I know we’re not the only ones who were sad when Carefree Station to had to close its doors in September. Thankfully, the team behind the Carefree favorite, from its restaurateurs, Robert and Linda Gabrick, to its chef, Thomas Nasworthy, opened Scottsdale Station just a few months later, in November, near Hayden and Via de Ventura. The restaurant is welcoming and familiar, with a spacious patio–perfect for enjoying Arizona’s lovely spring evenings–and an impressive bar that showcases many of Scottsdale Station’s 300 bottles of liquor.
We had the chance to sample Scottsdale Station’s delicious and jam-packed lunch menu, which features salads, sandwiches and hearty Mexican-inspired entrees. For starters, the queso dip offers a bit of spice to wake up those taste buds. For a few extra bucks, pair the creamy dip with spicy chorizo, avocado, jalapeño and pico de gallo for an extra-delicious appetizer.
For a real stick-to-your-ribs repast, order Scottsdale Station’s RWG Burger (or red, white and green burger). The half-pounder is topped with brie and boursin cheeses for the ultimate melt-in-your-mouth experience (this is a knife-and-fork kind of burger). Sauteed spinach and roasted red peppers also crown the patty. Scottsdale Station’s Monte Cristo sandwich offers an innovative spin on the traditional variety and provides a happy medium between French toast and a turkey with cheese sandwich. Swiss, ham, turkey and mascarpone are harmoniously combined between grilled brioche and dusted lightly with powdered sugar. Fresh blackberry preserves add a sweet finish to this savory sandwich.
Talking about sweet finishes, the chai tea tiramisu on the dessert menu is decadent yet also manages to be light and airy. Instead of coffee, this traditional dessert is infused with a spicy chai tea, and the result is so very delicious. (Fortunately the serving is rather large so you can get your fair share.)
Scottsdale Station is also open for dinner and Sunday brunch. Happy hour is available at the bar, Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. www.scottsdalestation.com.
A Taste of Scottsdale Station
