5 Celebrity Chef Restaurants to Try in Arizona

May 28, 2026

Arizona’s dining scene continues to grow, and one of the biggest reasons is the number of nationally recognized chefs bringing incredible restaurant concepts to the Valley. From upscale Italian dining to stylish Scottsdale hotspots, these celebrity chef restaurants combine amazing food with memorable atmospheres that make them worth adding to your Arizona dining list.

Whether you’re planning a date night, celebrating something special, or simply looking for a new restaurant to try, here are five celebrity chef restaurants in Arizona that stand out.

La Zozzona — Chef Richard Blais

Location: Scottsdale
Cuisine: Modern Italian

Located in Scottsdale, La Zozzona is celebrity chef Richard Blais’ first Arizona restaurant and has quickly become one of the area’s most talked-about dining spots. The restaurant’s name translates to “messy delicious,” which perfectly matches the menu’s rich flavors and playful take on Italian cuisine.

Inspired by Blais’ travels through Italy, the menu features house-made pastas, bold sauces, and elevated comfort food with modern twists. One standout dish is the Rigatoni alla Zozzona, made with guanciale, sausage, tomato, chili, and pecorino romano.

The atmosphere feels energetic yet refined, making it a great option for both special occasions and upscale casual dinners in Scottsdale.

Luna by Giada — Chef Giada De Laurentiis

Location: Scottsdale
Cuisine: Italian with California influences

Located inside Caesars Republic Scottsdale, Luna by Giada brings celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis’ signature Italian style to Arizona. Known from numerous Food Network shows, Giada created the restaurant to reflect both her Roman roots and California-inspired cooking style.

The restaurant combines elegant interiors with a lively atmosphere, offering fresh pasta dishes, seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and an extensive wine list. Weekend brunch has also become a popular experience for both locals and visitors.

Luna feels modern, stylish, and very Scottsdale, making it a great destination for a girls’ night, date night, or weekend dinner reservation.

Wolf by Vanderpump

Location: Scottsdale
Cuisine: Global-inspired contemporary dining

Wolf by Vanderpump brings dramatic design, glamorous energy, and immersive dining to Scottsdale. Created by restaurateur and television personality Lisa Vanderpump, the restaurant has become one of the most visually recognizable dining destinations in the Valley.

From elaborate cocktails to globally inspired dishes, every detail feels intentionally designed for an elevated nightlife-meets-dining experience. The interiors are bold and luxurious, while the menu balances playful creativity with upscale dining.

If you’re looking for a restaurant experience that feels fun, energetic, and visually over-the-top in the best way, Wolf by Vanderpump delivers exactly that.

Tarbell’s — Chef Mark Tarbell

Location: Phoenix
Cuisine: New American

A longtime Phoenix favorite, Tarbell’s has earned its reputation as one of Arizona’s most respected dining destinations. Founded by celebrity chef Mark Tarbell, the restaurant combines upscale dining with a welcoming and approachable atmosphere.

Known for its New American cuisine, exceptional wine program, and consistently high-quality service, Tarbell’s remains a go-to for food lovers across the Valley. Seasonal ingredients and thoughtfully prepared dishes keep the menu fresh while maintaining the restaurant’s classic appeal.

For anyone looking for a timeless Phoenix dining experience with refined flavors and an intimate atmosphere, Tarbell’s continues to stand out.

Cala Scottsdale & The Americano — Chef Beau MacMillan

Location: Scottsdale
Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired & upscale steakhouse dining

Celebrity chef Beau MacMillan has become one of Arizona’s most recognizable culinary names, and his influence can be experienced at both Cala Scottsdale and The Americano.

MacMillan first gained national attention after competing on Iron Chef America, where he defeated Bobby Flay, and later co-hosted Food Network’s Worst Cooks in America alongside Anne Burrell.

At Cala Scottsdale, guests can expect Mediterranean-inspired dishes, vibrant interiors, and a lively Scottsdale atmosphere. The Americano offers a more upscale steakhouse experience with Italian influences, premium cocktails, and sophisticated design.

Both restaurants showcase MacMillan’s focus on fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and elevated dining experiences that continue to shape Arizona’s culinary scene.