Charleston's
17001 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-563-7666 (3 miles, 4 minutes)
If you like Houston's, you'll probably like this corporate clone. The clubby décor is similar, and the menu is, in many instances, an exact replication of the original. Steaks, salads and seafood are all pretty good.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, MC, V. $$

Sesame Inn
13610 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-483-9696 (2 miles, 4 minutes)
Although opulently adorned, it is comfortable, airy and welcoming. The food is dependable, featuring traditional food, as well as some notable specials. I particularly like Grandma's Spicy Salad.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$

Cuban Havana Café
6245 E. Bell Rd., 480-991-1496 (2 miles, 4 minutes)
A tiny but contemporary-looking Cuban offering eminently slurpable mojitos and great appetizers as well as plenty of traditional entrées. Thumbs up for the papa rellena, shrimp pancakes, pastelitos and seviche.
Lunch Monday - Saturday, dinner nightly. AE, CB, DS, MC, V. $$.

Shogun
14224 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-563-8608 (2 miles, 3 minutes)
One of the longest-running Japanese restaurants in the Valley, Shogun is also one of the most popular. The sushi bar is always jammed, but it's pretty easy to nab a table and order something cooked.
Lunch Monday - Saturday, dinner nightly. AE, CB, DC, DS, MC, V. $$-$$$

Sushi Brokers
17025 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-515-5000 (3 miles, 4 minutes)
Loud music and crazy Caucasian sushi chefs make this clean-lined restaurant a blast - if you're not wed to tradition. Lots of Japanese hot foods, too, but don't miss the sushi (especially the signature Rawhide) and save room for banana-nut springrolls.
Lunch Monday - Friday, dinner nightly. AE, DC, MC, V. $$-$$$

Japanese/Pacific Rim Sapporo
14344 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-607-1114 (2 miles, 3 minutes)
Hard to say what the in crowd likes best about this North Scottsdale hot spot: the over-the-top décor, mile-long list of sushi, teppanyaki or Pacific Rim Cuisin. Probably just the pickin's.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$

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The Chuck Box
7215 E. Shea Blvd., 480-998-2327 (4 miles, 8 minutes)
The burgers (which come in three sizes) are mesquite-grilled and just plain delicious. You fix 'em up at the condiment bar, you wash 'em down with a beer, and you're all set.
Lunch and dinner Monday - Saturday. No credit cards except at Scottsdale location. $

The Unlikely Cowboy
20751 N. Pima Rd., 480-502-5557 (6 miles, 10 minutes)
A casual American restaurant and brewery, featuring great beers and good beer food, including burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, and (for dinner only) steaks, chicken and fish.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $-$$$

Brazilian
Rio Brazilian Steakhouse
10425 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-991-1952 (4 miles, 8 minutes)
This is the Valley's first venue for rodizio, a Brazilian specialty of barbecued meats, presented at the table on long skewers. Eight different meats are available, plus a salad bar and hot buffet.
Dinner Tuesday - Sunday. AE, MC, V. $$

Flo's Unique Chinese Cuisine
14850 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., 480-661-8883 (5 miles, 8 minutes)
Deeply rooted in Chinese tradition, Flo's is generally packed with people who like Flo's freewheeling approach. Try any of Flo's specialties.
Lunch Monday - Saturday, dinner nightly. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $-$$

The Grill at TPC
7575 E. Princess Dr. (Fairmont Scottsdale Princess), 480-585-4848 (4 miles, 7 minutes)
Duffers drop by this clubby golf course restaurant for sandwiches, salads, seafood and steaks (a house specialty) as well as great views of the fairway.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. AE, MC, V. $$-$$$

Wildflower Bread Company
15640 N. Pima Rd., 480-991-5180 (4 miles, 7 minutes)
This cheery bakery/café specializes in European hearth breads in a variety of sizes, shapes and exotic flavors. The place is justifiably famous for its sandwiches as well.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, V, MC, $-$$

Razz's Restaurant & Gallery
10315 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-905-1308 (5 miles, 8 minutes)
Edgy art, low lighting and a comfortable eating bar overlooking Razz's busy but efficiently run kitchen make this lean, mean restaurant the place to be for lively meals and people-watching. The menu features duck cakes with nopalito sause, sand dabs and lamb with tamarind sauce - all delicious.
Dinner Tuesday - Saturday. AE, CB, DC, DS, MC. $$$

Gyros Express
7132 E. Becker Ln., 480-483-0300 (5 miles, 8 minutes)
It's casual "fast-food" Greek: souvlaki (shish kebab) and one of the best gyros I've tasted. Also available are sandwiches, salads, Grecian chicken and ribs. Order from the counter for dine-in or takeout.
Lunch Monday - Friday, dinner nightly. DC, DS, MC, V. $

Al Dente's Italian Ristorante
14850 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., 480-657-9322 (5 miles, 8 minutes)
The name may be a joke, but the traditional Italian food, served on tablecloths, isn't. Look for familiar faves such as pasta, veal Marsala and chicken piccata, plus steaks, salads and sandwiches.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$-$$$

La Locanda
10201 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-998-2822 (5 miles, 9 minutes)
This unprepossessing little restaurant serves up some of the very best Italian food in town. Terrific entrees include lamb shops, osso buco and veal scallopini. Save room for superiour tiramisu and a snifter of Nocello.
Dinner nightly. AE, CB, DC, MC, V. $$$

