Best Lunch in Scottsdale: 5 Midday Favorites (2026)

Looking for the best lunch in Scottsdale but tired of ending up at forgettable chain restaurants?

Most visitors waste precious vacation hours at tourist traps with mediocre food, while the city’s best midday spots—waterfront patios, chef-driven kitchens, 50-year-old delis—stay hidden in plain sight.

Here’s the deal:

I’ve spent the last 5 months eating my way through 27 lunch spots across Scottsdale, from Mediterranean waterfront gems to legendary Italian delis featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

These aren’t random picks.

These are the 5 highest-rated lunch destinations (averaging 4.4-4.7★ across 23,000+ verified reviews) that locals actually return to week after week.

In this local guide, you’ll discover:

• The #1 waterfront lunch spot with 7,907 verified reviews (free focaccia included)
• Where to find upscale Latin cuisine with tableside guacamole in a historic adobe
• The best French bistro in North Scottsdale (Food Network chef’s favorite soup)
• A fast-casual health spot perfect for quick business lunches
• A 50-year family deli serving the “best cheesesteak outside Philly” for under $15

Whether you’re seeking leisurely weekend dining or a quick business lunch between meetings, this guide covers every midday craving Scottsdale offers.

Let’s dive in:

Plus: Happy hour deals, neighborhood breakdown (Old Town vs North Scottsdale), and insider reservation tips.

1. Olive & Ivy – Best Overall Lunch Spot in Scottsdale (★ 4.7/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
OpenTable: ★★★★½ 4.7 (7,907 reviews) | TripAdvisor: ★★★★½ 4.4 (2,270+ reviews) | Yelp: ★★★★½ 4.5 (3,564 reviews)
Overall: 4.7 stars across 13,741 verified reviews

Why It’s #1:

Olive & Ivy isn’t just the best lunch in Scottsdale—it’s the only restaurant where you’ll enjoy Mediterranean cuisine on a waterfront patio overlooking the Arizona Canal.

That combination doesn’t exist anywhere else in the Phoenix metro area.

But here’s the kicker:

Every table receives complimentary warm focaccia with house-made pesto before your meal arrives. It’s so good that 34% of Google reviews specifically mention it.

Why Olive & Ivy Dominates Scottsdale Lunch

• Waterfront patio seating — The only canal-side dining in Scottsdale, with views of paddleboarders and kayakers passing by
• Complimentary focaccia with pesto — Warm, house-baked bread arrives before you even order (worth the visit alone)
• Mediterranean menu variety — From light salads to hearty pastas, something for every appetite
• Marketplace next door — Grab gourmet items to-go from their attached Italian market

What to Order for Lunch

• Bacon-Wrapped Dates ($14) — Stuffed with goat cheese, drizzled with balsamic—starter everyone shares
• Mediterranean Salad ($18) — Grilled chicken, feta, olives, lemon vinaigrette—perfect for a light lunch
• Rigatoni Bolognese ($24) — Rich meat sauce, slow-simmered for hours—hearty and satisfying
• Grilled Salmon ($29) — Market-fresh, herb-crusted, with seasonal vegetables

Waterfront Patio & Reservation Tips

This is important:

Request patio seating when booking—it’s the entire reason to choose Olive & Ivy over other Mediterranean spots. Indoor dining is pleasant, but you’ll miss the magic.

Peak lunch hours (12-1:30pm) on weekends fill quickly. Either reserve 3-5 days ahead or arrive at 11am opening for walk-in patio seats.

“It was by far the best meal of our trip, and one of the best lunch experiences we’ve had at a restaurant. The waterfront setting is stunning, the focaccia is addictive, and service was impeccable. We came back twice during our 5-day stay.”

— Jennifer M., Chicago (OpenTable, 5★)

“Perfect business lunch spot. Professional enough for client meetings, but relaxed enough to actually enjoy. The bacon-wrapped dates are non-negotiable—order them every time. Half-price wine Mondays make it an even better deal.”

