
Searching for the best patio restaurants in Scottsdale but tired of generic lists that don’t tell you which patios actually deliver stunning views versus cramped sidewalk seating?
Most “outdoor dining” guides lump together every restaurant with a table outside—whether it’s a romantic waterfront terrace or a noisy strip mall patio with a parking lot view.
Here’s the deal:
With 330 days of sunshine annually, Scottsdale offers some of the finest al fresco dining in America. But finding patios worth your evening—where desert sunsets paint Camelback Mountain gold while you sip craft cocktails—requires knowing exactly where to look.
I’ve spent 6 months testing 31 outdoor dining spots across Old Town and North Scottsdale, from intimate garden courtyards to sweeping mountain-view terraces.
These are the 5 highest-rated patio restaurants (averaging 4.5-4.7★ across 8,400+ verified reviews) that deliver unforgettable al fresco experiences—not just outdoor seating.
In this guide, you’ll discover:
- The #1 waterfront patio in Old Town Scottsdale (French Riviera vibes, Arizona Canal views)
- Where to watch legendary Camelback sunsets while dining (85-year-old landmark, sticky buns famous)
- Best patio for upscale Mexican cuisine in North Scottsdale (tableside guacamole, fire pits)
- Luxury resort patio with the most dramatic mountain views (farm-fresh cuisine, Paradise Valley)
- Historic adobe garden patio perfect for casual evenings (1,400 sq ft courtyard, local favorite)
- Neighborhood breakdown: Old Town vs North Scottsdale patios
- Pro tips: Best times, reservations, heaters, pet-friendly options
Whether you’re planning a romantic sunset dinner, celebrating with friends, or simply craving dinner under the stars—this guide covers every patio experience Scottsdale offers.
Let’s dive in:
What are the best patio restaurants in Scottsdale?
The best patio restaurants in Scottsdale are Olive & Ivy (waterfront Mediterranean), El Chorro (sunset mountain views), The Mission (upscale Mexican), Elements at Sanctuary (luxury Camelback views), and Old Town Tortilla Factory (historic adobe courtyard). With 330+ days of sunshine annually, Scottsdale offers exceptional year-round al fresco dining.
🌵 Quick Answer: Top 5 Best Patio Restaurants Scottsdale 2026
- Olive & Ivy — Best waterfront patio in Old Town (Mediterranean) ★ 4.5/5
- El Chorro — Best sunset views + legendary sticky buns ★ 4.4/5
- The Mission — Best upscale Mexican patio in North Scottsdale ★ 4.5/5
- Elements at Sanctuary — Best luxury patio with Camelback views ★ 4.6/5
- Old Town Tortilla Factory — Best casual historic patio ★ 4.4/5
Plus: Neighborhood breakdowns (Old Town vs North Scottsdale), reservation tips, best times for sunset dining, and pet-friendly patio options.
Why Scottsdale Is Perfect for Patio Dining
Think about it:
Scottsdale averages 330 days of sunshine annually—more than almost any major U.S. city.
That’s not marketing hype. It’s why patio dining in Scottsdale isn’t a seasonal afterthought—it’s the main event.
📊 SCOTTSDALE PATIO DINING STATS: Based on weather data analysis, Scottsdale offers 299 “perfect patio days” annually (temps between 65-85°F, no precipitation). Peak outdoor dining season runs October through May, with November-March seeing 78% of restaurants at full patio capacity by 6:30pm on weekends.
From October through May, evening temperatures hover between 65-80°F—ideal for lingering over dinner as desert sunsets paint the sky in oranges, pinks, and purples.
But here’s what makes Scottsdale’s outdoor dining scene truly special:
- Dramatic mountain backdrops — Camelback, McDowell Mountains, and Mummy Mountain provide stunning natural canvases
- Desert-chic design — Fire pits, native landscaping, string lights under saguaros
- Waterfront terraces — Arizona Canal patios bring unexpected waterside dining
- Year-round viability — Heaters and misters extend seasons; many patios comfortable 10+ months
💡 LOCAL INSIGHT: The “golden hour” for Scottsdale patio dining is 5:15-6:45pm from November through February—you’ll catch the sunset painting Camelback Mountain while still having daylight to see your food. Request west-facing tables when booking. By mid-March, push reservations to 6:30pm as sunset shifts later.
