2011 Readers’ Choice Restaurant Awards!

Congratulations to the winners of our 2011 Readers’ Choice Restaurant Awards! Thank you to everyone who voted for your favorite dining destinations from across the Valley. There are some familiar names on the list from previous years, but there are also some rising stars on this list. Time to eat!

AFTER HOURS: Blue Martini

CityNorth

5455 E. High St., Ste. 101
Phoenix, AZ 85054
VIP reservations: (480) 374-1830

You can’t partake of Phoenix nightlife without a visit to Blue Martini. Stop by for some tasty tapas and cool cocktails, or plan a private party people will remember. Enjoy live entertainment from top artists, bands, and DJs, and make the most of your experiences by joining their exclusive VIP membership. Girls can get a midweek refresher on Wednesday’s Girls’ Night Out, which includes fabulous amenities and VIP tables.

AMERICAN: Thirteen North Grille

1301 E. Northern Ave.

Phoenix, AZ 85020

(602) 795-1397

thirteenorthgrille.com

Featuring a menu that is both familiar and sophisticated, Thirteen North Grille serves up sizzling dishes to delight any palate. Start the meal off with a tasty bruschetta platter or seared ahi tuna before moving on to the signature 13^th North salad. Opt for a savory open-faced New York strip sandwich, or sample something a little more interesting, like the grilled Alaska salmon with dill sauce or mussels and clam linguine. Even their mac ’n’ cheese has a twist: Tillamook cheddar, gruyere, and fontina cheeses give the classic American dish an original flavor.

APPETIZERS: Ocean Club

15045 N. Kierland Blvd.

Scottsdale, AZ

(480) 443-8555

mastrosoceanclub.com

This ultra-high-end coastal version of the steak house offers the best in upscale seafood in a clubby, avant-garde atmosphere that features live entertainment nightly in the O Bar.

BARBECUE: Q-to-U-BBQ

3434 W. Anthem Way, Ste. 146

Anthem, AZ 85086

(623) 465-7800

q-to-u-bbq.com

This family-run uniquely named barbecue joint serves up authentic slow-smoked barbecue in Anthem. Gnaw on some St. Louis-cut pork ribs, chow down on some pulled pork or brisket, and enjoy the aptly named Loosen Your Belt and Unbutton Your Pants sampler platters. A friendly atmosphere, melt-in-your-mouth American dishes, and homemade sides make the trip up to Anthem from anywhere in the Valley a pleasant one. Closed Mondays.

BREAKFAST: 32 Shea

10626 N. 32^nd St.
Phoenix, AZ 85028

(602) 867-SHEA

32shea.com

Blink and you might miss it, but big flavor comes in small buildings. With a cool vibe, a smooth bar, and a dog-friendly patio, it’s the perfect place to stop in for some relaxation, an intimate business meeting, a traditional date, or a great meal to start the day. A reasonably priced menu features the nutritious and the savory. Nutella lovers will love this little slice of heaven.

BREWERY: Four Peaks Grill & Tap*

15745 N. Hayden Rd., #D5-7

Scottsdale, AZ 85260

(480) 991-1795

fourpeaks.com

From Scottish-style ale to oatmeal stout to Hefeweizen and specialty beers, Four Peaks can please your craving for hops. Of course, what would brew be without classic accompaniments like wings and five-layer nacho dip? Brewery basics like hearty burgers, soups, pizzas, and alehouse sandwiches anchor a menu that includes some favorites, like pub fish and chips and comforts like carne adovada (cherry-wood-smoked slow-roasted pork simmered in red chili sauce with rice, beans, and warm flour tortillas). Also check out the brewing company in Tempe.

BURGERS: Delux Burger

3146 E. Camelback Rd.

Phoenix, AZ 85016

(602) 522-2288

deluxburger.com

Who says you can’t have dessert first? Start off with the Delux banana split lava cake, or accompany your meal with a Delux house draft root beer float. Continue with some chilled gazpacho made fresh daily, and then fill up on a variety of sandwiches, panini, and deli salads. Pair every course with some yummy sweet potato fries.

