Best & Cool Bars in Tempe Town Lake

"Dinner at Sanctuary Resort on Camelback Mountain – if I could only ever eat one thing again in my whole life, it would be the fiery calamari that I had at this restaurant. It was crispy and spicy, loaded with pepperoncini and Thai basil and just the right amount of miso sauce. HOLY MOLY – there were stars. Let me just say this – the meal we had at Sanctuary probably makes it into my Top 5 Meals of All Time list."

"With its terraced setting directly on Camelback Mountain, the Sanctuary Resort features some of the area’s most stellar views of its namesake mountain. Among the resort’s dining-with-a-view options is Elements, a venue that boasts extraordinary views of the surrounding Paradise Valley. The upscale restaurant offers farm-fresh American cuisine with Asian accents."

"Change is constant on luminary Charleen Badman’s deeply Arizonan menu — and so, in some ever-changing form, is Two Wash Ranch chicken. Birds raised by poultry farmer Dave Jordan get the royal treatment at FnB. In winter, Badman might braise what she calls a Macau-style bird with soy, peanuts, curry, and coconut milk."

"Sophisticated yet down-home, FnB is the latest darling of the Scottsdale culinary scene. The menu, which changes frequently, is based on seasonal ingredients sourced from local vendors and farms. The farm-fresh ingredients are carefully selected to create unexpected and delightful pairings."

"Freshen up at the hotel in the evening, then get ready for a creative meal at FnB. The seasonal offerings are accented by global ingredients, resulting in options like pasta, summer squash, huckleberry gold potatoes, lamb riblets, chilled corn bisque and more, all locally sourced."

"Ocotillo is a bonafide food and drink compound in central Phoenix, with a sprawling, ambitious menu of New American eats. Here, "New American" means everything from big plates of gorgeously burnished roasted chicken, enormous falafel burgers, or perhaps a small plate of roasted cauliflower that's almost as appetizing and richly flavored as a slab of steak. For dinner, the menu offers a selection of vegetable and meat small plates, house-made pasta dishes, and entrees."

"Simple and stylish, the outdoor spaces at this casual midtown establishment offer several ways to dine and unwind: a covered, street-side patio; a shady beer garden with communal picnic seating and its own bar; a ring of chairs around a fire pit; and grassy lawn out back. Kick back and relax — you might be here a while enjoying a sunny 70-degree day or breezy night."

"3243 N 3rd St, Phoenix, AZ 85012Phone: (602) 687-9080View Menu. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Ocotillo (@ocotillophx)"

"Meanwhile, chef Paul McCabe's handsome culinary haven, T Cooks, doles Spanish octopus, decadent stone seared foie gras, and beautifully plated antelope with smoked potato and maple. Stay: Nestled in the iconic Camelback Mountain, the stunning Royal Palms, once used as private mansion, now hosts 119 intimate guestrooms and casitas. This postcard-perfect 1920's Spanish structure reveals stunning archways scattered with lush palms, flowers, babbling fountains, and citrus trees. The intimate oval pool is perfect for a swim and a nap."

"Once the winter estate for a New York financier in the 1930s, the Royal Palms Resort exudes the gracious sophistication and timeless glamour of Phoenix as a desert retreat for the rich and famous. At T. Cook’s, executive chef Todd Allison creates inspired, ingredient-driven dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Feast like a king on such creations as herb-roasted Norwegian halibut served with ruby grapefruit; or handmade forest mushroom lasagna with Blue Sky Farms spinach, Japanese eggplant and celery root."

"You can’t help but leave the week’s worries behind as you turn onto the Royal Palms Resort & Spa’s cobblestone driveway and let the Spanish Mediterranean architecture and lush landscaping surround you. A short stroll along the resort’s shaded walkways brings you to your brunch destination – T."

"Occupying a canal-side brick building, this decidedly popular, neighborhood-casual restaurant is part of a local dynasty. The enterprise appeals to upscale families and maintains a solid menu that capitalizes on premium ingredients. Organic chicken is a specialty, and mouthwatering Dixie pan-fried chicken and roasted chicken with spaetzle showcase it beautifully."

"No list of prime outdoor dining spots in Phoenix would be complete without this place. Set next to the historic Arizona Canal, Chelsea’s Kitchen boasts an expansive patio and bar shaded by umbrellas and towering trees. “When you walk up to the front door you are hit with this amazing smell from their outdoor BBQ pit,” gushed one TripAdvisor user."

"Known for its unique, Victorian-inspired setting and curated menu, The House Brasserie is another option that’s meant to impress. If you’re celebrating or want to show off the local culinary scene for out-of-towners, this is a great option. Chef Brandon Jedd prides himself on showcasing local ingredients, so keep your eyes peeled for seasonal menu specials."

"The House Brasserie is a lot like going to your Southern grandma’s house for dinner: it's cozy, it's vintage, and the food is always wonderful. The only difference is that this place is a lot better... and your grandmother doesn't work there."

"Western Spirit, Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, is a wonderful place to visit in the afternoon, highlighting the important cultural and historical changes of the area over time through museum exhibitions and educational programs. Those looking to kick back and relax rather than explore the history of the West should consider visiting the Scottsdale's Ale Trail. The up-and-coming brewery scene in the city is fantastic, and you can bounce from place to place to sample a little bit of everything. Of the local breweries, consider Goldwater Brewing Co., Bad Water Brewing, Craft 64 or Vines & Hops."

"British artists Vicky Isley and Paul Smith have collaborated with science institutions over the past decade to create video installations that explore how large scale environmental changes have altered disease transmission. The exhibition, “Restless Balance: boredomresearch” is also the U.S. premiere of the video, “In Search of Chemozoa,” along with three earlier works that include animated robots navigating Venice’s polluted canals, flight patterns of mosquitos carrying malaria and intertidal snails adjusting to changed coastal conditions. Exhibition runs through April 24."

