As the saying goes, “good things come to those who wait.” Two years may seem like a long time to wait for a restaurant to open, unless of course that restaurant is a Valley landmark. Chop and Wok originally opened in 1986, shortly after I moved to Arizona. On the weekends, my Dad would go pick up a smorgasbord of deliciousness and it became a bit of a tradition for us. When I moved away from the area, I would try to stop in every chance I got. So I, as well as many other loyal diners, was devastated when a fire ripped through the small space back in 2011.
Though the road to reopen their doors was not a smooth one, they have switched up their address and are back and better than ever. The current space is easily two times the size as the previous location, which means there is more than enough room for a large ‘Wok Star Bar’ as well as space for live music.
A peek inside
I happened in one weekday evening with my sons to meet a friend. Our server was perfectly attentive, to the grown-ups and littles alike. We started out our meal with the obligatory crab puffs. These little pillows are just as I remember them; savory and delicate with just the slightest tinge of sweetness from the cream cheese. Since they have had the same chef for the past 26 years, I decided to let him choose my entree. I was delighted by his choice. I had a lo mein bowl with every protein imaginable. Even with so much going on in my bowl, the dish still seemed to feel light. The noodles were the perfect texture and the vegetables were crisp and delicious. My dinner took me back to my childhood, so much so that I called my dad on my drive home!
So, if you have been facing a void in your life without being able to stop by Chop and Wok, despair no longer. Stop by the new location with your buddies, your family or by yourself; there’s room for everyone. They are still offering up the same great food in their house or yours. The restaurant is open until 2am and delivery is available until midnight. Having a party? No problem, they cater too! Rumor has it they put on a pretty spectacular Sunday brunch as well!
No matter the occasion, head over to their new location at 10425 N Scottsdale Road in Scottsdale for that taste that you have been waiting two years for!