By Craig Bennett Group
Scottsdale's brunch scene reflects the city itself — warm, outdoor-oriented, and consistently more sophisticated than first-time visitors expect. Whether you're after a candlelit Latin feast, a Camelback Mountain patio, or a wellness-forward menu in Old Town, the best brunch spots in Scottsdale deliver experiences worth building a morning around.
Key Takeaways
- Scottsdale's brunch scene spans modern Latin, artful American, and health-forward cuisine across distinctly different atmospheres
- Outdoor patio culture is central to the Scottsdale brunch experience, with several of the best options featuring desert and mountain views
- Reservations are strongly advisable at all three spots on this list, particularly on weekends
- The quality of Scottsdale's dining scene is one of the lifestyle details that makes the area so compelling for buyers relocating from larger markets
The Mission
The Mission has two Scottsdale locations — Old Town and Kierland Commons — and both rank among the most consistently praised brunch destinations in the Phoenix metro area. Chef Matt Carter's modern Latin menu brings influences from Spain, Mexico, and Central and South America to a brunch program that goes well beyond the standard weekend egg plate.
Why The Mission Earns Its Weekend Following
- The Whole Roasted Pig Out — pineapple-roasted pork shoulder and pork belly carnitas served with a dozen house-made salsas, cremas, and handmade tortillas — is the signature brunch event that regulars plan their weekends around
- A Chorizo Scramble, Cinnamon Pecan Waffles, and Eggs Benedict with ajà amarillo hollandaise represent a menu that handles sweet and savory with equal confidence
- Tableside guacamole prepared from over a dozen fresh ingredients is a Mission institution and a natural opening act for any brunch visit
- A hand-curated Latin cocktail program featuring margaritas in cucumber jalapeño and avocado variations sets the bar program apart from standard brunch mimosa menus
Brunch runs Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at both Scottsdale locations — advance reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for groups.
LON's at The Hermosa Inn
LON's occupies the restored adobe home and art studio of cowboy artist Lon Megargee in Paradise Valley and has been named to OpenTable's Top 100 Brunch Restaurants in America for four consecutive years. The setting alone makes it one of the most distinctive brunch destinations in the entire Southwest.
What Makes LON's a Standout Brunch Destination
- A lushly landscaped patio with Camelback Mountain views, a wood-burning fireplace, and a stone fountain that creates one of the most sought-after outdoor dining environments in the Valley
- Lemon ricotta pancakes, a fresh herb garden cocktail program, and a brunch menu that balances indulgent and lighter options with genuine culinary care
- Original Lon Megargee artworks lining the dining room walls that give the experience a cultural dimension uncommon in resort dining
- A Four Diamond restaurant in a setting that feels simultaneously historic, luxurious, and genuinely Arizonan — something that takes decades to build and cannot be replicated
Weekend brunch reservations fill well in advance — booking at least a week ahead is the most reliable approach for securing the best patio seating.
Farm & Craft
Farm & Craft in Old Town has built a devoted following among health-conscious brunch seekers who don't want to sacrifice flavor or atmosphere for wellness credentials. The bright, open dining room and spacious patio along Old Town's main corridor make it one of the most people-watching-friendly brunch settings in Scottsdale.
Why Farm & Craft Consistently Earns Its Reputation
- Standout menu items include harvest avocado toast, vanilla protein pancakes, and a strawberries-and-burrata appetizer that has become a signature starter
- A gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan-friendly menu that accommodates a wide range of dietary preferences without compromising on flavor quality
- A vibrant open dining room with a patio overlooking the Old Town streetscape — one of the most engaging midday dining environments in Scottsdale's walkable core
- A cocktail program that complements the food-first philosophy without overwhelming it, suited to a brunch crowd that values balance over excess
Farm & Craft suits both locals settling in for a long morning and visitors who want to experience Scottsdale's neighborhood character alongside their meal.
FAQs
What are the best brunch spots in Scottsdale for a special occasion?
LON's at The Hermosa Inn is the most distinctive choice, with its Camelback Mountain patio and nationally recognized Four Diamond menu. The Mission's Pig Out brunch also suits larger group celebrations particularly well.
Do I need reservations for brunch in Scottsdale?
Yes, particularly on weekends. All three restaurants on this list fill quickly on Saturday and Sunday mornings — booking at least a week ahead is the most reliable approach to securing your preferred time and seating.
Is Scottsdale a good city for brunch overall?
Yes. Year-round outdoor dining, a strong independent restaurant culture, and a sophisticated food scene make Scottsdale one of the best brunch markets in the Southwest.
Brunch Is Better When You Love Where You Live
Scottsdale and Paradise Valley's dining scene is one of the most compelling lifestyle arguments for owning here — and finding the right home to anchor that life is where I come in.
I'm Craig Bennett, an Arizona native and Associate Broker at Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty with a background spanning top firms and builders across Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley. My interior design education combined with deep market knowledge gives my clients a perspective on property that goes well beyond the numbers — whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, I deliver the insight and personalized service you deserve.
