Visiting Scottsdale

Arizona Restaurants Make USA TODAY 2025 Restaurants of the Year

Written by Bailee Wilson | Mar 5, 2025 3:24:09 AM

Time and time again, Scottsdale restaurants are recognized as being among the best in the nation. In February, USA TODAY came out with the second edition of their list of the best restaurants of the year. Several local spots made the list! Read on to learn which restaurants made the cut. 

Photo from https://www.facebook.com/courserestaurantaz/photos 

USA TODAY's 2025 Restaurants of the Year is a list of 44 restaurants that are regarded as the best in the country. These restaurants represent a variety of regional and cultural cuisines. "Locals wondering about new openings, out-of-towners seeking hidden gems, and loyal readers trusting [their] expertise" all look to this list to decide where to eat next! "This year’s USA TODAY Restaurants of the Year isn’t just another list of hot spots with monthslong waits for reservations in major metros like New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. It’s a celebration of local flavors and stories, curated by reporters from across the country who know that a meal of Italian cuisine in Mamaroneck can be just as rewarding as one in Manhattan."

Photo from https://www.facebook.com/tacarbon/photos_by 

Two restaurants in Arizona made this year's list. One is Ta'Carbon in Glendale. The other is Course, which is located right here in Scottsdale!

Ta'Carbon is a down-to-earth Mexican restaurant offering delicious tacos, burritos, and other familiar favorites. USA TODAY shared, "Now with three locations in metro Phoenix, Ta’Carbon is a classic taco joint in every sense of the word, from the loud music playing over the speakers to the brisk counter service to the self-serve salsa bar at the center of the restaurant." Don't skip their tasty carne asada! Many say it is the best in town. 

Read the write up here.

Course is an approachable fine-dining restaurant, offering exquisite flavors and exceptional service. USA TODAY shared, "The dishes at Course, award-winning chef Cory Oppold’s latest restaurant, aren’t just elegantly presented. Many have an element of nostalgia, and most look like modern art." They highlight how dinner at Course "feels special, worthy of milestones and memories." Make a reservation for great cocktails, warm hospitality, and multi-course dining.

Read the write up here.

What local restaurant would you have added to USA TODAY's list? Tell us in the comments!