The best gets better this fall as La Hacienda by Richard Sandoval at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess unveiled an expansion and update to its design and menu September 22, 2018. 

General Manager Jack Miller assures there is no need to worry, “The leadership at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is committed to making sure the heritage and history of this local dining landmark is honored while bringing the design and menu forward. We are determined to make sure La Hacienda continues to be the top-ranked Mexican restaurant in Arizona for another generation.”

The Princess selected Testani Design, a local firm led by Judith Testani, to help re-imagine La Hacienda. She is legendary in the local hospitality industry with a history of successful projects with Tarbell and Sam Fox restaurants, as well as many of the luxury resorts in the region. 

Ms. Testani says, “The goal for the re-design of La Hacienda was to align the interior of the restaurant with the sophisticated palette of the chef and menu. We’ve created an expanded lounge for guests to gather with a newly expanded bar that includes high top communal tables along with comfortable indoor and outdoor lounge seating areas.  As a unique addition, the design includes a new tequila display shelving unit and a focal agave wall expertly crafted from a local artisan. The use of light colored stucco walls, blackened steel details, crafted leather seating and newly renovated restrooms all add to the warmth and modern interpretation of the space. Many of the light fixtures, seating and accessories were curated from Casamidy, a high-end furniture and accessory outlet located in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.” 

The most popular menu items will be back when the restaurant makes its triumphant return September 22, including the Lobster Tacos, Filet a la Parilla, Tableside Guacamole and Flaming Coffees. Chef Forest Hamrick and Chef Richard Sandoval recently spent time visiting their families along with several hot, new restaurants in Mexico for inspiration and they are excited to introduce a new menu selection of Barbacoa favorites, including Pescado Zarandeado (barbecued Sea Bass with charred Aioli, heirloom tomato and avocado) and the Short Rib Barbacoa (tamarind mustard barbecue, gremolata and poblano yogurt).  

An exciting new cocktail menu is also being introduced by Matthew Doerr, Director of Beverage at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, with 21 specialty cocktails simplified to highlight a specific flavor profile using less than four ingredients. The new signature ‘smoked cocktail’ selections are sure to be a highlight. Of course, the restaurant will continue to feature more than 150 Tequilas and with a significant expansion of its Mezcal cellar, all curated by La Hacienda’s beloved Tequila Goddess, Katie Schnurr.