Where to Shop and Dine in Phoenix: The Borgata of Scottsdale

Most of us have “Our Mall” that is what we consider our happy place. We might be rushing in and out to snag a sexy something from our favorite shop, or it might be where we spend our Saturday afternoons with the girls.  Stepping out of your comfort zone (even if it’s just a few minutes further) can sound like a disaster. Where to park? Do I really have to refer to a directory? What do I do for my power meal? But that perfect dress may be sitting there waiting to be discovered, and AFM is here to help you plan a day trip to shop and dine out of your comfort zone.
The Borgata of Scottsdale (about 6 minutes from Scottsdale Fashion Square)
The Borgata is filled with boutiques with unique clothes, accessories and knick-knacks you’ll be hard pressed to find at some of the larger malls. If you don’t want to be seen with the same thing as someone else – this is the place to start! It’s also an outdoor mall so we suggest checking it out this weekend – the average temp will be 75 degrees!

Where to Park: Just don’t park too close to Blanco or Trader Joe’s – these are the high traffic areas.  Unike the neighboring Fashion Square Mall, you most likely won’t have trouble spotting your car.
Where to Shop:
Green With Ivy – all eco-friendly apparel and home décor. This is what we call guilt free shopping!
Fresh Produce – casual women and children’s clothes with a summer attitude. A great place for out of town guests
Boudine’s Lady Luxe – a go-to place to find an entire outfit. Boudine’s carries shoes, handbags, dresses and accessories
James Elliott Jewelers – timeless designs with a bit of an edge
Saddlebags – gifts for the Impossible are found here. We love their high-end sterling silver cuff links and bracelets
The Perfume Shoppe – specializing in hard to find  fragrances like Amouage, Carthusia, Montale, Penhaligons, Lorenzo Villoresi, we doubt you’ll be able to walk out empty-handed.
Unique Vintage Chic – vintage jewelry and home décor
Zeeba’s Boutique – we love their beaded tops and (a little over-the top) handbags
Where to Snag a Mid-Day Snack:
Blanco Tacos+Tequila We recommend: Chips and guac, the Three Cheese Quesadilla with Chicken, or the Blanco Chopped Salad.  If you want to live a little, don’t say no to a White Peach & Hibiscus Margarita.

SLo Foods Organic Café We recommend: Freshly made Hummus, Signature SLo Pizza, Brie Sandwich or the Pear Salad. We also hear great things about their specialty teas!
Where to Go for Dinner:
Fogo de Chao This Brazilian style restaurant is definitely a different experience. We describe it as: Heavenly. Work up an appetite because Fogo de Chao is all-you-can eat.  Also famous for their gluton free menu, there is no need to stay away from their heavenly rolls, heavenly salad bar, or the 10 types of meat that will be offered throughout the course of the night. The Brazilian caipirinha is absolutely our favorite drink in the Valley.