We don’t have to tell you how great of a city Scottsdale is, and how much of a premier destination it is for dining and nightlife. Regardless, it’s always satisfying to see it recognized at a national level, as a bar recently did with a new award.
A recent testament to this is the national recognition of “Tell Your Friends,” a speakeasy-style cocktail lounge on Scottsdale Rd. just south of the 101. This establishment has been honored with the prestigious Bar of the Year Award by the Bar & Restaurant Expo, underscoring Scottsdale’s commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry.
“Tell Your Friends” is driven by award-winning bartenders Keifer Gilbert and Ashley Cibor and their best-in-class cocktails and a strong food offering by chef Beau McMillan, but as for any self-professed speakeasy, the food and drinks are only a small part of the appeal. The real draw is the 1920s-inspired ambiance, and when that is combined with nightly live jazz performances, it becomes a truly immersive experience that garners accolades.
But this recognition is a mere effect of a larger cause: Scottsdale’s dedication to fostering innovative and high-quality establishments. The Bar & Restaurant Expo emphasized that this year’s winners represent the epitome of creativity, dedication, and innovation in the hospitality sector, and that has become part and parcel of the Scottsdale nightlife experience: a constant focus, perhaps an obsession, with pushing the boundaries of greatness.
This accolade is not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern of excellence that defines Scottsdale’s hospitality scene. The city’s ability to attract and nurture such distinguished venues speaks volumes about its culture and its appeal to entrepreneurs and patrons seeking top-tier experiences.
Scottsdale’s status as a city that not only embraces but also sets the standard for excellence in dining and entertainment. We should consider ourselves lucky that such a standard is such a short drive or Uber away; that we live in such an area that people will cross the country to experience.