We are going to Scottsdale for a vacation. I have two questions: 1) Does anyone have any experience with the Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain? and 2) any recommendations for things to see and do or restaurants? All Help Welcome! thanks

Restaurants:

Bandera ($20/great food and people watching; located right in old town)

Hoppa ($$$/bring your retirement account, but FANTASTIC!!!!!; probably $75/person)

AZ-88 ($20/great food and people watching)

Seafood Central ($15/not fancy, but great seafood for not much $$)

Carlsbad Tavern ($15/great food!!)

Thanks so much. I hate trying to find restaurants when I travel. This truly helps. I really appreciate it.

Be sure and eat the dinner buffet at The Camelback Inn. Great food, excellent service, and "old Arizona" decor.

Cafe Terra Cotta has gotten very high ratings, and my one visit was good. I thought I read that they closed, though, so maybe call first or have your concierge check.

For something different, try Rio Brazilian Steakhouse. The decor is a little tired, but it's a traditional Brazilian meal with a variety of meats served on skewers. Go hungry, and don't overeat at the buffet lines before they start bringing the meat. Everything is well prepared and service is good.

Drive north on Scottsdale Rd. to Carefree (maybe 15-20 minutes), hang a left on Cave Creek Rd., and look for "El Encanto" on the right. Great Mexican food, and wonderful patio dining for lunch or supper.

First Watch in Scottsdale is great for breakfast, brunch or lunch--crepes, omelets, sandwiches, etc. They are not open for supper.

Have a great time! If you have any other questions on our wonderful region, drop me a note.

JP

Another restaurant recommendation in Vincent's on Camelback Avenue.

If you're at all interested in architecture, two great sites: Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin West (in the hills above Phoenix) and Paolo Soleri's Arcosanti (about an hour away).