Mastro's
Located in northern Scottsdale, this '50s-style steakhouse is known for some of the finest steak and wine pairings around. The extensive menu also offers pork chops, veal, lamb, lobster, crab and an array of side dishes. Later in the evening, live piano music is played to accommodate the dancing out on the floor. Although it is quite pricey, it is great for special occasions. The service is professional and knowledgeable about the menu, particularly when it comes to the cuts of meat and the dry-aging process. The dishes are served on sizzling plates, and the dessert menu is larger than you'll find at most steakhouses.
Mastro's Steakhouse
8852 E. Pinnacle Peak Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
(480) 585-9500
Mastrosrestaurants.com
Pasta Brioni
This hidden authentic Italian restaurant is located right off the center of downtown Scottsdale. It is ideal for large groups. parties, families or dates. The traditional Italian menu has a large wine list, focusing on wines from Italy, or course. The decor is classic, from the red-and-white checkered tablecloths to the low lighting to the dark cherry wood walls and tables. Pasta Brioni's meatball sandwich has been voted best in the city, and it is difficult to find a specialty dish here that isn't going to enlighten your taste buds.
Pasta Brioni
4416 N. Miller Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
(480) 994-0028
Pastabrioni.com
Salt Cellar
This restaurant is located underground in the heart of south Scottsdale. There is no better restaurant to dine at for seafood lovers. The fare is incredibly fresh, brought in daily and used that same day, offering everything from mussels to halibut to clam chowder or ceviche. The dessert menu changes daily and is always made fresh to order. The decor is intimate and seductive, as if you are dining in a modern underground cave. The servers are knowledgeable about the menu and wine list, and the bartenders make signature cocktails that change daily. For those who aren't huge seafood lovers, there are other options on the menu such as beef or chicken.
Salt Cellar
550 N. Hayden Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85257-4604
(480) 947-1963
Saltcellarrestaurant.com
Article Written By Lauren Wise
Lauren Wise has more than eight years' experience as a writer, editor, copywriter and columnist. She specializes in food, wine, music and pop culture. Her writing has appeared in various magazines, including "Runway," "A2Z," "Scottsdale Luxury Living" and "True West." Wise holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Arizona State University.
