After three years of operating on the ground floor of the Orpheum Lofts, chef and restaurant owner Ivan Jacobo is moving his fine dining restaurant Anhelo out of downtown Phoenix and into the heart of Old Town Scottsdale.
Known for its haute cuisine, white tablecloth elegance and award-winning wine list, Ahnelo’s last day of service will be Nov. 23. Jacobo says the final tasting menu will feature his favorite courses from menus over the years for the “one last hurrah” in that location.
Jacobo aims to debut Anhelo in its new location at the southeast corner of Goldwater Boulevard and First Avenue on Feb. 14, 2025.
At a tree-lined spot where lush foliage will greet diners approaching the door, the entry will feature a water fountain, picturesque flowers, romantic lanterns and other fixtures to set the mood. Customers will be welcomed with a tasting pour of bubbles.
“Fine dining is an experience that should start at the moment you walk in the door,” Jacobo says. “Here, it felt like I had the opportunity to take Anhelo to the next level, where we create an experience that begins when you walk toward the restaurant.”
Born in Mexico and raised in Goodyear since he was 3 years old, Jacobo originally didn’t plan on helming a fine dining restaurant. But, Anhelo evolved into one, fueled by the chef's creative and sophisticated dishes and a Wine Spectator award-winning wine list.
When the chance to move into Old Town presented itself, Jacobo saw the opportunity to take his hospitality dreams even further, with a new build, no expense spared and just about every desired detail coming to fruition, including an expansive patio and ample parking lot. Both are amenities he lacks in downtown Phoenix.
“I have an opportunity to create a dream restaurant that any chef would die for,” Jacobo says.
Flour & Thyme was originally set to open in Tempe. Now, it's planned for downtown Phoenix.
Flour & Thyme
What's next in downtown Phoenix?
However, this doesn’t mean the Orpheum Lofts space will sit vacant.Jacobo plans to move his new concept Flour & Thyme into Anhelo’s spot and start churning out a tasting menu and a la carte dishes on Dec. 6.
A slightly more relaxed version of its sister restaurant, Flour & Thyme was slated to open earlier this year in central Tempe, within walking distance of Jacobo’s home. However, that deal fell through.
As he's moving Anhelo to Scottsdale, Jacobo also saw an opportunity to open Flour & Thyme in its former space. Here, diners will discover an elegant atmosphere but with less formal touches, like natural stone tables rather than those covered with white linen tablecloths.
Expect a menu of starters like foie gras, a raw bar and handmade pasta dishes. The main course lineup boasts slow-roasted duck breast with carrot puree, micro carrots and Arizona pinecone syrup; and bluefin tuna au poivre, Jacobo’s seafood version of the iconic steak au poivre. A seven-course tasting menu with a wine-pairing option will also be available.
“This is my love letter to downtown Phoenix,” Jacobo says.
Flour & Thyme
Opening Dec. 6114 W. Adams St., C103
Anhelo
Opening Feb. 14, 20257007 E. First Ave., Scottsdale