CHINESE: Jade Palace*

Pinnacle Peak

23623 N. Scottsdale Rd., #7

Scottsdale, AZ 85255

(480) 585-6630

jadepalaceaz.com

The family-owned Jade Palace crafts your delicious Chinese dishes using fresh ingredients delivered to its three locations daily. According to its Web site, meats are cooked using a technique referred to as “instant high heat,” which is said to not only cook meats faster but also preserve its tenderness, nutrients, and taste. Enjoy a traditional menu packed with your favorite Chinese cuisine, all in the middle of the desert.

COFFEE SHOP: Press Coffee Food & Wine*

CityNorth

5410 E. High St., Ste. 115

Phoenix, AZ 85054

(480) 419-6221

presscoffeefoodwine.com

This family-run business that combines passions for food, wine, and coffee has expanded to three locations in three years. Coffee beans—many organic—sourced from around the world are roasted daily. Join them for events like wine tastings, coffee cuppings, live music, art shows, and three-course doggie dine-outs for your canine companions. Accompany your fresh-brewed cuppa with nutritious and filling snacks and dishes.

COMFORT FOOD: Chompies*

Mercado Del Rancho Center

9301 E. Shea Blvd.

Scottsdale, AZ 85260

(480) 860-0475

chompies.com

The Borensteins came to the Valley from Queens, New York, in 1979 to make the entire Valley eat, dollink, eat—and eat deli. Chompie’s is an exciting New York-style deli-restaurant and bakery featuring freshly baked breads, cakes, pastries and, of course, world-famous bagels and bialys in 35 “hot” varieties.

CONTINENTAL: Atlas Bistro

2515 N. Scottsdale Rd.

Scottsdale, AZ 85257

(480) 990-2433

atlasbistrobyob.com

This premier BYOB is popular, so it’s best to make a reservation. And you’ll want to, because the menu features scrumptious options like hand-rolled gnocchi with BMR chevre, black garlic, baby squash, and Tuscan kale as well as crispy salmon skin with wakame, baby radishes, sesame, and ponzu. Bring your favorite bottle of wine to pair with such an elegant dish or with a rave list of fantastic and diverse cheeses. Visit their Web site for a list of events.

DELI: Miracle Mile Deli*

Arrowhead Towne Center

7700 W. Arrowhead Town Center, #1145

Glendale, AZ 85308

(623) 979-3430

miraclemiledeli.com

This delectable delicatessen has served Valley residents for sixty years with the kind of service and homemade fare that can only be found at family-owned and -run establishments. With third-generation owners, a name that commemorates its original location, and a mission to offer “consistently delicious food, reasonable prices, and quick service,” this delightful deli can be found at three convenient locations.

DESSERT: The Cheesecake Factory*

15230 North Scottsdale Rd.

Scottsdale, AZ 85254

(480) 607-0083

thecheesecakefactory.com

The Cheesecake Factory is an upscale casual dining restaurant offering more than 200 menu selections that include appetizers, pizza, pasta, seafood, steaks, salads, sandwiches, and fifty delectable cheesecakes and desserts!

ECLECTIC: Carefree Station Grill & Bar

7212 Ho Hum Rd.
Carefree, AZ 85377
(480) 488-8182
carefreestation.com

Located in the heart of the Spanish Village in Carefree is a delightful dining destination with diverse, beautifully plated dishes of staple meats like pork, steak, and lamb as well as a La Familia menu featuring authentic Mexican options from the staff’s stash of family recipes. Enjoy an extensive wine list and rich desserts. Also, consider catering for your special event.

FAMILY FRIENDLY: Dave & Busters

21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Ste. 44-1400
Phoenix, AZ 85050
(480) 538-8956
daveandbusters.com

A prime place to eat and play, Dave & Busters is great for a family outing. In between billiards and arcade games, snack on American appetizers or feast on juicy burgers, hearty steaks, and or seafood. Save room for dessert—everyone loves brownie sundaes and bananas foster pie, but you’ll likely want to sample the Belgian chocolate fondue, which is ideal for sharing.