Maria's When In Naples
7000 E. Shea Blvd., 480-991-6887 (5 miles, 8 minutes)
A pleasant restaurant favored for its good service and tasty food. Seafood, pastas and wood-fired pizzas are the draw.
Lunch Monday - Friday, dinner nightly. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$

Nick's
13910 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., 480-314-9445 (6 miles, 9 minutes)
BYOB to this friendly North Scottsdale Italian, serving up 25 homemade pasta dishes, as well as standbys such as chicken Marsala and tiramisu.
Lunch Monday - Friday, dinner nightly. AE, MC, V. $$

Pasta Bene

6990 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 101, 480-922-3474 (5 miles, 8 minutes)
At this warm and friendly Italian restaurant, the bar is embedded with Italian-American memorabilia, while laminated tables have themes such as Sinatra or Loren. Customer like the live entertainment (Tuesday, Friday, Saturday), the classic Italian food (which runs to pasta, pizza, veal, chicken and seafood) and the lengthy list of daily specials.
Lunch and dinner Tuesday - Sunday. AE, DS, MC, V. $-$$

Sushi on Shea
7000 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 1510, 480-483-7799 (5 miles, 8 minutes)
People stand in line for Fred Yamada's sushi, but there are plenty of other reasons to visit this modern-looking restaurant. Soba, udon, nabemono and excellent salmon teriyaki are just a few.
Lunch Monday - Saturday, dinner nightly. AE, MC, V. $$

La Hacienda
7575 E. Princess Dr. (Fairmont Scottsdale Princess), 480-585-4848 (4 miles, 7 minutes)
This gorgeously appointed restaurant is the place to go for an education about the diversity and sophistication of Mexican food. The menu offers roast suckling pig, cabrito and some of the finest, freshest seafood around.
Reservations recommended. Dinner nightly. AE, CB, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$

Los Olivos
15544 N. Pima Rd., 480-596-9787 (4 miles, 7 minutes)
7328 E. 2nd Street, 480-946-2256 (11 miles, 21 minutes)
This local landmark has been serving up good old-fashioned Mexican food since the earth was flat. The place still turns out great enchiladas, carne asada and chile rellenos.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, CB, DC, DS, MC, V. $-$$

Pizzafarro's
7120 E. Mercer Ln., 480-991-0331 (4 miles, 8 minutes)
Sturdy pizzas, good subs and no-frills Italian entrees - that's all anybody wants or expects from these longtime neighborhood favorites.
Lunch and dinner Tuesday - Sunday. MC, V. $

Eddie V's Edgewater Grille
20715 N. Pima Rd., 480-538-8468 (7 miles, 10 minutes)
This energetic seafood restaurant's salient feature is seafood influenced by recipes of the Gulf Coast. Look for oysters, Gulf snapper and rock shrimp beignets, as well as Chilean seabass sashimi with lime and macadamia nuts or skillet-roasted salmon with tandoori spices, red onions and cilantro.
Dinner nightly. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$

The Marquesa
7575 E. Princess Blvd. (Fairmont Scottsdale Princess), 480-585-4848 (3 miles, 6 minutes)
This gorgeously decorated Spanish colonial-style dining room explores cuisines of the Mediterranean. The place is famous for its crab-stuffed peppers, paella and clever desserts. A unique Sunday brunch replicates the open-air markets of Spain.
Dinner nightly, Sunday brunch. AE, CB, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$$

Everett's Steakhouse & Blues Club
20701 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-515-5891 (5 miles, 9 minutes)
If you're into organic foods, this dark but comfy strip mall restaurant is the place for you. Everything here has been organically grown or raised, including beer, wine, coffee, dairy products, produce, beef, poultry and shrimp.
Lunch Monday - Friday, dinner nightly. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$

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Chaparral
5402 E. Lincoln Dr., 480-948-1700 (11 miles, 19 minutes)
This Grande Dame has been renovated in recent years, but the menu, which specializes in steaks and seafood, balances modern with classic. Lobster bisque and beef Wellington are specialties.
Dinner nightly. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$-$$$$

Don & Charlie's
7501 E. Camelback Rd., 480-990-0900 (12 miles, 20 minutes)
Decorated with celebrity pix and sports paraphernalia, this big friendly steak and rib restaurant packs in locals and tourists alike. There are no better ribs in town. Also noteworthy: the New York steak, garlic chicken and complimentary chicken liver. Banquet facilities and takeout available.
Dinner nightly. AE, CB, DC, DS, MC, V. $$

Earl's Restaurant
4821 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-990-7959 (9 miles, 19 minutes)
15784 N. Pima Rd., 480-607-1941 (4 miles, 6 minutes)
This Canada-based corporate operation, offering American food with global accents, has plenty of visual appeal - including an inviting bar, roomy booths and a great fireplace-furnished patio.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, MC, V. $$-$$$

El Paso Bar-B-Que Company
8220 N. Hayden Rd., 480-998-2626 (7 miles, 13 minutes)
True 'cue joints never look this good, but El Paso definitely passes the sniff test, offering a full selection of smoked meats with a variety of sauces.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, DS, MC, V. $-$$$

