Top restaurants list
10 Best Casual Restaurants in Scottsdale
- 10 restaurants
- Scottsdale, Arizona
- Updated March 15, 2026
The ten best casual restaurants in Scottsdale, AZ are Culinary Dropout, Olive & Ivy, Grassroots Kitchen & Tap, Citizen Public House, Farm and Craft Scottsdale, HULA'S Modern Tiki Scottsdale, Carlsbad Tavern, AZ88, Heritage Kitchen + Cocktails, and Sophia's Kitchen. Casual dining in Arizona’s desert city often showcases menu options like Soft Pretzels & Provolone Fondue, The Original Chopped Salad, and Carne Adovada. Many chefs here use Sonoran desert ingredients like Hatch green chiles and local citrus in preparing dishes.
Casual restaurants in Scottsdale can be found along the Arizona Canal, inside converted industrial spaces, and near the bustling Old Town district. Dining options range from modern gastropubs, health-focused cafes, retro tiki bars, and Italian trattorias. A meal at a casual restaurant in Scottsdale cost anywhere between $20 and $60 per person.
Culinary Dropout secures the first spot for casual restaurants in Sedona with its massive industrial space featuring live music, interactive lawn games, and a menu of crowd-pleasing comfort food. Farm and Craft Scottsdale is known for nutrient-dense meals with a focus on sustainable ingredients. Olive & Ivy creates an upscale evening experience with Mediterranean dishes served under shady trees by the water.
The top casual restaurants in Scottsdale are listed below.
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1
Pizza Salads Sandwiches Brunch SoupCulinary Dropout is an American bistro and restaurant chain that serves refined gastropub fare in an industrial-style setting. Culinary Dropout emphasizes scratch-made preparations, featuring crowd favorites like 36-hour pork ribs,...- Item Prices
- 67
- Average Item Price
- $14.29
Culinary Dropout Menu PricesMore about Culinary Dropout
Type of Restaurant:
Gastropub, Casual Dining
Type of Food:
American
Signature Dishes:
Soft Pretzels & Provolone Fondue36-Hour Pork RibsRoasted Salmon
Location:
7135 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, United States
Special Feature:
A dedicated gaming area includes cornhole, ping pong, and foosball for guests.
What Makes It Special:
The restaurant combines a high-energy bar atmosphere with high-quality comfort food.
What Sets It Apart:
Live music performances and interactive games create a highly social dining environment.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 11:00 AM–10:00 PMFriday: 11:00 AM–12:00 AMSaturday: 10:00 AM–12:00 AMSunday: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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2
Olive & Ivy brings Mediterranean flavors to the Scottsdale Waterfront. The kitchen prepares fresh seafood, handmade pastas, and flatbreads in a sophisticated, resort-like setting.- Item Prices
- 286
- Average Item Price
- $10.62
Olive & Ivy Menu PricesMore about Olive & Ivy
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining, Mediterranean
Type of Food:
Mediterranean, Italian
Signature Dishes:
Pacific Sea BassBacon Wrapped DatesLamb Meatballs
Location:
7135 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, United States
Special Feature:
A massive, tree-shaded outdoor patio sits directly along the waterfront canal.
What Makes It Special:
The restaurant delivers upscale Mediterranean cooking in a relaxed, elegant space.
What Sets It Apart:
An on-site marketplace sells fresh pastries and coffee alongside the full-service dining room.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday, Sunday: 7:00 AM–10:00 PMFriday–Saturday: 7:00 AM–11:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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3
Grassroots Kitchen & Tap offers scratch-made Southern comfort food and craft cocktails. The dining room features rustic wood accents, exposed brick, and comfortable booth seating.- Item Prices
- 94
- Average Item Price
- $15.52
Grassroots Kitchen and Tap Menu PricesMore about Grassroots Kitchen and Tap
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining, American
Type of Food:
American, Southern
Signature Dishes:
Short RibsPork BellyShrimp Po Boy
Location:
8120 Hayden Rd E-100, Scottsdale, AZ 85258, United States
Special Feature:
The bar serves a rotating selection of local Arizona craft beers on tap.
