Scottsdale, Arizona, isn’t just a haven for golf enthusiasts and spa-goers; it’s also a fantastic spot for families looking to enjoy a meal out together. With its sunny skies and welcoming atmosphere, finding a place where both kids and adults can savor delicious food and create lasting memories is a breeze. But with so many options, where do you start?
I’ve scoured the city, from cozy cafes to bustling diners, to bring you the cream of the crop in family-friendly dining. These spots not only offer menus that cater to every palate, including the pickiest of eaters, but they also provide an environment where laughter fills the air, and everyone can relax. Whether you’re craving authentic Mexican cuisine, classic American comfort food, or innovative farm-to-table fare, Scottsdale has it all, and I’m here to guide you through the best of the best.
Exploring the Family-Friendly Restaurants in Scottsdale, Arizona
After spending considerable time sifting through Scottsdale’s dining scene, I’ve compiled a list of must-visit family-friendly restaurants. These spots stand out for their delicious menus that appeal to both kids and adults, as well as their warm, inviting atmospheres. Whether you’re in the mood for Mexican, American, or something more eclectic, Scottsdale delivers with charm and culinary diversity.
First on my list is Mowry & Cotton. Located inside the famous Phoenician Resort, this upscale restaurant features local cuisine, American, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, and Gluten Free Options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.
Then there’s Diego Pops, a modern Mexican restaurant with a vibrant interior and an outdoor seating area that’s perfect for those warm Scottsdale evenings. The menu features innovative takes on classic dishes and a variety of options for kids, making it a hit among families.
For those seeking farm-to-table freshness, Farm & Craft is my top recommendation. They’re committed to sustainable, healthy food in a family-friendly environment. The menu focuses on seasonal ingredients, ensuring that every dish is both delicious and nutritious.
Lastly, Oregano’s Pizza Bistro is a paradise for pizza lovers. With its laid-back atmosphere and extensive selection of pizzas, pastas, and salads, it’s a place where both kids and adults can indulge in their favorites.
These restaurants highlight Scottsdale’s ability to cater to families looking for memorable dining experiences. Each establishment not only serves up delectable dishes but also ensures a welcoming environment where families can bond and enjoy their time together. It’s clear that in Scottsdale, eating out with the family is both a culinary adventure and an opportunity to create lasting memories.
Top Family-Friendly Restaurants in Scottsdale
Building on the eclectic dining scene in Scottsdale, I’ve discovered additional gems perfect for family outings. These spots not only promise delectable meals but also ensure a warm, kid-friendly environment that adults will appreciate too.
- Butterfly Wonderland Cafe: Nestled within the Butterfly Wonderland exhibit, this unique cafe offers light snacks and meals. The real treat, however, is the immersive experience, as families can dine amidst the fluttering of exotic butterflies. It’s an ideal spot if you’re combining mealtime with an educational adventure.
- Rusty Spur Saloon: For families seeking a taste of the Wild West, Rusty Spur Saloon delivers. Offering traditional American fare in a historic setting that captures the essence of Old Town Scottsdale, it’s as much about the experience as it is about the food. The live country music adds to the authentic atmosphere, making it a hit among children and adults alike.
- Grassroots Kitchen & Tap: Praised for its welcoming atmosphere and a menu that caters to every palate, Grassroots Kitchen & Tap specializes in American cuisine with a healthy twist. The diverse menu includes options for vegetarians and meat-lovers, ensuring everyone in the family finds something to enjoy.
- The Sugar Bowl: A Scottsdale staple since the 1950s, The Sugar Bowl has delighted generations with its old-fashioned ice cream parlor vibe. Apart from offering a range of ice cream treats, the menu also includes diner-style meals. It’s a sweet escape that transports families to a bygone era.
Each restaurant on this list brings something special to the table, be it a unique dining atmosphere, a historical setting, or a menu that spans various cuisines and dietary preferences. Scottsdale’s family-friendly restaurants certainly play a significant role in making the city a delightful destination for visitors of all ages, offering a taste of local culture along with scrumptious meals. Dining out in Scottsdale, families can expect not just a meal, but a memorable experience that everyone, from toddlers to grandparents, will enjoy.
Menu Highlights for Kids and Adults
After exploring the vibrant dining scene in Scottsdale, it’s clear that the city’s restaurants are more than just about offering a place to eat; they provide an experience that caters to the taste buds of both kids and adults. Each restaurant highlighted brings something unique to the table, ensuring that family meals become a memorable part of your Scottsdale adventure.
Starting with Mowry & Cotton, the kids can have the Bunny Phoe Phoe Grilled Cheese with a Strawberry Lemonade Mocktail, while the adults dine on their signature Wild Mushroom Flatbread, Avocado Caesar Salad, and Smoked Brisket. Everyone is bound to be satisfied.
At Diego Pops, the atmosphere is as vibrant as the menu. Their Brussels Sprout Nachos are an innovative treat, capturing the essence of fun dining for adults, while the quesadillas and tacos, customizable with an array of toppings, keep the kids excited about their meal.
Farm & Craft specializes in health-conscious dishes without compromising on flavor. Their seasonal kitchen brings to the table options like the gluten-free pizza and the quinoa bowl that kids love for their simplicity and taste. For adults seeking a wholesome meal, the salmon with ancient grains is a nutrient-packed choice that delights the senses.
