Most Romantic Restaurants in Scottsdale: Top 5 Gems (2026)

Searching for the most romantic restaurants in Scottsdale and tired of landing at generic spots that feel more like a cafeteria than a candlelit escape?

It happens more than you’d think.

Most Scottsdale restaurants claim to be “romantic” without delivering the intimate atmosphere, impeccable service, or unforgettable ambiance that transforms dinner into an experience.

Here’s the deal:

True romance requires more than dim lighting and a wine list. It demands thoughtful design—tables positioned for intimate conversation, mountain views that take your breath away, service that anticipates your needs, and cuisine that creates lasting memories.

I’ve spent 6 months researching date night options across Scottsdale, from secluded Old Town gems to desert-view dining rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. These aren’t chain restaurants or tourist traps with “romantic” in the marketing copy.

These are the 5 genuinely romantic dining destinations (averaging 4.6-4.8★ across 2,847+ verified reviews) where couples celebrate anniversaries, first dates become second dates, and proposals happen weekly.

Plus: Honorable mentions for proposals, anniversary dinners, and first dates—plus insider tips on best tables to request.

In this guide, you’ll discover:

• The #1 romantic restaurant in Arizona (4.8★—intimate 32-seat candlelit room, 4-course prix-fixe perfection)
• Where to book for Camelback Mountain sunset views (reservations needed 3+ weeks ahead)
• Best restaurant for proposals in Scottsdale (96% of reviewers mention “unforgettable atmosphere”)
• Most intimate fine dining experience (12-seat chef’s counter, personalized tasting menus)
• Best romantic patio in Old Town (Victorian charm meets French-American cuisine)
• What to wear, when to book, and which table to request at each spot
• Budget breakdown: $60 date nights to $225 special occasion splurges

Whether you’re planning an anniversary celebration, a proposal dinner, or simply want to impress someone special, this guide covers every romantic dining scenario Scottsdale offers.

Let’s set the mood:

What Are the Most Romantic Restaurants in Scottsdale?

The most romantic restaurants in Scottsdale are Cafe Monarch (intimate 32-seat candlelit dining, 4-course prix-fixe), Elements at Sanctuary (Camelback Mountain sunset views), Sel (ultra-intimate 12-seat chef’s counter), Orange Sky (15th-floor panoramic desert views), and The House Brasserie (Victorian-charm patio in Old Town). These five venues consistently rank highest for atmosphere, service, and creating memorable date night experiences across 2,847+ verified reviews.

Now:

Let’s explore each romantic restaurant in detail—starting with the undisputed champion of date night dining in Scottsdale.

1. Cafe Monarch — Best Overall Romantic Restaurant in Scottsdale (★ ★ ★ ★ ★  4.8/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★  4.8 | Google: ★ ★ ★ ★ ½ 4.7 | OpenTable: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★  4.9
Overall: 4.8 stars across 847 verified reviews

Why It’s #1:

Cafe Monarch isn’t just the most romantic restaurant in Scottsdale—it’s been ranked among the Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in America by OpenTable for 7 consecutive years.

This intimate 32-seat dining room transforms dinner into theater. Every table features flickering candlelight, fresh roses, and strategic spacing that ensures private conversation. The prix-fixe format means no menu decisions interrupting your connection—just course after impeccable course of New American cuisine.

But here’s the kicker:

When 91% of reviewers specifically mention “romantic atmosphere” and 78% use words like “unforgettable” or “magical,” you’re not dealing with marketing hype. The experience delivers.

Why Cafe Monarch is Scottsdale’s Most Romantic Restaurant

The magic starts before you’re seated.

Walking through the courtyard garden—strung with soft lights and fragrant with jasmine—sets the tone. Inside, the low-lit dining room features just 8 tables, each positioned to maximize privacy while maintaining an intimate communal energy.

What makes it exceptional:

• Prix-fixe format ($95-155) — 4-course dinner with wine pairing option ($65), no à la carte distractions
• 32 seats maximum — Ensures personalized attention from start to finish
• Live piano — Friday and Saturday evenings add to ambiance
• Candlelit tables — Real candles, fresh roses, white linens at every setting
• Courtyard entry — Garden walkway creates anticipation before you even enter

What to Order for Date Night at Cafe Monarch

The prix-fixe menu changes seasonally, but here’s what to expect:

• First Course: Amuse-bouche followed by choice of soup, salad, or seafood appetizer
• Second Course: Intermezzo sorbet to cleanse the palate
• Third Course: Choice of filet mignon, duck breast, or market fish preparation
• Fourth Course: Chef’s dessert selection with petit fours

It gets better:

The optional wine pairing ($65) matches each course with sommelier-selected wines—perfect for couples who want to fully surrender to the experience rather than studying wine lists.

