Phoenix has one of the hottest restaurant scenes in the country, so we thought we’d ask local Gnational Gnomad, Mike of MikesRoadTrip.com, to share some of his most Instagram-worthy food photos and Phoenix restaurant suggestions.

One of the reasons Phoenix has such a vibrant array of restaurants is that it’s a melting pot of people. In other words, most who live in Phoenix are from somewhere else, so the collective palate is diverse—therefore, Phoenix is the perfect place to test restaurant concepts to see if they will work nationwide. Take for example, P.F. Chang’s, Pei Wei, True Foods, Cold Stone Creamery and many others who got their start in Phoenix. Phoenix is also is home to the Arizona Culinary Institute and Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts, which both produce top-notch chefs that fuel the Phoenix food scene.

Toro

Toro is one of the most Instagram worthy restaurants in Phoenix - Photo by Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com

Rainbow sushi roll – Photo by: Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com

Scottsdale’s Toro at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is like a Peruvian ascent to culinary heaven. The cuisine is a fusion of Latin and Asian influences and the décor mirrors this theme. The focal point of the space is a ceviche/sushi/rum bar that spans the length of the restaurant. Clean, modern-looking Asian lines and service settings highlight the sophistication of the bar area. Toro is a place where food is more than a meal, it’s an event.

Citizen Public House

PBJ Dessert at Citizen Public House by Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com

PBJ Dessert at Citizen Public House – Photo by: Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com

Nestled in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, Citizen Public House does not have a flashy exterior or entrance, but what it lacks in glam and glimmer, it makes up for with vivacity. An evening at Citizen Public House cannot be contained within the word “dinner” or even in the phrase “dining out.” It’s a place where comfort meets class. The food and cocktail ingredients are as imaginative, as they are delicious.

The Mission

The Mission Restaurant is one of the Instagram worthy restaurants in Phoenix

Swordfish – Purple & romanesco cauliflower, toasted farro, leek & garlic mole & smoked pasilla sabyon – Photo by: Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com

The Mission Restaurant takes diners on an extraordinary culinary pilgrimage. The dining area is decorated in rich earth tones, supple leathers and large candelabras hanging from the exposed duct-work ceiling. The Peruvian-accented Latin fare will introduce the palate to a complex and bold piquancy. The pilgrimage is highly pleasurable, no penance paid.

Prado

Prado is an Instagram worthy Phoenix restaurant

Ahi Tuna in citrus vinaigrette – Photo by: Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com

Prado is located in Paradise Valley within the Omni Montelucia Resort. The restaurant supports a Spanish village theme with a wide-open communal atmosphere that houses both the restaurant and the lounge. The food is uncomplicated, yet with an air of sophistication. Each dish is clean and healthful, allowing the natural flavors of the food to shine through. As they say, sometimes less is more and that is certainly the case at Prado.

House Brasserie

HOUSE BRASERIE is one of the Instagram worthy phoenix restaurants - photo by Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip

House-smoked burrata with heirloom tomatoes, pearl onions, pasilla-lime & apple butter spread over toasted bread – Photo by: Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com

House Brasserie is a confetti of culinary indulgence. They have taken a sliver of Paris and placed it in the heart of downtown Scottsdale, allowing guests to go on a virtual journey, if only for a moment in time.

Binkley’s

Binkley's is one Instagram worthy Phoenix Restaurant

Roasted Beet Salad – Photo by Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com

Binkley’s is a bevy of culinary prowess. The creative concoctions and apparatuses use to serve and display these works of art is one of the most creative you’ll likely encounter. This world-class restaurant has relocated from Carefree to central Phoenix and is a place not to be missed.

Café Monarch

Cafe-Monarch-patio-through-window-2

Cafe Monarch patio – Photo by: Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com

Café Monarch is an artful duet of cuisine and romance. Ambient décor, seductive music and the unity of wine and creative cuisine blend to make a relaxing and dreamy dining experience. The courtyard is one of the best in the Valley of the Sun, which is nestled in greenery with tranquil fountains allowing guests to fully unwind.

Elements

Elements is one Instagram worthy Phoenix Restaurants

Hawaiian Nairagi with sticky rice, avocado, lobster and mango kimchee – Photo by: Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com

Elements is located at the Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort, where yin meets yang. The menu consists of farm fresh American cuisine with Asian influences. The well-balanced unique and fresh ingredients pique the senses, creating a memorable and romantic dining experience.

Talavera

Talavera is one of the best Phoenix Restaurants and is quite IG worthy

Sea Scallops at Talavera – Photo by: Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com

Talavera typifies fine-dining and embodies the uncompromising quality for which the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North is known. The seasonally-inspired dishes that are artfully presented, along with a world-class setting, make Talavera a destination that certainly summons the gastronomic enthusiast.

Gertrude’s

Gertrude’s is one of the Instagram worthy phoenix restaurants to check out

Bison Filet at Gertrude’s – Photo by: Mike Shubic of MikesRoadTrip.com

Situated within the Desert Botanical Garden, Gertrude’s embraces the garden landscape with a fantastic patio setting to dine al fresco. The succulent food, stunning surroundings and ambient atmosphere create a very memorable and organic dining experience.

If you’ve dined at any of these Phoenix restaurants, please leave a comment below and share your experience.

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