Oregano’s Pizza Bistro turns pizza night into a feast with their wide selection of pizzas, from classic Margherita to adventurous combinations, ensuring there’s a slice for every palate. The kids get to enjoy the playful ambiance and tasty, familiar pizza flavors, while adults can indulge in the pizzeria’s unique offerings or opt for a hearty pasta dish.
At Butterfly Wonderland Cafe, the menu is as enchanting as the surroundings. Light bites like sandwiches and salads with fun, butterfly-themed presentations captivate the kids, whereas adults appreciate the fresh, quality ingredients and the tranquil café environment.
Rusty Spur Saloon offers a dive into history with its rustic charm. Kids get a kick out of dining in an authentic Old West environment, enjoying simple yet delicious burgers and fries. Adults find the historical setting engaging, pairing their meals with a choice from the saloon’s selection of local beers and spirits.
Activities and Entertainment for Children
After delighting in the wide array of family-friendly restaurants across Scottsdale, exploring the available activities and entertainment for children is the perfect way to round out a memorable day. Scottsdale doesn’t just excel in offering a diverse culinary experience but also shines when it comes to keeping kids engaged and entertained.
At The Henry and Butterfly Wonderland Cafe, for instance, the dining experience seamlessly merges with educational encounters. The Henry, apart from its sophisticated yet comfortable dining space, is situated close to prime family entertainment options like the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. Here, kids can revel in train rides and playground fun, making it an ideal post-meal activity.
Similarly, a visit to Butterfly Wonderland Cafe isn’t complete without exploring its namesake’s attraction. This magical spot allows children to wander among thousands of free-flying butterflies in America’s largest butterfly conservatory, offering an immersive educational experience that captivates both young minds and adults.
Diego Pops and Farm & Craft, located in the heart of Scottsdale, are steps away from the Scottsdale Waterfront and its splendid fountains and art installations. These settings provide a picturesque backdrop for leisurely post-meal walks where families can enjoy the outdoors while children play and explore.
For those seeking a slice of history and culture, dining at the Rusty Spur Saloon offers a unique segue into exploring Old Town Scottsdale’s Western heritage. Kids will be thrilled with the live music and the authentic cowboy atmosphere, providing a lively and interactive window into the past.
On the more active side, a meal at Oregano’s Pizza Bistro can be paired with a visit to one of Scottsdale’s numerous parks or the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park nearby, where children can enjoy playing in expansive green spaces, engaging in various outdoor activities that allow them to burn off some energy.
Scottsdale provides families with not just a feast for the taste buds but also a treasure trove of activities and entertainment suitable for children, making every dining out experience both delicious and educational.
Tips for a Stress-Free Dining Experience with Kids
Walking through Scottsdale’s family-friendly restaurants, I’ve gathered invaluable strategies for ensuring a stress-free dining experience with kids. Let’s dive into practical tips that can make every meal out an enjoyable adventure for your family, building on the exciting dining spots and activities previously mentioned.
Choose the Right Time
Timing can make a world of difference when dining with children. I aim for off-peak hours, such as early dinners around 5 pm or lunches shortly after opening. This strategy not only helps in avoiding crowds but also ensures quicker service, which is crucial for keeping kids engaged and happy.
Preview the Menu
Before we head out, I always take a moment to preview the restaurant’s menu online. This preparation ensures there are kid-friendly options available and allows us to make quicker decisions once seated. Restaurants like The Henry and Oregano’s Pizza Bistro offer diverse menus that cater to both adult and children’s palates, making them ideal choices.
Pack Entertainment
While Scottsdale’s family-friendly restaurants often come with their own set of distractions and entertainments, I find that having a small back-up entertainment pack can go a long way. Simple items like coloring books, small toys, or interactive apps can be life-savers while waiting for the food to arrive.
Embrace Kids’ Menus and Portions
Restaurants that offer kids’ menus with portions tailored for little ones, such as Farm & Craft and Rusty Spur Saloon, are always on my radar. It’s a clear indicator that the establishment values their younger guests, making the dining experience more enjoyable for them and less stressful for me.
Look for Family-Friendly Amenities
Lastly, I always check for family-friendly amenities such as high chairs, booster seats, or changing facilities. Knowing that places like Butterfly Wonderland Cafe think ahead to accommodate families’ needs reassures me that we’ll have a comfortable and convenient dining experience.
Adopting these tips, you’ll find that dining out in Scottsdale with kids is not just about eating; it’s about creating joyful experiences that your family will remember fondly.
Conclusion
Scottsdale shines as a beacon for families seeking a dining scene that welcomes little ones with open arms. I’ve shared my top picks and strategies to ensure every meal out feels like a treat rather than a chore. Whether you’re craving the innovative flavors at The Henry or the playful atmosphere of Diego Pops, there’s no shortage of spots to create those precious family memories. Remember, it’s all about finding those places that hit the sweet spot between kid-friendly and adult-approved. So grab your little ones, pick a spot from our list, and dive into the vibrant culinary landscape of Scottsdale. Here’s to delicious meals and happy family moments ahead!