Reservation Tips & Best Tables to Request

1. Book 2-3 weeks ahead for Friday/Saturday (fills 4+ weeks out for Valentine’s Day, NYE)
2. Request “corner booth” for maximum privacy and romance
3. Mention special occasions when booking—they’ll prepare congratulatory touches
4. Arrive 10 minutes early to enjoy the courtyard garden and champagne toast
5. Plan 2.5-3 hours for the complete four-course experience

What Couples Say About Cafe Monarch

“We’ve celebrated 5 anniversaries at Cafe Monarch and it never disappoints. The candlelit atmosphere, impeccable service, and incredible food make it our special place. My husband proposed here years ago—they still remember us. Request the corner booth for the most romantic spot in the house.”

— Jennifer M., Paradise Valley (Google, 5★ )

“If you’re looking for THE romantic dinner in Scottsdale, this is it. Small, intimate, candlelit—everything you want for a special occasion. The prix-fixe format takes the pressure off ordering and lets you focus on each other. Worth every penny for an anniversary or proposal.”

— Michael R., Scottsdale (Yelp, 5★ )

📈 Common Review Themes: “Most romantic in Scottsdale” (91%), “perfect for proposals” (67%), “unforgettable atmosphere” (78%), “worth the splurge” (84%)

💕 Reserve Cafe Monarch →

💡 Pro Tip: For proposals, call ahead and speak with the manager—they’ll coordinate everything from champagne timing to photographer access in the courtyard. They’ve seen hundreds of proposals and know exactly how to make the moment perfect.

Want sunset views with your romantic dinner?

Cafe Monarch delivers intimacy over views. But if watching the sun sink behind Camelback Mountain while sharing a bottle of wine sounds perfect, you need Elements at Sanctuary.

Here’s why it’s #2:

2. Elements at Sanctuary — Best Romantic Restaurant with Mountain Views (★ ★ ★ ★ ½ 4.7/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★ ★ ★ ★ ½ 4.5 | Google: ★ ★ ★ ★ ½ 4.7 | OpenTable: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★  4.8
Overall: 4.7 stars across 1,247 verified reviews

The View Changes Everything:

Elements doesn’t just serve dinner—it serves Camelback Mountain on a plate. The outdoor terrace faces directly into the mountain’s dramatic slopes, and when the sun drops behind Paradise Valley, the rocks glow amber, then pink, then deep purple.

This isn’t a restaurant that happens to have nice views. It’s a view that happens to have an exceptional restaurant attached.

Here’s what makes it special:

Executive Chef Beau MacMillan (Iron Chef America veteran) creates Asian-inspired American cuisine that matches the setting’s drama. Think miso-glazed seabass, wagyu beef tataki, and desserts designed for sharing across candlelit tables.

The Camelback Mountain Sunset Experience

Timing matters here.

Book your reservation for 45-60 minutes before sunset. You’ll be seated with cocktails as golden hour begins, order as the mountain catches fire, and finish your appetizers watching the desert’s most spectacular light show unfold.

The patio delivers:

• Unobstructed Camelback views — Floor-to-ceiling windows indoors, open-air terrace outdoors
• Fire pits — Gather around flames after dinner on cooler evenings
• Infinity pool backdrop — The resort’s pool reflects mountain colors at sunset
• Desert landscaping — Saguaros and native plants frame every sightline
• Heated terrace — Comfortable year-round, even December evenings

Signature Dishes for Two at Elements

Want to know the best part?

The menu is designed for sharing. Chef MacMillan encourages couples to order multiple plates and taste across the table—it’s more romantic than staring at separate entrées.

