Sun Valley

Where to Eat
Scottsdale and its environs boast a surprisingly inventive dining scene with an array of modern and traditional options. Some of my favorites include Zinc Bistro, a reasonably exacting and fun French bistro (Kierland Commons, 480-603-0922); Sauce, a counter-service, thin-crust pizza and salad concept with locations throughout Arizona (14418 Scottsdale Rd. N., 480-321-8800); Cafe Zuzu, a fun and delicious American comfort food restaurant in the Hotel Valley Ho (6850 E. Main St., 480-248-2000); Los Sombreros, an atmospheric regional Mexican restaurant with a gorgeous courtyard (2534 Scottsdale Rd. N., 480-994-1799); and Roaring Fork, an upscale faux-rustic eatery specializing in modern and inventive western takes on meat and fish (4800 Scottsdale Rd. N., 480-947-0795 ).

In Phoenix, my picks are Delux, a winning high-end burger emporium with a huge beer selection (3146 Camelback Rd. E., 602-522-2288); Honey Bear’s BBQ—tasty down-home Tennessee–style ’cue near the Desert Botanical Garden (3012 E. Van Buren St., 602-273-9148); and, in downtown’s Heritage Square, Pizzeria Bianco, regarded by many as serving the best wood-fired pizza in America. Prepare for long waits and limited hours (623 E. Adams St., 602-258-8300).