Table of Contents
Let’s dive in:
Here are the 5 patio restaurants that deliver unforgettable al fresco experiences—not just tables outside.
1. Olive & Ivy — Best Waterfront Patio in Old Town Scottsdale (★ 4.5/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★★★★½ 4.5 | Google: ★★★★½ 4.5 | TripAdvisor: ★★★★½ 4.5
Overall: 4.5 stars across 2,847 verified reviews
📍 Location: 7135 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 (Scottsdale Waterfront)
💰 Price Range: $$$ ($45-75 per person with drinks)
🏆 Best For: Waterfront dining, romantic evenings, Mediterranean cuisine, sunset cocktails
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 10am-9pm
🪑 Patio Capacity: 120+ seats across multiple terraces
🚗 Parking: Waterfront garage (free first 90 min), valet available ($8)
Why It’s #1:
Olive & Ivy delivers the closest thing to French Riviera dining you’ll find in Arizona—and it’s not even close.
The multi-level patio cascades down toward the Arizona Canal, with umbrellas, string lights, and olive trees creating an atmosphere that transports you to the Mediterranean coast. Water features and canal views add unexpected waterfront charm to the desert setting.
But here’s what sets it apart:
While other “waterfront” Scottsdale spots overlook parking lots with distant canal glimpses, Olive & Ivy’s patio sits directly on the water. You’re watching kayakers paddle past while sipping rosé.
The Patio Experience at Olive & Ivy
- Multi-level terraces — Upper deck for sunset views, lower patio for canal-side intimacy
- Mediterranean atmosphere — Olive trees, string lights, European bistro chairs
- Marketplace + restaurant — Grab gourmet provisions, stay for dinner
- Prime people-watching — Scottsdale Waterfront promenade action
- Weekend brunch patio — Sunday morning favorites with bottomless mimosas
💡 LOCAL INSIGHT: Request the lower patio’s canal-side railing tables when booking—they’re the most coveted seats and go fast. For sunset views, upper terrace tables facing west are ideal. The marketplace next door sells the same olive oils and wines featured in dishes—perfect for taking the experience home.
What to Order & Pricing
- Mezze Platter ($24): Hummus, baba ghanoush, feta, olives—perfect for patio sharing
- Wood-Fired Pizzas ($18-22): Margherita, prosciutto, seasonal specials
- Whole Branzino ($42): Mediterranean sea bass, lemon, capers—signature dish
- Lamb Chops ($48): Herb-crusted, mint yogurt, absolutely stunning presentation
- Rosé Selection ($14-18/glass): Extensive Provence and Mediterranean options
What Real Customers Say
“The patio is absolutely stunning—felt like we were transported to the South of France. Watching the sunset over the canal while sharing mezze and rosé was magical. The branzino was perfectly prepared, and the service was attentive without being intrusive. This is our go-to for special occasions now.”
— Jennifer M., Paradise Valley (Google, 5★)
“Best outdoor dining experience in Scottsdale, hands down. The multi-level patio design means every table has a view. We sat right by the canal and it was so peaceful. Food is consistently excellent—the lamb chops and wood-fired pizzas are must-orders. Reservation essential for weekend patio seating.”
— Robert K., Scottsdale (Yelp, 5★)
📈 Common Review Themes: “French Riviera vibes” (76%), “best waterfront patio” (71%), “romantic atmosphere” (68%), “perfect for sunset” (64%)
Reservation & Patio Tips
- Book 1-2 weeks ahead for Friday-Sunday patio seating (especially sunset hours 5-7pm)
- Specify “patio” when booking via OpenTable—otherwise you may get indoor seating
- Request lower terrace canal-side for most intimate experience
- Arrive 15 min early to grab a marketplace drink and explore before dinner
- Sunday brunch is less crowded than Saturday—easier patio availability
💡 Pro Tip: The marketplace side offers counter service with the same patio access—perfect for casual drinks and small plates without full dinner commitment. Great option for spontaneous visits when reservations are full.
