Writer Lara Piu

[dropcap]A[/dropcap]rizona’s gastronomic jubilee returns this fall with Arizona Restaurant Week, beginning September 15. Each year, the 10-day event brings together nearly 200 Arizona restaurants to celebrate the flavors of the local foodie scene.

“Arizona Restaurant Week gives Valley diners a unique opportunity to try some of the state’s finest and most popular restaurants, featuring special menus designed to let their culinary staff shine,” says Steve Chucri, Arizona Restaurant Association president and CEO.

Now celebrating its 10th year, the association will mark the event’s anniversary with an online contest offering the chance to win one of 10 food and travel experiences, including a SanTan Brewing Company brewery tour and gift bag package.

“We are proud to have contributed to the interest, development and support of the local culinary scene for the past 10 years — and counting,” Steve adds.

During the week, some of the state’s top restaurants will showcase three-course prix-fixe meals for $33 or $44 per person. Participating restaurants are known for exceptional cuisine and sparing no expense to give diners an extraordinary culinary experience. The Dhaba, Sumomaya, Marcellino Ristorante, Sonata’s, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Artizen, Match, Nobuo at Teeter House, Café ZuZu, The Keg, El Panzon y Frida, Christopher’s and Crush Lounge, The Capital Grille (Phoenix and Scottsdale) and Arrowhead Grill are among its participants.

Produced by the Arizona Restaurant Association, the event’s goals include positioning Arizona as a top culinary destination. It works to increase awareness for more than 8,500 dining opportunities and strives to stimulate statewide dining business and revenue. In addition to the fall Arizona Restaurant Week, the association hosts a spring version in May and a breakfast-focused week in July.

Arizona Restaurant Week
September 15-24
$33 or $44
For participating restaurants, visit arizonarestaurantweek.com