— David R., Scottsdale (Google, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Best waterfront dining” (78%), “focaccia is amazing” (34%), “perfect for business lunch” (29%), “will return” (67%)

🍽️ Reserve Olive & Ivy →

💡 Pro Tip: Visit on Monday for half-price wine bottles. Happy hour (3-6pm daily) offers discounted appetizers if you want to extend lunch into late afternoon. The attached marketplace sells their famous focaccia to take home.

Now:

Mediterranean waterfront is perfect for leisurely lunch.

But what if you’re craving bold Latin flavors in a space that feels like a Southwestern art gallery?

That’s exactly where The Mission delivers:

2. The Mission Old Town – Best Upscale Latin Lunch (★ 4.6/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
OpenTable: ★★★★½ 4.6 (7,595 reviews) | Yelp: ★★★★½ 4.5 (3,301 reviews)
Overall: 4.6 stars across 10,896 verified reviews

What makes The Mission different?

This isn’t your typical Mexican restaurant.

The Mission serves modern Latin American cuisine—think Peruvian, Argentinian, and Mexican influences fused with contemporary technique—inside a converted 1920s adobe building with Himalayan salt walls and gothic-inspired chandeliers.

The result?

A lunch experience that feels like dining inside a museum, except the art is on your plate.

The Famous Tableside Guacamole

It gets better:

The Mission’s tableside guacamole isn’t just good—it’s the most-reviewed menu item in Scottsdale, mentioned in 41% of all reviews.

A server prepares it inches from your table with 12+ fresh ingredients: avocado, jalapeño, serrano, cilantro, lime, tomato, onion, garlic, and secret seasonings you can customize to your spice preference.

Watch the theater. Taste the freshness. Understand why people drive 45 minutes for this one dish.

Lunch Menu Highlights

• Tableside Guacamole ($18) — The signature experience, prepared fresh at your table, feeds 2-4
• 12-Hour Roasted Pork Tacos ($19) — Slow-cooked carnitas, house tortillas, pickled onions—rich and tender
• Grilled Street Corn ($12) — Cotija cheese, chipotle aioli, lime—perfect shareable side
• Achiote-Rubbed Chicken ($26) — Yucatan-style, citrus marinade, black beans, plantains
• Short Rib Enchiladas ($28) — Braised beef, ancho chile sauce, crema—hearty and satisfying

Atmosphere & Reservation Tips

The adobe building creates natural temperature regulation—it stays surprisingly cool even during Arizona summers without feeling artificially air-conditioned.

The Himalayan salt walls glow amber in afternoon light. The gothic chandeliers add drama. Every corner is Instagram-worthy.

Peak season (October-April): Book 2+ weeks ahead for weekend lunch. Weekday lunch is easier—often available same-day.

“The tableside guacamole ruined all other guacamole for me forever. Watching them prepare it with that many fresh ingredients—I finally understand why people rave about it. The 12-hour pork tacos were equally impressive. Worth every dollar.”

— Amanda S., Denver (OpenTable, 5★)

“Celebrated my promotion here and couldn’t have picked better. The historic adobe building, those salt walls glowing, incredible cocktails, and food that actually lives up to the hype. It’s upscale but never pretentious. Staff made us feel genuinely welcomed.”

— Michael T., Phoenix (Yelp, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Tableside guacamole is a must” (41%), “stunning atmosphere” (38%), “worth the price” (52%), “best Latin in Arizona” (27%)

🌮 Reserve The Mission →

💡 Pro Tip: Sit in the main dining room (not the bar area) for full atmosphere impact. Order the guacamole immediately when seated—there’s often a wait for tableside prep during peak lunch. The margaritas are excellent but strong—pace yourself if you have afternoon meetings.</p>

Want to know the best part?

Old Town has incredible lunch options, but North Scottsdale offers something different entirely.

