From the husband-and-wife duo of Chef Gian Franco Brugaletta and Valentina Huerta, Old Town Scottsdale’s Nonna Urban Eatery feels like a extension of the couple’s home, welcoming in guests to sip and savor. Candle-lit, cozy and intimate, with an ever-changing powerhouse menu, Nonna is your next date night.
Nonna Urban Eatery is one of those spots that can make even a mid-week dinner feel like a special occasion. The atmosphere is warm and cozy, dimly-lit and intimate, with a large bar extending nearly the length of the restaurant (where we recommend sipping The V or Melyia before or after your meal). Nonna’s tasting menu changes monthly, which comprises three courses; each course with several options for a very reasonable $48 per person. Diners can also enjoy a “short menu” at the bar.
During a recent tasting, we enjoyed a plethora of plates–ranging from soup and salads to decadent pastas to divine seafood and hearty meats–that speak to Nonna’s quality and creativity. One favorite that you’ll see on the menu again and again is the campanelle with pan-seared salmon, lemon sauce, leeks and asparagus. This crowd pleaser (Valentina says they have even shipped this dish out of state!) is a creamy and comforting course, and it’s easy to taste why it is a forever favorite.
An additional reason to check out Nonna Urban Eatery this winter: On Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. through mid-January, dine-in guests can raise a glass during the restaurant’s new weekly wine vendor complimentary tasting events, which take place on the restaurant’s charming patio. Reservations are not required to take part in the tasting event.
Dine-in is by appointment only Wednesday through Saturday, 5 to 9 p.m. Take-out is also available. For more on Nonna Urban Eatery, visit www.nonnascottsdale.com.