Where to Find the Most Beautiful Restaurants in Scottsdale & Phoenix
Tía Carmen, Phoenix, AZ. Photo: Tía Carmen
The desert cities of Scottsdale and Phoenix have mastered the art of creating dining experiences where stunning design is as essential as the food itself. Between the warm desert air, majestic mountain backdrops, and the vibrant energy of these modern Arizona cities, the restaurant scene celebrates both Southwestern charm and contemporary sophistication in equal measure. Whether you're seeking Italian taverns with inviting patios, Japanese minimalism with impeccable craft, or opulent spaces where seductive design meets bold flavors, these six restaurants represent the best of aesthetic dining in the Valley. This is your curated introduction to where exceptional design meets unforgettable food in Scottsdale and Phoenix.
The following restaurants are some of our top picks for favorite restaurants in Phoenix and Scottsdale, but should you want to go much deeper, you can see our full list of restaurants, bars, and hotels on the site. And to have your entire Phoenix/Scottsdale experience planned out for you, with added deals just for Opulist insiders, get the full Opulist-approved travel guide for this area available now.
Campo | Scottsdale, AZ
Photo: Campo
Campo creates a modern Italian tavern experience tucked into the charming McCormick Ranch neighborhood with field-to-farm cooking in an inviting, stylishly-casual indoor-outdoor space. The restaurant features high ceilings and moody lighting that enhance the rustic charm while unique design elements add character throughout the intimate dining areas. Starting with authentic family recipes and using only the freshest seasonal ingredients from Arizona producers, Campo offers from-scratch pizzas, paninis, and fresh pasta alongside craft beers, wines, and cocktails. This is where you come for authentic Italian charm in a space that perfectly balances Old Town Scottsdale sophistication with approachable neighborhood warmth, ideal for everything from happy hour to full-service dinner.
Élephante | Scottsdale, AZ
Photo: Élephante
Élephante Scottsdale creates an escape to the Italian Coast in the middle of the Arizona desert with an organic, breezy feel inspired by its Los Angeles sister location. The sophisticated cocktail lounge and expansive menu transport diners to Mediterranean elegance through thoughtful design that captures coastal sophistication while honoring the desert setting. The space balances refined atmosphere with the relaxed energy of Italian coastal dining, creating an environment where every meal feels like a vacation. This is your destination for experiencing European coastal elegance without leaving Scottsdale, perfect for romantic evenings and special occasions that call for transportive beauty.
Sexy Roman | Scottsdale, AZ
Photo: Sexy Roman
Sexy Roman delivers a bold, modern take on Italian dining where seductive cuisine meets opulent design and electric energy inside W Scottsdale. Helmed by James Beard-nominated Chef Jason Franey, the restaurant crafts Italian dishes designed to seduce your tastebuds in a space that matches the boldness of the flavors. The opulent design creates an atmosphere of sophisticated indulgence that makes every visit feel like a special event, whether you're celebrating or simply treating yourself to Scottsdale's most exciting dining destination. This is where you come when you want Italian dining with serious style and energy, perfect for date nights and celebrations that deserve dramatic surroundings.
Tía Carmen | Phoenix, AZ
Photo: Tía Carmen
Tía Carmen pays homage to chef Sosa's Aunt Carmen while celebrating the local landscape, farmers, and community of the Southwest through a stunning blend of tradition and modernity. The space features muted tones, contemporary art, and striking light fixtures that create an intimate dining atmosphere where the amber glow of pendant lights adds warmth to every meal. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant showcases flavors from a wood-fired grill using American Indian and heirloom food products that honor the region's culinary heritage. This is your destination for experiencing Southwestern elegance in a space where every design detail has been considered with intention, perfect for special occasions and celebrations that deserve beautiful surroundings.
Harumi Sushi Bar | Phoenix, AZ
Photo: Harumi Sushi Bar
Harumi Sushi Bar creates a gathering place where Japanese culture and cuisine meet minimalist design perfection in the Arizona desert. Since 2013, the restaurant has maintained its reputation as the best Japanese restaurant in the Phoenix Metro area by focusing on pure, traditional Japanese food with wooden accents and subtle décor that allows the sushi bar to take center stage. The serene interiors create a visual symphony where the precision of presentation rivals the expertise behind each dish, offering an immersive experience for those who appreciate authentic Japanese culinary artistry. This is where you come for high-quality traditional Japanese dining in a space that honors both the food and the aesthetic experience, making it perfect for intimate dinners and special celebrations.
PYRO | Phoenix, AZ
Photo: PYRO
PYRO transforms upscale barbecue into a theatrical experience with luscious décor inspired by mid-1900s Japanese casinos that surrounds diners amongst flames and spirits. The space pairs organic yet dramatic elements with velvety floral textiles and deep vitalizing tones, creating an aura of timeless elegance that makes every visit feel like a stylish affair too tempting to resist. The industrial aesthetic meets inviting atmosphere through carefully curated design that balances sophistication with the primal appeal of fire and smoke. This is your choice for experiencing barbecue in one of Phoenix's most visually stunning spaces, perfect for groups seeking both exceptional food and memorable atmosphere.
These restaurants represent just the beginning of Scottsdale and Phoenix's incredible aesthetic dining scene. From intimate Italian taverns to theatrical barbecue experiences, from authentic Japanese minimalism to seductive modern Italian, the Valley offers endless opportunities for dining experiences where beautiful design enhances every bite. Whether you're planning a special celebration or simply seeking your next favorite restaurant, these spaces prove that Scottsdale and Phoenix have mastered the art of creating dining destinations that satisfy both your aesthetic sensibilities and your appetite.
Ready to discover more? Our complete Aesthetic Travel Guide for Scottsdale & Phoenix features 70 pages of beautiful restaurants, bars, coffee shops, and hotels (and more!) across both cities. Get the full guide and never miss another stunning dining destination.
All locations featured here are Opulist picks and can also be found when searching for "Restaurants" in Scottsdale or Phoenix. Use the search page to help plan your next night out.
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