Scottsdale, Arizona is an ideal weekend getaway from LA and a short flight from most west coast states. Having recently discovered just how easy it is to get to Scottsdale, I’ve already made two visits in less than six months. I can’t help myself; they have an amazing food scene and I can’t get enough. If you are a lover of food, this is a great city to explore. If you love food, but are also looking for some R&R, this is the place. If you love great dining option plus outdoor adventures, look no further. Basically, this is the ultimate weekend getaway destination. Scottsdale has it all!

For Donuts – The Local Donut

If you have been reading my blog for a while or even just follow me on Instagram, then you know I’m a donut lover! Having had my fair share of donuts across the country, I can confidently say that the donuts from The Local Donut are GOOD! They have fun flavors like creme brûlée, s’mores, and peach pie in both raised and cake donut forms. With so many delicious choices, it will be hard to have just one.

For Ice Cream – Sweet Republic 

This is the Valley of the Sun’s premier artisan ice cream. Sweet Republic is a local fave for good reason. The ice cream is perfection in fun and classic flavors. I love their selection of sundaes. Try the Toffee Banofi sundae if you are a caramel and banana lover.

For Fun, Unique Treats – Super Chunk and Cowboy Ciao

The sweet treats in Scottsdale are on point!  I absolutely fell in love with Super Chunk, a small-batch, handcrafted sweets & treats shop in Old Town. This mini rainbow sprinkle birthday cake (along with the rest of the mini cakes), canelés, and the mesquite chocolate chips cookies were incredible! This shop is the sweet offshoot of the beloved Cowboy Ciao restaurant from the same owners. They are known for their Stetson chopped salad (which is great!), but really should be known for their mind-blowingly amazing Cereal Killer dessert, consisting of a malted oat cookie, Frosted Flake cereal ice cream and Frosted Flake brittle.

For the Instagramable Treat – Ruze Cake House 

Ruze Cake House is a little gem tucked down a small street in the Arts District of Old Town Scottsdale. Their business is predominantly beautiful wedding cakes, but they also have this Instagram-worthy storefront that offers a selection of sweets like funfetti layer cake, gorgeous macarons, and more. Their pink velvet cupcake with a frosting cactus on top is not to be missed. Not only does it make for the perfect photo op, but it is tasty too! Sit under the neon sign in the shop, take a selfie with your cupcake and enjoy every last bite!

For Chocolate – Zak’s 

I have a confession – I’m not a huge chocolate lover. At least I didn’t think I was. That all changed for me after trying Zak’s Chocolate – now I find myself wanting chocolate all the time. The ultimate bean-to-bar chocolatier, Zak’s crafts chocolate directly from single origin cocoa beans. Each bar lists its origin and has a unique flavor profile depending on terroir. Zak’s also offers truffles and chocolate bites if you want something other than a chocolate bar. Hands down some of the best chocolate I’ve ever tasted.

Still need more options? 

Check out The Fat Ox for a beautiful Italian dinner. I love to have dessert first so I started with their not-to-be-missed affogato. Postino is a cute wine bar that is the perfect place to enjoy a Pinot Noir and charcuterie. It is also an unassuming spot for a sundae, and they happen to have one of the best sundaes I’ve ever had, with vanilla ice cream from churn, topped with a homemade caramel sauce that is to die for, and chocolate covered corn nuts.

Looking for a place to stay?

I LOVED my stay at the new Andaz hotel. It perfectly captures the lovely desert feel of Arizona. It is a peaceful oasis in the city. You can stay on-property and enjoy the pool and delicious restaurant or hop in their complimentary car (a Tesla no less) to get dropped off in Old Town. Scottsdale is full of amazing dining options and sweet treats (and beautiful hikes to help you balance out all the eating). I can’t wait to get back and discover more.