Houston's
6113 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-952-7775 (8 miles, 17 minutes)
One of the best corporate restaurants in town. Yupsters drop by after work, but you don't have to sport a Rolex to love the spinach-artichoke dip, the sinful Club Salad or the good steaks and ribs.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, MC, V. $$

JQ's Bar-B-Q
6929 N. Hayden Rd., 480-991-2110 (9 miles, 15 minutes)
Nothing fancy here, just good chile, ribs, beef brisket and pulled pork.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MN, V. $

The Melting Pot
8320 N. Hayden Rd., 480-607-1799 (7 miles, 12 minutes)
Dark and intimate, this vaguely European-looking fondue place makes a great date restaurant. And if all goes well, there's a sensual finale involving cake, fruit and warm chocolate.
Dinner nightly. AE, DS, MC, V. $$

Nick & Tony's
7014 E. Camelback Rd. (Fashion Square), 480-874-9911 (10 miles, 20 minutes)
An updated version of a classic American tavern, Nick & Tony's has a chophouse ambience and a diverse menu, offering steaks, seafood, burgers, pastas and entrée salads.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $-$$$

Original Pancake House
6840 E. Camelback Rd., 480-946-4902 (10 miles, 20 minutes)
Most people come for the pancakes, prepared in every possible permutation. But waffles, crepes and egg dishes are worth getting up for, too.
Breakfast and lunch daily. No credit cards. $

The Peaks
8711 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd., 480-998-2222 (9 miles, 15 minutes)
Good place to take out-of-towners for long-distance views and desert sunsets. The menu sticks to American basics - steak, prime rib, chicken and seafood. Dress casual.
Dinner nightly. AE, CB, DC, MC, V. $$$

Rock Bottom
8668 E. Shea Blvd., 480-998-7777 (7 miles, 12 minutes)
This big, friendly microbrewery has a pool table, kiddie menus, good tunes, cold hand-crafted brews, an imaginative menu and remarkably good food.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, MC, V. $$

Sweet Tomatoes
9029 E. Indian Bend Rd., 480-991-6010 (11 miles, 15 minutes)
These clean, attractive corporate restaurants offer an extensive salad bar plus soups, breads, pastas and desserts - on the cheap and on the fly.
Lunch and dinner daily. DS, MC, V. $-$$

Mosaic
10600 E. Jomax Rd., 480-563-9600 (12 miles, 20 minutes)
Quail, rabbit and wild boar share the menu with steaks and seafood at this upscale North Scottsdale restaurant featuring contemporary Western design.
Dinner nightly. AE, DS, MC, V. $$$

Rancho Pinot
6208 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-367-8030 (8 miles, 16 minutes)
Tom and Chrysa Kaufman pair fresh imaginative Contemporary American food with good wine and serve it all up in a warm, funky, retro-cowboy décor.
Dinner Tuesday - Saturday. AE, MC, V. $$$

Remington's
7200 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-951-5101 (7 miles, 14 minutes)
This Southwestern-style dining room conveys elegance and intimacy. The kitchen features a menu of regional American cuisine.
Lunch Monday - Friday, dinner nightly. AE, CB, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$

Roaring Fork
4800 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-947-0795 (9 miles, 19 minutes)
Robert McGrath is the brawny brains behind this terrific restaurant, featuring hearty but sophisticated food based on the American West. Don't miss the sugar and chile-cured duck with green chile macaroni or the coffee and molasses-shellacked steak.
Dinner Monday - Saturday. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$

El Chorro Lodge
5550 E. Lincoln Dr., 480-948-5170 (10 miles, 19 minutes)
Its rambling layout, flower-furnished patio and outdoor fireplace represent an Arizona that is gone but not forgotten. Loyalists come here for old-fashioned Continental fare - such as Chateaubriand - which is almost impossible to find elsewhere.
Lunch Monday - Friday, dinner nightly. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$-$$$$

Palm Court
7700 E. McCormick Pkwy., 480-991-3400 (9 miles, 15 minutes)
Visit this lovely, sublimely old-fashioned place for classic continental cuisine. Escargots, steak au poivre, bananas Foster - this is comfort food for the upper crust.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily; Sunday brunch. AE, CB, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$$

The Terrace Dining Room
6000 E. Camelback Rd. (The Phoenician Resort), 480-423-2530 (11 miles, 23 minutes)
Come Sunday, this elegant hotel dining room draws tourists and locals who love the lavish Champagne brunch, which takes up two rooms and part of the patio. The rest of the week, this is the place for three squares a day, best enjoyed on the patio overlooking the lush ground of the Phoenician.
Breakfast and lunch daily; dinner Tuesday - Saturday; Sunday brunch. AE, CB, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$

Chompie's Delicatessen
9301 E. Shea Blvd., 480-860-0475 (8 miles, 13 minutes)
Mile-high corned beef sandwiches, homey matzo ball soup, chopped liver, knish and nova lox served on some of the best bagels in town.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. MC, V. $

Country Glazed Ham
6107 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-951-9786 (9 miles, 17 minutes)
This casual, colorful café offers fat sandwiches on house-baked breads, soups, salads, pastas and desserts in a comfortable, upscale setting.
Breakfast, lunch and early dinner daily. AE, MC, V. $-$$

LEO Restaurant & Bar
5101 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-941-4477 (10 miles, 19 minutes)
Roomy booths, a full bar and great photos of deli food and people are just a few resons to check out this comfortable restaurant. But most people come for the barrel-brined pickles, smoked fish, brisket, knish and other Jewish deli specialties.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. AE, MC, V. $$