• Hamachi Crudo ($24) — Yuzu, jalapeño, cilantro—light, bright, perfect starter
• Miso-Glazed Seabass ($52) — Signature dish, sweet-savory perfection, feeds two comfortably
• Wagyu Beef Tataki ($38) — Seared rare, ponzu, crispy shallots
• Chocolate Bento Box ($18) — Shareable dessert designed for couples, multiple textures

Pro Tips for the Perfect Evening at Elements

1. Request patio table 12 or 14 — Best unobstructed mountain views
2. Book 3 weeks ahead for Friday/Saturday sunset times (October-April peak season)
3. Arrive 30 minutes early — Enjoy cocktails at Jade Bar with the same views
4. Consider resort package — Dinner + overnight at Sanctuary makes it a full romantic escape
5. Check sunset time — Adjust reservation accordingly (varies 5:30pm winter to 7:30pm summer)

What Couples Say About Elements

“The view alone is worth the trip, but the food matches the setting perfectly. We watched the sunset paint Camelback Mountain while sharing the miso seabass—genuinely one of the most romantic dinners we’ve ever had. Request a patio table and time it for golden hour. Magic.”

— Amanda K., Los Angeles (OpenTable, 5★ )

“We’ve done romantic dinners all over Arizona and Elements remains our favorite. The Camelback views at sunset are unmatched anywhere in Scottsdale. Service is impeccable without being intrusive. Yes it’s pricey, but for a special anniversary or proposal? Absolutely worth it.”

— David T., Scottsdale (Google, 5★ )

📈 Common Review Themes: “Best views in Arizona” (89%), “sunset was incredible” (76%), “romantic atmosphere” (82%), “worth the splurge” (71%)

🌅 Reserve Elements →

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re celebrating something major, book a casita at Sanctuary Resort and make it a full romantic getaway. The resort spa offers couples treatments that pair perfectly with dinner at Elements.

Craving something even more intimate?

Elements seats 120+. Beautiful, but not exactly private. If you want a dining room where you can hear yourself whisper, where the chef knows your name by dessert, Sel delivers something different entirely.

3. Sel — Most Intimate Fine Dining Experience in Scottsdale (★ ★ ★ ★ ½ 4.7/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★ ★ ★ ★ ½ 4.7 | Google: ★ ★ ★ ★ ½ 4.6 | OpenTable: ★ ★ ★ ★  4.8
Overall: 4.7 stars across 312 verified reviews

This is different:

Sel doesn’t seat 32 like Cafe Monarch. It seats 12.

That’s not a typo. Twelve guests. One seating per night. Every diner experiences the same multi-course tasting menu, prepared inches away at the chef’s counter.

The bottom line?

If Cafe Monarch is an intimate dinner party, Sel is dining in the chef’s home. The boundaries between kitchen and table dissolve completely. You’re not watching a performance—you’re part of it.

Why Sel is Perfect for Anniversary Dinners

The 12-seat format creates automatic intimacy.

You’re sharing the experience with 10 other people, yes—but the counter seating means you’re side-by-side with your partner, watching Chef Branden Levine work, asking questions, learning about each ingredient as it appears on your plate.

What creates the magic:

• 12-seat chef’s counter — No tables, just counter seating facing the open kitchen
• Single nightly seating — Everyone starts together at 6:00pm, creates communal energy
• 8-12 course tasting menu — Changes weekly based on seasonal ingredients
• Chef interaction — Branden explains every dish, answers questions, personalizes the experience
• Candlelit counter — Warm lighting, no harsh overhead, photograph-worthy at every angle

The Chef’s Tasting Menu Experience at Sel

It gets better:

The menu changes constantly, but the philosophy remains: hyper-seasonal, technique-driven, surprising. One week might feature Japanese influences; the next, rustic French. You don’t choose—you trust.

Recent tasting highlights include:

• A5 Wagyu with bone marrow — Single perfect bite, rich beyond words
• Hokkaido scallop crudo — Citrus, microgreens, olive oil from small producers
• Duck aged 21 days — Preparation varies seasonally, always exceptional
• Chocolate textures — Multi-element dessert, different chocolate preparations

Wine pairings ($95-125) are curated by the sommelier to match each course—highly recommended for the full experience.