What Makes It Special:
The menu focuses on hearty, family-style Southern dishes prepared with fresh ingredients.
What Sets It Apart:
A strong emphasis on family-friendly service and consistent, high-quality cooking defines the experience.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday, Sunday: 11:00 AM–9:00 PMFriday–Saturday: 11:00 AM–10:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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4
Citizen Public House operates as a modern gastropub in Old Town Scottsdale. The kitchen elevates classic pub fare using refined culinary techniques and premium ingredients.- Item Prices
- 37
- Average Item Price
- $26.08
Citizen Public House Menu PricesMore about Citizen Public House
Type of Restaurant:
Gastropub, Casual Dining
Type of Food:
New American
Signature Dishes:
The Original Chopped SaladBernie's Mac & CheeseAmaro Meatloaf
Location:
7111 E 5th Ave, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, United States
Special Feature:
The bar program focuses heavily on barrel-aged cocktails and craft spirits.
What Makes It Special:
The restaurant presents highly inventive flavor combinations within a comfortable, mahogany-lined dining room.
What Sets It Apart:
The Original Chopped Salad holds a dedicated following and a specific social media page created by fans.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Sunday: 4:00–10:00 PM
Price:
$40 to $50 per person
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5
PizzaSophia's Kitchen prepares rustic, scratch-made Italian dishes using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant offers a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere in North Scottsdale.- Item Prices
- 845
- Average Item Price
- $11.87
Sophia's Kitchen Menu PricesMore about Sophia's Kitchen
Type of Restaurant:
Italian, Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Italian
Signature Dishes:
Cacio e PepeDiavoloMeatballs
Location:
17050 N Thompson Peak Pkwy Suite 125, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, United States
Special Feature:
A large, shaded patio provides a comfortable outdoor dining space.
What Makes It Special:
The kitchen focuses on traditional Italian hospitality and generous portions.
What Sets It Apart:
A dedication to simple, classic Italian recipes separates the venue from highly modernized fusion spots.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday, Sunday: 11:00 AM–9:00 PMFriday–Saturday: 11:00 AM–10:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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6
6. Farm and Craft Scottsdale
Farm and Craft Scottsdale serves a wellness-driven menu focused on healthy, sustainable ingredients. The bright, modern cafe prepares protein bowls, flatbreads, and organic smoothies.More about Farm and Craft Scottsdale
Type of Restaurant:
Cafe, Healthy
Type of Food:
American, Healthy
Signature Dishes:
Avocado HummusSalmon Poke BowlBBQ Chicken Flatbread
Location:
4302 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, United States
Special Feature:
The menu categorizes dishes by health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and stress-reducing options.
What Makes It Special:
The kitchen prepares nutrient-dense meals without sacrificing bold flavors.
What Sets It Apart:
A focus on wellness-driven food paired with organic spirits separates the venue from standard cafes.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Sunday: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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7
7. HULA'S Modern Tiki Scottsdale
HULA'S Modern Tiki Scottsdale offers a retro island experience with tropical cocktails and Polynesian-inspired dishes. The restaurant features mid-century modern decor mixed with classic tiki elements.More about HULA'S Modern Tiki Scottsdale
Type of Restaurant:
Tiki Bar, Casual Dining
Type of Food:
Hawaiian, Polynesian
Signature Dishes:
Loco MocoPork TacosSpicy Thai Bowl
Location:
7213 E 1st Ave, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, United States
Special Feature:
The bar serves classic tiki drinks in custom ceramic mugs.
What Makes It Special:
The restaurant delivers a fun, vacation-like atmosphere right in the middle of Old Town.
What Sets It Apart:
A modern, sophisticated take on the traditional tiki bar concept creates a unique dining environment.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 11:00 AM–10:00 PMFriday: 11:00 AM–12:00 AMSaturday: 10:30 AM–12:00 AMSunday: 10:30 AM–10:00 PM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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8
8. Carlsbad Tavern
Carlsbad Tavern specializes in authentic New Mexican cuisine utilizing Hatch green chiles. The restaurant serves spicy stews, enchiladas, and burgers in a quirky, bat-themed setting.More about Carlsbad Tavern
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining, Southwestern
Type of Food:
New Mexican, Southwestern
Signature Dishes:
New Mexican PotstickersHabanero BurgerBlue Corn Enchiladas
Location:
3313 Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, United States
Special Feature:
The outdoor patio features a large, artificial bat cave and a running stream.
