Phoenix/ Food & Drinks
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Published on March 11, 2024
Celebrity Chef Richard Blais to Launch Six New Restaurants in Scottsdale's Hyatt RegencySource: Google Street View

Big news for foodies and resort-goers in Scottsdale: Celebrity chef Richard Blais, famed for his appearances on "Top Chef: All-Stars" and "Next Level Chef," is throwing his culinary hat into the Arizona ring with six new restaurants. These new eateries form a significant plank of the $110 million renovation at Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch, a property seeing a transformation into the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort & Spa. According to a statement obtained by the Phoenix Business Journal, Richard Blais plans to serve up a variety of global flavors with a local twist that are expected to tantalize the palates of both guests and local residents.

Known for his culinary consulting company Trail Blais, Richard Blais brings a wealth of experience to this project and, according to a Phoenix New Times report, Blais' lineup includes an Italian American restaurant featuring handmade pasta and a menu of charcoal-grilled steaks, seafood, and chops. Adding a cross-cultural edge, a fusion concept is also on the boards, mixing Japanese sushi with Spanish tapas in a blend that sounds like it should not work but doubtless will under Blais' experienced hand.

The epicurean expansion doesn't end there. The resort's general manager, Lance Marrin, also described a Southwest-style grill connected to a revamped lobby bar, as well as two poolside dining spots. Already open and making waves is the H2Oasis, serving island-inspired tacos, while a family-friendly eatery is on deck offering American classics. Having founded multiple successful establishments including Juniper & Ivy and The Crack Shack, Blais' expertise promises to impress the Scottsdale scene.

Along with Blais' restaurants, the Hyatt's massive overhaul includes upgrades to guest rooms, the spa and fitness center, and public spaces; aiming for completion in late 2024. The renovation, as Lance Marrin heralded, is set to transition the Hyatt Regency to a Grand Hyatt status – the very first to grace Arizona's borders. Meanwhile, resort-goers can anticipate the restaurants throwing open their doors come this fall, making Grand Hyatt Scottsdale a likely hot spot for Arizona travelers and locals alike.