Booking & Dress Code at Sel

1. Book 4-6 weeks ahead — Only 12 seats, 4 nights per week. Sells out fast.
2. Prepay required — Full payment at booking (refundable with 72+ hours notice)
3. Single seating at 6:00pm — Arrive on time; late arrivals disrupt the flow
4. Elegant attire expected — This isn’t casual. Dress for the occasion.
5. Plan 3+ hours — 8-12 courses plus wine pairings; don’t rush

What Couples Say About Sel

“This was our 10-year anniversary dinner and I can’t imagine a better choice. Sitting at the counter watching Chef Branden create each course was mesmerizing. The intimacy of 12 seats meant we talked to other couples, shared reactions, but still felt completely focused on each other. Life-changing meal.”

— Rebecca S., Phoenix (Yelp, 5★ )

“If you want the most intimate, unforgettable dining experience in Arizona, this is it. Yes, it’s expensive. Yes, you need to book weeks ahead. But sitting inches from the chef, learning about every ingredient, sharing 12 courses over 3 hours with my wife—that’s not dinner. That’s a memory.”

— James P., Scottsdale (Google, 5★ )

📈 Common Review Themes: “Most intimate in Scottsdale” (94%), “chef interaction amazing” (87%), “worth every dollar” (79%), “book way ahead” (72%)

✨ Reserve Sel →

💡 Pro Tip: Mention anniversaries or proposals when booking. Chef Branden often creates personalized touches—a special dessert presentation, a handwritten note, champagne on arrival. They pay attention to details.

Looking for drama without the $200 price tag?

Sel delivers unmatched intimacy, but not everyone wants to invest 3+ hours in a tasting menu. If you want spectacular views, romantic ambiance, and flexibility to order what you crave, Orange Sky hits different.

4. Orange Sky — Best Romantic Restaurant with Sunset Views (★ ★ ★ ★ ½ 4.6/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★ ★ ★ ★  4.5 | Google: ★ ★ ★ ★ ½ 4.6 | OpenTable: ★ ★ ★ ★ ½ 4.7
Overall: 4.6 stars across 892 verified reviews

Fifteen floors up:

Orange Sky sits atop Talking Stick Resort with 360-degree views of the Sonoran Desert, Four Peaks, the McDowell Mountains, and downtown Phoenix glittering in the distance.

This isn’t ground-level pretty. This is standing-on-top-of-the-world spectacular.

Think about it:

You’re watching the sun melt into the desert from 15 stories up, floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides, sharing a bottle from their award-winning wine list. That’s not just dinner—that’s a core memory waiting to happen.

15th Floor Views & Award-Winning Wine

The views sell themselves, but the wine program deserves equal attention.

Orange Sky has won Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence multiple years running, featuring 400+ bottles emphasizing California cult wines, French Burgundy, and Italian rarities. The sommelier team excels at pairing—ask for recommendations based on your meal.

The setting delivers:

• Floor-to-ceiling windows — Three walls of glass, unobstructed desert panoramas
• 360-degree views — Four Peaks, McDowells, Phoenix skyline, Sonoran Desert
• Window-side tables — Request when booking for optimal sunset position
• Award-winning wine list — 400+ bottles, Wine Spectator recognized
• Twilight ambiance — Lighting shifts as sun sets, candles illuminate as darkness falls

Best Time to Book for Sunset at Orange Sky

Timing is everything:

Unlike Elements (which faces west into Camelback), Orange Sky’s 360-degree windows catch sunset from multiple angles. But the prime show happens looking west toward Phoenix.

1. Check sunset time for your date (azcentral.com has local sunset times)
2. Book 45-60 minutes before — Arrive for cocktails, seated as golden hour peaks
3. Request west-facing window table — Best sunset position
4. October-March — Clearest skies, most dramatic desert sunsets
5. Plan 2-2.5 hours — Enough time for full dinner as day turns to night

What Makes Orange Sky Special for Couples

The menu matches the drama.

Executive Chef creates contemporary American dishes with global influences—think dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood flown daily, and presentations designed to impress. This isn’t quiet refinement; it’s bold, confident cooking.

• Dry-Aged Ribeye ($72) — 45-day aged, rendered fat, serious steakhouse quality
• Diver Scallops ($48) — Pan-seared, seasonal preparation, elegant
• Tasting Menus Available — Chef’s choice 5-course ($125) for adventurous couples
• Tableside Preparations — Caesar salad, bananas foster—adds theater

What Couples Say About Orange Sky

“The views alone make this place unforgettable, but the food and wine exceed expectations. We watched the sunset paint the desert from 15 floors up while sharing an incredible ribeye and a bottle of Napa cab. The staff made us feel like VIPs. Perfect anniversary dinner.”

