OUT

PLAYING THE PART

Themed bars and restaurants around town

Scottsdale and Phoenix are covered in unique bars and restaurants, but what sets these specific spots apart are their dedication to their concepts. Beyond impressive decor and cuisine and cocktails following a motif, these particular venues allow guests to truly be immersed in another place or time.

BY GABBY LEIGHTON

GRACE STUFKOSKY

PHOTO BY

The Canal Club

The influences of old Havana are immediately apparent once inside The Scott Resort and Spa. This idea rings especially true when approaching The Canal Club restaurant and bar just through the lobby. Comfortable white couches, lush tropical greenery, romantic lanterns and wicker furniture lead up to a neon pink sign over the bar, setting the tone (and providing a photo backdrop) for guests of what’s to come. The design is amplified in the restaurant, adorned with pops of pink and tropical print wallpaper with matching upholstery. The menu is just as themed, with Caribbeaninfluenced cuisine. The signature cocktail menu features Cuban and tropical twists on classics, introducing flavors of coconut, banana, and pineapple. www.thescottresort.com.

Century Grand

This venue is a can’t-miss spot as there are three themed cocktail bars under one roof. Platform 18 takes guests on a trip back in time on a Presidential Pullman-inspired train car. The unique, immersive experience seats 36 “passengers” and takes them on a 90-minute journey through the Rocky Mountains – with real footage of the area passing by on the windows. The second stop, Grey Hen RX, is inspired by the 1800s apothecaries in New Orleans, serving hand-selected fine spirits and elevated cocktails. Though the oldest of the bunch, Undertow recently moved from its first home just next door to the Century Grand building. Known for tropical cocktails, the immersive atmosphere brings guests on a journey in the belly of a spice trader’s turn-of-the-century Clipper ship. www.centurygrandphx.com.

Buffalo Chip Saloon

What started as a small feed and bait shop in 1951 has since turned into a Valley institution. Located in Cave Creek and drawing both visitors and locals alike, Buffalo Chip is a quintessential Western saloon. Don your cowboy getup and head in for a truly unique, authentic experience. Highlights include live bull riding, live music, and dancing lessons. After working up an appetite, indulge in traditional barbecue meats and all the fixings one would expect. www.buffalochipsaloon.com.

Hula’s Modern Tiki

Travel both back in time and to a land far away with this modern twist on the classic Tiki bars of the ’50s and ’60s. The tropical design will transport diners to a luau and the menu features a fusion of island and mainland flavors. Highlights include the loco moco, a Hawaiian specialty; and a jerk pork plate, served with Jamaican Johnny cakes. Those looking to take their “vacation” a step further should head into the Uptown location of Hula’s, where The Captain’s Cabin is found. Open Thursday through Saturday starting at 6 p.m., guests are invited to step through a porthole door and explore the late-’40s Tahitian sailor’s bar serving craft cocktails. The Captain’s Cabin, along with the private themed Tiki Rooms at both Uptown and High Street locations, are available for private events. www.hulasmoderntiki.com.