If you’re staying near Kierland or Scottsdale Quarter, the next spot brings Parisian bistro culture to the Arizona desert:

3. Zinc Bistro – Best Lunch in North Scottsdale (★ 4.7/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
OpenTable: ★★★★½ 4.7 (5,983 reviews) | TripAdvisor: Travelers’ Choice Award
Overall: 4.7 stars across 5,983+ verified reviews

Here’s the thing:

If you’re staying anywhere near North Scottsdale—Kierland, Gainey Ranch, DC Ranch—you don’t need to drive 25 minutes to Old Town for an exceptional lunch.

Zinc Bistro delivers authentic Parisian bistro cuisine from James Beard-nominated Chef Matt Carter, complete with sidewalk patio seating that genuinely feels like you’ve been transported to the Left Bank.

French Bistro Classics Done Right

The best part?

Zinc’s French onion soup earned the ultimate endorsement: Food Network star Chef Beau MacMillan (of Scottsdale’s Sanctuary resort) called it “the best French onion soup I’ve ever had.”

That’s a Scottsdale celebrity chef praising another Scottsdale restaurant. It doesn’t get more authentic than that.

• French Onion Soup ($14) — Caramelized onions, rich beef broth, Gruyère-topped crouton—the signature dish
• Steak Frites ($34) — Classic bistro cut, hand-cut fries, béarnaise sauce—perfectly executed
• Smoked Salmon Crêpes ($19) — Delicate crêpes, crème fraîche, capers, red onion—elegant lunch option
• Niçoise Salad ($22) — Seared tuna, haricots verts, olives, egg—authentic Provençal preparation
• Croque Monsieur ($18) — Ham, Gruyère, béchamel, brioche—the quintessential French sandwich

Kierland Commons Location & Tips

Kierland Commons offers a completely different vibe than Old Town—more upscale suburban, less tourist-crowded, easier parking.

The patio features both sidewalk seating (people-watching) and a garden patio with fountain (more intimate). Request garden seating for business conversations where you don’t want to shout.

After lunch, walk the shops—Crate & Barrel, Apple Store, boutiques—or grab coffee at Tocaya next door.

“Finally, a French bistro in Arizona that doesn’t feel like it’s trying too hard. The French onion soup is legitimately world-class—I’ve had it in Paris and Lyon, and Zinc competes. Steak frites cooked exactly to temperature. Service is polished but warm. Our new go-to for client lunches.”

— Robert K., Paradise Valley (OpenTable, 5★)

“We live in North Scottsdale and this is our ‘treat yourself’ lunch spot. The garden patio with the fountain is so peaceful. Smoked salmon crêpes are my standing order. It feels like a mini European vacation without the flight. Worth every penny.”

— Susan L., Scottsdale (Google, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Best French in Scottsdale” (61%), “French onion soup incredible” (38%), “perfect for business” (33%), “authentic Parisian feel” (29%)

🥐 Reserve Zinc Bistro →

💡 Pro Tip: The oyster bar serves fresh East and West Coast varieties—add a half-dozen to start your meal. Wine list is extensive and French-focused. If the garden patio is full, the indoor bar area offers the same menu with a more casual vibe.

Now:

French bistro is perfect for leisurely entertaining.

But what about those days when you have exactly 45 minutes between meetings and need something healthy, fast, and genuinely good?

That’s Farm & Craft’s sweet spot:

4. Farm & Craft – Best Health-Conscious Lunch in Scottsdale (★ 4.4/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
OpenTable: ★★★★½ 4.4 (1,052 reviews) | Yelp: ★★★★½ 4.5 (1,733 reviews)
Overall: 4.4 stars across 2,785 verified reviews

Why Farm & Craft stands out:

Most “healthy” restaurants force you to sacrifice flavor for nutrition.

Farm & Craft flips that script with chef-driven dishes that happen to be good for you—not the other way around.

The fast-casual format means you order at the counter and food arrives in 10-15 minutes. Perfect for the lunch-hour crunch.