Tomatoes
7014 E. Camelback Rd., 480-994-3944 (10 miles, 20 minutes)
Here's a cheery cafeteria-style restaurant that stays busy, thanks to its reliably good sandwiches, soups, burgers and pastas.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, MC, V. $

Cowboy Ciao
7133 E. Stetson Dr., 480-946-3111 (10 miles, 20 minutes)
Blend Southwestern Cuisine with Italian and you get this whimsically decorated place, known for its award-winning wine list and quirky but delicious food. Seek out the carpaccio, chopped salad, mushroom panfry and the whacked but wonderful pig in pudding.
Lunch Tuesday - Saturday, dinner nightly. AE, MC, V. $$

Culinary Arts Dining Rooms
9000 E. Chaparral Rd., Scottsdale Community College, 480-423-6284 (13 miles, 17 minutes)
Being a guinea pig can be lots of fun at this training arena for future chefs, where students practice their cooking and serving skills.
Lunch Tuesday - Friday, five-course prix fixe dinners Wednesday - Friday. Reservations required. AE, MC, V. $-$$

En Fuego
5401 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-949-3917 (9 miles, 18 minutes)
A sky-light and lit-up fountain make this recently renovated dining room pleasant by day, romantic by night. The eclectic menu jumps from steak and pasta to Asian paella and Thai chile-rubbed pork ribs.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$-$$$$

Gregory's World Bistro
8120 N. Hayden Rd., 480-946-8700 (7 miles, 13 minutes)
Gregory Casale takes you on a delicious trip around the world, offering ingredients and preparations from far flung places such as Thailand, India and Japan. Don't miss the Kobe beef, hazelnut-dusted sweetbreads or mussels vindaloo.
Dinner Monday - Saturday. AE, DS, MC, V. $$$

Kazimierz World Wine Bar
7137 E. Stetson Dr., 480-946-3004 (10 miles, 20 minutes)
Reached by an unmarked back door, Kazimierz has the cool ambience of a wine cellar, thanks to archways, brick walls and wine casks. Plush furniture encourages lingering over a glass of wine (the list is excellent) and snacks such as pate, chopped salads and flatbread.
Dinner nightly. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$

Kona Grill
7014 E. Camelback Rd., 480-429-1100 (10 miles, 20 minutes)
There's something yummy for everybody at these rich-looking restaurants, where the Asian-inspired menu offers pizza, burgers and meatloaf as well as sushi, noodles and satay. Scottsdale's outdoor bar is a real scene at happy hour.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$-$$$

L'Ecole
8100 E. Camelback Rd., 480-990-7639 (11 miles, 19 minutes)
Great meals prepared and served by student chefs of the Scottsdale Culinary Institute. Original Camelback location offers fine dining and French food. Galleria location (4301 N. Scottsdale Rd.) offers Mediterranean-inspired food in a more casual setting. Menus change weekly.
Lunch and dinner Monday - Friday. Reservation essential. DS, MC, V. $$

Marco Polo Supper Club
8608 E. Shea Blvd., 480-483-1900 (8 miles, 12 minutes)
This antique-y, cluttered restaurant is a neighborhood hangout, serving East-meets-West cuisine (i.e., Italian food with an Oriental twist).
Dinner nightly. Lunch offered at Phoenix location. AE, MC, V. $$$

Village Tavern
8787 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-951-6445 (6 miles, 11 minutes)
Recognized by Wine Spectator magazine for its extensive wine list, the Village Tavern is a popular neighborhood hangout with a menu that features "Tavern Specialties" such as maple-cured pork chops and Maryland-style crab cakes, along with steaks (USDA Premium Choice), fresh fish, wood-fired pizzas and at least a dozen salads. For dessert, don't miss the apple cobbler.
Lunch and dinner daily, brunch Sunday. AE, DS, DC, MC, V. $$

 

La Madeleine
7014 E. Camelback Rd., 480-945-1663 (10 miles, 20 minutes)
These warm, wood-trimmed corporate restaurants offer breads, pastries and affordable French food cafeteria-style.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $-$$

Sixth Avenue Bistro Chez Francois
7150 E. 6th Ave., 480-947-6022 (10 miles, 20 minutes)
Tucked away behind Scottsdale's Fifth Avenue shops, this cozy little Country French restaurant turns out traditional but terrific food. Much of the menu can be ordered for take-out from next door's Petit Marche.
Lunch Tuesday - Friday, dinner nightly. AE, MC, V. $$-$$$

Roy's
7001 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-905-1155 (7 miles, 15 minutes)
Hawaiian chef Roy Yamaguchi brings Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine to this stylish corporate restaurant offering lobster potstickers, Chinatown chicken spring rolls, blackened ahi, hibachi-style grilled salmon, and chocolate soufflé. Best places to hang? The bar or patio.
Dinner nightly. AE, MC, V. $$$

Casa Mia
11219 E. Via Linda, 480-614-5955 (9 miles, 13 minutes)
Colorful paintings, rustic furniture and tiled floors imbue this family-run operation with the hominess of an Italian trattoria. Try the saffron-scented scallop/zucchini appetizer and any pasta (they're fabulous). Ask about Big Night (offered May - Oct.), a series of special prix fixe dinners featuring various regions in Italy.
Dinner nightly (in season). MC, V. $$-$$$

