Starfish Hospitality Group is bringing a taste of the coast to the desert. The Orange County-based restaurant group will open its first location outside of California: Starfish Scottsdale will take over the corner of Hayden Road and Via de Ventura and is expected to open in early 2026, introducing the Valley to the group’s signature blend of Coastal Asian cuisine, elevated cocktails, and inviting neighborhood energy. Starfish will feature a menu inspired by the coastal regions of Thailand, Korea, Vietnam, China, and Japan.
“We want Scottsdale to experience our warmth and excellence when they walk through the doors of Starfish in McCormick Ranch,” Co-founder Gretchen McConnell said. “Our dedication to bringing freshness, quality, ambiance, and service to the desert is our company’s mission. It’s an honor to showcase these elements in our first location outside California, marking an exciting expansion journey for our organization.”
Founded in 2011 by Gretchen and her husband, Archie, Starfish Hospitality Group has grown steadily. The group’s portfolio includes Starfish Laguna Beach, Starfish Newport Beach, Starfish Coastal Catering, and The Cove by Starfish, a concessions concept at the Sawdust Art Festival. In June 2026, the brand will celebrate 15 successful years in business, making the Scottsdale opening a fitting next chapter.
The menus are crafted by the McConnells and their culinary team and feature more than 70 shareable plates. Guests can expect hand-folded dumplings made daily, scratch-made Thai curries, seafood, wok-fired classics, vegetable dishes, and noodle and rice options that highlight the fusion-style cuisine.
The beverage program is equally robust, offering exotic cocktails, Asian and local beers, and sake selections. An extensive wine list rounds out the experience, celebrating the culture and craftsmanship of premier producers from dynamic wine regions around the world.
Menu highlights include Thai spicy beef with basil, featuring steak, green beans, red bell peppers, and asparagus wok-fired with fresh Thai basil in a sweet and spicy glaze; the lobster macadamia nut sushi roll with lobster tail, mango, cucumber, and house-made aioli; and Chilean sea bass wrapped in banana leaf with Thai basil green curry and garlic green beans.
Signature cocktails such as the Wild Lychee Martini, Starfish Cooler, and Thai Me Down – a spiked Thai tea martini with a cinnamon and sugar rim – add a playful touch to the experience.
The Scottsdale location will span 5,200 square feet, with 3,800 square feet indoors and a 1,400-square-foot patio. The space has been reimagined with Starfish’s signature design elements, including tropical fabrics, custom booth seating, and eye-catching artwork intended to transport guests to Southeast Asia.
The 90-seat patio enhances the atmosphere, making the restaurant equally suited for celebratory dinners, casual work lunches, and everything in between. In addition, guests will have access to high-quality takeout, private dining , and catering services, ensuring Starfish Scottsdale becomes a versatile destination for the community. For more information, visit starfishhospitalitygroup.com.