FRENCH: Zinc Bistro

Kierland Commons

15034 N Scottsdale Rd.

Scottsdale, AZ 85281

(480) 603-0922

zincbistroaz.com

Location, location, location—a New York-style Parisian bistro in the Arizona desert! Enjoy the oyster bar where shellfish is brought in daily—the freshest oysters, clams, mussels, and lobster you can find in the desert.

GREEK: Daphne’s Greek Café

16447 N. Scottsdale Rd. Ste. 101

Scottsdale, AZ 85254

(480) 247-6704

daphnesgreekcafe.com

This lovely restaurant provides you with the perfect opportunity to sample a rather tasty cuisine from the enchanting Mediterranean. Named for the ancient Greek mythological goddess Daphne, who was transformed into a laurel tree whose branches are twisted into a wreath to adorn the heads of Olympic athletes, the restaurant aspires to its symbolic excellence. Its reasonably priced menu offers dishes with a sensible number of calories and a burst of that yummy Greek flavor.

INDIAN: Bombay Spice

10810 N. Tatum Blvd.

Phoenix, AZ 85028

(602) 795-0020

bombayspice.com

Indulge in savory Indian cuisine and eat healthy at the same time. Dishes are prepared with olive oil instead of ghee or butter, and the Web site details the nutritional content of each dish. Those who require gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan-friendly options will appreciate the accommodating menu, which showcases authentic Indian options like chickpea ceviche and curries mixed with vegan protein, as well as roti and naan breads made fresh daily. Pair your meal with a selection from their international wine list.

ITALIAN: Times Square Neighborhood Italian Restaurant

2602 W. Deer Valley Rd.

Phoenix, AZ 85027

(623) 582-8866

timessquareaz.com

Oh, yes. It’s one of those restaurants that feature caricatures of the regular customers on its walls. But its the food that lures customers back time and again. In true Italian style, Times Square’s menu includes pizza, pasta, and pollo (chicken) in addition to the baked basics and homemade desserts. No menu would be complete without the customary soups and salads, but you may be surprised to learn that this joint also serves breakfast.

JAPANESE: Tokyo Lobby Sushi + Grill

5795 W. Bell Rd., #1

Glendale, AZ 85308

(602) 942-4165

tokyolobbysushi.com

One of Asia’s greatest gifts to the West is sushi—at least, that’s what sushi lovers are wont to believe. Sushi is a delicacy and an art, and when crafted and cut just right, it’s an experience for the palate and the eyes. Load up on a colorful array of fresh fish, shrimp, and other sourced-from-the-sea selections. Not a fan of nuri (seaweed)? No worries—there’s plenty of sashimi to be sampled. If you prefer your food cooked, there are plenty of decently priced options on the grill menu as well.

MEXICAN: The Blue Agave Mexican Cantina

7000 E. Mayo Blvd.

Scottsdale, AZ 85054

(480) 419-6375

blueagavemexicancantina.com

Lunch on some stuffed burritos and chimichangas, or exercise some portion control with the chef’s Just Right Portions selections. Savory pulled pork, Baja fish tacos, and jalapeño cheese filet mignon comprise some of the flavorful main courses, while starters like fire-roasted shrimp salad and spinach con queso topped with fresh tomatoes complement great conversation. Leave room for some caramel apple cheesecake or the classic Mexican fried ice cream, or opt for some after-dinner drinks that include aromatic coffee and port.

PATIO DINING: Olive & Ivy Restaurant & Marketplace

7135 E. Camelback Rd., Ste. 195
Scottsdale, AZ 85251

(480) 751-2200

foxrc.com/olive_ivy.html

Old world meets new at Olive & Ivy, which blends the provocative flavors and timeless elegance of the Mediterranean with contemporary California chic. Olive & Ivy, featuring Scottsdale’s largest outdoor patio, is a lively neighborhood hot spot offering something for everyone.