"One of the most overlooked museums in the Valley, the Arizona State University Art Museum houses thousands of pieces reflecting a wide range of themes and styles that include almost everything from southwestern influences to media art. The museum’s affiliation with the Ceramics Research Center also gives way to an impressive array of American ceramic pieces. ASU Art Museum, 51 E."

"And if that isn’t enough, the museum is housed at Arizona State University. So if you’re done exploring the museum, you can always explore the university grounds. The ASU Art Museum presents works from regional artists, and the exhibits are constantly rotating."

"Run by the Arizona Historical Society, this small museum tells the story of Arizona. Plan on spending about an hour here."

"Located in Old Town Scottsdale, Cafe Monarch is a fantastic spot for a romantic dinner with your foodie partner where you will enjoy a seasonal menu of multi-course meals which are served in a quiet, intimate space. The restaurant is known for its contemporary four-course prix-fixe menu which features dishes such as Niman Ranch pork tomahawk, Chilean sea bass, Maine lobster rolls, and Wild Mushroom Ravioli, which are paired with fine wines from around the world. The á la carte menu features mainstays such as foie gras and filet mignon, and the restaurant has a 12-seat bar where diners can enjoy a drink before or after dinner as well as a lovely garden patio for alfresco dining."

"It makes a lot of sense that this chef d’oeuvre of a dining experience was recognized by Trip Advisor as a Top Three Fine Dining Restaurant in the Nation. Keep in mind, there is a dress code and wearing a jacket is preferred, for good reason, you wouldn’t want to underdress for historic Old Town Scottsdale’s most illustrious venue. Their romantically lit patio, first-rate service, an elegant ambiance, and five-star cuisine – made from nothing but the finest in premium fresh, local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients – are just a few of Cafe Monarch’s noteworthy features."

"The old adage you get what you pay for rings true on the highest of ends at Café Monarch, a palatial temple of decadence, and an invitation to live your best life through food and wine. Dinner for two can equal a month’s rent, but you’ll start saving up for the next visit faster than you can say "Hudson Valley foie gras." Do the four-course tasting menu with wine pairings and opt for an add-on like the three-ounce striploin of Japanese A5 wagyu because, hey, it’s only money."

"Durant’s is an upscale, old-school chophouse that has been serving traditional steakhouse fare for the past 50 years. The legendary restaurant features an elegant, intimate dining space with vintage red-velvet banquette seating, dark hues, and soft candlelight, and serves seasonal menus of prime steaks and chops, such as the signature Durant's 48-ounce porterhouse, fresh seafood, locally sourced herbs, salads, and vegetables, housemade pasta and from-scratch sauces, and homemade desserts. The seasonal menus are accompanied by a selection of fine wines from around the world, craft beers on tap and by the bottle, and classic cocktails made with high-end spirits from the lively bar."

"A few other spots to choose from in the evening include Vincent Market Bistro, with upscale yet creative dishes; Durant’s steakhouse, offering premium cuts of prime rib and broiled steaks; and Mora Italian, a seasonal restaurant with homemade pasta and plenty of antipasti. Prado, located back at the resort, features traditional Spanish favorites such as sharable lobster paella, Moroccan lamb tajine and baked triple cream brie with meyer lemon jam made from the property’s citrus trees."

"Step back in time to one of the oldest and most notable restaurants near Phoenix as it’s been a popular place to get steak for almost 70 years. Enter through the back door and pass through the noisy, amazing smelling kitchen. Give your eyes a moment to adjust to the dark interior so you can take in the swank back and red decor."

"Dining at this Old Town gem is like being a treasured guest in the home of Chef Marcellino Verzino and his wife Sima – once you dine there, you’re family. At a time when fine dining restaurants are rare, Marcellino’s is a delicious change of pace, featuring crisp tablecloths, fresh flowers, candlelight and gracious service. The pace is leisurely, the décor both rustic and elegant – all of which sets the perfect stage for authentic Italian cuisine featuring exquisite house-made pastas, fresh seafood and prime meats."

"By AuthorScott on September 12, 2013ENTERTAINMENT, RESTAURANTS. Marcellino Ristorante Address: 7114 E Stetson Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 Phone:(480) 990-9500 Prices:$$$$ Hours: Thursday hours 4:00 pm–10:00 pm – See all Reservations: opentable.com Menu: urbanspoon.com Chef Marcellino Verzino was born on his family’s farm in the Campania region of Italy. He was raised in the small town of Reino, Benevento; where lush rolling hills […]"

"With 12+ locations spread across the Phoenix valley, Crumbl Cookies is one of Arizona’s most popular cookie shops featuring a weekly rotating menu of delectably delicious cookies including 4 different “specialty flavors” to taste and enjoy. *All locations open daily at 8:00am & are closed on Sundays. If you’re in the mood for cookies AND ice cream be sure to try out “Crumbl’s Cream” which comes in half-pints of vanilla, hot chocolate, sea salt toffee, and peanut butter toffee, inspired by their cookie recipes."

"If you ask Super Chunk owner and pastry chef Country Velador which cookie is her favorite, she’ll say, “They’re all my babies.” And she’s not wrong. Her famous Mesquite Chocolate Chip is dense and gritty with a smoky sweetness thanks to the mesquite flour. Her Cowpuncher combines Mexican chocolate with cinnamon, cayenne, and candied jalapeño for a cookie with kick."

"A small pastry you can have at teatime or for dessert, the canelé ($2.50) wraps a soft custard-like interior in a thick caramelized crust."