The Cove Trattoria
7001 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-951-8273 (7 miles, 15 minutes)
A cute little place offering brick-oven pizzas and pasta.
Lunch and dinner Monday - Saturday. AE, MC, V. $

Garlic's Pasta & Bread Company
7001 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-368-9699 (8 miles, 15 minutes)
A cute little shop offering great sandwiches for the lunch crowd, as well as house-made breads, pastas, sauces and entrees for take-home.
Lunch and early dinner Monday - Thursday; lunch and dinner Friday - Saturday. AE, DS, MC, V. $

Leccabaffi
9719 N. Hayden Rd., 480-609-0429 (6 miles, 11 minutes)
Leccabaffi (which means "lick your mustache") is unforgettable. Great baked-on-premises breads and an appetizer sampler you shouldn't miss. Love the rabbit. Love the gnoccheti. And the risotto is the best in town.
Dinner Tuesday - Sunday. AE, MC, V. $$$

Pasta Brioni
4416 N. Miller Rd., 480-994-0028 (12 miles, 20 minutes)
A neighborhood favorite for its pizzas, pastas and upscale Italian specialties (try the Chicken Martini), offered in a retro room that looks like New York restaurants of the '60s.
Lunch Monday - Friday, dinner nightly. AE, DS, MC, V. $-$$$

Veneto Trattoria
6137 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-948-9928 (9 miles, 17 minutes)
A charming little Italian restaurant featuring the specialties of Venice. Try the baccala Mantecato (mousse-like cod served with grilled polenta), the calamari Umido, the duck and the risotto with pumpkin and mushrooms.
Lunch and dinner Monday - Saturday. AE, DS, MC, V. $$-$$$

 

Kyoto
7170 Stetson Dr., 480-990-9374 (10 miles, 20 minutes)
By six o'clock most nights, this sushi bar and teppanyaki restaurant is slammed with Gen X-ers (and their younger sibs), who party their way through dinner before hitting the clubs. High turnover equals fresh fish.
Lunch Monday - Friday, dinner nightly. AE, DC, MC, V. $$

Sushi Ko
9301 E. Shea Blvd., Suite 126, 480-860-2960 (8 miles, 13 minutes)
Everything I've sampled from the New Japanese Cuisine section of the menu is excellent, which doesn't mean you should pass up more traditional selections such as sukiyaki and shabu-shabu.
Lunch Monday - Friday, dinner nightly. AE, MC, V. $$

Eleanna's
23623 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-585-6630 (7 miles, 11 minutes)
This friendly neighborhood restaurant offers something for everybody, including spanakopita frittatas for breakfast, gyros and Reubens for lunch, and American, Italian and Greek specialties (including saganaki, moussaka and pastitsio) for dinner.
Lunch and dinner daily, breakfast Saturday - Sunday. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $-$$

Blue Agave
4280 N. Drinkwater Blvd., 480-429-1123 (10 miles, 20 minutes)
Although traditional Mexican dishes are served, the best reason to visit this contemporary Mexican is for specialties such as the poblano steak, the crab chimi and the snapper tostada with guava vinaigrette.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$

Bloom
8877 N. Scottsdale Road, 480-922-5666 (6 miles, 11 minutes)
Bright blue and invariably busy, Bloom features New American cooking and lots of great wines by the glass or bottle. Try the signature warm Maine lobster salad and grilled ahi with sesame seed ponzu.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$

Elements
5700 E. McDonald Dr., Paradise Valley, 480-948-2100 (11 miles, 20 minutes)
Sleek design, comfy patios, quaffable margaritas and sunset views draw sweet-hearts and singles to this sexy Camelback Mountain retreat. The seasonal American menu has an Asian spin, and the results range from so-so to really wonderful.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$-$$$$

Ridge Café
11675 N. 136th Street, 480-551-1018 (12 miles, 18 minutes)
A comfortable but contemporary setting and good New American food make this upscale neighborhood restaurant a hit.
Lunch Tuesday - Saturday, dinner Tuesday - Sunday, Sunday brunch. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$-$$$$

The Bamboo Club
8624 E. Shea Blvd., 480-998-1287 (8 miles, 12 minutes)
This slick, see-and-be-seen restaurant serves Pacific Rim specialties.
Lunch Monday - Saturday, dinner nightly. AE, CB, DC, DS, MC, V. $$

Eurasia Bistro
8225 E. Indian Bend Rd., 480-991-1571 (9 miles, 15 minutes)
Housed in the Scottsdale Athletic Club, this Chinese-American hybrid offers everything from firecracker springrolls and five-spice chicken to barbecue ribs and meatloaf. Nevertheless, dishes here have a light, healthy orientation.
Lunch Tuesday - Sunday, dinner Tuesday - Saturday, bar menu Monday, brunch Sunday. AE, MC, V. $-$$

Restaurant Hapa
6204 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-998-8220 (8 miles, 16 minutes)
Within the cozy confines of this taupe-toned restaurant, you'll find some of the most interesting and elegant food in the city. Chef-owner James McDevitt's Asian-American specialties such as skillet roasted mussels in Thai coconut broth never miss, and the tasting menu is a knockout.
Dinner Monday - Saturday. AE, MC, V. $$$-$$$$