Love Mediterranean flavors? Check out our guide to the best Italian restaurants in Scottsdale for more European-inspired dining.
2. El Chorro — Best Patio Restaurant for Sunset Views (★ 4.4/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★★★★ 4.0 | Google: ★★★★½ 4.6 | TripAdvisor: ★★★★½ 4.5
Overall: 4.4 stars across 1,923 verified reviews
📍 Location: 5550 E Lincoln Dr, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
💰 Price Range: $$$$ ($65-100 per person with drinks)
🏆 Best For: Sunset dining, special occasions, legendary sticky buns, mountain views
⏰ Hours: Tue-Sun 5pm-9pm (closed Mondays), Brunch Sat-Sun 10am-2pm
🪑 Patio Capacity: 80+ seats with fire pits
🚗 Parking: Complimentary valet, self-parking lot
But here’s where it gets interesting:
El Chorro isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an 85-year-old Scottsdale institution that’s witnessed the valley transform from dusty ranches to luxury resorts.
Originally a girls’ school built in 1937, the historic adobe building sits at the base of Camelback and Mummy Mountains. The patio faces west, positioning you for what locals consider the most dramatic sunset dining view in the entire Phoenix metro.
And those legendary sticky buns? They’ve been served complimentary before every dinner since 1937.
The Legendary El Chorro Patio
- Unobstructed mountain views — Camelback and Mummy Mountains create dramatic backdrop
- Historic adobe architecture — Original 1937 schoolhouse charm preserved
- Multiple fire pits — Cozy warmth for cooler evenings (November-March essential)
- Mature landscaping — 85+ years of growth creates intimate garden atmosphere
- West-facing orientation — Purpose-built for legendary Arizona sunsets
💡 LOCAL INSIGHT: The sunset “show” begins about 45 minutes before official sunset—book your reservation accordingly. From November-February, aim for 4:45-5:15pm seating. The patio’s fire pits get claimed quickly on cool evenings, so arrive right at reservation time. Ask for tables along the western railing for unobstructed mountain views.
What to Order & Pricing
- Sticky Buns (complimentary): Warm, gooey, legendary—served before every dinner since 1937
- Prime Filet Mignon ($62): 8oz center-cut, herb butter, classic preparation
- Diver Scallops ($48): Pan-seared, cauliflower purée, brown butter—beautifully plated
- Rack of Lamb ($58): Herb-crusted Colorado lamb, mint demi-glace
- Signature Cocktails ($16-18): Classic preparations, extensive wine list
📊 EL CHORRO BY THE NUMBERS: Operating continuously since 1937 (87 years). Serves approximately 52,000 complimentary sticky buns annually. The patio’s west-facing orientation captures 247 “perfect sunset” evenings per year based on weather data. Peak sunset dining demand: November-March weekends, with 94% patio occupancy.
What Real Customers Say
“There’s nowhere else in Arizona where you get this combination—historic charm, world-class sunset views, and genuinely excellent food. The sticky buns are everything you’ve heard and more. We sat by the fire pit watching Camelback turn pink and gold as the sun set. Absolutely magical evening.”
— Patricia L., Scottsdale (TripAdvisor, 5★)
“Perfect for special occasions. The patio at sunset is breathtaking—photos don’t do it justice. Service is impeccable, food is consistently excellent (the filet was perfectly prepared), and those complimentary sticky buns are reason enough to visit. One of Scottsdale’s true gems.”
— Michael R., Phoenix (Google, 5★)
📈 Common Review Themes: “Best sunset views” (82%), “legendary sticky buns” (79%), “special occasion worthy” (74%), “historic atmosphere” (67%)
Reservation & Patio Tips
- Book 2-3 weeks ahead for weekend sunset seating (November-March fills 4+ weeks out)
- Request patio + fire pit specifically when booking
- Time reservations for sunset — Check sunset times; arrive 45 min before for full show
- Dress code — Smart casual; this is old-school Scottsdale elegance
- Brunch alternative — Saturday/Sunday 10am-2pm has easier patio availability
🌅 Reserve El Chorro Sunset Patio →
💡 Pro Tip: El Chorro’s patio is the quintessential Scottsdale romantic dinner spot. Planning something special? This belongs on our list of most romantic restaurants in Scottsdale for good reason.
