out Dreamweavers Canyon Both guests and locals can enjoy Dreamweavers Canyon, set in the spacious courtyard of The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa and complete with cozy outdoor couches and chairs; fire pits; and a gorgeous, everchanging seasonal flowerbed centerpiece patterned after a Navajo blanket. An added bonus: Each night at sunset, master bagpiper Michael McClanathan visits Dreamweavers to entertain guests with a series of bagpiping songs in tribute to the oft-overshadowed contributions made by Scottish immigrants to the state’s railroads, mines and towns. www.kierlandresort.com. El Chorro Situated at the base of Camelback Mountain, El Chorro is among the most beloved patios in Arizona. Its legacy is just as impressive as its view. Originally built as a school for girls in 1934, the property was later reimagined into a restaurant and lodge. In its early days, Clark Gable, Milton Berle and other prominent figures visited the lodge. Today, it’s become a local favorite and evolved into a place that retains its original rustic charm, with expansive indoor-outdoor dining spaces that offer brunch, dinner and a generous happy hour – along with incredible views. www.elchorro.com.
OUTDOOR OASES
Unwind and dine under the sun (or stars) on five idyllic patios BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ
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ummer may be patio weather across the rest of the country – but not in Arizona! Since May serves as last call for patio dining, now is the perfect time to get out and enjoy the Valley’s best patios before it’s too late. From flickering fire pits and twinkling lights to serene sunset views and captivating florals, here are our top five picks.
MAY 2017 |
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| SO SCOTTSDALE!
Isabella’s Kitchen Technically part of the public Grayhawk Golf Club, this hot spot is for far more than a golfer’s retreat. The patio of the upscale, rustic Italian eatery and bar overlooks the perfectly manicured 18th hole and offers dramatic views of Camelback and Mummy mountains in the distance. The outdoor terrace, patio and multiple semi-private courtyards have seating for more than 100 people and even offer rocking chairs so you can cozy on up to watch the sunset in absolute comfort. www.isabellaskitchen.com. Olive & Ivy Tucked along the Scottsdale Waterfront among shaded trees and in sight of the canal, Olive & Ivy’s massive patio feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of Old Town Scottsdale. The menu similarly reflects the laidback Mediterranean vibe, offering plenty of wine options and shareable small plates with thoughtful touches. At nightfall, the thousands of lights strung between the trees make the patio as romantic as it is lush. www.foxrc.com. The Plaza Bar Designed as an indoor/outdoor living room lounge at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, The Plaza Bar focuses on craft cocktails with flavorful infusions, syrups and powders combined in a variety of scrumptious ways. The Plaza Bar is hard to miss, thanks to its dramatic architecture and prime position in the center of the property – not to mention the stark white fire pits that line the bar and come alive at night. A selection of fine cigars; music; and large, high-definition TVs make it the perfect spot to wind down after work, catch the game or sip cocktails beneath the stars. www.scottsdaleprincess.com.