Nello's
8658 E. Shea Blvd., 480-922-5335 (7 miles, 12 minutes)
Back in the '80s, this Chicago-style pizzeria was the hottest thing going. Nowadays, the competition's a bit stiffer, but Nello's still does a good job of turning out fresh, imaginative pizzas, as well as Italian appetizers, salads, pastas and sandwiches.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, MC, V. $-$$

NYPD Pizza

8880 E. Via Linda, 480-451-6973 (9 miles, 14 minutes)
10433 N. Scottsdale Rd., Paradise Valley, 480-609-8666 (4 miles, 8 minutes)
Operated by two brothers from Long Island, this graffiti-filled pizza joint tosses a mean pizza. Try the specialty NYPD blue (topped with eggplant, roasted peppers and ricotta) or a calzone.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, MC, V. $

3 Tomatoes & a Mozzarella
7605 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd., 480-585-6555 (7 miles, 12 minutes)
Decorated in shades of eggplant and mustard, this cute North Scottsdale waystation offers a limited menu of thin-crust pizza, paninis and salads. Enjoy distant city lights on the patio in the evenings.
Lunch Monday - Saturday, dinner nightly. AE, DC, MC, V. $

Chart House
7255 E. McCormick Pkwy., 480-951-2550 (7 miles, 13 minutes)
Hard to say what customer like more: the great views of the golf course, mountains and man-made lake or the seafood, flown in fresh daily. In any case, this popular place, boasting a Polynesian décor, has been reeling 'em in for more than 10 years.
Dinner nightly. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$-$$$$

Foster's
10510 N. 90th St., 480-314-4688 (8 miles, 12 minutes)
Vaguely reminiscent of a weathered Cape Cod beach house, this North Scottsdale restaurant captures the spirit of the traditional New England seafood house. If you love lobster, this is the place to get it. Great fried platter, too, and a darned good chowder.
Lunch Monday - Saturday, dinner nightly. AE, MC, V. $$-$$$$

Landry's Pacific Fish Company
4321 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-941-0602 (10 miles, 20 minutes)
A nautically decorated corporate restaurant offering seafood in soups, salads, sanwhiches and entrees with varying degrees of success. Good selection of beer.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$

Golden Swan
7500 E. Doubletree Ranch Rd., 480-991-3388 (6 miles, 12 minutes)
A contemporary, two-tiered restaurant overlooking the outside patio and gazebo, featuring innovative Southwestern fare and a short but fitting roster of domestic and imported wines.
Dinner nightly, Sunday brunch. Reservations recommended. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$$

Medizona
7217 E. 4th Ave., 480-947-9500 (10 miles, 20 minutes)
A small, charming restaurant offering Mediterranean-inspired Southwestern Cuisine. Don't miss the savory rabbit baklava.
Dinner Tuesday - Saturday. AE, MC, V. $$$

Z'Tejas Grill
7014 E. Camelback Rd., 480-946-4171 (10 miles, 20 minutes)
Media celebs, sports demi-gods, Valley movers and shakers - everybody eats at this dark, good-looking restaurant, where the menu takes a South-by-Southwest direction.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, MC, V. $$

Fleming's Prime Steakhouse
6333 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-596-8265 (8 miles, 16 minutes)
Paul Fleming has created an upscale but comfortable steakhouse, featuring all the prime beef, chops and seafood your luxury-loving heart desires. He's also pouring 100 wines by the glass.
Dinner nightly. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$$

Mastro's Steakhouse
8852 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd., 480-585-9500 (8 miles, 13 minutes)
Mastro's features a big inviting bar, live entertainment, a dance floor and a piano bar; showing you a good time is what these folks do best. Which is not to denigrate the USDA Prime beef, the enormous side dishes and dandy cheesecake.
Dinner nightly. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$$

Pinnacle Peak Patio
10426 E. Jomax Rd., 480-585-1599 (12 miles, 20 minutes)
This sprawling cowboy steakhouse (which seats 5,000) serves up mesquite-grilled beef and live country music.
Lunch Sunday, dinner nightly. Reservations for large groups. AE, DS, MC, V. $$

Ruth's Chris Steak House
7001 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-991-5988 (7 miles, 15 minutes)
A steak-lover's paradise with USDA prime steaks, hand-cut on the premises, carefully cooked and served with sizzling butter. The a la carte sides are great, too.
Dinner nightly. Reservations essential. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$

Sea Saw
7133 E. Stetson Dr., 480-481-9463 (10 miles, 20 minutes)
Chef-owner Nobu Fukuda works his magic at this small, simple venue, where sushi and Japanese food are given a contemporary treatment. Everything is beautiful and delicious, but consider the chilled edamame soup, shinshu mushi and tuna tataki with roasted beed puree.
Dinner nightly. AE, CB, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$

Swaddee Thai
8989 E. Via Linda, 480-391-8900 (7 miles, 14 minutes)
It looks like an innocuous coffee shop, but the traditional Thai goodies served in this friendly, neighborhood spot are hot enough to make your head sweat. Highlights include tom kha kai, larb and pla rad prik. Save room for house-made coconut ice cream.
Lunch Monday - Friday, dinner nightly. MC, V. $-$$