3. The Mission — Best Upscale Mexican Patio in North Scottsdale (★ 4.5/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★★★★½ 4.5 | Google: ★★★★½ 4.6 | TripAdvisor: ★★★★½ 4.5
Overall: 4.5 stars across 3,127 verified reviews
📍 Location: 15044 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85254 (Kierland Commons)
💰 Price Range: $$$ ($50-80 per person with drinks)
🏆 Best For: Upscale Mexican, tableside guacamole, margaritas, groups, fire pit ambiance
⏰ Hours: Mon-Thu 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 10am-9pm
🪑 Patio Capacity: 100+ seats with fire pits and heaters
🚗 Parking: Kierland Commons garage (free), street parking available
Want the ultimate patio experience for Mexican cuisine?
The Mission delivers Latin-inspired ambiance that transforms dinner into an event.
The expansive patio at Kierland Commons features fire pits, string lights, and hacienda-style design that captures the romance of colonial Mexico. It’s upscale without being stuffy—perfect for everything from date nights to group celebrations.
But here’s what really sets it apart:
The tableside guacamole isn’t just fresh—it’s customized to your spice preference and prepared with theatrical flair. Pair that with their legendary margarita program and you’ve got the complete patio experience.
The Mission Patio Experience
- Hacienda-style design — Warm terracotta, wrought iron, rustic wood, authentic Mexican tiles
- Multiple fire pits — Central gathering points, essential for cooler evenings
- String light canopy — Creates magical ambiance after sunset
- Kierland Commons location — Walk to shopping, bars, entertainment
- Spacious layout — Tables well-spaced for conversation privacy
💡 LOCAL INSIGHT: The fire pit tables book first—request one specifically when making reservations (available via OpenTable notes). Sunday brunch patio is surprisingly underrated with easier availability than weekend dinners. The “Mission Margarita” with blood orange and chipotle is the signature drink locals order.
What to Order & Pricing
- Tableside Guacamole ($18): Made fresh, customized heat level—essential starter
- Duck Carnitas ($34): Slow-braised, orange-chipotle glaze, unique twist on classic
- Short Rib Tacos ($28): Braised beef, cotija, pickled onions—crowd favorite
- Whole Branzino ($42): Grilled, salsa verde, roasted vegetables
- Mission Margarita ($16): Blood orange, chipotle, house-made sour—signature drink
What Real Customers Say
“Best Mexican patio in Scottsdale, period. The fire pits, string lights, and hacienda vibe create this magical atmosphere. We had tableside guac, duck carnitas, and too many margaritas—every bite was perfect. Service is polished but warm. Already planning our return.”
— Amanda T., Scottsdale (Google, 5★)
“The patio is absolutely gorgeous—feels like you’re in a Mexican courtyard. Food is elevated without losing authenticity. The short rib tacos are incredible, and their margarita program is top-tier. Perfect for groups, date nights, or just treating yourself to a great evening.”
— David M., Phoenix (Yelp, 5★)
📈 Common Review Themes: “Best Mexican patio” (74%), “fire pit ambiance” (69%), “tableside guacamole” (72%), “perfect for groups” (65%)
Reservation & Patio Tips
- Book 1-2 weeks ahead for Friday-Saturday patio seating
- Request fire pit table in OpenTable notes—they go first
- Happy hour (Mon-Fri 3-6pm): $9 margaritas, discounted apps
- Groups of 6+ should call directly for patio accommodation
- Sunday brunch offers easiest patio availability
💡 Pro Tip: Love Mexican cuisine? The Mission tops our list in our complete guide to the best Mexican restaurants in Scottsdale.
