Blog

For residents and future homeowners of Optima McDowell Mountain™, exceptional dining is never far from home. Located in the heart of North Scottsdale, Optima McDowell Mountain™ is moments from some of the Valley’s most acclaimed culinary destinations — from the inventive Latin-inspired cuisine at Vecina to the elevated modern Italian experience at The Americano. And now, Arizona’s dining scene is getting an exciting new addition: the debut of Arizona Chef’s Week, a ten-day showcase of the state’s top culinary talent, happening August 1–10, 2025.

Arizona Chef’s Week is designed to spotlight the creative minds behind Arizona’s most beloved kitchens. For ten delicious days, celebrated chefs will present exclusive tasting menus and curated experiences that reflect their personal style and regional inspiration. It’s more than a restaurant week — it’s a celebration of the people, ingredients, and innovations that make Arizona’s food culture thrive. For future residents of Optima McDowell Mountain™, this is the perfect opportunity to explore exciting new eateries that could become your go-to favorites and revisit local favorites, all within easy reach.

This inaugural event includes an impressive lineup of participating restaurants across Phoenix, Scottsdale, and the surrounding area. Highlights include Becketts Table, Beginner’s Luck, Citizen Public House, Espiritu Mesa, Evo North Scottsdale, Filthy Animal, Fire at Will, Hush Public House, Indibar, Marisco Boys, Pa’La Downtown, Phoenix City Grille, Rusconi’s American Kitchen, The Americano, The Gladly, The Italiano, The Mexicano (Chandler and Phoenix locations), Thompson 105, Vecina and Wren & Wolf. Each location will offer a multi-course tasting experience or chef’s special prix fixe menu, with optional wine pairings and limited reservations.

Living at Optima McDowell Mountain™ means always being at the center of Scottsdale’s dynamic cultural and culinary pulse. Whether you’re gathering with friends over shared plates and craft cocktails or indulging in a chef’s table experience, the convenience of nearby access to these elevated experiences is just one of the many benefits of our thoughtfully designed new community.

For more details on Arizona Chef’s Week and to explore the full list of participating chefs and restaurants, visit the official event page. And if you’re ready to make world-class living — and dining — part of your everyday, we invite you to discover life at Optima McDowell Mountain™.

Join us for a first look at 7220 Optima, now leasing! Or book a tour of our sales gallery to explore 7230 Optima, the first for-sale luxury condominium residences at Optima McDowell Mountain™.