Oliver’s Modern American, a sister restaurant to The Eleanor, will open on May 24 in South Scottsdale. The Polynesian-style restaurant will serve classic dishes with a contemporary twist.
Oliver’s Modern American is housed in a unique 1960’s Polynesian-style building, originally designed by the acclaimed firm of architect Ralph Haver. Known as the country’s only Polynesian Dairy Queen, the structure originally stood at McDowell Road and 68th Street before its planned demolition in 2019. Local real estate developer Tom Frenkel interfered to preserve this piece of architectural history. The building was relocated three miles to its current location and has been restored and integrated into the mid-century retail plaza it now calls home.
“Oliver’s is a very special addition to this retail plaza and to South Scottsdale,” says Frenkel, in a recent press release. “It’s a piece of Scottsdale history that’s been completely reimagined and revived, and the enthusiasm from the community has been overwhelming already!”
The project, led by ALINE Architecture and Social Design Studio, not only preserved the building’s iconic triangular roofline but also expanded its space. The original 1,000-sq.-ft. building now serves as Oliver’s cocktail lounge, with an additional 3,400 square feet of modern dining space added to accommodate guests.
Social Design Studio has masterfully blended high-end and accessible elements within the decor, maintaining the building’s historical integrity. A history wall adorned with photos and memorabilia from its Dairy Queen days adds a nostalgic touch, while the outdoor area features lush subtropical plantings and original lava rocks from the site.
“As we approach the grand opening of Oliver’s, we couldn’t be more excited to unveil a space that is modern and inviting but also pays homage to its rich mid-century history,” says Nicole Herman, lead interior designer and founder of Social Design Studio, in a press release. “We can’t wait for patrons to experience the unique blend of past and present that Oliver’s embodies.”
The menu at Oliver’s Modern American puts a contemporary twist on classic dishes. Head Chef Kent Macaulay, who previously worked at La Grande Orange, crafts dishes that are both innovative and comforting. The menu includes Moroccan chicken skewers, a coffee-crusted New York strip, and scallops with a side of creamed corn, coconut, cashew and serrano pepper. The beverage program complements the menu with a selection of wines and creative cocktails, such as a cinnamon-infused Ancho Margarita and the refreshing Patio Views featuring gin, watermelon and coconut flavors.
For more information, visit www.instagram.com/oliversaz.
3205 Hayden Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85251