La Hacienda
There is a lot to love about the restaurant lineup at Fairmont Scottsdale; however, it is the recently re-opened La Hacienda that makes us most eager to get to the luxury resort. Seafoodies and meat lovers both rejoice at La Hacienda’s Modern Mexican offerings, with our favorites being the huachinango a la veracruzana and filet a la parilla, respectively. 480.585.4848, www.fairmont.com/scottsdale.com.
Sassi
When there’s not enough time for a European vacation, there’s always the chance to dine at Sassi. Reminiscent of an Italian villa, this Scottsdale restaurant oozes romance and, even better, dishes up mouth-watering pasta dishes and an impressive selection of antipasti (we’re always happy to sink our teeth into the fried squash blossoms). 480.502.9095, www.sassi.biz.
Pizzeria Bianco
It looks like we’re not the only fans of Chris Bianco’s slices: Pizzeria Bianco has been featured on “The Oprah Winfrey Show” and in both Martha Stewart’s and Rachael Ray’s magazines. Even though Bianco isn’t in front of the oven as much as before (due to asthma), the popular pizzeria still hosts three-hour waits and the Valley’s leading ‘za. 602.258.8300, www.pizzeriabianco.com.
Tarbell’s
Tarbell’s has been a Phoenix neighborhood staple for 15 years serving up fresh, elegant cuisine on white tablecloths. The restaurant’s extensive menu features pasta, seafood, chops and desserts like the chocolate-covered caramel mini apples which were added after Chef Mark Tarbell dominated on “Iron Chef: America” (he’s also a James Beard Foundation Award nominee). With its inviting atmosphere and friendly service, we can’t resist going back for more. 602.955.8100, www.tarbells.com.
Binkley’s Restaurant
Listen up, New Yorkers: Cave Creek’s Binkley’s Restaurant rivals any big city eatery. The respected restaurant offers complex dishes (laid out neatly in a four-part menu) that any gourmand can appreciate and petite portions that are as easy on the eyes as they are on the taste buds. Diners are invited to chose from the à la carte menu, which changes daily, or partake in a four-, five- or six-course tasting menu. 480.437.1072, www.binkleysrestaurant.com.