PERSIAN: The Persian Room

17040 N. Scottsdale Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
(480) 614-1414
persianroom.com

Take a trip to Persia in our own backyard! Savor the sweet and spicy flavors indicative of Persian cuisine in a richly appointed dining area. For the past twenty-five years, the Persian Room has offered a varied menu that includes marinated meats like filet mignon and lamb, grilled seafood over saffron-scented basmati rice, and uniquely flavored stews.

PIZZERIA: Pizzeria Bianco

4404 N. Central Ave., Ste. A
Phoenix, AZ 85012
(602) 234-2100
pizzeriabianco.com

If you favor traditional Italian pizza offerings, you’ll like Pizzeria Bianco, whose menu highlights pizza selections like Margherita (tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil) and Wiseguy (wood roasted onion, house-smoked mozzarella, and fennel sausage). Snack on some Gaeta olives and get your greens in with a salad made with local organic lettuces.

RESTAURANT WITH A VIEW: Different Pointe of View (at Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort)

11111 N. 7^th St.
Phoenix, AZ 85020
(602) 866-6350
tapatiocliffshilton.com/dining/different-pointe-of-view

We live smack dab in the middle of the most beautiful desert in the country, and Different Pointe of View takes advantage of the scenery to maximize the dining experience of its diners. Take in views of North Mountain from the terrace or through panoramic windows as you savor dishes like Ellensburg seared lamb loin with crispy parmesan polenta, roasted baby beets, Brussels leafs, and Perigord truffle mushroom reduction. Finish off the meal with a wine and chocolate sampler, which includes a sampling of Chef Lara’s fine chocolates paired with Wine Flights by the in-house sommelier.

ROMANTIC: Orange Sky Restaurant (at Talking Stick Resort)

9000 E. Indian Bend Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85256
(866) 877-9897
talkingstickresort.com/orange-sky.aspx

The 200-seat restaurant sits atop Talking Stick Resort’s fifteenth floor and gives diners stunning 360-degree views of our “signature orange sunsets.” Ingredients are high quality, fresh and, when possible, locally sourced. Dishes are simple and varied. An eclectic wine list is illustrated by a glass wine room that displays more than one hundred white wine selections and a sommelier table with handcrafted cedar wood wine racks. Enjoy some privacy with the love of your life in the high-back seating enclaves and forget everything outside of the sensational food, company, and skies.

SEAFOOD: Ocean Prime

City North
5455 E. High St., #115
Phoenix, AZ 85054
ocean-prime.com

The modern American supper club melds the retro with the contemporary for a pleasing and elegant design aesthetic. With incredible service, delicious seafood and steaks, and creative quality cocktails and wines, Ocean Prime doesn’t just lure people in—it keeps them coming back for more.

SPORTS BAR: Yard House*

21001 N. Tatum Blvd.

Phoenix, AZ 85050

(480) 563-9273

yardhouse.com

If it’s beer, it’s here. The Yard House is an upscale casual eatery known for the world’s largest selection of beer, from the known to the obscure. Each location features a transparent keg room containing more than 600 barrels, some 1,000 gallons of beer, and an endless fleet of tap handles. There are plenty of unique American cuisine menu items to wash down with your selected suds.

STEAKHOUSE: Fleming’s Steakhouse*

DC Ranch

20753 N. Pima Rd., Bldg. R

North Scottsdale, AZ 85255

(480) 538-8000

flemingssteakhouse.com

Fleming’s features the finest in prime beef and a tempting variety of chops, seafood, chicken, generous salads, inventive side orders, and indulgent desserts in a fine-dining atmosphere. Fleming’s 100’s celebrated wine list boasts some of the finest wines in the world, all available by the glass.

THAI: Takeda Thai

10271 N. Scottsdale Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
(480) 483-5006
takedathai.com

Sample well-prepared Thai food made with authentic herbs and spices and served with care. The menu includes fresh salads and soups, seafood and meats, and rice and noodles, with all the flavors and spiciness Thai food lovers crave.

