– Luci’s at the Orchard in Phoenix –
Just when you think you know every really great restaurant around town – you get surprised. A friend picked me up from the airport and we drove over to the area around Camelback Road and 12th Street. (So it is not actually in Scottsdale, but it is not too far of a drive!) This area was part of the citrus industry that transformed North Central Phoenix from desert to orchards and a thriving industry.
Tucked beneath the original water tower that stored the water from the canal that was built to irrigate central Phoenix farms is Luci’s. Quaint, well-appointed, and a warm and friendly atmosphere are just a few adjectives I would use to describe this delightful restaurant.
The restaurant serves breakfast all day and the lunch menu is filled with salads, sandwiches and custom hamburgers. The dining area is surrounded by unique gift items and looks out onto a splash pad, and outdoor party event area and the Splurge Ice Cream and Candy Shop. Their gelato has to be the best in Phoenix!
I “splurged” myself at Luci’s by ordering the Grinder sandwich. I can’t remember how many years it has been since I ordered this kind of sandwich. It was delicious, but the best part was the homemade potato salad.
I didn’t get a chance to take a good look at the adjacent restaurant, Pomelo’s, as we had to get on to our next appointment. However, it is on my list of places to visit soon to see if it compares in quality to Luci’s.
Bonus! Luci’s has opened in Scottsdale in The Grove at the corner of McCormick Parkway and Hayden Road.
