If you’re new to the area and want a first impression of Scottsdale’s upscale dining, The Americano is a killer pick. It gives you a blend of luxe and livable — fancy enough to feel special, but not so over the top that you won’t feel comfortable. Whether you want to take out-of-town guests, celebrate something, or just reward yourself after a long week, this place shows you what the local food scene can be. Also, it has enough variety (steaks, pasta, seafood, Italian touches) that you’ll feel adventurous but not lost if you prefer something more familiar.

 

Location

The Americano sits on 17797 N Scottsdale Rd, in North Scottsdale.  It’s in a neighborhood that’s pretty easy to get to from many of the newer residential areas. There’s a private lot for parking.  The stretch feels upscale, with other good restaurants nearby, so you get a sense of Scottsdale’s nicer dining spots without having to go downtown.

 

Price

$$$$

Expect to spend on the higher end here. The Americano is positioned as fine dining / luxury steakhouse with Italian flair.  Appetizers range in the mid-teens to low 20s, mains (steaks, seafood, house-made pasta) are significantly more, and if you add cocktails or wine, the tab adds up. Happy hour deals are a plus if you go early.

 

Ambience

Sleek, moody, modern, and a little dramatic. The interiors are stylish: clean lines, rich materials, contemporary art/sculptures, and lighting that contributes to an upscale vibe without feeling stiff.  The dining room has cozy booth options, a lounge/bar area, and even a terrace.  The energy is good — enough buzz at dinner time that it feels like a night-out spot. If you want something fancy but not pretentious, this nails it.

 

Food

This is where The Americano shines. The menu mixes classic steakhouse staples (prime beef, Wagyu) with Italian-inspired dishes, seafood, fresh pasta, and shareable starters.  Some standout items people mention: Wagyu Bolognese, wood-fire roasted chicken, seafood like oysters or seabass, and unique appetizers like roasted bone marrow, table-side mozzarella, or house-made focaccias.  Cocktails are creative, too, and the wine list is extensive.  Portion sizes are generous enough especially with sides, so splitting is doable.

 

Service

Very good. Staff tends to be polished and knowledgeable without being overly formal, which fits the vibe.  They know the menu, are willing to explain dishes or help with wine pairings. Timing tends to be well handled, and many reviews highlight the friendliness and attentiveness of servers.  For someone new in town, having staff who help orient you (pointing out house favorites, describing what’s local or special) is a plus.

 

Final Verdict

If you’re freshly relocated and want a go-to place for when you want your dining to feel like an experience — not just a meal — The Americano is definitely worth a try. It gives you a taste of the upscale side of Scottsdale: great food, beautiful space, solid service, and an ambiance that makes dinner feel special. That said, it’s not something you’ll want to hit up every day (because of price), but for date nights, celebrations, or impressing guests, it’s one of the best options around.