Orange Table

Practically hidden in the Scottsdale Civic Center Plaza, this neighborhood cafe is worth seeking out, not only for its cheerful, colorful atmosphere, but also its hearty menu. Breakfast is top-notch, with a variety of caffeinated specialties (try the Mexican chocolate latte), buttermilk pancakes, waffles, omelets, and corned beef hash. At lunch, choose from 31 different sandwiches, nine burgers, 10 salads, and other dishes. We’re partial to the sturdy Reuben and the juicy, monstrously huge Arrogant Bastard Rustler cheeseburger. The same menu extends to dinnertime, with a few extras, like lavash pizzas that swap ordinary crust for thin layers of buttery pastry, smothered in gooey cheese. Service can be slow, although the owners are up-front about it – much of the food is house-made, it’s prepared to order, and the quality is worth the wait. Our suggestion? Go when you have the time to linger over a cup of coffee or a couple of beers.