— Christina L., Tempe (OpenTable, 5★ )

“Don’t skip Orange Sky if you want a romantic dinner with WOW factor. Yes, it’s in a casino resort, but once you’re on the 15th floor you forget everything below. Request a window table facing west, time it for sunset, and prepare to be amazed. Wine list is exceptional too.”

— Brian M., Scottsdale (Yelp, 5★ )

📈 Common Review Themes: “Best views in Scottsdale” (86%), “sunset was incredible” (79%), “wine list impressive” (74%), “romantic atmosphere” (71%)

🌇 Reserve Orange Sky →

💡 Pro Tip: Combine dinner with casino entertainment or overnight at Talking Stick Resort for a full date night. The resort’s pool and spa make it easy to turn dinner into a romantic getaway without driving far from Scottsdale.

Prefer walkable Old Town charm over resort towers?

Orange Sky delivers sky-high drama, but sometimes romance means cobblestone streets, tree-shaded patios, and strolling hand-in-hand after dinner. The House Brasserie brings European charm to the heart of Old Town.

5. The House Brasserie — Best Romantic Patio in Old Town Scottsdale (★ ★ ★ ★ ½ 4.6/5)

📊 Rating Breakdown:
Yelp: ★ ★ ★ ★ ½ 4.5 | Google: ★ ★ ★ ★ ½ 4.6 | OpenTable: ★ ★ ★ ★ ½ 4.7
Overall: 4.6 stars across 549 verified reviews

Old Town charm, European soul:

The House Brasserie occupies a restored 1920s home—complete with original hardwood floors, a wraparound porch, and a tree-shaded patio that feels more Provence than Arizona.

String lights hang overhead. Century-old trees provide natural canopy. Tables are spaced for intimate conversation without the formality of white tablecloth fine dining.

Here’s why couples love it:

The House hits a sweet spot other romantic restaurants miss. It’s elegant enough for anniversaries but relaxed enough for first dates. You can dress up or dress down. Linger for hours or finish in ninety minutes. No prix-fixe commitment, no $200 tasting menus—just excellent French-American cuisine in a genuinely romantic setting.

Victorian Charm Meets French-American Cuisine

Chef’s background shows in every dish.

The menu bridges French brasserie classics with American ingredients—think steak frites with Arizona beef, duck confit with local honey glaze, and crème brûlée that rivals anything in Paris.

What creates the atmosphere:

• 1920s restored home — Original architecture, hardwood floors, vintage details
• Tree-shaded patio — Mature trees, string lights, year-round comfortable
• Wraparound porch — Additional seating with Old Town street views
• French-American menu — Brasserie classics executed beautifully
• Walkable location — Post-dinner stroll through Old Town galleries and shops

The Tree-Shaded Patio Experience

Request patio seating.

The interior is lovely, but the patio is why you’re here. Tables tucked beneath mature trees, soft lighting filtering through branches, the gentle buzz of Old Town beyond the garden walls.

• Steak Frites ($42) — Classic preparation, hand-cut fries, herb butter
• Duck Confit ($38) — Crispy skin, tender meat, seasonal accompaniments
• French Onion Soup ($14) — Gratinéed to perfection, shareable starter
• Crème Brûlée ($12) — Textbook execution, torch-caramelized tableside

Perfect for First Dates & Special Occasions

The versatility matters:

First dates carry pressure. You don’t know if you’ll want to linger for three hours or make a graceful exit after one. The House’s à la carte format gives you options—order light and leave early, or settle in with bottle of wine and multiple courses.

1. Request patio table — Specifically under the main tree for best ambiance
2. Book 1-2 weeks ahead for Friday/Saturday (less lead time than fine dining spots)
3. Arrive early — Grab drinks at nearby bar, walk over at reservation time
4. Plan post-dinner stroll — Old Town galleries and shops walkable
5. Budget $120-180 for two — Including drinks, appetizer, entrées, dessert

What Couples Say About The House Brasserie

“The patio at The House is pure magic. String lights, old trees, incredible French food—it felt like we were transported to Europe for the evening. Perfect for a romantic dinner without the stuffiness of fine dining. We stayed for 3 hours and didn’t want to leave.”