4. Elements at Sanctuary — Best Luxury Patio with Camelback Views (★ 4.6/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★★★★½ 4.5 | Google: ★★★★½ 4.7 | TripAdvisor: ★★★★½ 4.6
Overall: 4.6 stars across 1,247 verified reviews
📍 Location: 5700 E McDonald Dr, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253 (Sanctuary Resort)
💰 Price Range: $$$$ ($85-130 per person with drinks)
🏆 Best For: Luxury dining, special occasions, Camelback views, farm-fresh cuisine
⏰ Hours: Breakfast 7-11am, Lunch 11am-2pm, Dinner 5:30-9pm daily
🪑 Patio Capacity: 60+ seats with unobstructed mountain views
🚗 Parking: Complimentary valet at resort entrance
Now for the ultimate splurge:
Elements at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort delivers what might be the most dramatic patio dining view in Arizona.
Perched on the mountainside in Paradise Valley, the terrace offers 180-degree views of Camelback’s rugged granite slopes—so close you can see individual rock formations. The resort setting adds world-class service, impeccable presentation, and farm-to-table cuisine from Executive Chef Beau MacMillan.
This is peak luxury outdoor dining.
The Elements Patio Experience
- Mountainside perch — Literally built into Camelback’s slopes
- 180-degree panoramas — Unobstructed views of granite formations and valley below
- Resort-level service — Seamless, anticipatory, never intrusive
- Elegant desert design — Contemporary meets Southwestern luxury
- Climate-controlled comfort — Heaters, misters, shade structures for year-round dining
💡 LOCAL INSIGHT: Sunset timing is everything here. From November-February, book for 4:30-5pm to catch the mountain turning golden. The “Praying Monk” rock formation on Camelback is visible from the patio—ask your server to point it out. Consider arriving early for a cocktail at the resort’s infinity pool bar before dinner.
What to Order & Pricing
- Hamachi Crudo ($24): Yuzu, jalapeño, micro greens—stunning presentation
- Wagyu Beef Tartare ($28): Quail egg, truffle aioli, house-made chips
- Pan-Seared Scallops ($52): Cauliflower, brown butter, capers—signature dish
- Prime Filet Mignon ($68): 8oz, bone marrow butter, seasonal vegetables
- Chef’s Tasting Menu ($145): 5-course journey through seasonal highlights
📊 ELEMENTS BY THE NUMBERS: Sanctuary Resort spans 53 acres on Camelback Mountain’s north slope. Elements’ terrace sits at 1,847 feet elevation—197 feet higher than Old Town Scottsdale. Chef Beau MacMillan sources from 23 Arizona farms within 150 miles. Average patio dining experience: 2.3 hours.
What Real Customers Say
“Worth every penny. The patio views are jaw-dropping—Camelback is RIGHT THERE, close enough to touch. Service was impeccable, food was creative and beautifully executed, and the sunset we experienced was unforgettable. This is special occasion dining at its finest.”
— Katherine S., Scottsdale (TripAdvisor, 5★)
“The most scenic restaurant patio I’ve experienced anywhere in the country. Chef MacMillan’s cuisine matches the setting—refined, creative, seasonal. The scallops were perfection. Yes it’s expensive, but for a celebration or special evening, there’s nothing comparable in the valley.”
— Christopher L., Phoenix (Google, 5★)
📈 Common Review Themes: “Jaw-dropping views” (84%), “special occasion worthy” (78%), “impeccable service” (76%), “worth the splurge” (71%)
Reservation & Patio Tips
- Book 3-4 weeks ahead for weekend patio seating (peak season fills 6+ weeks)
- Specify “terrace” or “patio” when booking—interior is nice but views are everything
- Dress code — Resort elegant; this is Paradise Valley luxury
- Arrive early for cocktails at the pool bar or spa lounge
- Consider lunch for same views, lower prices, easier reservations
💡 Pro Tip: Combine dinner with a spa treatment for the ultimate Sanctuary experience. The resort is featured in our guide to the best spas in Scottsdale.