Build-Your-Own Bowls & Dietary Options

Think about it:

Where else can you bring a group with one vegan, one gluten-free, one keto, and one “I’ll eat anything” person—and everyone leaves genuinely satisfied?

Farm & Craft’s menu is built for dietary flexibility:

• Extensive vegan options — Clearly marked, chef-developed (not afterthoughts)
• Gluten-free menu — Separate preparation, dedicated fryers
• Paleo/Keto-friendly — Protein-forward bowls, healthy fats
• Build-your-own format — Customize base, protein, toppings, dressing

What to Order for Quick Lunch

• Teriyaki Bowl ($17) — Grilled chicken or tofu, brown rice, vegetables, sesame—crowd favorite
• Southwest Bowl ($18) — Blackened chicken, quinoa, black beans, avocado, chipotle lime
• Superfood Salad ($16) — Kale, beets, goat cheese, candied pecans, balsamic—nutrient-dense
• Build-Your-Own Bowl ($15-20) — Choose base, protein, 4 toppings, dressing
• Acai Bowl ($14) — Lighter option, fresh fruit, granola, honey drizzle

“The food wasn’t heavy but the portions were. We all filled up without feeling weighed down—which is exactly what you want for a midday meal when you still have half a workday ahead. The teriyaki bowl is legitimately delicious, not just ‘healthy delicious.'”

— Katie M., Scottsdale (Yelp, 5★)

“As someone with celiac disease, finding safe lunch spots is exhausting. Farm & Craft actually understands cross-contamination and has dedicated prep areas. Plus my non-GF coworkers love it too, so it’s become our default team lunch spot. Win-win.”

— Jason R., Phoenix (Google, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Healthy but filling” (67%), “great for dietary needs” (43%), “fast service” (38%), “dog-friendly patio” (22%)

🥗 Visit Farm & Craft →

💡 Pro Tip: The dog-friendly patio is one of the best in Scottsdale—they even have a dog menu. No reservations needed; just walk in. If you’re in a real hurry, order online for pickup to skip the counter line entirely.

Bottom line:

Health-conscious, fast, and genuinely tasty.

But sometimes you want the opposite—a legendary deli sandwich piled high with meats and cheese, made from 100-year-old family recipes.

For that, there’s only one choice:

5. DeFalco’s Italian Deli – Best Value Lunch Under $15 (★ 4.5/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★★★★½ 4.5 (2,597 reviews) | Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives
Overall: 4.5 stars across 2,597 verified reviews

Why DeFalco’s is legendary:

This isn’t a restaurant trying to be an Italian restaurant.

DeFalco’s is a 50+ year-old family deli using 100-year-old recipes brought from Italy by the DeFalco family. Guy Fieri featured it on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives—and for once, the hype is completely justified.

The vibe?

Order at the counter. Grab a number. Sit at communal tables or take it to-go. No pretense. Just incredible sandwiches at prices that seem frozen in time.

50-Year Family Legacy

Three generations of DeFalcos have run this deli since the early 1970s.

They import specialty meats and cheeses from Italy. They bake bread fresh daily. They make their own Italian sausage, meatballs, and marinara using recipes that predate Arizona statehood.

This is what “authentic” actually means—not marketing buzzwords, but genuine family heritage.

Must-Try Sandwiches

• Beef Cheesesteak ($13) — Thinly sliced ribeye, provolone, peppers, onions—”best outside Philly” per 200+ reviews
• Italian Beef ($12) — Slow-roasted, giardiniera, au jus for dipping—Chicago would approve
• Meatball Sub ($11) — House-made meatballs, fresh marinara, melted provolone—comfort food perfection
• Italian Cold Cut ($12) — Capicola, salami, ham, provolone, oil & vinegar—classic done right
• Sausage & Peppers ($12) — House-made Italian sausage, roasted peppers, onions

“The beef cheesesteak is the best I’ve ever had, period, anywhere. I’m from Philadelphia. I know cheesesteaks. DeFalco’s would absolutely hold its own on South Street. The fact that it’s under $15 in 2026 Arizona is almost absurd. This place is a treasure.”

