Scottsdale just got a lot messier. But in this case, that is a good thing, thanks to La Zozzona.
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The name “La Zozzona,” translating to “messy delicious” in Italian, aptly describes the hearty and rustic dishes that are both indulgent and satisfying. La Zozzona is the latest culinary venture by Richard Blais, a James Beard-nominated chef, restaurateur, TV personality, and cookbook author known for his innovative culinary style. He gained national recognition as a Top Chef winner and has since built a successful career blending modern techniques with classic flavors. Located within the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort, the Italian-inspired La Zozzona offers a unique blend of traditional flavors and modern culinary techniques and takes hotel dining to a new level of excellence.
The menu at La Zozzona is inspired in part by Chef Blais’ extensive travels throughout Italy, with a dash of innovation and ingenuity thrown in. Blais’ playful take on Italian cuisine and the menu pays tribute to both traditional cooking and modern takes on classic dishes. La Zozzona features house-made pastas, wood-fired steaks and a variety of seafood dishes.
Pastas at La Zozzona are made in-house and also feature dried pastas imported from Italy, such as Chef Blais’ signature Rigatoni ‘Alla Zozzona’ with guanciale, sausage, tomato, chili, and pecorino romano and Lobster Raviolo with cherry tomato, ricotta, lemon, and basil.
Cuts and Catches pay homage to the steak preparations of Tuscany and the seafood found on the Italian coasts, including a Pancetta Wrapped Filet of Beef with Barolo demi-glace and gorgonzola fonduta, and Bistecca Fiorentina that serves three to five diners, featuring a Prime beef porterhouse brushed with rosemary and sage. Vegetable sides such as French Fries ‘Alfredo’ and Romanesco Cauliflower are also available. Desserts such as Tableside Tiramisu and Hazelnut Chocolate Cake round out the menu. Some other must-try menu items include the Crispy Squash Blossom ($17); Honeynutt Squash Angolotti with sage toasted pine nutts and sage butter ($25); and Neptune’s Swordfish Chop with black lemon, garlic and black pepper, oregano, sicilian olives, cherry tomato and capers ($68).
La Zozzona’s cocktail program complements the menu by spotlighting Italian flavors and ingredients, alongside an in-depth wine list that highlights Italy’s most renowned wine regions. The wine program showcases renowned winemakers from around the world, predominantly Italy, and a selection of Coravin Rare Wines by the glass, which are typically only available by the bottle, including Domaine Faiveley Bienvenues Grand Cru, Dom Pérignon, and Opus One. There are also several Italian and local Arizona-brewed beers, and non-alcoholic options.
La Zozzona is open daily for dinner from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., making it an ideal spot for various occasions, whether it’s a romantic date night or a gathering with friends. The combination of Chef Blais’ culinary expertise, the restaurant’s inviting atmosphere, and its innovative menu positions La Zozzona as a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable dining experience in Scottsdale.
Learn more: lazozzona.com
