Summer in Arizona means a few inevitable things: triple-digit temperatures, blazing sidewalks, and the return of one of the Valley’s most beloved dining traditions. “The Summer of Salads” at The Gladly is once again giving locals a refreshing reason to embrace the heat — and celebrate one of the state’s most iconic dishes.
From June through August, fans of the restaurant’s famed Original Chopped Salad can enjoy the dish every Monday for just $15. This year’s celebration feels especially meaningful. In May 2025, the Original Chopped Salad was officially recognized by the state as an iconic dish of Arizona, solidifying its place not just on restaurant menus but in the state’s food history.
The proclamation reads: “The Original Chopped Salad [is recognized] as a celebrated culinary staple of Arizona and commends the contributions of Chef Bernie Kantak and The Gladly for its role in preserving and sharing this iconic dish, and expresses its appreciation for the chefs, restaurateurs, and culinary professionals who continue to enrich our city’s cultural landscape.”
Originally created by Chef Bernie in 1997, the salad has become recognizable for its perfectly arranged rows of smoked salmon, couscous, arugula, freeze-dried corn, pepitas, asiago, black currants, and buttermilk dressing. Part of the appeal lies not only in the flavors but in the nostalgia and community the dish inspires.
For many Phoenix residents, ordering the Original Chopped Salad feels tied to memories of lunches with friends, celebrations, and regular Monday meetups that have quietly become tradition over the years. “The Summer of Salads” taps into that feeling perfectly. It celebrates the simple pleasure of gathering around a dish that has become woven into the fabric of Arizona dining culture.
Whether enjoyed on a patio with friends or as a solo Monday reset, the Original Chopped Salad remains proof that sometimes the most iconic dishes are also the simplest: fresh ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and a story that keeps people coming back year after year. Learn more at thegladly.com.
