Experience AZ magazine is Arizona’s go-to travel and adventure guide, showcasing the best places to eat, stay, shop, explore and experience across the state. Here are five of Arizona’s best people-watching restaurants, as featured in the latest issue of Experience AZ.
Olive & Ivy
Olive & Ivy is a Mediterranean restaurant that offers a quiet escape from the Old Town hustle. Inspired by the French Riviera with seafood dishes like sea scallops and shareable plates like Lamb Meatballs in a warm pita, this hotspot is known for its rich flavors. At the beautiful Marketplace, sip a warm cup of coffee and savor a freshly baked pastry. Enjoy a sunlit lunch on the patio with friends, a quiet dinner for two or a lively happy hour at Olive & Ivy. After dinner, choose from an extensive variety of signature cocktails, craft beers, wines and celebratory bubblies.
Information: oliveandivyrestaurant.com
SumoMaya
SumoMaya in Scottsdale is the perfect place for people-watching and eating, thanks to its vibrant, high-energy setting where stylish locals gather, the drinks flow, and the menu fuses bold Mexican and Asian flavors in shareable small plates that keep the experience social and dynamic. Its interior — with standout design touches and a visible crowd at the bar — creates an atmosphere where you’re just as likely to observe as you are to indulge.
Information: sumomaya.com
Élephante
Élephante Scottsdale channels the spirit and cuisine of coastal Southern Italy. Inspired by travels to Pantelleria and the Aeolian Islands, Élephante transports guests to the Italian Coast through thoughtfully designed spaces and seasonal menus. Élephante’s menus feature wood-fired pizzas like the Burrata pizza and Soppressata pizza, fresh pastas such as the new Tortellini Pomodoro and classic Cacio e Pepe, alongside sustainably-sourced seafoods like the Grilled Octopus and Diver Scallops, and meats such as the 10oz Prime Skirt Steak. All paired with Élephante’s renowned beverage program featuring craft cocktails and a thoughtfully curated wine program.
Information: elephanterestaurants.com
Moxies
A Scottsdale favorite, located in Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall near Old Town, Moxies is the place to go for a fun dining experience. Offering a trendy and lively atmosphere, this modern restaurant boasts a menu featuring freshly made, in-house dishes suitable for any dining occasion: lunch, dinner, late night eats or weekend brunch. With a large patio area equipped with misters and heaters, plus plenty of TVs, Moxies is the place to catch sporting events or enjoy happy hour in Scottsdale. Also indulge in handcrafted cocktails and an extensive wine list, featuring half-priced bottles every Wednesday.
Information: moxies.com/restaurants/scottsdale
Call Her Martina
A modern Mexican concept with a stylish crowd, Call Her Martina sits near Scottsdale Fashion Square and is noted specifically for its people-watching appeal. Journalists have noted: “the real show is the people watching as the crowd shifts when the fashion-forward Scottsdale crowd comes out in full force.” The vibe is club-meets-dinner and ideal for spotting trends while you dine.
Information: martinascottsdale.com