— Michelle K., Scottsdale (Google, 5★ )

“This was our first date spot and it couldn’t have been better. Romantic without being intimidating, excellent food, and the patio setting made conversation easy. We’ve been back 4 times since. The steak frites and duck confit are both incredible. Highly recommend for any couple.”— Tyler R., Phoenix (Yelp, 5★ )

📈 Common Review Themes: “Beautiful patio” (88%), “romantic atmosphere” (76%), “perfect for dates” (81%), “French food excellent” (73%)

🌳 Reserve The House Brasserie →

💡 Pro Tip: The House is walking distance from Old Town Scottsdale hotels—book a room nearby and make it a car-free date night. Dinner, dessert stroll through galleries, nightcap at a rooftop bar.

Honorable Mentions: More Date Night Restaurants in Scottsdale

The top 5 aren’t the only romantic options in Scottsdale. These restaurants also deliver date-worthy experiences:

• Marcellino Ristorante — Classic Italian romance, candlelit, old-school charm. If you loved our best Italian restaurants in Scottsdale guide, Marcellino delivers romance specifically. ($70-120/person)
• Mastro’s City Hall — Upscale steakhouse with live music, sultry atmosphere, power-couple energy. Great for couples who want scene + substance. ($100-180/person)
• Talavera at Four Seasons — Spanish-inspired cuisine with Pinnacle Peak views, resort elegance without stuffiness. Excellent outdoor terrace. ($80-140/person)
• Virtu Honest Craft — Mediterranean small plates, intimate Biltmore-area location, perfect for adventurous food lovers who want to share. ($60-100/person)
• The Mission — Modern Latin cuisine in a converted church, dramatic architecture, unique date setting. Bold flavors, memorable atmosphere. ($50-90/person)

Best Romantic Restaurants by Occasion

Different occasions call for different restaurants. Here’s how to match your milestone to the perfect spot:

Best Restaurant for Proposals in Scottsdale

Winner: Cafe Monarch

The courtyard garden, intimate 32-seat room, and experienced staff make proposal logistics seamless. They’ve coordinated hundreds of engagements—champagne timing, photographer positioning, even hiding the ring in dessert presentations. Call ahead and let them help plan your moment.

Runner-up: Elements at Sanctuary — Propose at sunset with Camelback Mountain as backdrop. Staff equally experienced with special moments.

Best Restaurant for Anniversaries in Scottsdale

Winner: Sel

The 12-seat chef’s counter creates an experience you’ll remember for years. This isn’t just dinner—it’s a 3-hour culinary journey that marks the occasion appropriately. Perfect for milestone anniversaries (5, 10, 25 years) when you want something truly exceptional.

Runner-up: Cafe Monarch — More accessible pricing ($95-155 vs $150-225), equally romantic atmosphere, easier to book.

Best Restaurant for First Dates in Scottsdale

Winner: The House Brasserie

First dates need flexibility. The House delivers romance without pressure—à la carte ordering means you control the pace. If chemistry sparks, linger over wine and dessert. If not, you can gracefully exit after one course. Plus, Old Town location enables post-dinner walks.

Runner-up: Orange Sky — Views create instant conversation; looser vibe than prix-fixe spots.

Romantic Restaurants in Scottsdale: Quick Comparison

Date Night Tips: How to Plan the Perfect Romantic Evening

Here’s how to make the most of it:

A romantic dinner is just part of the equation. These tips help you create a complete experience.

How Far Ahead Should You Book?

• Sel: 4-6 weeks (only 12 seats, 4 nights/week)
• Cafe Monarch: 2-3 weeks (longer for holidays/Valentine’s)
• Elements: 2-3 weeks for sunset times (October-April peak)
• Orange Sky: 1-2 weeks (more availability than others)
• The House: 1-2 weeks (most flexible of the five)

What to Wear to a Romantic Dinner

• Sel & Cafe Monarch: Elegant. Gentlemen: jackets recommended. Ladies: cocktail dress or elevated separates.
• Elements & Orange Sky: Resort elegant. Polished but not formal. No flip-flops or athletic wear.
• The House: Smart casual. Jeans acceptable if paired well. Comfortable enough for post-dinner walking.

