New York-based Bice Restaurant Group, which operates a chain of 30 restaurants in the United States and internationally, has got its sights set on North Scottsdale. Specifically in the Citadel on the northwestern corner of Pima and Pinnacle Peak roads, where it intends to open Bice Ristorante, a high-end Italian restaurant, later this month.

Featuring "traditional and contemporary trends in Italian cuisine featuring local and seasonal ingredients," Bice, whose Citadel space will occupy over 9,000 square feet, will also offer its diners cocktails in an upstairs lounge overlooking the desert.

"I have always been under the impression that Scottsdale was the 'Beverly Hills' of Arizona!" said Roberto Ruggeri, chairman of The Bice Group, in a press release. "We are thrilled with the opportunity to open our Ristarante in such a great location..."

The Republic reports that, according to Ruggeri, the restaurant will be helmed by Marcello Rivetti, the New York headquarters' executive corporate chef.

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