10 Celebrity Chef Restaurants to Try in Arizona

Arizona's culinary scene is thriving, with an impressive lineup of celebrity chef-owned restaurants that bring bold flavors, creative dishes, and top-tier dining experiences to the Grand Canyon State. Whether you're craving gourmet Italian, artisan pizza, or modern French cuisine, these 10 restaurants—led by renowned chefs—are must-visit destinations for food lovers.

1. La Zozzona — Chef Richard Blais

Celebrity chef Richard Blais, best known for Top Chef, makes his Arizona debut with La Zozzona in Scottsdale. Inspired by his travels through Italy, this modern Italian eatery embraces the concept of "messy delicious" with house-made pastas, including the standout Rigatoni alla Zozzona featuring guanciale, sausage, tomato, chili, and pecorino romano.

2. Pizzeria Bianco – Chef Chris Bianco

A James Beard Award-winning chef, Chris Bianco has revolutionized the pizza scene in Phoenix since opening Pizzeria Bianco in 1993. Using locally sourced ingredients and time-honored techniques, Bianco has earned a national reputation for serving some of the best artisan pizzas in the country.

3. Luna by Giada — Chef Giada De Laurentiis

Located in Caesars Republic Scottsdale, Luna by Giada is the first Arizona restaurant from Food Network star Giada De Laurentiis. The menu is a refined blend of her Roman heritage and California influences, featuring elegant Italian dishes, an extensive wine list, and a stylish, high-energy ambiance.

4. Tarbell’s — Chef Mark Tarbell

Chef Mark Tarbell, Iron Chef America winner, has made Tarbell’s a beloved Phoenix institution. Known for its sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, Tarbell’s showcases New American cuisine with fresh seasonal ingredients, an award-winning wine selection, and top-notch service.

5. Dahl & Di Luca, Mariposa, and Pisa Lisa – Chef Lisa Dahl

Chef Lisa Dahl has transformed Sedona’s dining scene with her trio of award-winning restaurants: Dahl & Di Luca, Mariposa, and Pisa Lisa. As seen on Food Paradise and Beat Bobby Flay, her passion for bold flavors and high-quality ingredients shines through in her Latin and Mediterranean-inspired menus.

6. Chef Brian’s Comfort Kitchen – Chef Brian Hill

Celebrity chef Brian Hill, who gained fame on Top Chef and Private Chefs of Beverly Hills, brings soul-warming comfort food to Tucson with Chef Brian’s Comfort Kitchen. Opened in December 2022, this spot is known for its hearty, flavorful dishes inspired by his culinary journey.

7. Christopher’s at Wrigley Mansion — Chef Christopher Gross

James Beard Award nominee Chef Christopher Gross delivers an unforgettable dining experience at Christopher’s at Wrigley Mansion. Featuring a refined tasting menu and cutting-edge French cuisine, this Phoenix gem has earned a five-star rating as the city’s most innovative restaurant.

8. Chilte – Chef Lawrence “LT” Smith

Located in downtown Phoenix’s Egyptian Motor Hotel, Chilte is led by rising culinary star Chef Lawrence “LT” Smith, a 2025 James Beard Awards nominee for Best Emerging Chef. His globally inspired dishes, such as wood-fired lamb neck flautas and squid ink tortillas, push the boundaries of traditional Latin flavors.

9. Cala Scottsdale and The Americano — Chef Beau MacMillan

Chef Beau MacMillan, an Iron Chef America champion and Worst Cooks in America co-host, brings his expertise to Cala Scottsdale and The Americano. His menus showcase locally sourced ingredients, bold flavors, and modern cooking techniques that highlight his passion for refined yet approachable cuisine.

10. Nobuo at Teeter House – Chef Nobuo Fukuda

James Beard Award-winning chef Nobuo Fukuda creates an intimate and artistic dining experience at Nobuo at Teeter House in Phoenix. With a menu that blends traditional Japanese techniques with contemporary influences, this restaurant is a haven for those seeking a refined, seasonal dining experience.

From pizza pioneers to modern fine dining innovators, these celebrity chef restaurants bring a unique and unforgettable touch to Arizona’s culinary landscape. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor looking to indulge, these spots are worth adding to your must-try list!