Scrolling through restaurant reviews in the Old Town Scottsdale area can feel overwhelming – flashy websites, perfect photos, and glowing five-star ratings everywhere you look. But which spots actually live up to the hype? Here are the restaurants that deliver memorable experiences worthy of your time and money!
Let’s kick things off with one of Old Town’s most stylish newcomers: The Ends. Housed in a chic, midcentury-modern space, this new concept from longtime Scottsdale restaurateur Tommy Plato blends imaginative global twists with local ingredients. Whether you’re diving into the deeply flavorful bison cacio e pepe or swooning over Tommy’s Biscuits drizzled in fermented honey, the experience is never dull. With top-tier cocktails and a cozy-meets-urban atmosphere, The Ends is where locals gather for elevated evenings that don’t take themselves too seriously — just the way Scottsdale likes it.
The Montauk
Next up, The Montauk delivers serious East Coast vibes with a playful Arizona twist. Known for its breezy coastal décor and crowd-pleasing lobster rolls, this all-day hangout is just as popular for its vibes as its bites. Oversized cocktail trees (yes, twelve drinks per tower) and frozen coconut margaritas make it an ideal spot for day drinking, while live music and Monday all-day happy hour keep the energy going all week long. With its beachy aesthetic and expansive patio, The Montauk is the perfect place to unwind over brunch or dinner.
The Mission
There’s upscale Latin dining, and then there’s The Mission. Surrounded by flickering candlelight and the warm glow of Himalayan salt blocks, the ambiance alone is unforgettable. Chef Matt Carter, a recipient of the Foodist Food Pioneer Award, draws inspiration from Latin America, Spain, and his own culinary travels to craft bold, flavor-packed dishes that are as artful as they are satisfying. From grilled meats to fresh ceviche enjoyed on the lush patio, every bite is an experience. And don’t skip the legendary tableside guacamole. The Mission isn’t just about dinner — it’s a mood, a vibe, and a masterclass in Latin elegance.
Sexy Roman
Now, if you’re ready to turn up the heat both literally and figuratively, Sexy Roman inside W Scottsdale lives up to its bold name. This spot takes traditional Italian recipes and gives them a sultry modern twist. The signature martini cart isn’t just for show – it’s an actual theatrical experience that involves hidden buttons and dramatic flair that’ll make you feel like you’re in on some delicious secret. Chef Jason Franey’s James Beard nomination speaks for itself, but it’s the tableside tiramisu service that seals the deal. With glowing marble and plush seating throughout, this modern Roman fantasy makes every dinner feel like a special occasion worth celebrating.
Toca Madera
For those who like their meals with a side of spectacle, Toca Madera is Scottsdale’s answer to high-drama dining. Located near Ocean 44 in the luxury wing of Fashion Square, this immersive spot blends modern Mexican cuisine with an over-the-top sensory experience — fire dancers, DJs, and architectural wow-factor included. Their menu caters to every diet (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and beyond), though the real headliners are the tequila and mezcal-forward cocktails crafted with farm-to-glass precision. The vibe? Glamorous chaos — and that’s exactly the point.
Uchi
From fire to finesse, shift gears with a serene-yet-exhilarating meal at Uchi Scottsdale, where Japanese tradition meets contemporary precision. Founded by Chef Tyson Cole, this polished newcomer offers a standout omakase and seasonal bites that feel like edible art. Signature dishes like hama chili and wagyu on hot rock blend interactivity with flavor, while hard-to-find fish flown in from Japan’s Toyosu Market make every nigiri feel like a rare find. Perched at the sushi bar or enjoying yuzu cocktails on the patio, Uchi delivers a sensory deep dive that keeps guests coming back for more.
Loco Patrón
If tacos, craft beer, and casual energy are your speed, Loco Patrón checks every box. What started as a local hangout has grown into a beloved staple offering award-winning Mexican eats, signature margaritas, and something no one else has — Scottsdale’s only Mexican craft brewery. House brews like The Ocho IPA and Loco Vaca Cream Ale pair perfectly with fan-favorite carne asada tacos or chile rellenos. Whether you’re here for the game, a mid-week meal, or a summer patio session, Loco Patrón keeps things chill, festive, and deliciously local.