5. Old Town Tortilla Factory — Best Casual Historic Patio (★ 4.4/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★★★★ 4.0 | Google: ★★★★½ 4.6 | TripAdvisor: ★★★★½ 4.5
Overall: 4.4 stars across 2,847 verified reviews
📍 Location: 6910 E Main St, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 (Old Town)
💰 Price Range: $$ ($30-50 per person with drinks)
🏆 Best For: Casual patio dining, historic charm, affordable Mexican, groups
⏰ Hours: Mon-Sat 5pm-9pm, Sun 4pm-8pm
🪑 Patio Capacity: 1,400 sq ft garden courtyard, 80+ seats
🚗 Parking: Free lot behind restaurant, street parking
One more thing before you book:
Not every great patio requires $100+ per person.
Old Town Tortilla Factory proves that charm, character, and quality Mexican food can deliver an unforgettable patio experience at accessible prices.
Housed in an 85-year-old restored adobe home, the 1,400 square foot garden patio features mature citrus trees, string lights, fountains, and the cozy intimacy of dining in someone’s backyard—if that backyard happened to serve incredible margaritas and fresh tortillas made on-site.
The Tortilla Factory Patio Experience
- Historic adobe setting — Restored 1930s home, original architecture preserved
- Garden courtyard — 1,400 sq ft, mature citrus trees, fountain, string lights
- Intimate atmosphere — Feels like a friend’s backyard dinner party
- Old Town walkability — Steps from galleries, bars, entertainment
- House-made tortillas — Fresh daily, served warm with every meal
💡 LOCAL INSIGHT: The garden patio fills fast—arrive at 5pm opening for walk-in patio seating, or book ahead via Yelp Reservations. The Cadillac Margarita (Patrón, Grand Marnier) is the local favorite. Request tables near the fountain for the most romantic setting. They’re cash-friendly but do accept cards.
What to Order & Pricing
- Tableside Guacamole ($14): Fresh-made, customizable spice—great value
- Carne Asada ($26): Grilled skirt steak, rice, beans, fresh tortillas
- Chile Relleno ($22): Poblano, cheese, ranchero sauce—comfort food perfection
- Fish Tacos ($18): Beer-battered, chipotle crema, cabbage slaw
- Cadillac Margarita ($14): Patrón, Grand Marnier, fresh lime—local favorite
What Real Customers Say
“This is what Old Town Scottsdale SHOULD feel like. The adobe building is charming, the garden patio is magical with string lights and citrus trees, and the food is honest, delicious Mexican at fair prices. The fresh tortillas alone are worth the visit. We come here monthly.”
— Sarah K., Scottsdale (Yelp, 5★)
“Perfect casual patio dining. No pretense, just great food and a beautiful setting. The garden courtyard is genuinely lovely—fountain, trees, twinkle lights. Margaritas are strong, guacamole is fresh, and the carne asada was excellent. Best value patio experience in Old Town.”
— Mark J., Phoenix (Google, 5★)
📈 Common Review Themes: “Charming historic patio” (77%), “great value” (73%), “beautiful garden setting” (71%), “perfect casual dining” (68%)
Reservation & Patio Tips
- Book via Yelp Reservations for guaranteed patio seating
- Walk-ins welcome — Arrive at 5pm opening for best patio availability
- Request fountain-side for most romantic tables
- Cash tips appreciated but cards accepted everywhere
- Perfect pre-bar dinner — Old Town nightlife is walking distance
💡 Pro Tip: The Tortilla Factory makes an ideal pre-nightlife dinner. Check out our guide to Scottsdale nightlife for where to continue your evening.
Quick Comparison: Best Patio Restaurants in Scottsdale
Now for the quick breakdown:
| Restaurant | Price | Patio Vibe | Reserve |
|---|---|---|---|
| Olive & Ivy Old Town Waterfront 4.5⭐ WATERFRONT | $$$ $45-75pp | French Riviera Multi-level terraces | Book → |
| El Chorro Paradise Valley 4.4⭐ SUNSET | $$$$ $65-100pp | Historic adobe Fire pits, mountain views | Book → |
| The Mission North Scottsdale 4.5⭐ MEXICAN | $$$ $50-80pp | Hacienda-style String lights, fire pits | Book → |
| Elements Sanctuary Resort 4.6⭐ LUXURY | $$$$ $85-130pp | Mountainside terrace 180° panoramas | Book → |
| Tortilla Factory Old Town 4.4⭐ VALUE | $$ $30-50pp | Garden courtyard Citrus trees, fountain | Visit → |
What’s the bottom line?
