Introduction
Elephante Scottsdale is quickly becoming one of the hottest destinations for upscale dining and nightlife in Arizona. Known for its chic atmosphere, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, and breathtaking rooftop views, Elephante brings a slice of coastal luxury to the heart of Scottsdale. Originating from Los Angeles, where its flagship location gained widespread acclaim, Elephante has expanded its brand to Scottsdale, creating a buzz among food enthusiasts, socialites, and nightlife lovers alike.
In this article, we’ll explore Elephante Scottsdale’s unique concept, its standout menu, signature cocktails, ambiance, and why it has quickly become a must-visit venue for both locals and tourists.
The Concept Behind Elephante
Elephante is more than just a restaurant — it’s an experience. Designed to evoke the feeling of a laid-back yet luxurious Mediterranean seaside escape, the space is filled with earthy tones, natural wood, and lush greenery. With stunning rooftop views of Scottsdale’s cityscape and desert surroundings, Elephante offers the perfect blend of elegance and relaxation.
The brand is the brainchild of Nicholas Mathers, an Australian restaurateur who envisioned a place where people could enjoy high-end food and drinks in a casual, beachy atmosphere. The Scottsdale location follows this vision, combining world-class design, high-quality cuisine, and a vibrant social scene.
Location and Ambiance
Located in the lively Scottsdale Waterfront area, Elephante enjoys an ideal spot surrounded by some of the city’s finest shops, galleries, and other popular venues. Its rooftop design provides panoramic views of Old Town Scottsdale and Camelback Mountain, creating a perfect backdrop for sunset dinners and late-night gatherings.
Interior Design and Atmosphere
The interior of Elephante Scottsdale is designed with an open-air concept, featuring:
- Natural wood elements and stone accents.
- Plush seating with neutral tones and cozy textures.
- Hanging plants and greenery that give the space a natural, fresh feel.
- Warm lighting that creates a romantic yet lively atmosphere at night.
Whether you’re visiting for a brunch, dinner, or drinks, Elephante offers a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe, making it ideal for date nights, celebrations, or social outings.
Menu Highlights: Mediterranean Flavors with a Modern Twist
The Elephante menu takes inspiration from Southern Italy, the French Riviera, and coastal Mediterranean regions, focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients with bold, clean flavors.
Appetizers and Small Plates
Some of the standout appetizers include:
- Whipped Eggplant Dip with house-made pita — smooth, smoky, and a perfect way to start the meal.
- Truffle Honey Ricotta — creamy ricotta topped with truffle honey, served with grilled bread.
- Charred Octopus — tender and flavorful, served with lemon and herbs.
Main Dishes
Signature mains include:
- Squid Ink Pasta — a striking dish with shrimp, garlic, chili, and lemon, blending rich and zesty flavors.
- Wood-Fired Pizzas — made with artisanal dough and topped with ingredients like burrata, prosciutto, and arugula.
- Grilled Branzino — whole fish grilled to perfection, served with fresh herbs and citrus.
Salads and Sides
For lighter fare:
- Mediterranean Chopped Salad with cucumber, olives, feta, and red wine vinaigrette.
- Grilled Broccolini with lemon and sea salt — simple, healthy, and flavorful.
Elephante’s chefs place a strong emphasis on seasonality and locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that every dish is fresh and packed with flavor.
Signature Cocktails and Beverage Program
The cocktail menu at Elephante Scottsdale is as carefully curated as its food, focusing on creative, refreshing drinks that align with the Mediterranean theme.
Popular Cocktails:
- Elephante Spritz — a refreshing twist on the classic spritz, featuring unique botanicals and citrus notes.
- Mezcalita Picante — a smoky and spicy blend of mezcal, lime, and chili.
- Mediterranean Mule — a coastal take on the traditional mule, with fig-infused vodka and ginger beer.
Wine and Spirits:
- A well-curated wine list featuring selections from Italy, France, and California.
- Craft beers and premium champagne for those looking to celebrate.
Whether you’re enjoying a cocktail during sunset or pairing wine with dinner, Elephante’s beverage program enhances the dining experience.
Brunch and Special Events
Elephante Scottsdale has also become a popular brunch spot, especially on weekends. The brunch menu offers:
- Avocado Toast with Poached Egg — topped with chili flakes and lemon zest.
- Smoked Salmon Flatbread — with capers, dill, and lemon crème fraîche.
- Lemon Ricotta Pancakes — fluffy and light, served with berries and maple syrup.
Additionally, DJ nights, themed parties, and private events make Elephante a versatile venue for celebrations. The combination of great food, music, and ambiance makes every visit feel special.
Why Elephante Scottsdale Stands Out
1. Unique Atmosphere
Unlike typical restaurants or nightclubs, Elephante offers a seamless blend of upscale dining and casual, beach-inspired relaxation. The open-air rooftop setting, luxurious decor, and city views create an unmatched ambiance.
2. High-Quality Cuisine
Focused on Mediterranean-inspired dishes, Elephante emphasizes freshness, flavor, and presentation, making it a destination for food lovers as much as socialites.
3. Vibrant Social Scene
Elephante is not just a restaurant but a social hub where people gather to enjoy live DJs, sunset views, and crafted cocktails in a stylish setting.