VEGETARIAN: Picazzo’s Organic Italian Kitchen*

7325 Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
(480) 990-2212
picazzos.com

Picazzo’s is locally owned, and many of its ingredients are locally grown. All of its ingredients, however, are organically grown, and any meats are hormone- and nitrate-free. Gluten-intolerant guests can relax with a menu that is over 90-percent gluten-free, including desserts and beers. The first location opened in Sedona in 2002, and ten years later, the now multiple locations are still providing the originally conceptualized tasty and nutritious meals.

VIETNAMESE: Da Vang

4538 N. 19^th Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85015
(602) 242-3575

If you’re looking for authentic Vietnamese cuisine for a great price, you’ll want to check out Da Vang. Try their strong iced coffee, traditional pho, rare beef, tasty broth, and other classic Vietnamese dishes. Enjoy quick service, large portions, and distinct flavors!

WINE BAR: Rhythm and Wine

7605 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd., #D1
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
(480) 478-6999
rhythmandwine.com

Sure, Rhythm and Wine serves some traditional American and Italian treats, including yummy pizzas, flaky fish and chips, and a fondue dessert dish, but the wine and spirits are its biggest draw. Decide between sweet and dry; sparkling and flat; white, blush, and red; and light, medium, and full intensity in your choice of wine, champagne, cocktails, or port. Take your palate on a journey around the world, order a bottle, or sample by the glass. Be sure to visit their Web site for a calendar of events that highlights happy hours and live music.

BUSINESS MEETING: Elevate Coffee Co.

2530 W. Happy Valley Rd., Ste. 1273

Phoenix, AZ 85058

(602) 341-5480

elevatecoffee.com

Since 2009, Elevate Coffee Co. has provided a diverse group of Phoenicians with a place to relax and connect with one another over nose-twitching aromas and insides-warming brews. Enjoy live music on weekend nights, study or catch up on work in peace while sipping savory international blends, or indulge with your friends in wholesome sandwiches and refreshing smoothies and frappes. Ten cents from each cup of joe goes toward providing safe water for children in Africa.

CELEBRATION: Vincent on Camelback*

3930 E. Camelback Rd., #204
Phoenix, AZ 85018

(602) 224-0225

vincentsoncamelback.com

Celebrate with good food and good company at Vincent on Camelback. Roasted rack of lamb, wild boar loin, cream of butternut squash soup, macadamia-crusted sea scallops, Tahitian vanilla vacherin, house-made sorbets, and decadent soufflés are just some of the mouthwatering options from which to choose. Consider catering an off-site celebration, or book a private dining room for 18 to 120 guests.

HAPPY HOUR: Brio Tuscan Grille

Scottsdale Quarter

15301 N. Scottsdale Rd.

Scottsdale, AZ 85254

(480) 607-1100

brioitalian.com/index.html

Brio Tuscan Grille brings you the flavors of Tuscany with its tempting brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert menus. Three private rooms that seat up to forty people make Brio a great location for your special parties and events. But this Italian eatery also offers up a great wine list as well as a special $2.95 “Tuscan Taster” bar menu Mondays through Fridays from 3–7 p.m. and 9 p.m. to closing time. Relax in Brio’s elegant European-inspired setting Wednesdays as you enjoy two dollars off martinis in the dining and bar areas.

LADIES’ LUNCH: Arcadia Farms

1625 N. Central Ave.

Phoenix, AZ 85004

(602) 257-2191

arcadiafarmscafe.com

Ladies, not only will you be lunching on artistic and flavorful recipes but you’ll also be chowing down on dishes made with locally and organically grown, pesticide-free, hormone-free, and trans-fat-free ingredients. After browsing the Phoenix Art Museum, stop in for some afternoon tea complete with tea-size sweets and imported teas, or savor the Sunday brunch delights like smoked salmon, berry crepes, and quiche Lorraine.

SUNDAY BRUNCH: The Wrigley Mansion

2501 E. Telawa Trail
Phoenix, AZ 85016
(602) 955-4079
wrigleymansionclub.com

Dining at The Wrigley Mansion is a complete experience. Their award-winning Sunday Champagne Brunch is worth the trip, and Geordie’s Restaurant & Lounge offers guests more than an elegant, historic setting—its creative American fare is a perfect weekend evening meal and is now back for lunch five days a week.