Scottsdale’s dining scene just scored a coastal upgrade. Starfish, the Orange County–born hotspot known for its bold Asian flavors and breezy, upscale vibe, is officially opening its first Arizona location in McCormick Ranch.
Set to debut Tuesday, May 5 at Mercado Del Lago Mall (8390 E. Vía de Ventura), Starfish Scottsdale marks the brand’s first move outside of California. And it’s arriving fully formed. The 5,200-square-foot space has been completely reimagined with lush tropical fabrics, custom artwork, and those signature, tastefully provocative design touches that transport guests straight to the coastal regions of Southeast Asia.
Behind the concept is husband-and-wife team Gretchen and Archie McConnell, who founded Starfish Hospitality Group in 2011 and built a loyal following in Laguna Beach and Newport Beach. The move to Arizona feels intentional, not experimental. “So many of our guests split their time between Orange County and the Valley, so this expansion felt incredibly natural,” says Gretchen McConnell. “We can’t wait to meet our new neighbors in Scottsdale.”
The menu leans hard into shareable, flavor-forward dishes inspired by Thailand, Korea, Vietnam, China, and Japan. There are more than 70 plates designed for the table, not the individual. Standouts include the Lobster Macadamia Roll, Braised BBQ Pork Buns, Thai Curry Chicken, and Candy Dragon Prawns. It’s the kind of place where ordering “just a few things” quickly turns into a full spread.
The space itself is built for everything from celebratory dinners to casual lunches, with a 90-seat patio that plays into Scottsdale’s love of indoor-outdoor dining. A robust cocktail, sake, and wine program rounds out the experience, along with a daily happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. featuring more than 30 items starting at $13.
For those who prefer to stay in, Starfish Scottsdale also offers takeout through DoorDash and Uber Eats, plus private dining and catering options that bring the experience beyond the restaurant walls.
Before the official opening, a limited number of reservations will be available from May 1 through May 4, giving early diners a first look at what’s about to become one of Scottsdale’s most buzzed-about new spots.
Insider Takeaways
- Starfish Scottsdale is the brand’s first location outside of California.
- The restaurant opens May 5, with limited preview reservations available May 1 through May 4.
- The menu features more than 70 shareable dishes inspired by Southeast Asian coastal cuisines. Signature items include Lobster Macadamia Rolls, Candy Dragon Prawns, and BBQ Pork Buns.
- The 5,200-square-foot space includes a 90-seat patio with indoor-outdoor design.
- Daily happy hour runs from 3 to 6 p.m., with more than 30 items starting at $13.
To learn more, visit starfishhospitalitygroup.com.