Élephante
Élephante at Fashion Square transports you to coastal southern Italy without the jet lag. Every detail has been handcrafted to create an escape, from the imported travertine tile to the custom furniture that makes you want to move in permanently. Their wood-fired pizzas and house-made pastas are the stars, but don’t sleep on the puccia bread – it’s like discovering a secret that the rest of Arizona hasn’t caught onto yet. And if you try just one thing, make it the whipped eggplant—creamy, flavorful, and absolutely addictive. Wednesday night Aperitivo events celebrate the Italian ritual of pre-dinner drinks and small bites, creating a weekly tradition that locals have started planning their schedules around.
Postino
Sometimes you just need a place that gets it right every single time, and Postino has been that reliable friend since it originated right here in the Valley. Their formula is deceptively simple – good wine, shareable food, and spaces that make conversation flow as smoothly as their carefully curated selections. The bruschetta platters are legendary for a reason, and their Wine Cult membership program shows they’re serious about creating a community around great sips. Each location has its own personality while maintaining that signature rustic charm that makes every visit feel like coming home.
Bourbon & Bones
Bourbon & Bones raises the steakhouse bar with their chef-driven approach to premium cuts. Their whiskey library boasts over 600 bottles, creating a haven for bourbon enthusiasts, while their USDA Prime steaks and Japanese Wagyu offerings prove they’re not messing around in the kitchen either. The high-energy atmosphere breaks from traditional steakhouse stuffiness – this is where celebrations happen over perfectly aged meat and rare pours that most places don’t even know exist.
Velvet Taco
When you’re craving something completely different, Velvet Taco liberates the humble taco from its Tex-Mex constraints with globally-inspired creations that’ll make you question everything you thought you knew about handheld food. The Spicy Tikka Chicken and Quesa Birria Duo aren’t just fusion for fusion’s sake – they’re thoughtful combinations that actually work. Their Grand Kick Ass Margaritas live up to the name, and the colorful space practically dares you to step outside your comfort zone and try something that’ll surprise you.
AZ88
A true staple of Old Town, AZ88 has been setting the bar since 1988 — and not just for cocktails (though their martinis are famously massive). The rotating local art, sleek architecture, and stylish patio overlooking Civic Center Park create an ambiance that’s both polished and approachable. With consistently excellent food and cocktails that border on iconic, AZ88 has become the go-to for locals looking to impress their guests or just enjoy a night out with character. Ask around, and you’ll hear the same thing: their espresso martini might just be the best in the Valley—but you’ll have to try it yourself to decide!
ALMA
Although ALMA isn’t located directly in Old Town, it’s just a short 7-minute drive away — and it absolutely deserves a place on this list. For those moments when you want authenticity, with a side of fun, ALMA brings Southwest flair to Mexican cuisine in ways that feel both familiar and fresh. Chef Sheila Bryson’s locally-owned operation serves hand-formed empanadas and daily-made tortillas that taste like love wrapped in corn. Their tequila list reads like a treasure map of Mexico’s finest distilleries, and the weekend brunch featuring lobster benedict and churro waffles proves they’re not playing around. The neon-lit atmosphere buzzes with energy that’s infectious – this is where bachelorette parties and Tuesday night dinners get the same level of enthusiasm from the staff.
Théa
Just a bit farther out — about 10 minutes from Old Town — you’ll find Théa, a Mediterranean-inspired rooftop gem perched atop the Global Ambassador Hotel in Phoenix. This elevated dining experience offers sweeping views of Camelback Mountain and a vibe that feels equal parts luxurious and lively. The mezze plates are built for sharing, the wine list is internationally acclaimed (especially if you love rosé), and the Friday/Saturday DJ scene turns every dinner into a full-blown experience. Sunset to starlight, Théa delivers a rooftop escape that’s worth going slightly out of your way for.
Stay Close to the Flavor
These spots have earned their buzz through consistently great food, thoughtful service, and atmospheres that create real connections between people. Each one offers something unique while maintaining the quality that keeps locals coming back. And speaking of coming back, if you’re planning to make the most of your Old Town dining adventures, why not stay somewhere that puts you right in the heart of the action? GoodNight Stay offers homes throughout the area that serve as your home base for all these culinary explorations. Plus, right now through August 31st, you can get 15% off with code HELLOAZSUMMER – because great meals taste even better when you’re staying somewhere that feels like home.