4. Ideal for All Occasions
From romantic dinners and brunches to private parties and corporate events, Elephante caters to various occasions with flexible spaces and tailored experiences.
Tips for Visiting Elephante Scottsdale
- Make Reservations: Due to its growing popularity, reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend nights and brunch.
- Dress Smart-Casual: The vibe is upscale yet relaxed—think stylish but not overly formal.
- Best Time to Visit: Sunset hours offer stunning views and a lively atmosphere as the venue transitions from day to night.
- Explore Westgate District: Take advantage of the surrounding shops and entertainment venues for a full day or night out.
Conclusion
Elephante Scottsdale has quickly established itself as one of Arizona’s top destinations for those seeking a memorable dining and nightlife experience. With its beautiful rooftop views, expertly crafted menu, and vibrant social scene, Elephante offers something for everyone — whether you’re looking for a romantic date night, a fun brunch with friends, or a stylish evening out.
Combining Mediterranean charm with modern luxury, Elephante Scottsdale continues to attract both locals and visitors, living up to its reputation as a must-visit venue in the city’s growing culinary and entertainment landscape.
If you’d like, I can also create a review-style guide, a menu breakdown, or a list of upcoming events at Elephante Scottsdale. Let me know!
FAQ on Elephante Scottsdale
1. What type of food does Elephante Scottsdale serve?
Elephante Scottsdale offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with fresh, seasonal ingredients and modern twists.
2. Where is Elephante Scottsdale located?
Elephante is located in the Scottsdale Waterfront area, offering rooftop views and a prime city location.
3. Does Elephante Scottsdale have a bar?
Yes, Elephante features a full bar with signature cocktails, wine, craft beers, and specialty drinks.
4. Is a reservation required at Elephante Scottsdale?
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends and evening visits.
5. Does Elephante Scottsdale host special events?
Yes, Elephante hosts brunch, DJ nights, private parties, and themed events throughout the year.
Élephante menu
The Élephante menu offers a delicious and creative selection of Mediterranean-inspired dishes crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients and vibrant flavors. Guests can enjoy a variety of options, including small plates like whipped eggplant dip and truffle honey ricotta, as well as hearty main dishes such as grilled branzino, squid ink pasta, and wood-fired pizzas topped with gourmet ingredients like burrata and prosciutto. The menu also features fresh salads, shareable sides like grilled broccolini, and elegant desserts. Complementing the food, Élephante’s extensive cocktail and wine list includes unique, handcrafted drinks designed to pair perfectly with the coastal Mediterranean fare, creating a well-rounded and memorable dining experience.
Élephante Scottsdale Reviews
Élephante Scottsdale reviews highlight the venue as one of the city’s most stylish and vibrant dining destinations, praised for its stunning rooftop ambiance, delicious Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, and lively atmosphere. Guests frequently mention the beautiful decor, with natural wood elements and lush greenery that create a chic yet relaxed vibe. Diners rave about standout dishes like the whipped eggplant dip, truffle honey ricotta, and squid ink pasta, while the craft cocktails and curated wine list also receive high marks. Many reviewers appreciate the friendly and attentive service, as well as the scenic views of Scottsdale, making it a top choice for date nights, celebrations, and social outings. However, due to its popularity, some guests recommend making reservations in advance to secure a table, especially on weekends. Overall, Élephante Scottsdale is highly rated for delivering a memorable and upscale dining and nightlife experience.
Élephante Scottsdale yelp
Élephante Scottsdale’s Yelp reviews reflect its growing reputation as a trendy rooftop spot for both dining and nightlife in the heart of Scottsdale. Visitors on Yelp often praise the restaurant’s beautiful open-air setting, noting the elegant Mediterranean-inspired decor and stunning sunset views as highlights of their experience. The menu receives consistent compliments for its flavorful and well-presented dishes, with favorites like the whipped eggplant dip, wood-fired pizzas, and grilled branzino. Many reviewers also rave about the unique and refreshing cocktails, crafted to complement the coastal Mediterranean vibe. While most Yelp users highlight the friendly and attentive staff, some mention that it can get crowded and noisy during peak hours, recommending reservations to ensure the best experience. Overall, Yelp reviews position Élephante Scottsdale as a must-visit for anyone seeking a lively yet upscale atmosphere paired with great food and drinks.
Best Italian restaurants in Santa Monica
Santa Monica is home to some of the best Italian restaurants in Southern California, offering everything from authentic pasta dishes to modern takes on classic Italian cuisine. Popular favorites include Forma Restaurant & Cheese Bar, known for its house-made pastas tossed in giant cheese wheels, creating rich and flavorful dishes that attract both locals and visitors. Uovo is another standout, offering handmade pasta imported directly from Italy, focusing on simplicity and authenticity. For a more upscale dining experience, Capo delivers elegant Italian fare in an intimate, rustic setting, featuring a menu filled with premium seafood, steaks, and handmade pastas. Via Veneto is beloved for its romantic atmosphere and traditional dishes, like black truffle pasta and osso buco, while Heroic Italian offers a creative, gourmet twist on Italian sandwiches and small plates. Whether you’re looking for a cozy trattoria or a chic dining venue, Santa Monica offers Italian restaurants to satisfy every craving.