Thaifoon
8777 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-998-0011 (6 miles, 11 minutes)
Thai goes upscale at this chic, earth-toned restaurant, boasting a waterwall behind the bar. Look for Thai satay, soups and noodles, as well as Asian standards such as orange peel, teriyaki and sweet and sour chicken.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, MC, V. $$-$$$

Bandera
3821 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-994-3524 (11 Miles, 21 minutes)
A dark, Southwestern-looking restaurant that's insanely popular for good reason. The straightforward menu reads well and the reasonably priced food is amazingly tasty.
Dinner nightly. AE, DC, MC, V. $$-$$$

Cholla
524 N. 92nd St. (Casino Arizona), 480-850-7777 (17 miles, 22 minutes)
No matter what happens at the gambling tables, you're sure to hit the jackpot in this small, quiet restaurant run by a chef who honed his skills at Tarbell's. Look for elk and pheasant, as well as prime steaks and veal chops.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, MC, V. $$-$$$

Greasewood Flats
27000 N. Alma School Rd., 480-585-9430 (13 miles, 21 minutes)
Looking for something unusual? Try this shack, surrounded by antique wagons, strange Western relics and mesquite trees. Burgers, hot dogs and chili.
Lunch and dinner daily. No credit cards. $

Pischke's Paradise
7217 E. 1st St., 480-481-0067 (10 miles, 21 minutes)
Burgers and beer - that's what keeps the regulars coming to this downtown Scottsdale hangout, famed for its way-out and ultra-caloric breakfasts.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, MC, V. $-$$

Sugar Bowl
4005 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-946-0051 (10 miles, 21 minutes)
Known Valleywide, this pink-and-white '50s ice cream parlor makes just about anything you can think of that involves ice cream. Dive into dessert first, then have soup, a sandwich or any of the offered daily specials.
Lunch and dinner daily. MC, V. $

Arcadia Farms
7014 E. 1st Ave., 480-941-5665 (11 miles, 21 minutes)
Cozy and cluttered, this ultra-feminine cottage is where everyone goes for the quintessential ladies lunch. Try the strawberry chicken salad or the yummy focaccia sandwich. Great location for private parties in the evening.
Lunch daily. Reservations recommended. MC, V. $-$$

Crew
34505 N. Scottsdale Rd., Suite 32, 480-488-8840 (14 miles, 21 minutes)
A casual New American restaurant in North Scottsdale, with imaginative and reasonably priced food, plus a great patio with views of the sunset.
Lunch Monday - Saturday, dinner nightly. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$

Twisted Vine
3360 N. Hayden Rd., 480-663-7873 (12 miles, 21 minutes)
You've gotta really look for this cute neighborhood deli to find it, but the gourmet salads and sandwiches (made on Willo bread) will make you glad you did.
Continental breakfast, lunch and dinner Monday - Saturday. AE, MC, V. $

Atlas Bistro
2515 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-990-2433 (19 miles, 24 minutes)
Tucked away inside AZ Wine Co., this tiny BYOB feels cozy and a little quirky, thanks to an eclectic menu and wine-geek servers with personality. The menu changes frequently but always includes red meat, seafood and something vegetarian. The $7 corkage fee is waived for wines bought on the premises.
Dinner Tuesday - Sunday. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$

Mary Elaine's
6000 E. Camelback Rd. (The Phoenician Resort), 480-423-2530 (11 miles, 23 minutes)
Luxurious appointments, a multi-million-dollar wine cellar, gracious service and stunning views of the city lights by night have made this special-occasion restaurant tops in town for many years, and the contemporary French food is better than ever.
Dinner Tuesday - Saturday. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$$

Jewel of the Crown
7373 Scottsdale Mall, No. 1, 602-840-2412 (11 miles, 21 minutes)
Small but pretty, this jewel really sparkles, thanks to its exotic setting and deliciously authentic Indian food. Try the excellent curries, vindaloos and vegetable dishes with a side order of garlic naan.
Lunch and dinner Tuesday - Sunday. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $-$$

Buca di Beppo
3828 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-949-6622 (10 miles, 21 minutes)
These crazily cluttered shrines to the Italian-American culture of the '50s serve good basic food in amazingly generous portions. Bring family and friends to share 8 pounds worth of chicken cacciatore, plus spaghetti, pizza and desserts you'll be hard-pressed to finish.
Lunch Sunday, dinner nightly. AE, DC, MC, V. $$$

DeFalco's Italian Grocery
2334 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-990-8660 (19 miles, 24 minutes)
A great place to grab a fat Italian sandwich or the fixings to make one at home. Sturdy take-out entrees include lasagna and eggplant Parmesan.
Lunch and early dinner Monday - Saturday. AE, MC, V. $

Nina l'Italiana
16872 E. Avenue of the Fountains, Fountain Hills, 480-836-9800 (19 miles, 28 minutes)
Homemade pasta is the specialty here, including linguine with clams, ravioli and gnocchi, but meatier options such as NY steak and veal Marsala are also available. Get great views of the fountain inside or out on the patio. Weekend entertainment.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$-$$$

El Molino
3554 N. Goldwater Blvd., 480-946-4494 (11 miles, 22 minutes)
Décor doesn't matter to the loyal fans who come for tamales, chile rellenos, machaca chimis, fresh tortillas and weekend menudo.
Lunch and dinner Monday - Saturday. MC, V. $