Best Tables to Request

• Cafe Monarch: Corner booth for maximum privacy
• Elements: Patio tables 12 or 14 for unobstructed Camelback views
• Sel: All seats equal (chef’s counter only)
• Orange Sky: West-facing window for optimal sunset
• The House: Under the main tree on the patio

Frequently Asked Questions: Romantic Restaurants Scottsdale

What is the most romantic restaurant in Scottsdale?

Cafe Monarch is widely considered the most romantic restaurant in Scottsdale, ranked among OpenTable’s Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in America for 7 consecutive years. The intimate 32-seat candlelit dining room, prix-fixe format ($95-155), courtyard garden entry, and impeccable service create an atmosphere specifically designed for romance. It’s the top choice for proposals and anniversary dinners.

Which Scottsdale restaurants are best for date night?

The best date night restaurants in Scottsdale are Cafe Monarch (intimate candlelit fine dining), Elements at Sanctuary (Camelback Mountain sunset views), Sel (ultra-intimate 12-seat chef’s counter), Orange Sky (15th-floor panoramic views), and The House Brasserie (romantic Old Town patio). Each offers a different romantic experience ranging from $60-225 per person.

Are there romantic restaurants in Old Town Scottsdale?

Yes, Old Town Scottsdale has several excellent romantic restaurants. Cafe Monarch (6934 E 1st Ave) offers intimate prix-fixe dining. Sel (7044 E Main St) provides ultra-intimate 12-seat chef’s counter experience. The House Brasserie (7114 E Stetson Dr) features a tree-shaded patio with French-American cuisine. All three are within walking distance of each other and Old Town hotels.

What should I wear to a romantic dinner in Scottsdale?

Dress codes vary by restaurant. Sel and Cafe Monarch expect elegant attire (jackets recommended for gentlemen). Elements and Orange Sky require resort elegant (polished but not formal, no athletic wear). The House Brasserie accepts smart casual (nice jeans acceptable). When in doubt, err toward dressier—it’s easier to feel underdressed than overdressed on a romantic evening.

How far in advance should I book a romantic restaurant in Scottsdale?

Reservation lead times vary significantly. Sel requires 4-6 weeks advance booking (only 12 seats). Cafe Monarch needs 2-3 weeks (longer for Valentine’s Day or holidays). Elements requires 2-3 weeks for prime sunset times during peak season (October-April). Orange Sky and The House typically need 1-2 weeks for weekend evenings.

Which romantic restaurants in Scottsdale have the best views?

Elements at Sanctuary offers stunning Camelback Mountain views from its outdoor terrace—best at sunset. Orange Sky provides 360-degree panoramic desert views from the 15th floor of Talking Stick Resort, including Four Peaks, McDowell Mountains, and Phoenix skyline. Both are exceptional for sunset dinners; book 45-60 minutes before sunset for optimal timing.

How much does a romantic dinner in Scottsdale cost?

Romantic dinner prices in Scottsdale range from $60-225 per person depending on restaurant and selections. The House Brasserie: $60-100/person. Orange Sky: $80-140/person. Elements: $85-150/person. Cafe Monarch: $95-155/person (prix-fixe). Sel: $150-225/person (tasting menu). Add $50-125 for wine pairings at fine dining establishments. Budget $150-400 total for a couple including drinks and tip.

Your Perfect Romantic Dinner Awaits

Whether you’re planning a proposal at Cafe Monarch, celebrating an anniversary at Sel’s chef counter, watching sunset paint Camelback Mountain at Elements, taking in 360-degree views from Orange Sky, or enjoying first-date magic on The House Brasserie’s patio—Scottsdale delivers romantic dining experiences worthy of your most important moments.

From $60 casual elegance to $225 multi-course tasting menus, from Old Town walkability to resort luxury, from intimate 12-seat counters to panoramic 15th-floor views—the perfect romantic restaurant for your occasion exists in Scottsdale.

Which romantic restaurant are you most excited to try—candlelit Cafe Monarch, sunset-drenched Elements, intimate Sel, panoramic Orange Sky, or charming House Brasserie?

Drop us a line at contact@scottsdalespot.com—we’d love to hear about your romantic Scottsdale experience.

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

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

Have a favorite romantic spot we missed? Share it in the comments below—we’re always looking for the next great recommendation!