Few places do pasta as well as Old Town’s Marcellino Ristorante. Fancy words like “toothsome” and “corpulent” even fill the menu to describe Chef Marcellino’s pasta masterpieces. For a truly special affair, book a seat at Chef’s Island to see him at work, and Chef will create four to six amazing courses just for you.
At its two local spots (Central Phoenix and Gilbert), Clever Koi impresses guests with impeccable ramen (the seasonal option is always a favorite), unique steamed buns and dumplings and, interestingly enough, one of our favorite burgers in the Valley. Don’t skip out on the cocktails; you’ll be head over heels for Riding the Pine and Unholy Alliance.
**This fall, Born & Raised Hospitality, the restaurateurs behind the Clever Koi, will open Fellow. The casual Italian-style osteria and craft cocktail bar will be housed inside a stylish, custom-designed space at SkySong in Scottsdale.
Artizen, Crafted American Kitchen & Bar
Artizen, Crafted American Kitchen & Bar, at The Camby in Phoenix manages to be both sleek yet comfy, sexy yet down-to-earth. Guests are treated to some serious good looks upon entering the restaurant, which is drenched in bronze accents, bold lighting and a deep-blue palette. Standout dishes include the Parisian gnocchi, the yellowtail crudo and smoked lamb neck bucatini.
Boasting some serious indoor/outdoor dining goodness, Ocotillo is Phoenix is a super-cool spot to linger once the temperature is right—and it doesn’t hurt that the food is top-notch, too. The menu has a stocked salad and veggie lineup for light eaters, while those with a hearty hankering can dig into housemade pastas and larger entrees. Try the grilled Spanish octopus or wildly simple but stunning sun-dried strawberries with ricotta.
The signature restaurant at The Boulders offers the Southwestern cuisine that visitors crave when visiting Carefree—but with a modern twist. The elegant restaurant offers hearty meat and seafood entrees as well as a selection of lighter offerings that get the taste party started. Must-tries at the recently renovated restaurant, which overlooks the golf course, include the chargrilled octopus.
