Dining Guide | 4 Poolside Dining Spots at Scottsdale Local Resorts

One of the best parts of the crazy heat in the summer is that local resorts are in their off season. It makes a lot of sense because who wants to go on summer vacation to the surface of the sun? Since we’re already here, we get to reap the benefits of low hotel check-ins and gather the friends and family for a staycation and pretty much live in the hotel pool.

With so many locals participating in staycations, our local resorts are having to out-do one another to get you in their beds! One such way this is being accomplished is through designing really unique and upscale poolside menus. With some of these resort offerings, there really is no reason not to get out of the house and head to your local resorts and live in the pool for the weekend.

4 Poolside Dining Spot at Scottsdale Local Resorts

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa
5700 E. McDonald Dr.
Paradise Valley, AZ 85283
855.245.2051

When you find yourself atop the mountain with nothing but serene mountain views you cannot help but immediately unwind. The luxurious resort will certainly cater to you every need, especially if you find yourself in need of nourishment while lounging in a cabana aligned with their infinity edge pool. The Infinity Pool Menu offers a variety of items to share or savor solo and mimic the unique talent of Executive Chef Beau MacMIllan. Start with some chilled seasonal fruit or charred edamame, taking care to ensure that you have room for their signature Jade Burger, a local favorite. The burger is flavorful and juicy on its own but when topped with a shishito cheese sauce and miso mustard. The slight kick of the shishito peppers and the earthy flavor of the miso create a unique flavor that might warm you up enough to justify another dip in the pool.

Firesky Resort & Spa
4925 N. Scottsdale Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
480.945.7666
Firesky has been delighting guests with their clever incorporation of the four elements of the Earth. These integral parts of the resort help to invoke a feeling of calm and presence allowing you to immediately unwind and leave your weekday worries at the door. Firesky offers two distinctly different pool experiences. The Sandy Beach pool features velvety sand leading up to the entry of the sparkling pool. Let the kids build sandcastles while you build your perfect poolside feast. A little crudité and a perfectly prepared Prosciutto pizza can create a light yet satisfying mid-day meal. Later on in the evening you can cuddle up to your sweetheart by the Torch Lit pool; the soft glow of the lighting creates a romantic ambiance perfect for sharing a cocktail and a sweet treat. Try a clean and crisp Pear Flower Lemonade with some fresh berries and vanilla whipped cream; perfect for feeding one another.

Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia
4949 E. Lincoln Dr.
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
480.627.3200
Once you are greeted at Omni you will be transported to another world, one with Spanish and Mediterranean influences where your worries and cares will melt away as you are embraced by the rich colors, masterfully crafted cobblestones and the exclusive and romantic design elements. The Omni resort features three different pool experiences; the Kasbah Pool, Oasis Pool, and the Joya Terrace spa pool. The Joya Terrace offers a more exclusive feel, as it is only available to Spa guests to relax after treatments. The more intimate setting allows guests to really savor their complete experience. The Ahi Tuna Tacos offered are ample enough to share with your spa mate and impart light and delicate flavors by way of the crisp jicama and slightly sweet mango salsa. Kasbah Pool conjures up visions of a Mediterranean seaside resort with the crystal blue water and scenic mountain views. The whole family can order from the eclectic Centro menu. With a variety of starters, salads, sandwiches, and flatbreads to choose from there is something to cater to any taste. Their Fresca Shrimp Wrap is perfectly spiced up with just enough coolness from the added avocado and aioli to tame the fires. If that doesn’t work the pool is just a quick dip away!

Hotel Valley Ho
6850 E. Main St.
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
480.248.2000

This iconic local resort was built in 1956 and truly honors the class and elegance of a time-gone-by with all of its architectural and design nods to mid-century-modern style. You’ll find a quiet elegance from the lobby to the guest suites as well as from the dining rooms to the pool. The large pools are crystal clear and always the perfect temperature. Loungers have the choice of relaxing in an exclusive cabana, chaise lounges, shaded tables or at the bar and enjoying their light and fresh menu.
Their Shrimp Ceviche is a great poolside choice and the portion size is perfect. The combination of the crunchy texture of the bold red onion and cool cucumber marries well with the creamy avocado and tart citrus juices. Their Cajun Dog screams of a down-south summer. The Vienna beef dog is topped with roasted tomatoes, griddled onions and creamy remoulade served on a toasted baguette.

This article,written by Taryn Jeffries, was originally featured in the August 2015 issue of So Scottsdale Magazine.