New Thompson Peak dog park opening!

Good morning, Scottsdale. You’re reading Scottsdale Scoop, your insider pass to what’s fun, fresh, and worth checking out around town. Every issue features hand-picked events, local business spotlights, and hidden gems that make our city great.

We're almost to the tail end of summer, can’t wait for Fall and cooler temps.

Outside of that, lots of fun things happening this week. Let’s dive in.

Acclaimed Latin American restaurant Vecina is expanding from Arcadia to McCormick Ranch later this month. They’re taking over the former Z'Tejas space with a chef driven menu and mesquite grilled specialties.

If you loved their Arcadia location or you are just looking for a new spot to try, this is definitely worth putting on your radar for late August. I ‘m always stoked to see spots like this expand across town!

After closing its Scottsdale location earlier this year, ALMA is making a comeback at The Citadel located (8700 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd). Owner Sheila Bryson is transforming the former Prestons Steakhouse space into a Southwest wood fired steakhouse complete with a rooftop lounge and a tequila and mezcal bar.

They’re targeting an opening around late fall with November reservations already open. It sounds like a massive upgrade with live music and a boutique sharing the same building. Definitely a spot to watch.

Thompson Peak Dog Park opens with a ribbon cutting on Friday August 21st from 8:30 to 9:30 am. The 3.5 acre off leash park is Scottsdale fourth dog park and features free pup cups for attending dogs.

The $6.1 million project includes separate fenced and gated cells and will stay open daily from sunrise to 10:30 pm. Figure I would share for all the dog owners in the neighborhood. We threw a post up on Instagram that blew up. Appreciate all the engagement :)

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I had to write about them for their 53rd anniversary. I miss living right next to DeFalco’s Italian Deli & Grocery and being able to walk there for lunch. This iconic Scottsdale staple has spent 53 years (huge congrats!) serving the local community and they deliver world-class food every single time.

My absolute favorite thing to order there is the Classic Muffuletta Sandwich. To celebrate their incredible anniversary milestone the historic deli is also offering a special limited edition commemorative burger for hungry patrons looking to try something new. Put it on your radar for your next lunch trip.

Technically this isn't Scottsdale, but Tutti Santi Ristorante by Nina is like one light away and worth highlighting. Tucked into an unassuming Phoenix strip center, it’s been serving incredible Italian dishes since 1996.

The vibe is welcoming and comfortable with classic white tablecloths. You have to try the handcrafted ravioli or the signature bolognese. Entrees fall between $18 and $35, making it upscale dining at approachable prices.

Worth checking out for your next date night!

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Wednesday, August 12

🍷 Wine Down Wednesday at Roka Akor | Roka Akor Scottsdale | 5:00 PM

🍕 Pizza-Making Class | Classic Cooking Academy | 6:30 PM

Thursday, August 13

🎧 Music Bingo | Pinnacle Brewing Company | 6:30 PM

Friday, August 14

🎸 Classic Rock Tribute Night | Casino Arizona Showroom | 7:30 PM

🐟 Fish & Sips Happy Hour | OdySea Aquarium | 5:00 PM

Saturday, August 15

🎛️ Celebrate Electronic Music | Musical Instrument Museum | 9:00 AM

🏄 Glow Flow | The Westin Kierland| 7:00 PM

Sunday, August 16

🥂 Bottomless Brunch at Toro | Fairmont Scottsdale Princess | 10:00 AM

For a full list of events check out our Scottsdale Event Calendar here.

Featuring the most expensive home sold in Scottsdale this week at $11M! another home cracks the 10 million mark. This one's absolutely beautiful.

Here’s the link if you want to check it out.