Scottsdale: Get Luxury R+R with a Modernist Twist

Just 20 minutes northeast of Phoenix sits one of the southwest’s destination resort towns: Scottsdale. Arizona’s well-planned response to Palm Springs, this bustling center of luxury and relaxation may not seem like it has the same MCM draw as its California counterpart, but don’t be fooled. With a vibrant artist community at its heart, modernist resale shops scatted throughout and the finest of restaurants, shopping and golf, Scottsdale is the new gem of the desert. Here are our favorite hotspots to make your trip to the Arizona desert even hotter!

WHERE TO SHOP

Modern Manor
If things get too hot on the street in Scottsdale, pop into this vintage furniture shop in neighboring Phoenix for a quick shop. With more than 6,000 square feet of hand-picked inventory of cool and reasonably-priced retro items, there’s plenty of reasons why Modern Manor is one of the area’s favorite resale shops among locals.

Copenhagen Imports
Looking for the newest in contemporary Danish design or your favorite Herman Miller pieces? You’ve come to the right place. Founded by two Danes who moved their operation to Phoenix in search of bold design, the Scottsdale showroom shouldn’t be missed by the most ardent atomic rancher.

WHERE TO EAT

Citizen Public House
Caught between an old-timey pub and a modern hipster establishment, this gourmet cocktail and seasonal fare restaurant has the Arizona press a-buzz. After a long day at the vintage shops and the links, treat yourself to a well-named artisanal cocktail like the Vesper #2 with a course of the Fair Trade Short Ribs (pictured). You won’t regret it.

Cafe Monarch
A romantic night calls for a well-prepared meal in a setting that showcases the best of Scottsdale’s summer evenings—and your sweetheart won’t be disappointed with a dinner at Cafe Monarch. With a delectable seasonal prix fixe menu and a beautiful and classy atmosphere, this local gem is worthy of its variety of accolades (and the price). Try the Tempura Soft-Shell Crab for your 3rd course and the Cast-Iron Seared Filet Mignon for your finale.

The Mission
A trip to the southwest wouldn’t be complete without some supreme Mexican cuisine, and the modern latin offerings of The Mission Restaurant and Lounge are a tough act to beat. Come for the beautiful decor—including a Himalayan salt-block wall—and stay for the Blood Orange Margaritas and Pork Shoulder Tacos. 3815 N. Brown Ave., Scottsdale, AZ 85251; call (480) 636-5005 or visit themissionaz.com; open SUN-THURS, 11a-10p, FRI-SAT, 11a-11p.

WHAT TO DO

Fashion Square
The luxury resort town of Scottsdale would be nothing without an upscale mall to make your shopping dreams come true. Whether you’re looking for a day out to grab some Louis Vuitton or you just want to peruse the well-designed shop windows, Fashion Square is a great entertainment center full of the hottest fashion, design and food.

Main Street Arts District
Scottsdale is known for its vibrant artist community, and there’s no better way to get a taste of their brand of creativity than visiting the huge cluster of art galleries on Main Street. Nestled in the heart of the bustling desert city, the art of more than 1,000 artists will give you something to enjoy (and maybe something to take home to your midcentury ranch)!

Troon North Golf Club
Some of Scottsdale’s biggest draws are its picturesque golf courses. If you’re in the mood for a round of the gentleman’s game, you can’t do better than to schedule a tee time at Troon North Golf Club. Whip out your retro golf attire and try one of two 18-hole courses at this beautiful desert oasis. Make a day of it and retire to the Dynamite Grille for a bite and a drink celebrating your eagles and birdies.

WHERE TO STAY

We’ve discovered the best modernist retreat in Scottsdale, and if you’re going to be visiting this summer, you’re going to want to book a room—stat! For more on this well-designed legit midcentury gem, be sure to pick up a copy of our summer issue, on stands now!