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As the proud owner of two beautiful and large doggos and a sucker for a gorgeous desert sunset, I am obsessed with patio dining in Scottsdale.
Here are my top choices for outdoor dining that will allow you to enjoy your meal while soaking in that Vitamin D:
13225 N Eagle Ridge Dr.
Let us talk about this view! Located above the McDowell mountains, you get beautiful desert sky and land views complimentary with your meal. Whether you sit inside or out, you will get a sweeping view of the desert landscape with their panoramic windows encasing the restaurant.
Stop by around 6:00 PM on a Friday or Saturday night to enjoy a perfect Scottsdale sunset with live music! Now, let’s talk about food. They got it all, breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, dessert, and happy hour. The “Smarch Burger” is an easy favorite, but I think the popcorn shrimp tacos are worth a mention too, with charred jalapenos and chipotle creme.
But where you need to look is that Sunset Menu of cocktails, where you will find the Oaxacan old fashioned. Tequila, Mezcal, honey, and bitters; say less!
3800 N Goldwater Blvd.
Their patio is perfect for a large group of friends and their pups. The patio is open seating, but despite that, the level of service is pretty high. The big trees that cover the patio area make you feel like you are sitting on the wrap-around porch of a big house, instead of at a mainstream restaurant, helping to create a wonderful outdoor dining experience.
With the friendly staff members and the bar area that is kind of a hybrid between an outdoor and indoor space with low seats, you will honestly feel like you’ve been invited to your friend’s house for the evening.
Did I mention this spot is vegan friendly? Cornish Pasty serves up creative vegan options in all of your favorite flavors. The “Vegan Cubano” with jackfruit, vegan ham, dill pickles, and yellow mustard is a must.
6936 E Main St.
The House’s patio reminds me of a perfectly curated backyard wedding. The house was built in 1939 by the Mowry family and still has the original exterior. The dining room of The House gives true Victorian vibes, but I prefer the outdoor patio that lets you people-watch as folks meander Old Town.
The French-influenced menu starts with a “Chef’s Choice” option you can pick. But this menu is not pre-set so you can choose from an array of appetizers, salads, entrees, steaks, sides, and desserts. Try a “Linz Umami 28-Day Dry Aged Ribeye Steak” and add a “Dungeness Crab Cake – Oscar Style” to have the ultimate surf and turf meal.
3701 N Marshall Way
At Virtu, you have a dreamy patio area that is lit by candlelight and is the perfect location for an upcoming date night. The space is small and intimate and their largest table can only cater to a party of 6, which honestly is ideal.
On this darling patio area, you will get an authentic Italian menu that is always changing, which means there is always something new and exciting here at Virtu. Chef Gio Osso likes to feature whatever is in season when it comes to the seafood and produce, in order to ensure the highest quality of food arrives on your plate. Their pasta is made in-house and never fails to impress.
7135 E Camelback Rd.
Culinary Dropout is a staple when it comes to the Scottsdale Fashion Square foodie scene. Their patio allows dogs, which is great for your fluffy companions, and their high-top seats are great for people-watching throughout the immediate area.
Try my go-to, their house-made potato chips with onion dip and their Korean ribs, if you’re not afraid to get a little messy. Both are on the happy hour menu and are a delicious start to a meal or plenty to share with friends. Go a little crazy and get a shot and a beer with their “It’s 3:45 Somewhere” drink menu. My choice would be the Corazon Blanco tequila and a Tecate.
If you’re looking for a more in-depth review of this restaurant, you can check it out here!
BRB – I’ll be heading over to Cielo to check out that happy hour and grab that old fashioned!
After grabbing a bite to eat, why not head out for an elevated drinking experience? Check out our list of the best rooftop bars in Scottsdale!