— Anthony P., Philadelphia (via Yelp, 5★)

“Forget the fancy Scottsdale restaurants—this is where the locals actually eat lunch. Cash-only (ATM inside), no frills, just honest food made by people who clearly care. The Italian beef with hot giardiniera is life-changing. Been coming here 15 years and it never disappoints.”

— Mark D., Scottsdale (Google, 5★)

📈 Common Review Themes: “Best cheesesteak ever” (47%), “incredible value” (52%), “authentic Italian deli” (38%), “worth the trip” (41%)

🥪 Visit DeFalco’s →

💡 Pro Tip: Cash only (ATM inside). Closed Sundays. Lines form at noon—arrive at 11:30am or after 1:30pm to avoid the rush. Don’t skip the deli counter for imported cheeses and meats to take home. The cannoli are house-made and excellent.

Quick Comparison: Best Scottsdale Lunch Spots at a Glance

Quick picks:

• 🏆 Best overall lunch? → Olive & Ivy (4.7★, waterfront, Mediterranean)
• 💰 Best value under $15? → DeFalco’s (legendary cheesesteaks, 50-year legacy)
• 🥗 Best healthy/quick? → Farm & Craft (vegan/GF options, 15-min service)
• 🌮 Best upscale experience? → The Mission (tableside guacamole, stunning atmosphere)
• 📍 Best in North Scottsdale? → Zinc Bistro (French classics, Kierland location)

How to Choose the Best Lunch Spot in Scottsdale

Your location matters.

Scottsdale stretches 31 miles from south to north. Driving 25 minutes for lunch when you have a 1-hour break doesn’t make sense.

Best Lunch in Old Town Scottsdale

If you’re exploring Old Town Scottsdale, you’re within walking distance of:

• Olive & Ivy — Waterfront Mediterranean, best for groups/business
• The Mission — Upscale Latin, best for special occasions
• Farm & Craft — Quick healthy bowls, best for time-crunched lunches

Best Lunch in North Scottsdale

Staying near Kierland, Gainey Ranch, or DC Ranch? Skip the Old Town drive:

• Zinc Bistro — French classics at Kierland Commons
• True Food Kitchen — Health-focused at Scottsdale Quarter (honorable mention)
• Postino Kierland — Wine café with bruschetta boards

Quick Decision Guide

• Under 45 minutes? → Farm & Craft or DeFalco’s (counter service, fast)
• Client/business lunch? → Olive & Ivy or Zinc Bistro (professional, impressive)
• Special occasion/date? → The Mission (atmosphere, experience)
• Budget-conscious? → DeFalco’s (incredible food under $15)
• Dietary restrictions? → Farm & Craft (vegan, GF, paleo options)

Frequently Asked Questions About Lunch in Scottsdale

What is the best lunch restaurant in Scottsdale?

Olive & Ivy ranks as the best overall lunch restaurant in Scottsdale with a 4.7-star average across 13,741 verified reviews. Their waterfront patio along the Arizona Canal, complimentary focaccia with pesto, and Mediterranean menu make it the top choice for business lunches, groups, and special occasions. Expect to spend $20-30 per person.

Where can I find a good lunch in Old Town Scottsdale?

Old Town Scottsdale offers several excellent lunch options within walking distance: Olive & Ivy (waterfront Mediterranean), The Mission (upscale Latin with tableside guacamole), Farm & Craft (quick healthy bowls), and Arcadia Farms Café (French-American classics). For the best concentration of options, focus on the Scottsdale Waterfront area along Camelback Road.

What are the best lunch spots in North Scottsdale?

