Here is the second post in a series of my favorite foods in Scottsdale, Arizona and the surrounding areas. (Click here to see the first post on Favorite Scottsdale AZ Bites.)
There are actually two items from Roka Akor in Scottsdale that are “must orders” every time we go. The first is the Butterfish Tataki with White Asparagus and Yuzu. The fish just melts in your mouth. The other item is Sweet Corn with Garlic Butter and Soy. These small pieces of corn on the cob are cooked over the robata grill and come out with a slight bit of char. The garlic butter and soy add the perfect amount of flavor while letting the corn stand on its own. 
Cowboy Ciao in Scottsdale is known for many great things, but one of its standouts is the Stetson Chopped Salad. It is so good that I have seen imitations of it at other restaurants around town. It is a combination of arugula, dried corn, pepita seeds, smoked salmon, tomatoes. Israeli couscous, currants and asiago cheese. These components are then mixed tableside and blended with the delicious pesto/garlic/buttermilk dressing. The first time I heard what it was made with, I was a skeptic. However, once I tasted it, I was a die-hard convert.
Wow is the first thing that comes to mind when you are presented with the popovers at BLT Steak at the Camelback Inn in Scottsdale. They come to the table piping hot and they are enormous – not to mention delicious. The best part is that BLT Steak provides you with the recipe when they are served in case you want to try and replicate them at home.
If you have a sweet tooth, look to Julia Baker Confections to treat yourself. I have not had the opportunity to try one of her chocoloate bars, but I am a huge fan of her truffles. My favorite is the French Caramel Truffle. It is a milk chocolate truffle with delicious caramel inside. To finish it off, the outside is coated with toffee. It is simply heaven in a single bite. You can visit the Julia Baker store at the Montelucia in Paradise Valley (now closed) or you can purchase her confections at AJ’s and other Valley locations. And, even better, if you are not in Arizona, you can have them mailed to you.
I hope you enjoyed this quick list of some of my favorite things to eat in Scottsdale. Feel free to share your favorite bites in the comments.
