$50-75

Talavera is a type of vibrant Mexican pottery, and the restaurant appropriately shares the bright colors of the craft through its interior design, as well its cuisine. Contemporary American fare makes a bold presence on the menu, which focuses on meats, poultry, fresh seafood and other game, as well as signature dishes. Window seating gives guests the gift of views of Pinnacle Peak and the Valley of the Sun. Bordered by glass, the fire element is a main attraction to the establishment, viewable from both inside and outside seating. Another unique offering at Talavera is tableside preparation of meals, allowing …

Donovan’s Steak and Chop House is a little piece of steak paradise, an homage, really, to the long tradition of steakhouses so popular in America since the early 20th century. But Donovan’s is no throwback. At their handsome location at 3101 E. Camelback Road in the upscale Camelback Corridor, owners Dennis Hitzman, Tony Subia, and Mal Jozoff have created a clubby atmosphere of casual elegance with no fine-dining detail overlooked. The centerpiece of their award winning operation is the exclusive use of USDA Prime, Midwestern, corn-fed beef, which, combined with an international wine list, accommodating staff, and exclusive amenities, makes …

Top of the Rock Restaurant offers exquisite American cuisine in an amazing setting. The circular dining room is awash in rich wood, with 360 degrees of windows surrounding diners. Once you get over the astonishing panoramic views, turn your attention to the plate. Chef de Cuisine Michael Noone turns out elegant comfort food, such as Braised Pork Osso Buco and Bacon-Wrapped Swordfish, and Gorgonzola Baked Veal Chop. Top of the Rock ensures that you won't be disappointed on your next trip to Tempe.

Seeped in history, the Landmark restaurant is truly a Phoenix landmark. Located in a building that served as a church, a college, and offices for an insurance company, the Landmark Restaurant is a little slice of Phoenix’s past. But don’t come here just for a history lesson. The menu is filled with succulent steaks, delicate seafood, and classic comfort food such as Beef Stroganoff, Stuffed Meatloaf, and Grilled Ham. A dining experience at the Landmark is not complete without the “salad room”—an entire room converted to a salad bar, featuring both traditional and eclectic, hearty and healthy, and hot and …

Escape the urban sprawl of Phoenix with a visit to Quiessence on “the Farm” at South Mountain. This quaint culinary retreat offers pastoral serenity in the heart of the city. Explore this verdant agricultural oasis, before cozying up by the fireplace in Quiessence’s historic farmhouse. The menu changes seasonally to feature the freshest local Arizona foods, including those grown onsite. Quiessence serves Contemporary American Farm Cuisine with a conscience, choosing US suppliers with ethical environmental and humane practices. Whether savoring a romantic dinner or socializing at a special event, a trip to the Farm is sure to be an adventure.

Durant’s takes diners back to the Rat-Pack era, when dim lighting, dark leather booths, and serious steaks were the epitome of a great meal. Guests flock to this classic, classy steakhouse, for some of Phoenix’s finest steaks, chops, and seafood. The menu is filled with generously portioned dishes, such as Durant’s Delmonico steak, Slow-Roasted Prime Rib, and Australian Lobster Tail. Those feeling especially indulgent can take on the 48-ounce porterhouse—finishing it in one sitting earns a plaque on the wall.

Steamers Genuine Seafood is the place to come for a glimpse of the sea amid the Phoenix desert. With an oyster and sushi bar, as well as an extensive menu, Steamers is serious about their seafood. Fish and shellfish are the specialty, with an array of entrees such as Blue Cheese Petrale Sole and Blackened Red Snapper, a selection of simply grilled fish, and a tempting selection of lobster dishes. However, those in the mood for turf will not be disappointed, with flavorful preparations of steak and chicken and delectable sides. An extensive and interesting wine list compliments the menu, …

Sassi offers southern Italian fare at its best. The unique setting is reminiscent of a villa situated off the Tuscan coast of Italy. With multiple warmly decorated dining rooms, private rooms, and an ornate outdoor al fresco dining area, it offers a wonderful setting for a meal, party, wedding, or any gathering of up to 150 guests. The quality menu offerings, coupled with the extensive list of fine Italian wines, are sure to please even the most fickle Italian food connoisseur.

Deseo provides a sumptuous and sensual dining experience. Headed by James Beard Award-winning Chef Douglas Rodriguez, this popular addition to the Scottsdale Westin’s collection of restaurants serves a diverse array of delectable Nuevo Latino treats. Deseo’s warm atmosphere is intensified by its open kitchen, transforming dinner into a visual feast as well as a culinary one. Known for its inventive ceviches and fresh fruit cocktails, Deseo is a perfect location for relaxed socializing, especially during the “Unwind Hour,” the Westin’s creative reimagining of Happy Hour. Whether “unwinding” with a mojito and Trio of Ceviche, or diving wholeheartedly into a Nuevo …

