaning “upbeat,” then Toro delivers just that—an elevated, lively dining experience with dishes that amplify the excitement, especially their signature dessert, La Bomba. Beyond Christmas at the Princess, this 5-star hotel’s restaurant is the talk of the town. Walk through the dining room, and you’ll overhear guests raving about the Nikkei-style Spicy Truffle Dynamite roll. It’s a seamless fusion of Latin American and Asian flavors, the heart of Toro Scottsdale. Skip the wine and lean into the cocktail menu, starting with the Mercado Margarita—a drink as striking as a desert sunset. Serrano-infused blanco tequila, passion fruit, lime, agave, and hibiscus rosemary foam come together for an unforgettable sip. Then, there’s dessert. The Yuzu Cheesecake, inspired by Asian influences, and the Mole-Spiced Chocolate Brownie, a nod to Mexico, are solid choices, but the showstopper is La Bomba. A dessert so mesmerizing that it rivals the fire-eating performers—it’s a sweet, dramatic finale to the meal.
The Frybread Lounge
Native American culture is a fundamental part of Scottsdale’s identity, represented in the museums, galleries, and artwork. Food also plays a crucial role in this narrative, and The Frybread Lounge—Scottsdale’s first and only Indigenous-owned restaurant—brings these traditions to the table with pride and authenticity. The Frybread Lounge, founded by Denise Rosales and led by Chef Darryl Montana, a member of the local tribal community, is a vibrant homage to Indigenous cuisine. Their iconic frybread is Central to the menu—a fluffy, golden treat you must try. You can enjoy it as a savory or sweet treat, pairing it with pureed beans, honey, jam, or powdered sugar. For a traditional take, try it with savory accompaniments that remind you of Trinidad’s fry bake with saltfish. The menu doesn’t stop there—Bison Asada Tacos and Frybread Tacos topped with Indigo meats showcase bold, flavorful interpretations of Native American culinary traditions.
Tell Your Friends
There’s a certain thrill in stumbling upon a hidden gem that completely surprises you, and Tell Your Friends is precisely that—an underground lounge exuding Gatsby-era charm and mystery. The space truly comes alive during the holidays, with festive décor and live music filling the air. Led by one of the Valley’s most celebrated bartenders, Keifer Gilbert, the cocktail menu offers around 20 creative, culinary-inspired drinks. Standouts include Friends with Benefits, a potent whiskey-forward cocktail, and In the Mood for Love, a spicy gin-forward drink donning a red hue. As you sip one of these carefully crafted cocktails, let the smooth sounds of Prince’s Purple Rain ( sang by a live musician) drift through the air. All while you are nestled in one of the booths draped in purple or perched at the bar, making it a nice spot for a date night. Oh, and while it is a place for drinking, don’t pass up the bites at this lounge; the fried chicken and carrot cake are good.
Hash Kitchen
This brunch spot not only has a lot of creative dishes, but you can vibe out with the live DJ and build-your-own Bloody Mary bar with over 40 toppings. The Greatest Hits menu section features crowd favorites like chilaquiles, breakfast burritos, and avocado toast. Potato lovers have their own dedicated section, the HK Hashes. All dishes come with crispy hash potatoes such as The Best F#%ing Birria Hash, which includes slow-braised beef, mozzarella, onions, cilantro, lime, fried eggs, three mini quesadillas, and consommé for dipping. If you’re torn between sweet and savory, go for the Herb Fried Chicken + Waffle, a crispy, golden choice. Hash Kitchen’s menu also features customizable scrambles, fresh fruit, hearty oats, and various sides to satisfy your brunch needs.
Love Scottsdale!