Tomorrow: El Chorro Lodge Reopens in Paradise Valley

An Arizona icon is back and better than ever. Tomorrow, El Chorro Lodge will reopen in Paradise Valley with a renovated look and a tasty new menu from Chef Charles Kassels. (El Chorro Lodge, which was built in 1934, closed last May after more than 70 years of operation in the Valley.)
Before guests can dig into the new fare at El Chorro, they’ll notice the restaurant’s updated look (though it still preserves El Chorro’s original romance, charm and ambiance), created by Scottsdale’s Vallone Design. The landmark building now features expanded views of Mummy and Camelback Mountains, enlarged indoor-outdoor dining spaces and private dining areas. Another feature of the redesign is the increased function and sustainability in the building design and operation. The expanded exterior patio includes new gardens, fire places (the original fireplace by the Classroom Bar will be maintained), a bocce ball lawn and outdoor lounge spaces. The new El Chorro will also feature art from Arizona’s finest and historic photography. There is also new tilework, furniture and light fixtures, along with the newly restored original furnishings. Embracing the restaurant’s future, the Vallone Design team incorporated green initiatives and sustainable practices, new entertainment sound systems and WiFi into the renovation.

In addition to El Chorro’s stunning new facelift, there are new menu items featured alongside the establishment’s favorite oldies but goodies. Diners can dig in to flash-fried Australian lobster tail, mesquite-grilled filet, mesquite-grilled rack of Colorado lamb and El Chorro’s signature eggs Benedict. Other tasty menu selections include green chili risotto, grilled quail, crispy duck and forest mushroom ravioli. Plus, this time around, there is an emphasis on fresh, healthy selections and a happy hour menu. And don’t fret–El Chorro Lodge is still serving up its famous relish and sticky buns (which you can get to-go), alongside an amazing selection of wine and cocktails. Basil lemondrop, anyone? How about a black raspberry julep? 5550 E. Lincoln Dr., Paradise Valley, 480.948.5170, www.elchorrolodge.com.
History of El Chorro Lodge
The iconic setting, historic buildings and Continental cuisine are El Chorro’s trademark. Originally built in 1934 by noted Valley businessman, John C. Lincoln, as the Judson School for Girls, the original schoolroom currently serves as the main bar of the restaurant. Situated on 11 acres in the heart of the Town of Paradise Valley, El Chorro Lodge is one of the area’s last traditional fine-dining establishments. Previous owners, Joe and Evie Miller, owned and operated El Chorro Lodge from 1952 until 2009.