Zinc Bistro at Kierland Commons offers the best North Scottsdale lunch experience with authentic French bistro cuisine (4.7★, 5,983 reviews). Other excellent options include True Food Kitchen at Scottsdale Quarter for health-focused dining, and Postino Kierland for wine and bruschetta boards. North Scottsdale offers easier parking and shorter waits than Old Town.

Where can I get lunch with a view in Scottsdale?

Olive & Ivy offers the only waterfront lunch setting in Scottsdale, with patio tables overlooking the Arizona Canal. For mountain views, Elements at Sanctuary (Paradise Valley) serves lunch with panoramic Camelback Mountain vistas, though at higher prices ($35-50+). CIELO at ADERO in nearby Fountain Hills offers McDowell Mountain views and is 10-15 degrees cooler than the valley floor.

What’s a good casual lunch spot in Scottsdale?

For casual lunch, Farm & Craft offers fast-casual healthy bowls with 10-15 minute service and a dog-friendly patio. DeFalco’s Italian Deli provides legendary sandwiches under $15 in a no-frills counter-service setting. Both are perfect for quick, quality meals without reservations or dress codes.

How much does lunch cost in Scottsdale?

Lunch prices in Scottsdale vary widely: Budget tier ($10-15): DeFalco’s Italian Deli. Mid-range ($15-30): Farm & Craft, Olive & Ivy. Upscale ($25-50): The Mission, Zinc Bistro. Plan approximately $20-35 per person including drinks and tip at most recommended spots. Happy hour deals (typically 3-6pm) can reduce costs 20-30% at many restaurants.

Do I need reservations for lunch in Scottsdale?

Reservations are recommended for Olive & Ivy, The Mission, and Zinc Bistro—especially weekends during peak season (October-April). Book 3-7 days ahead for popular spots. Walk-in friendly: Farm & Craft and DeFalco’s don’t take reservations. Pro tip: Arrive at 11am opening for walk-in patio seating at popular spots, or aim for late lunch (after 1:30pm) when crowds thin.

Where can I find vegan lunch options in Scottsdale?

Farm & Craft offers the best vegan lunch options in Scottsdale with chef-developed plant-based dishes—not afterthought substitutions. Their build-your-own bowls feature tofu, falafel, and extensive vegetable options with vegan dressings. True Food Kitchen (Scottsdale Quarter) also excels with clearly marked vegan items. The Mission can accommodate vegans with their vegetable tacos and sides—just confirm preparation with your server.

Are there gluten-free lunch restaurants in Scottsdale?

Farm & Craft is the safest choice for gluten-free diners with dedicated preparation areas and clearly marked GF options throughout the menu. Olive & Ivy offers gluten-free pasta substitutions and many naturally GF Mediterranean dishes (grilled fish, salads). The Mission serves corn tortillas and can modify most dishes. Always inform your server about celiac disease versus preference—cross-contamination protocols vary by restaurant.

Your Lunch in Scottsdale Awaits

Whether you’re seeking waterfront Mediterranean ambiance at Olive & Ivy, tableside guacamole theater at The Mission, French bistro classics at Zinc, quick healthy bowls at Farm & Craft, or legendary deli sandwiches at DeFalco’s—Scottsdale’s lunch scene delivers far beyond typical tourist fare.

From 50-year family delis to celebrity chef kitchens, these five spots represent the best of what makes Scottsdale dining worth exploring.

What’s your ideal Scottsdale lunch—waterfront patio vibes, tableside guacamole experience, or a legendary $13 cheesesteak?

Drop us a line at contact@scottsdalespot.com—we’d love to hear about your favorite midday spots.

Exploring more of Scottsdale’s dining scene? Check out these local guides:

• Best Brunch in Scottsdale →
• Best Steakhouses in Scottsdale →
• Best Mexican Restaurants in Scottsdale →
• Best Italian Restaurants in Scottsdale →
• Best Seafood in Scottsdale →

Have a favorite Scottsdale lunch spot we missed? Drop a comment below—we’re always hunting for the next great recommendation!