Best Neighbourhood Gem Restaurants in Central Phoenix

Amazing Valentines Day Dinner. Got there early to explore and enjoy the views. Had two rounds of drinks at the wine bar and then got the most amazing table with views for dinner. 4 course menu delicious and the somm helped us get an awesome bottle of Chianti.

Valentine's Day with my wife found us at Beckett's Table for the first time. Look past the quasi-strip mall feel, the interior is absolutely beautiful: rustic elegance and just really well designed. Although we didn't sit at the bar, the bar's design should be in a magazine. For VD, there was a limited menu. Three courses: 1st course a choice of 3 or 4 items. My wife had the curry dish (which she loved), and I had the French Onion soup which was good (hard to make FOs great -imho). Second course: my wife ordered the gnocci which featured duck sausage. My wife, again, loved it! I ordered the Bourbon lacquered short rib with au grain potatoes and asparagas. Everything on my plate was beautifully presented and perfectly cooked. For desert, there were two choices and we ordered one of each: a dark chocolate cake with espresson whip and I had the strawberry champagne sponge cake with little (unidentified crunchies). Both were excellet. Oh, and we each had a glass of cabernet although I can't recall which. Now to the service: Dimetria was our server and is a pro. She recommendations were spot-on and her attention to us was terrific. There were also a couple of rovers who constantly circulated to refill our water glasses and remove any plates. We never had to "look" for someone. In short, even though we live in Cave Creek, this was a great experience and we are eager to explore other menu items. Again, the ambiance is warm, rustic, and classy.

This restaurant is a real gym! They have a beautiful patio with lots of flowers, umbrellas, and space heaters for the chilly nights. We ate indoors in the adobe main building because of the morning rain storm that passed through earlier. It reminded me of many of the buildings in New Mexico, where I’m from. The furnishings and artwork inside were gorgeous. We ordered off the brunch menu and found some very creative selections. The service was outstanding and we are planning to return in about three weeks. :-)

Another wonderful dinner at Olive & Ivy! We ordered the crispy brussels sprouts as and appetizer and it was an excellent start. We also split a beet salad, and it didn’t disappoint for those who love beets. My wife then ordered the chicken scallopini and she loved it. I dined on the filet and it was cooked perfectly. The sauce was delicious and the scalloped potatoes which accompanied the steak made it a totally enjoyable meal. Service was again outstanding. Certainly will be going back during our stay in the Scottsdale area.

Great fresh food with an interesting menu. Love the guacamole that is made fresh at your table. It’s spendy but on par with most restaurant prices in the area. Friendly staff.