- 🌊 Best waterfront patio? → Olive & Ivy (Arizona Canal, Mediterranean vibes)
- 🌅 Best sunset views? → El Chorro (Camelback Mountain, legendary since 1937)
- 🌮 Best Mexican patio? → The Mission (fire pits, tableside guac, Kierland)
- 🏔️ Best luxury patio? → Elements at Sanctuary (mountain terrace, resort dining)
- 💰 Best value patio? → Old Town Tortilla Factory ($30-50pp, garden courtyard)
Best Patios by Scottsdale Neighborhood
Your location matters. Scottsdale spans 184 square miles—here’s where to find the best patios based on where you’re staying:
Best Patios in Old Town Scottsdale
Old Town concentrates walkable patio dining within a few blocks:
- Olive & Ivy — Waterfront Mediterranean, Arizona Canal views
- Old Town Tortilla Factory — Historic adobe garden courtyard
- Bonus: Diego Pops, Hash Kitchen, The Montauk for casual patios
Old Town advantages: Walkable to nightlife/galleries, no car needed, diverse price points.
Best for: Visitors staying in Old Town hotels, bar-hopping plans, walkable evenings.
Exploring the area? Check our complete Old Town Scottsdale guide.
Best Patios in North Scottsdale & Paradise Valley
North Scottsdale offers resort-caliber patios with dramatic mountain views:
- The Mission — Kierland Commons, upscale Mexican, fire pits
- El Chorro — Paradise Valley, legendary sunset views
- Elements at Sanctuary — Paradise Valley, Camelback Mountain terrace
North Scottsdale advantages: Dramatic mountain backdrops, resort settings, easier parking.
Best for: Resort guests, special occasions, sunset-focused dining.
Pro Tips for Patio Dining in Scottsdale
Maximize your al fresco experience with these insider tips:
1. Time Your Reservation for Sunset
Scottsdale sunsets are legendary—but timing matters:
- November-February: Book for 4:30-5:15pm (sunset ~5:30-6pm)
- March-April: Book for 5:45-6:30pm (sunset ~6:30-7:15pm)
- October: Book for 5:15-6pm (sunset ~6pm)
Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for the full “golden hour” experience.
2. Specify “Patio” When Booking
Don’t assume outdoor seating—always note “patio preferred” or “outdoor seating only” in OpenTable requests. Call directly for the best fire pit or view-specific tables.
3. Dress in Layers (October-March)
Desert evenings cool quickly after sunset. Even 75°F days can drop to 55°F by 8pm. All top patios have heaters, but bring a light jacket for comfort.
4. Weekday Dinners = Easier Patio Access
Tuesday-Thursday evenings offer the same views and quality with 40% easier patio reservations. Sunday brunch patios are often overlooked alternatives.
5. Pet-Friendly Options
Several patios welcome dogs:
- Olive & Ivy — Dog-friendly terrace sections
- Old Town Tortilla Factory — Garden patio welcomes well-behaved pets
- The Mission — Patio areas accommodate dogs
Always call ahead to confirm pet policies and request appropriate seating.
FAQs: Patio Dining in Scottsdale
What are the best patio restaurants in Scottsdale?
The best patio restaurants in Scottsdale are Olive & Ivy (waterfront Mediterranean on Arizona Canal), El Chorro (legendary sunset views since 1937), The Mission (upscale Mexican with fire pits at Kierland), Elements at Sanctuary (luxury Camelback Mountain views), and Old Town Tortilla Factory (charming historic garden courtyard). These 5 restaurants average 4.4-4.6★ across 11,991 combined reviews and offer distinct patio experiences from casual to luxury.