What Makes It Special:
The kitchen focuses strictly on the bold, spicy flavors of traditional New Mexican cooking.
What Sets It Apart:
The eccentric decor inspired by Carlsbad Caverns provides a highly memorable setting.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 11:00 AM–2:00 AMFriday: 11:00 AM–2:00 AMSaturday–Sunday: 10:00 AM–2:00 AM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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9
9. AZ88
AZ88 operates as a chic bar and grill located directly inside the Scottsdale Civic Center Park. The venue serves oversized, premium cocktails and classic American food.More about AZ88
Type of Restaurant:
Bar and Grill, Casual Dining
Type of Food:
American
Signature Dishes:
Hell 's Fire ChipsBonfire ChickenChicken Sandwich
Location:
7353 E Scottsdale Mall, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, United States
Special Feature:
The restaurant displays rotating, avant-garde art installations throughout the dining room.
What Makes It Special:
The establishment merges a sophisticated cocktail lounge atmosphere with approachable pub food.
What Sets It Apart:
A location surrounded by public green space provides scenic views through floor-to-ceiling windows.
Operating Hours:
Monday–Sunday: 11:00 AM–12:00 AM
Price:
$20 to $30 per person
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10
10. Heritage Kitchen + Cocktails
Heritage Kitchen + Cocktails serves New American dishes and craft drinks in a relaxed, neighborhood setting. The kitchen prepares seasonal entrees, burgers, and fresh salads.More about Heritage Kitchen + Cocktails
Type of Restaurant:
Casual Dining, New American
Type of Food:
American
Signature Dishes:
Lobster PaellaGrilled Spanish OctopusSausage & Fennel Pizza
Location:
10121 E Bell Rd Suite 150, Scottsdale, AZ 85260, United States
Special Feature:
The bar focuses on locally distilled spirits and seasonal craft cocktails.
What Makes It Special:
The restaurant offers a refined yet approachable menu highlighting regional Arizona ingredients.
What Sets It Apart:
A dedication to modern American cooking in a comfortable, unpretentious space defines the dining experience.
Operating Hours:
Monday: ClosedTuesday–Sunday: 3:00–10:00 PM
Price:
$50 to $100 per person
On the map
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Casual Restaurants in Scottsdale Famous?
Casual restaurants in Scottsdale, Arizona, stand out for their menu of elevated Southwestern cuisine and modern American pub food. Kitchens use Sonoran Desert ingredients like Hatch green chiles and local citrus to create bold dishes. A distinct local feature includes sprawling climate-controlled outdoor patios allowing for year-round al fresco dining. This combination of upscale cooking and relaxed, resort-style settings distinguishes the desert dining scene.
What Types of Casual Restaurants are Commonly Found in Scottsdale?
The varieties of casual dining restaurants found in Scottsdale, Arizona, include modern gastropubs, health-focused cafes, and Southwestern grills. These different kinds of Scottsdale restaurants are discussed below.
- Modern Gastropubs: Venues like Culinary Dropout and Citizen Public House focus on upscale pub food and craft cocktails in lively, social settings.
- Health-Focused Cafes: Places such as Farm and Craft Scottsdale serve nutrient-dense bowls and organic smoothies.
- Southwestern Grills: Restaurants like Carlsbad Tavern prepare traditional New Mexican dishes and green chile burgers.
- Italian Trattorias: Spots like Sophia's Kitchen focus on scratch-made pastas and rustic Italian comfort food.
Does Scottsdale Have an Authentic Casual Restaurant?
Yes, Scottsdale, Arizona, is home to many genuine casual dining venues, including established spots like Carlsbad Tavern, Citizen Public House, and AZ88. Carlsbad Tavern has served the city for decades, keeping a reputation for traditional New Mexican recipes and spicy green chile dishes. Citizen Public House offers a distinct taste of modern American cooking by preparing the famous Original Chopped Salad. AZ88 provides a consistent cultural experience by serving classic American food alongside rotating, avant-garde art installations.
