Special Occasion Restaurants

As is the case with most artistic endeavors, improvisational cooking can be incredibly challenging, and wildly rewarding. Chef and Owner Joshua Hebert knows firsthand how involved the task is to create a unique daily menu for his restaurant, Posh, and gladly accepts the challenge. The availability of seasonal local produce and meat largely dictate what ends up on the plate, and Chef Hebert crafts intriguing flavor combinations from every ingredient he touches to infuse each dish with a “one-of-a-kind” touch. Past favorites have included the Mushroom Braised Veal and the Red Wine Poached Salmon.

Notorious for their long lines and long wait, customers keep coming back to Pizzeria Bianco for their famous pizzas, salads and brews. All pizzas are oven roasted, and even though there are only 6 selections to choose from, each option is eager to please, more notably their popular Rosa Pizza with red onion, parmigiano reggiano, rosemary and Arizona pistachios. Pistachios on a pizza? Full of surprises, the modestly simply Pizzeria Bianco will leave your belly satisfied.

Downtown Phoenix, once painfully devoid of personable eateries, is seeing a reemergence of fine and expressive dining options largely through the efforts of Chef Johnny Chu. Chef Chu is responsible for opening more than one Cinderella-story restaurant in the neighborhood, and continues to wow patrons with his latest endeavor, Sens. This chic Pan-Asian eatery serves up healthy helpings of style with a small plate menu that invites visitors to share and indulge alike. Home-style dishes like the Soup Gyoza and claypot favorites like the Lemongrass Clams keep diners’ appetites satisfied, while the extensive sake and shochu selection keeps our interest …

Hoping to serve as the proverbial watering hole for locals and visitors alike, District offers a communal gathering place to indulge on good company, and great food and drink. Chef Nathan Crouser specially selects his produce from local farmers who care as much about what they grow as he cares about what goes on the plate. Small plates like the Steamed Mussels and Cheeseburger Sliders go down nicely with some fine conversation and a glass of wine from the thoughtful drink menu; and entrée dishes like the Chicken Pot Pie and the Organic Berkshire Pork Tenderloin beg to be selfishly …

There’s no need to cross The Pond for authentic Irish fare and hospitality when The Turf Restaurant serves up hearty helpings of both each day. The rich pub culture is preserved through fitting artifacts of watering holes of old, and sport enthusiasts are rewarded with The Turf’s steadfast commitment to Ireland’s love of horse racing and golf. Old friends unite and new friendships form around the welcoming menu that warms the tummy and soul. The Traditional Irish Breakfast starts the day off right, while the Bangers and Mash keeps one fueled for good times. And the Guinness keeps smiles wide.

Named for its north of Camelback location, NOCA is owner Eliot Wexler and Chef Chris Curtiss’ adventurous brainchild. Serving unpretentious American fare with flair, they are steadily building a reputation among foodies and non-foodies alike as innovators in creative cuisine. Meals commence with a crafty amuse bouche, and a puff of cotton candy serves to cleanse the palate between entrees and dessert. Curtiss is an expert at using the freshest ingredients on the market in a harmonious fusion of the senses. Coupled with a sparse yet comfortable dining room and impeccable service, this experience is not to be missed.

1130: The Restaurant, named for the suite it occupies in the Downtown Arizona Center, offers casual elegance at affordable prices. Owned and operated by the same group as longtime favorite Sam’s Café, the restaurant seeks to provide diners with diversity coupled with health conscious preparation. 1130 boasts Downtown Phoenix’s largest private dining room as well as contemporary patio dining, complete with outdoor sofas. Open for brunch, lunch, and dinner, 1130’s menu offers an assortment of menu options. Whether you’re enjoying a mouthwatering burger or a juicy Ribeye with one of 1130’s complimentary Phoenix Style rubs, the staff at 1130: The …

In the heart of central Phoenix lies FEZ, an ultra sleek and urban center for Mediterranean and Moroccan infused American cuisine. FEZ, an Award Winning restaurant in Phoenix, combines one-of-a-kind spices and fresh ingredients to create tempting and flavorful selections that can satisfy your cravings. In addition, FEZ hosts special events for both music and food, complete with a life DJ for late night parties. Fans rave about their signature Pomegranate Martini and FEZ burger, and alongside their full bar, lustrous lounge and spacious outdoor patio, FEZ is the ideal place for trendy, upscale bar food with a Middle Eastern …

Health nuts never fear—there’s a restaurant in town that has everyone talking at yoga practice. It’s called True Food Kitchen, and this organic, fine-dining eatery has a modern, nature-inspired interior with a menu full of premium, healthy options for any diet. To become the most popular restaurant of the Fox Restaurant Concept, owner Sam Fox teamed up with health specialist and best-selling author Dr. Andrew Weil to create a menu that is both health-conscious and satisfying. Dishes here show the more nutritious side of fine dining, but the quality, presentation and flavor are not cut short. True Food Kitchen offers …

Classic mahogany furnishings and refined touches in the Capital Grille’s décor complement the equally refined and welcoming menu of rich dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and a proud array of side dishes. Located in Baltimore Fashion Park, this meat-centric eatery boasts a club-like atmosphere in the main dining room and a patio by which to savor balmy Phoenix nights. The Wagyu Beef Carpaccio is seductive, the Bone-In Kona Crusted Dry Aged Sirloin is captivating, and the Seared Citrus Glazed Salmon is simply invigorating. And while dishes like these demand attention, the thoughtful selection of side offerings has earned its own fan …

As the cooling mist falls from the Wild Thaiger’s expansive covered patio, one may feel as though he or she has found a true tropical oasis in the heart of Phoenix. This authentic Thai cuisine restaurant hopes to please every palate with its relaxing décor and made-to-order menu. Fans of fiery fare will revel in dishes that highlight the heat of the Thai chili, while more sensitive mouths will appreciate that they may order on the conservative side of spice. And vegetarians delight – tofu and veggie substitutions are offered in many dishes.