Frank and Lupe's
4121 N. Marshall Way, 480-990-9844 (11 miles, 21 minutes)
If you've been afraid to try New Mexico-style Mexican food because you're not really that keen on molten lava, head for this little café in old Scottsdale. Try the carne adovado, the stuffed sopapilla or the chile poblano stuffed with chicken or shrimp.
Lunch and dinner Monday - Saturday. AE, MC, V. $

Acacia at Four Seasons Resort
10600 E. Crescent Moon Dr., 480-515-5700 (14 miles, 22 minutes)
A gorgeous-looking New American restaurant. Grab a table on the spacious patio, order a prickly pear margarita and enjoy a romantic evening and a good meal.
Dinner nightly. AE, DC, MC, V. $$$$

Alchemy
13225 E. Eagle Ridge Dr., (Copperwynd Resort), 480-333-1900 (15 miles, 22 minutes)
Ask for a table near the window because this pretty restaurant, decorated with art glass and lots of copper, offers fantastic views of the McDowells and Superstitions. The menu features daily pasta specials, great steaks and memorable pork tenderloin glazed with Tia Maria sauce.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $-$$$

Jake's Pizza
1495 N. Hayden Rd., 480-970-1364 (17 miles, 21 minutes)
These Windy City-based corporate parlors specialize in Chicago-style pizza, but also offer wings, salads, barbecued ribs and a slew of pastas.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $

Oregano's Pizza Bistro
3622 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-970-1860 (11 miles, 21 minutes)
Good luck trying to get a table in this insanely popular spot. People come for the wings, the salad, unusual pastas and Chicago-style pizzas - both thin-crust and stuffed.
Lunch and dinner daily. AE, DS, MC, V. $$

Grazie
6952 E. Main Street, 480-663-9797 (11 miles, 21 minutes)
Sponged walls, colorful art and a wood-fired oven (manned by a pizzaiolo from Naples) give this popular gathering place the warmth and liveliness of a European café. Salads, crostini, calzones and a lengthy Italian wine list.
Dinner nightly. AE, MC, V. $$

Café Blue
4175 N. Goldwater Blvd., 480-946-65553 (11 miles, 21 minutes)
Blue is the perfect name for the icy, minimalist décor at this new Scottsdale hotspot, owned by Jim and Irma Valli (of Marco Polo). The menu features steaks and chops, but the specialty is seafood, much of it displayed at a raw bar. You've gotta see this place; it's totally cool.
Dinner Tuesday - Saturday. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$

The Salt Cellar
550 N. Hayden Rd., 480-947-1963 (18 miles, 22 minutes)
Nobody's put off by the dated décor of this underground restaurant specializing in seafood. Lots of fresh catches, many of them excellent. Great happy-hour bargains on seafood appetizers, too.
Dinner nightly. AE, MC, V. $$-$$$

Carlsbad Tavern
3313 N. Hayden Rd., 480-970-8164 (12 miles, 21 minutes)
Here's just the kind of casual restaurant and bar I would make my hangout if I were in a different line of work. The New Mexico style menu is fun and the food is consistently delicious.
Lunch Monday - Saturday, dinner nightly. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$

Old Town Tortilla Factory
6910 E. Main St., 480-945-4567 (11 miles, 21 minutes)
There's absolutely no better place to be than Old Town's citrus tree-shaded patio. Indoor dining is just as nice, owing to the charms of this adobe cottage and in innovative cuisine, which blends Mexican and Native American influences.
Dinner nightly. AE, MC, V. $$$

Tequila Grill
4363 N. 75th St., 480-941-1800 (12 miles, 21 minutes)
Comfy couches, a neon-lit circular bar and roomy patio make this good-looking Southwestern a great place to drink and hangout. The food's less successful than the scene, but try your luck with guacamole, pizza or the mixed grill.
Dinner daily. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$

Windows on the Green
6000 E. Camelback Rd. (The Phoenician Resort), 480-941-8200 (11 miles, 23 minutes)
Great views of the greens make this casual but elegant Southwestern grill a must-do for tourists and locals alike. Enjoy specialty margaritas, guacamole (prepared tableside), pulled pork nachos and billiards in the bar, plus a menu that runs to lamb chops and grilled veal T-bone.
Dinner Thursday - Monday. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$-$$$

Pepin
7363 Scottsdale Mall, 480-990-9026 (11 miles, 21 minutes)
Drop by this softly lit Spanish café for tapas and traditional Spanish entrees. Flamenco dancers keep weekend nights lively and crowded.
Lunch Tuesday - Saturday, dinner Tuesday - Sunday. AE, MC, V. $$$

Steak
Pink Pony Steak House
3831 N. Scottsdale Rd., 480-945-6697 (11 miles, 21 minutes)
In the spring, the Pony is a hangout for Major League baseball players. Come for a steak, some prime rib and maybe a little beefcake.
Lunch Monday - Friday, dinner nightly. AE, DC, DS, MC, V. $$$

Malee's on Main
7131 E. Main St., 480-947-6042 (11 miles, 21 minutes)
One of the prettiest and most popular Thai restarants in town, Malee's goes heavy on the sugar, light on the chiles. Nevertheless, the tom kha gai and jalapeno-fried rice are wonderful. The Desert Ridge location sports a sushi bar and fabulous patio.
Lunch Monday - Saturday, dinner nightly. AE, DC, MC, V. $$