Do Casual Restaurants in Scottsdale Offer Easy Online Reservations?
Yes, many casual restaurants in Scottsdale, Arizona, accept digital bookings through systems like OpenTable and Resy. Olive & Ivy, Citizen Public House, and Sophia's Kitchen handle bookings through OpenTable. Culinary Dropout uses a proprietary online system to secure tables in advance. Busy or walk-up spots like Farm and Craft Scottsdale and Carlsbad Tavern function on a first-come, first-served basis and do not take reservations.
What are the Signature Dishes of the Best Casual Restaurants in Scottsdale?
The standout menu items at the best casual restaurants in Scottsdale range from spicy New Mexican stews to nutrient-dense grain bowls. The following list describes notable food in Scottsdale.
- The Original Chopped Salad: A precise mixture of smoked salmon, couscous, arugula, pepitas, asiago cheese, and currants. Citizen Public House is famous for this specific dish.
- Carne Adovada: Pork shoulder slow-cooked in a rich, spicy red chile sauce. Carlsbad Tavern specializes in this New Mexican staple.
- Soft Pretzels & Provolone Fondue: Warm, salty pretzels served alongside a creamy, melted cheese dip. Culinary Dropout serves this popular appetizer.
- Sweet Potato Cannelloni: Handmade pasta filled with sweet potato and sage, served in a brown butter sauce. Olive & Ivy features this Italian-inspired item.
- Protein Bowls: Customizable bowls filled with organic grains, fresh vegetables, and lean proteins. Farm and Craft Scottsdale prepares these healthy meals.
Does Scottsdale Enjoy Casual Food?
Yes, the local community in Scottsdale favors casual food due to a large population of tourists, golfers, and residents seeking accessible, high-quality meals. The abundance of golf courses and luxury resorts generates a steady demand for relaxed dining options near Old Town and the Scottsdale Waterfront. Diners prefer comfortable settings and large patios that suit groups after outdoor activities. This demand supports a strong market for gastropubs, healthy cafes, and Southwestern grills throughout the city.
What is the Average Meal Price at Casual Restaurants in Scottsdale?
The average cost for a meal at casual restaurants in Scottsdale, Arizona, ranges from $20 to $60 per person. A single meal at a fast-casual spot or cafe like Farm and Craft Scottsdale runs between $15 and $30. A group meal for two to four people at a mid-range pub like Culinary Dropout or Carlsbad Tavern costs between $60 and $120. A meal at a budget-friendly spot costs $15 to $25 per person. A full dinner with drinks at an upscale-casual restaurant such as Citizen Public House or Olive & Ivy costs $40 to $60 per person.
Are There Vegan Options at Casual Restaurants in Scottsdale?
Yes, meat-free choices exist at casual restaurants in Scottsdale, Arizona, at places such as Farm and Craft Scottsdale, Olive & Ivy, HULA'S Modern Tiki Scottsdale, and AZ88. Farm and Craft Scottsdale offers a clearly labeled menu with vegan options like tofu bowls and vegetable wraps. Olive & Ivy provides plant-based Mediterranean salads and adjusts pasta dishes for a meatless meal. HULA'S Modern Tiki Scottsdale cooks vegetable-based island curries suitable for vegan guests. AZ88 changes salads and sandwiches to suit plant-based diets upon request.
Do Casual Restaurants in Scottsdale Offer Gluten-Free Options?
Yes, some casual restaurants in Scottsdale AZ provide gluten-sensitive options at spots such as Farm and Craft Scottsdale, Citizen Public House, and Sophia's Kitchen. Farm and Craft Scottsdale features gluten-free wraps and bowls for all menu items. Citizen Public House marks gluten-free soups, salads, and entrees directly on the menu. Sophia's Kitchen serves gluten-free pasta and changes sauces for sensitive diners. Culinary Dropout modifies grilled meat dishes to remove wheat ingredients when notified in advance.
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