Friday Bites with Chef Charles Wiley

Chef Charles Wiley has created an incredible footprint here in the Valley. With more than 35 years of experience in the culinary industry, numerous accolades and television appearances he has become a Valley favorite.

Chef Wiley has received numerous culinary honors. He was named one of “The Ten Best New Chefs in America” by Food & Wine magazine, and the James Beard Foundation recognized him as “One of the Best Hotel Chefs of America”. It invited him on four occasions to cook at The James Beard House in New York, and in 1998, he was invited to prepare the entrée for The James Beard Journalism Awards Dinner. Additionally, in 2000, he was inducted into the Scottsdale Hall of Fame as Chef Honoree.

As the Executive Chef and Food & Beverage Director for the Hotel Valley Ho he is the force behind the day-to-day development and operation of all the dining venues on property. ZuZu, the property’s main restaurant, shows Chef Wiley’s passion for local purveyors and seasonal ingredients in dishes like Braised Beef Short Rib, Roasted Spaghetti Squash, Chopped Salad, and ZuZu’s famous warm Parker House Rolls. Desserts are another specialty; homemade pies, malts, shakes, and ice cream dishes are served up daily. Diners also love the scones served for Sunday brunch.

You can feed your appetite and soul at ZuZu’s beginning at 6am until 10pm Sunday through Thursday and from 6am until 11pm on Friday and Saturday.

So where does Chef Wiley go when he is not in the kitchen?

Friday Bites with Chef Charles Wiley

First Date Spot | The Lounge at Drinkwater’s
It projects upscale quality without stuffiness, and has a good energy. The lounge attracts all age groups. Slip in early and secure one of the little high tops on the north side by the windows (you don’t want to be too close to the band). You can order cocktails and appetizers without committing to a full dinner, and the sound level is conducive to conversation.

Special Occasions | Binkley’s
There is only one Binkley’s. His multi-course dinners are memorable, and truly world class. The vibe is crisp, professional and whimsical. The sight of hundreds of dishes coming out of the open kitchen is amazing to behold. I am always as excited to receive the 16th course as the first and second.

Impressing Out Of Towners | elements
Right from the drive up to the restaurant, every step is breathtaking. Get there early enough to catch the sunset. The seasonal American cuisine with Asian accents is fresh and approachable, the wine list extremely diverse, and service impeccable.

Fresh from the Market | FnB
Charlene Badman is passionate about vegetables, and takes produce to a new level. I love the variety and intelligent treatment of the local bounty. Pavle Milic provides spot-on service and a wonderful selection of Arizona wines.

You can find Chef Wiley hard at work at Hotel Valley Ho, located at 6850 E. Main St. in Scottsdale. Need a room or reservations call 844.993.9601.