One may argue that the best experiences in life involve some variation of molten cheese and/or chocolate, and The Melting Pot agrees wholeheartedly. Savory morsels of fresh meats, chicken, seafood, and veggies are presented for diners to dip and indulge on how they please -- and sweet touches like fruits and cookies are complemented by an array of chocolate dips. A meal with a special someone becomes infinitely more romantic when sharing is involved; and any communal dining experience with a table of happy eaters promises to be a memorable one.

The Mission Restaurant and Lounge has a lot to offer diners, whether it be morning, evening, or late night, and it is all available in one place. The restaurant’s brunch, lunch, dinner, and off-hours menus are each comprised of signature dishes, displaying a wide array of Modern Latin Cuisine at any time of day. Adding to the sophisticated, yet casual atmosphere, The Mission’s full Tequila Bar provides a premium collection of liquor, beer, signature hand-pressed cocktails and an extensive wine list. Whether you’re heading out for a family brunch, drinks with friends, an intimate dinner, or a late-night dessert, The …

At Voce Ristorante, guests enjoy blissful authentic Italian meals, exciting cocktails, and live entertainment in a swanky venue. Chef Michael Lepore prepares exquisite Italian cuisine using the freshest ingredients, to please the palates of diners from all walks of life. Many celebrities and athletes have graced the restaurant, such as Shaquille O’Neal, Sinbad, Muhammad Ali, and Frankie Valli to name a small few. An impressive interior begins with the vibrant red foyer and purple-toned, leather booth lounge area parallel to the bar seating, and table seating all leading guests to the back of the building where the magic happens. The …

Encompassing the very best qualities of the classic supper club and complementing them with a decidedly contemporary aesthetic, Ocean Prime offers a uniquely chic and sophisticated dining experience. Surf-n-Turf is taken to an entirely new level with a menu that prizes freshness and quality above all else. Similarly, the dining space that features a covered patio terrace, cocktail lounge and piano bar, and three private rooms can accommodate practically any whim or occasion. Large parties can mingle and schmooze with ease, while couples may steal more intimate dining moments in peace.

Delectable dishes are delivered from kitchen to table with pride. Chef Charles Wade Schwerd puts his best foot forward, using quality ingredients to create cuisine with character. Steaks are placed tableside, still cooking in a steamy iron skillet. Plates please the senses in more ways than one; teasing your taste buds and eyes, and satisfying your stomach. Chef Schwerd hand picks each menu item, so every dish is a specialty. Attention to detail is the name of his game, and he makes sure each work of art is well thought out, prepared with care, and has his personal touch, making …

Bask over the breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain as you sip on your favorite vintage, all while swooning over a dish of fine Italian fare at Prado, in the InterContinental Montelucia Resort and Spa. This signature restaurant presents guests with lavish surroundings by which to enjoy a decadent menu of Andalusian-inspired cuisine painstakingly prepared in wood-fired brick ovens. Sweeping arches, vibrant mosaic tiles, and sun-steeped elegance provide a fitting backdrop for an array of rustic Italian specialties that embody Chef Urciuoli’s passion for the Slow Food Movement. Appropriately enough, time may just slow down for you as you savor every …

Ruffino Italian Cuisine has one motto: “Elegance in Dining Redefined”. As Ahwatukee’s leading Italian restaurant, Ruffino has put this saying into practice in each and every aspect of their operation. The menu is full of classic Italian dishes that have been honed over their twenty years of service, utilizing fresh pasta that’s homemade daily. The restaurant takes pride in their large and varied wine list, which is constantly growing, and the staff is well trained and able to suggest the ideal wine to accompany your specific meal. Ruffino also has new special offers and promotions popping up frequently give diners …

Located in the luxurious relaxation haven, The Phoenician Resort, J&G Steakhouse exceeds expectations with class, glamour and breathtaking views. Weather visiting for business or leisure, J&G Steakhouse offers guests a sophisticated setting to wine, dine, drink and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. Wide open windows give guests a gorgeous backdrop, while the interior is equally impressive; sprinkled with stunning sparkling chandeliers, sheer curtains, richly dark tables and walls, and an overall lavish ambiance. Escape the ordinary and enjoy an extraordinary meal in an unforgettable setting at J&G Steakhouse.

Home in the picturesque Phoenician Resort, Il Terrazzo celebrates fine service and dining in a lavishly appointed dining space that marries simple elegance with art deco aesthetic. Guests may visit, and linger, over three meals a day and savor the lush Sunday Brunch Buffet for a truly satisfying day. Stunning views of the resort’s manicured grounds, comfortable outdoor seating options, and numerous private dining accommodations make for personalized meal opportunities with a personable touch. Menu highlights include the Veal Ravioli, the Berkshire Pork Chop, and the Scottish Salmon.