Scottsdale always has been and always will be my home. I grew up there and I still spend so much time there. I honestly love it, and over the years it has expanded and changed. I’m not usually responsive to change, but seeing all of the cool resorts, hotels, restaurants, and shops has been a pretty fun experience. I am always down to try a new place to eat, but recently I’ve found a few favorites I want to share with you. So whether you live here in town or are coming to visit, here are 4 places you should be sure to check out.

EVO

4175 N. Goldwater Blvd, Scottsdale 85251

EVO is a locally-owned and operated restaurant, in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. Serving dinner from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily, EVO is a neighborhood restaurant committed to the people and the community that surrounds them. - Website

I was unsure when my friends and I had a little holiday dinner here last year, but I was proved absolutely wrong pretty quickly. Evo reminds me of the classic family-owned Italian restaurants we used to go to frequently when I was a kid except with a much more updated, modern, and hip vibe. The food was delicious and I loved the ambiance. Do not skip the Arancini. Trust me.

Pizzeria Virtù

6952 E. Main Street, Scottsdale 85251

Pizzeria Virtù is the newest restaurant in the Virtù family. Chef Gio decided that creating Pizzeria Virtù by embracing the Napoletana tradition of pizza making was going to be the key to the restaurant’s success. The menu at Pizzeria Virtù changes frequently all while adhering to the strict guidelines of the AVPN. We are creating a memorable dining experience through pizza! We curated a boutique all Italian wine list with heavy emphasis on southern Italy. Our progressive approach to the craft of the cocktail will entice the novice as well as the most discerning of palates. - Website

I consider Pizzeria Virtù a little hidden gem. It’s one of my favorite places to visit while hanging out in Old Town, especially during a staycation at the Hotel Valley Ho - practically a stone’s throw away! It has such a relaxed vibe to it. The pizza was amazing and the wine list is always on point. I love how the menu changes so there is always something new to try.

ETTA

15301 N. Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale 85254

Centered around a wood-fired hearth, we create sophisticated yet familiar dishes using expert cooking techniques. With a frequently updated menu of wood-fired pizzas, housemade pastas, and farm fresh salads, etta is a celebration of rustic cuisine that is thoughtful of the season. - Website

Etta has become one of my favorite brunch spots. Mainly because they are one of the few places to offer foods that aren’t entirely breakfast based that are absolutely delicious. I’ve had everything from salad to sandwiches and even pizza. The setting is cool and there is truly something for everyone. And with it being located at the Scottsdale Quarter there is plenty to do and see.

JT PRIME KITCHEN & COCKTAILS

4216 N. Brown Ave, Scottsdale 85251

Located in the center of Old Town Scottsdale, just wander down Brown Avenue and into J.T. Prime, unassuming yet exclusive, for a stellar cocktail and chill vibe. Chef Alex Trujillo and the team at J.T. Prime are lighting the pilots and setting the table. Enjoy a full menu of everything we crave, handmade cocktails and some great wine to flow the night away! - Website

This is another little hidden gem I hit up during a Staycation and I fell in love with it. It’s kinda off the beaten path unless you were a huge Old Town Club kid back in the day and know the area pretty darn well. Not that I was….or anything….ANYWAY…When they say chill vibe, they absolutely mean it. The staff was super cool and they love recommending things to try. The cocktails are on point and so is the music (and decor!). It’s such an intimate setting with delicious food. I absolutely love it here and I could probably eat 17 orders of Wagyu Meatballs. I’m not even joking…