My Favorite Local Places in Phoenix

I recently had to compile a list of local eateries and things to do here in Scottsdale for a project at work, and it made me realize just how many amazing local gems we have in our city! There are some people who may think of Phoenix as nothing more than a desert that is way too unbearable during the summer and wonder why people even live here…but there really is so much more to this city than meets the eye. I thought it would be fun to put together a list of some of my absolute favorite spots in the valley!

Berdena’s Fine Coffee + Food

Freddy and I just discovered Berdena’s in January of this year, and we wish we had known about it way sooner! We had gone to the Breakfast Club on New Year’s morning and were wandering the quiet streets of Old Town Scottsdale looking for some coffee. We were about to go to Starbucks but stumbled across Berdena’s on our way there and I’m so glad we did! It’s a small corner shop with a bright, welcoming interior. The staff are always so friendly and their coffee and pastries are the best around!

My go-to order: a honey lavender latte (it’s great hot or iced!) with a chocolate croissant

The Henry

All of my friends know that I have an obsession with The Henry. It’s the best neighborhood restaurant in Phoenix (in my opinion) with gorgeous, inspiring interior design and amazing food. Freddy and I have been coming here since they opened a few years ago and we love celebrating special occasions here, whether it’s birthdays or our anniversary, just as much as we love coming here any random day of the week! One of my favorite things about this restaurant (aside from the chic furniture and art hanging on the walls) is that it has 2 entities: a full-service, sit-down restaurant and a walk-up coffee bar called Henry XV. They offer quick service meals like breakfast sandwiches and avocado toast, as well as a plethora of homemade pastries. It’s great for days when you’re on-the-go and still want to enjoy some delicious coffee, or you can bring your laptop and hang out for awhile. I will never stop raving about this place and it’s always top on my list for recommendations to anyone who will listen!

My Henry VX breakfast order: ‘Go North’ coffee (served in an ice-cold espresso glass) with avocado toast (the BEST I’ve ever had!)

My lunch order: Smoked Norwegian salmon and the chopped chicken salad

My dinner oder: Korean prime skirt steak with a loaded baked potato and mac & cheese

Ruze Cake House

Ruze is known for having some of the most exquisite macarons in the valley—they were named Best Bakery in 2017 by the Phoenix New Times! They’re even debuting ice cream macarons next weekend! Their shop is so cute and they have so many unique macaron flavors to choose from, like Circus Animal Cookie Dough, Rose and Lavender (my fave of course!). A great spot to hang with friends or if you’re in the mood for an afternoon pick-me-up.

The Canal Club

I recently went to The Canal Club restaurant located inside The Scott Resort and it was incredible! Not only is the Caribbean-inspired food amazing, but the decor transports you to another time and place, somewhere in Havana. I definitely plan to come back to the resort for a stay-cation to enjoy their amazing pool and dine at the Canal Club for breakfast, lunch and dinner!

My order: Ceviche, Pan Roasted scallops and the churro doughnut holes (seriously to die for!)

Sugar Sugar

Sugar Sugar is my go-to day spa in the valley! I recently went to their grand opening event for their Arcadia location and it was so much fun! I’ve been going to Sugar Sugar since they opened about 5 years now (minus the 2 years we lived in Austin) and they are the best for all of your waxing (aka sugaring) needs, organic spray tans, vegan lashes, facials, and natural products! They now have 2 locations in the valley, 1 in North Scottsdale and one in Arcadia, and I love sending friends there to be pampered!

I truly love supporting local businesses and seeing them thrive in the community. I hope you enjoyed today’s post and have the opportunity to explore some of these places the next time you’re in Phoenix! xo