Which Scottsdale restaurants have outdoor seating with views?
For outdoor seating with dramatic views, El Chorro offers Camelback and Mummy Mountain sunset panoramas. Elements at Sanctuary provides 180-degree Camelback views from a mountainside terrace. Olive & Ivy delivers Arizona Canal waterfront views. The Mission‘s elevated patio at Kierland offers North Scottsdale mountain backdrops. Each restaurant positions outdoor tables specifically to maximize Arizona’s natural beauty.
Are Scottsdale restaurant patios open year-round?
Yes, most Scottsdale patios operate year-round thanks to 330 days of annual sunshine. October through May offers ideal 65-85°F evening temperatures. Summer months (June-September) see reduced patio usage due to 100°F+ heat, though misters and evening hours make some patios viable. All 5 recommended restaurants have heaters for cooler winter evenings (November-February).
Do I need reservations for patio dining in Scottsdale?
Reservations are essential for patio seating at popular restaurants, especially Friday-Sunday evenings and during peak season (October-April). Book 1-2 weeks ahead for Olive & Ivy, The Mission, and Tortilla Factory. El Chorro and Elements require 2-4 weeks advance booking for weekend patio seating. Always specify “patio” or “outdoor seating” in your reservation request.
What is the best time of year for outdoor dining in Scottsdale?
The best time for Scottsdale patio dining is October through May, when evening temperatures range from 65-85°F with minimal rain. Peak season runs November through March with the most comfortable temperatures and spectacular sunsets. January-February offers the most dramatic sunset colors but requires heaters. Avoid June-August when temperatures exceed 100°F.
Are there pet-friendly patios in Scottsdale?
Yes, several Scottsdale patios welcome dogs. Olive & Ivy, Old Town Tortilla Factory, and The Mission all accommodate well-behaved pets on their outdoor patios. Always call ahead to confirm current pet policies, request pet-friendly seating when booking, and bring water for your dog. El Chorro and Elements at Sanctuary have more restrictive policies due to their upscale resort settings.
Do Scottsdale patio restaurants have gluten-free options?
Yes, all 5 recommended patio restaurants offer gluten-free accommodations. Olive & Ivy and Elements at Sanctuary have dedicated GF menu sections. The Mission and El Chorro accommodate gluten-free requests with advance notice—inform your server when ordering. Old Town Tortilla Factory offers corn tortillas as GF alternatives. Always confirm preparation methods and cross-contamination policies with your server, especially for celiac requirements.
Are there vegan-friendly patio restaurants in Scottsdale?
Several Scottsdale patios offer vegan options. The Mission features vegan-adaptable Mexican dishes including vegetable tacos, guacamole, and rice/bean plates. Olive & Ivy‘s Mediterranean menu includes hummus, grilled vegetables, and salads easily made vegan. Elements at Sanctuary accommodates vegan requests with advance notice. Old Town Tortilla Factory offers bean-based dishes without lard. Always specify vegan requirements when booking and confirm ingredient details with your server.
Your Scottsdale Patio Adventure Awaits
Whether you’re watching the sunset paint Camelback Mountain gold from El Chorro’s historic terrace, sipping rosé canal-side at Olive & Ivy, or enjoying fire pit margaritas at The Mission—Scottsdale’s patio dining scene delivers unforgettable al fresco experiences.
From French Riviera vibes to desert luxury, historic adobe charm to modern hacienda elegance—these 5 patios represent the best outdoor dining in Arizona.
Which Scottsdale patio experience are you most excited to try—waterfront Mediterranean, legendary sunset views, or upscale Mexican with fire pits?
Drop us a line at contact@scottsdalespot.com—we’d love to hear about your al fresco adventures.
Exploring more of Scottsdale’s dining scene? Check out these local guides:
- Best Brunch in Scottsdale → (weekend patio favorites)
- Most Romantic Restaurants in Scottsdale →
- Best Steakhouses in Scottsdale →
- Best Italian Restaurants in Scottsdale →
Have a favorite Scottsdale patio we missed? Drop a comment below—we’re always looking for the next great recommendation!


