What goes better together than a perfectly chilled glass of buttery chardonnay and chunk of aged white cheddar? Mid 70’s temps and gorgeous desert views! It’s patio weather in AZ and I’m sharing my favorite patios in the valley.
FOR BRUNCH: El Chorro- A classic AZ landmark nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain with the best sticky buns this side of the Mississippi…or this side of Saguaro Lake at the very least. You MUST make a reservation for the patio if you have any hope of securing one of the highly desirable tables near the picturesque fountain or wood burning fireplace. The eggs Benedict is a brunch highlight- the food in general is not overly heavy here (because they know you will eat at least 1 basket of stick y buns per person.) You’re tummy with thank me, your thighs? Not so much. Tip: They also have one of the best $5 happy hours in town!
FOR LUNCH: Arcadia Farms- duuu. If you haven’t been here you’re totally missing out on a not so secret gem located in Old Town Scottsdale. Reservations are a MUST as is the strawberry chicken salad. They do offer a tasty brunch menu with favorites such as homemade scones, savory mushroom tarts, and exotic omelets but it’s the orchard farm like ambiance that is the highlight. Parking is bad, welcome to Scottsdale. Allow a few minutes or use the valet. Tip: Order some baked goods to go from the bakery across the street!
FOR HAPPY HOUR: Isabella’s Kitchen – If you haven’t been to Isabella’s Kitchen at the Grayhawk golf club, you’re depriving yourself of some killer bruschetta and an impressive view. Is the food the best thing I’ve ever tasted? No. Is the view one the most enjoyable and scenic I’ve ever seen in AZ? Yes. So concentrate more on the atmosphere and you will fall in love with this place too. Don’t get me wrong, the sweet ricotta ravioli and creative bruschetta’s are good, but the view and drinks are what people come for. There’s also a fabulous grassy area attached to the patio that all the kids at the restaurant can run and play on while their parents get tipsy. Genius! Tip: bring balls and outdoor toys to share.
FOR DINNER: Talavera at 4 Seasons at Troon AND Lon’s at the Hermosa. I can’t pick just one!! I love these two patios and what they serve! At Talavera, the patio overlooks the Arizona desert and the service is 5 star every time. The food is exceptional (think chilled seafood towers, local beet salads, and aged steaks seared to perfection.) The setting at Lon’s is quite different but equally as charming and perfect for a date night. The tables are set under huge trees strung with tiny white lights providing a romantic backdrop to a sophisticated ever changing menu and live music. Tips: visit Lon’s during Arizona restaurant week or experience the chefs tasting menu and try a variety of goodies and book a room at the Four Seasons at Troon to take advantage of the fabulous pool next to Talavera.
