This year, Bridge and I escaped the Seattle winter and drove down to Arizona for a month. We both grew up in Washington and had lived there our whole lives, so by January I was ready for a change. After a gloomy, damp season, the idea of snowbirding felt like a relief. We spent an unforgettable month in Scottsdale and the surrounding Phoenix area, enjoying warm weather, beautiful neighborhoods, and an incredible variety of food. Below I’ve gathered the restaurants and cafés we loved, plus many recommendations from readers. Items marked with an asterisk are places we visited and recommend.
Scottsdale and Phoenix are fantastic for food lovers. Whether you’re in the mood for casual bowls, upscale dining, or great brunch spots, there’s something here for every taste. If you’re planning a winter getaway or a longer stay in Arizona, this list will help you prioritize where to eat, grab coffee, or enjoy a scenic walk before or after a meal.
Top recommendations we visited *
- *The Henry: a lovely, versatile spot with a coffee shop and a separate restaurant. I always ordered the chicken with roasted carrots—so good. Located at the start of Arcadia, it’s a great place to grab coffee on the weekend and then stroll along Exeter Street to admire the beautiful homes.
- *Diego Pops: a favorite for Mexican comfort food with fresh flavors and generous portions.
- *La Grande Orange: a go-to for salads, pizza, breakfast, and a cute little shop inside. Casual, reliable, and perfect for a relaxed meal.
- *The Original Chop Shop: excellent salads and bowls for an easy, healthy meal.
- *Barrio Queen: terrific Mexican food—don’t miss the guacamole topped with pomegranate seeds.
- *Flower Child: we ordered from here way too often. The Mother Earth Bowl with salmon (no grains, extra greens) became a regular favorite.
- *Toca Madera: upscale Mexican cuisine—an absolute must-visit for a special night out.
- *Tocaya: customizable bowls, salads, burritos, and tacos—great for quick, healthy meals.
- *Francine (Old Town Scottsdale): French Mediterranean with a focus on olive oil rather than butter; a delightful and lighter take on classic flavors.
- *Ingo’s: a smaller menu but dependable salads and burgers in a friendly setting.
- *Kaleidoscope: the best smoothies in the area, with gluten-free and dairy-free muffins, fresh juices, and invigorating ginger shots.
Other recommended spots to try
- The Royal Palm Restaurant: elegant dining with a classic vibe.
- Farm & Craft: a farm-forward menu with seasonal ingredients and a healthy focus.
- Modern Market Eatery: similar to Sweetgreen—easy takeout and fresh bowls.
- Ocean 44 and Steak 44: seafood and steak destinations for quality dinners.
- AZ Wilderness Brewing Co.: known for grass-fed burgers and local brews.
- Jewels Café: gluten-free options and memorable spicy popcorn chicken.
- Hillstone: classic American fare—try the French dip.
- Taco Guild: fun atmosphere and creative tacos.
- Luci’s at the Orchard: solid neighborhood restaurant with varied menu items.
- Schmooze: a cute spot ideal for working remotely or meeting friends over coffee.
- Linden Organic in Gilbert: excellent smoothies and a health-conscious menu.
- Uprooted Kitchen (Gilbert): a vegetarian restaurant with thoughtful, flavorful dishes.
- Maple & Ash: a bougie dinner destination for a celebratory meal.
- Cala, Vecina, Valentine, Etta: a range of modern restaurants offering creative, contemporary cuisine.
- Mexicana and Chantico: upscale Mexican restaurants worth visiting for refined flavors.
- Fat Ox and Buck & Rider: great spots for happy hour and casual evenings out.
- Chelsea’s Kitchen (Arcadia): popular for dinner, appetizers, and ceviche.
- Café Monarch: a romantic, higher-end option—call ahead for reservations.
- Undertow – Platform 18: a unique bar experience for evening drinks.
We truly enjoyed being in an area with so many dining options. Not having to cook every night was a luxury for us, and we made the most of it. If you visit Phoenix, Scottsdale, or the surrounding towns, you’ll find a diverse culinary scene—from healthy bowls and quick bites to upscale dinners and inventive Mexican cuisine. Please let me know if I missed any favorites from your list—happy to update this guide!