Scottsdale Culinary Festival

The 31 annual Scottsdale Culinary Festival starts on Tuesday–and will prove to be a week of food-filled bliss. The delish details:
Friends of James Beard Benefit Dinner
Several James Beard award-winning chefs from around the country prepare a six-course meal complete with carefully selected wine pairings. Experience this once-in-a-lifetime collaborative dinner in the company of true artisans.
Tuesday, April 14, 6 p.m.
The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa
Capacity: 125
$200 per person
“On the Rocks”
Looking for a sophisticated outing with a hot, urban vibe? Look no further than this mixologist event that’s a libation lover’s dream. Experience sizzling hors d’oeuvres and cool cocktails hand-created by inventive mixologists.
Thursday, April 16, 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Mondrian Scottsdale
Capacity: 125
$40 per person
Bubbles and Bliss
An uberchic tasting event that far transcends your average night out. Sip on bubbly and sample buzz-worthy Asian cuisine by Sushi Roku, all at Shade, the hip, open-air nightlife lounge at W Scottsdale.
Tuesday, April 14, 7-10 p.m.
W Scottsdale
Capacity: 200
$40 per person
Chef Tribute Dinner
The Valley’s most beloved chefs come together during this extraordinary tribute dinner that recognizes their exceptional culinary accomplishments. Acclaimed national food writer John Mariani will share insight into culinary trends.
Wednesday, April 15, 6-9 p.m.
J&G Steakhouse
Capacity: 125
$125 per person until March 6; $150 after
“On the Rocks”
Relax in a tropical paradise poolside with cocktails from Cruzan Rum. Enjoy refreshing drinks and island entertainment while sampling the best in Polynesian fare from Trader Vic’s.
Wednesday, April 15, 7-10 p.m. and Thursday, April 16, 7-10 p.m.
Hotel Valley Ho Pool
Capacity: 150
$40 per person
Culinary Hall of Fame Awards Dinner™
This much-anticipated, Oscars-style awards dinner honors culinary aficionados selected for induction in the Arizona Culinary Hall of Fame. See the action live at Wrigley Mansion during a fabulous dinner, and take the opportunity to mingle with past winners.
Thursday, April 16, 6:30 p.m.
Wrigley Mansion
Capacity: 200
$125 per person until March 6; $150 after
Eat, Drink, & Be Pretty Party
Dress to impress at this fashion-forward food and wine tasting. The weekend kickoff soiree features live entertainment, dancing, music and a runway show that’s a feast for the eyes. Fashion mavens, prepare to swoon.
Friday, April 17 from 7-11 p.m.
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts
Capacity: 1,200
$60 in advance, $70 at the door
Cooks & Corks™
Spice things up at this two-day culinary affair showcasing cooking demos from some of the nation’s hottest chefs, including Bravo’s Top Chef and Food Network stars. Select Valley restaurants will offer a delectable assortment of food paired with a flavorful wine selection.
Saturday & Sunday, April 18-19 from 12 to 4:30 p.m.
Scottsdale Center for the Arts
Capacity: 700 each day
$75 per person Saturday, $65 per person Sunday
GAP (Great Arizona Picnic™)
Sample food from more than 50 restaurants, and enjoy cooking demonstrations from local and national chefs. Taste vodka-inspired drinks at the Absolut Bistro, Mexican food and Patron margaritas at Camarones Margarita Village. Dance to rocking music performed by bands on two main stages.
Saturday, April 18, from 12 to 10 p.m. and Sunday, April 19, from 12 to 6 p.m.
Scottsdale Civic Center Plaza
Capacity: Unlimited
$10 per person
Chefs Wine Dinners
Join award-winning chefs at some of the Valley’s top restaurants for a series of exclusive four-course dinners paired with rich vintage wines. The winemakers dinners are limited to 24 attendees per restaurant to ensure an intimate and savory experience.
Saturday, April 18 at 6:45 p.m.
Various top Valley restaurants
Capacity: 24 attendees per restaurant
Wine Country Brunch™
An elegant yet unpretentious country-themed brunch buffet complemented by select wines. A parade of incredible silent auction items kicks off this Sunday outing.
Sunday, April 19, from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa
Capacity: 300
$65 per person
Best of the Fest™
The festival finale! A five-course wine-paired dinner created tableside by one of Arizona’s top eleven chefs.
Sunday, April 19, at 6:30 p.m.
Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa
Capacity: 220
$150 per person until March 6; $175 after
Tickets and additional information are available at www.scottsdaleculinaryfestival.org. I hope to see you there!