Adjacent to the Firesky Resort and Spa in Old Town Scottsdale, Taggia Restaurant brings a tropical feeling to the otherwise dessert location. Coastal Italian cuisine in the form of salads, pizzas and pastas is prepared with fresh ingredients, such as seafood, flown in daily. Guest can relax under the peaceful sky, or dine in comfort indoors for a calm and enjoyable meal in their preferred atmosphere. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Taggia can accommodate any meal for any occasion from business dinners to social occasions and any other memorable moments life may bring. The warm atmosphere, attentive staff, and …

Describing their fare as “classically influenced American cuisine,” Kevin and Amy Binkley are the dynamic duo behind the success of their namesake restaurant. Mr. Binkley doubles as the active chef and owner/operator, and Amy keeps the food machine running by managing the finer details of the operation. The fruit of this husband/wife team’s labors is a fine marriage of casual and elegant cuisine that is served with love. Dishes like the Whole Roasted Partridge and the Italian Sausage Stuffed Squash Blossoms warm diners from the inside out and keep them coming back again and again.

Dine in an elegant, yet comfortable atmosphere at The Compass Arizona Grill, where Chef De Cuisine, Jason Hoven designs masterful seasonal menus year round. Innovative culinary creations find their way onto each plate out of his kitchen, as he translates distinctive visions with ease. The menu offers irresistible entrees made from fresh meats, poultry and seafood in a quintessentially contemporary style. The exciting and fabulous fare is accompanied by an extensive wine list. The combination of fantastic fare, wondrous wines and the breath-taking views allows guests to drift away into a dining dream!

Innovative American food is the signature cuisine for Wright’s at the Biltmore. Chef de Cuisine Connor Favre has developed a new food concept called “American Lodge Cuisine” which incorporates rich textures and bold flavors with fresh seasonal ingredients. This restaurant is part of a historical landmark created in 1929 and shows off an art-deco style inspired by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Its appearance is elegant, detailed and intimate. A pre-fixe menu is available and changes daily. Some of the dishes are Large Striped Prawns with mustard greens, lemon risotto and Arizona citrus sauce and Seared Red Trout with root …

Sophisticated reinterpretations of classic American and International favorites are sprinkled about the menu at Remington’s, along with original house specialties. Signature entrées offered are Filet Mignon, Rack of Lamb, seasonal fish dishes, and complimenting accompaniments. Freshly baked pretzel rolls are an inventive staple at Remington’s, as are the live Jazz performances, Tuesday- Saturday nights starting at 6:00pm in the lounge. The exquisite menu and entertainment are paired with an extensive wine list, and fabulous service to complete the appeasing ambiance.

For filling options for traditional American breakfasts, stacked sandwiches and hearty dinner entrees, Pointe in Thyme has all kinds of options for any meal of the day. Located in the Pointe Hilton hotel, this restaurant offers a setting rich in warm colors and deep wood accents. Pointe in Thyme is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Luxury, elegance, leisure, and comfort are to be expected when dining at The Palm Court at the Scottsdale Resort and Conference Center. Gorgeous pink draped curtains and table clothes, accented with fresh pink flowers, cream-colored boquets and table runners, and black chandeliers with clear dangling crystals adorn the dining room; nothing less than glamorous. The wine collection is on display, set inside the wall and covered by glass, outlined with a decorative and delicate black wired frame. Each aspect of the aesthetic has been perfectly set in place. The menu reflects innovative American cuisine and dishes are often prepared au …

For an intimate dining experience, Belsito Ristorante is the spot for delicious Tuscan-inspired cuisine in a space with personality and hospitality. Nestled in the back corner of 5th Avenue, Belsito offers outdoor seating without a view of busy city streets or noisy cars. The elegant, warm interior compliments Belsitos’ traditional Italian menu with generously proportioned dishes. But Belsito hasn’t always been a Phoenix native—it recently moved here from Michigan, where Zagat surveyors named it “Best Italian Restaurant” in the Detroit Area. Consider this transfer a gain for Arizona, because these dishes are sure to please and arouse your taste buds.

Cholla Prime Steakhouse showcases the finest qualities of classic steakhouse cuisine in an intimate and sophisticated setting. Ideally located in the Casino Arizona, Cholla offers a thoughtful and intriguing menu that boasts bold, simple flavors. The Smoked Crispy Duck is rich and satisfying, while the Red Pear Frisee Salad is a delectable palate cleanser. Cholla also presents guests with the difficult choice between entrees like the Encrusted Lamb Porterhouse, the Grilled Pacific Salmon, and the Bacon Wrapped Elk Tenderloin. All these wonderful dishes and more may be savored until midnight on the weekends, ensuring one’s evening ends on a high …

The Ritz Carlton has a reputation for being high class, and Bistro 24 - located in the Phoenix property - definitely lives up to the standard. Modeled after a classic French bistro with American flair, the restaurant serves authentic, simple yet flavorful cuisine in an French-American fusion. The comfortable and classy environment offers guests the option of sitting in the contemporary dining room, or outside in the fresh Arizona air. A farm-to-table menu has been masterfully created and inspired by local, organic McCledon farm produce, with menu items available daily for lunch and dinner. The casual elegance gives diners the …