Scottsdale's restaurant scene never seems to slow down, and neither do we.

This week, we're taking you inside one of the Valley's newest seafood destinations with our First Look at BLU Seafood, comparing two of Scottsdale's most talked-about fine dining experiences in another edition of Fork In The Road, and highlighting one of our favorite happy hour finds with this week's Deal of the Week.

We'll also catch you up on the latest restaurant news, share what's opening soon around Scottsdale, and keep you informed on everything happening across the local dining scene.

Whether you're planning date night, looking for your next favorite restaurant, or simply trying to stay in the know, thanks for spending a few minutes with us.

Let's dig in.

A new restaurant called LumSum Thai Cuisine is moving closer to opening after receiving approval for a new Series 12 Restaurant Liquor License from the City of Scottsdale. The restaurant will be located at 14870 N. Northsight Blvd., Suite 103, one of the final public steps before opening its doors. While an official opening date hasn't been announced, liquor license approvals are often a strong sign that a restaurant is nearing completion. (City of Scottsdale)

One of Old Town Scottsdale's most recognizable restaurants appears to be entering a new chapter. The Scottsdale City Council recently reviewed a location and owner transfer for the liquor license at AZ88, signaling a change in ownership while the restaurant remains at its longtime Scottsdale Mall location. We'll be watching closely to see whether diners notice any operational or menu changes under the new ownership. (City of Scottsdale)

A new full-service restaurant called Above All Else has filed for a Series 12 Restaurant Liquor License at 7134 E. Stetson Drive, Suite B300 in Old Town Scottsdale. Beyond the license application, very little has been publicly announced, making this one of those projects we'll continue tracking as additional details become available. (City of Scottsdale)

Scottsdale's dining scene isn't slowing down anytime soon. Here are a few of the restaurants we're watching that should be opening in the coming months.

📍 Old Town Scottsdale

A recently filed liquor license application has revealed another restaurant headed for Old Town. While very little has been publicly announced, Above All Else is expected to occupy space on East Stetson Drive. We'll continue following permits and city filings as more information becomes available.

👀 Why We're Watching: These early filings often provide the first public clues that a new restaurant is on its way.

Status: Liquor License Filed

📍 Old Town Scottsdale

Old Town continues to evolve with the upcoming arrival of Fiumina, a modern Italian concept that promises handmade pasta, wood-fired specialties, fresh seafood, and an elevated cocktail program. While details are still limited, the project has already generated excitement among Scottsdale food lovers.

👀 Why We're Watching: Scottsdale's appetite for upscale Italian dining continues to grow, and this concept could become one of Old Town's newest hotspots.

Status: Under Development

📍 North Scottsdale

One of the Valley's newest Thai restaurants appears to be getting closer to opening after receiving approval for its restaurant liquor license. Located near Northsight Boulevard, LumSum will add another international dining option to Scottsdale's growing culinary landscape.

👀 Why We're Watching: Authentic Thai cuisine continues to be one of the fastest-growing dining categories in Scottsdale.

Status: Opening Soon

Fresh seafood, vibrant Sonoran flavors, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere have arrived in Scottsdale. Located in McCormick Ranch, BLU Seafood is quickly making a name for itself with fresh ceviches, seafood towers, handcrafted cocktails, and colorful dishes inspired by the Sea of Cortez. If you're looking to try one of Scottsdale's newest restaurants, this one deserves a spot on your list.

👉 Read Our Full First Look:
https://www.forkingscottsdale.com/p/first-look-blu-seafood-brings-the-flavors-of-coastal-mexico-to-scottsdale

If you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to experience one of Scottsdale's best tasting menus, Course and Anhelo should both be on your shortlist—but they deliver two very different experiences. Course leans playful, interactive, and creative, while Anhelo offers an intimate, elegant evening centered around refined cuisine and exceptional hospitality. Both are outstanding—the best choice simply depends on the kind of night you're looking for.

✔ You love chef-driven tasting menus that change with the seasons.

✔ You're excited by inventive techniques and beautifully artistic presentation.

✔ You enjoy being surprised by each course instead of ordering from a traditional menu.

✔ You believe unforgettable food matters more than a flashy location.

✔ You're looking for a unique culinary experience unlike anything else in Scottsdale.

✔ You're celebrating an anniversary, birthday, or another special occasion.

✔ You want an elegant Old Town Scottsdale atmosphere with upscale luxury touches.

✔ Wine pairings, handcrafted cocktails, and attentive service are an important part of your evening.

✔ You appreciate refined fine dining in a sophisticated, intimate setting.

✔ You're looking for a polished dining experience that feels both luxurious and welcoming.

👉 Read the Full Comparison:
https://www.forkingscottsdale.com/p/course-vs-anhelo

Looking for a reason to head to Old Town this week? Tell Your Friends is serving up one of Scottsdale's best happy hour deals with 50% off specialty cocktails, 50% off bottles of wine, and their popular $25 Adult Happy Meal, which includes a burger, fries, and a martini. The specials are available Wednesday through Sunday from 5–7 PM, making it a great excuse to grab friends after work or kick off your weekend.

🍸 Deal Highlights:

👉 Learn More & See the Menu → https://www.instagram.com/reel/DXZ7M0nAcwI/

Looking for an excuse to get out this weekend? Here are a few events worth adding to your calendar.

More than 60 chef-driven restaurants across Arizona are participating in Arizona Chef's Week from July 31 through August 9, featuring exclusive three-course prix-fixe menus priced at $55 or $66. It's one of the best opportunities of the year to experience some of Scottsdale's top independent restaurants at a special price.

👉 Read the Article:
https://www.forkingscottsdale.com/p/arizona-chef-s-week-2026-the-best-scottsdale-restaurants-menus-you-don-t-want-to-miss

Restaurant news doesn't always start with a press release—it often starts with someone who sees a "Coming Soon" sign, notices construction behind a familiar storefront, or hears about a new concept before anyone else.

If you've spotted a restaurant opening, a quiet closure, a chef on the move, or anything happening in Scottsdale's dining scene, we'd love to hear about it.

Your tip could become next week's Inside Scoop.

📧 Email us your tip - simply reply to this newsletter—we read every email.

Thanks for spending a few minutes with us this week. If you enjoyed this edition of The Thursday Bite, we'd love it if you shared it with a fellow foodie.

The bigger our community grows, the more restaurant news, hidden gems, and exclusive scoops we can bring you each week.

Until next Thursday…

– Mychael & Connie
Forking Scottsdale