For those craving a genuine taste of Chicago in the heart of Arizona, look no further than Guido’s Scottsdale. Guido’s Chicago Meat & Deli isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a vibrant slice of Italian-American culture, a place where the Windy City’s culinary spirit thrives under the Scottsdale sun. Forget the reality TV stereotypes; Guido’s offers a far more authentic and delicious representation of Italian-American heritage. This Scottsdale institution has been serving up mouthwatering Italian fare for decades, becoming a beloved haven for locals and transplants alike seeking quality, flavor, and a true taste of home.
Stepping into Guido’s Scottsdale is like crossing the threshold into an Italian deli straight out of Chicago. Aisles brimming with imported Italian comestibles immediately transport you. From floor-to-ceiling shelves stocked with pasta, olive oils, sauces, and specialty items, to the enticing aroma of cured meats and cheeses, Guido’s is a feast for the senses even before you order. Owner Joe Guido has curated an enchanting inventory, sourcing ingredients directly from Italy whenever possible, as well as from New York, California, and of course, Chicago, ensuring authenticity and quality in every product. Cheese lovers, or turophiles, will be in paradise with the impressive selection of Italian cheeses, perfectly complementing the superb array of Italian cold cuts. While you might spot familiar American brands like Boar’s Head, rest assured that Guido’s maintains high standards, using Boar’s Head primarily for ham while crafting many other deli items, such as Italian sausage, in-house.
Guido’s Scottsdale goes beyond just deli delights; it’s a full-fledged Italian restaurant where you can savor classic dishes made with the same dedication to quality and flavor. The menu is expansive, offering a tempting array of options, from signature sandwiches to hearty pasta dishes and comforting soups. One dish that truly captures the essence of Chicago is the Chicago-style Italian Beef. For those familiar with this iconic sandwich, Guido’s rendition is the real deal. Oven-braised top round, bathed in flavorful Italian beef gravy, and served with your choice of sautéed peppers and onions, it’s a taste of Chicago nostalgia in every bite. While Guido’s doesn’t offer the “wet” style Italian beef (fully immersed in au jus), a side of au jus is readily provided for dipping, allowing you to customize your experience. For Chicagoans missing home, or anyone eager to experience this Windy City staple, Guido’s Italian Beef in Scottsdale is a must-try.
Beyond the Italian Beef, Guido’s Scottsdale excels in crafting exceptional sandwiches. The Italian Sub, packed with salami, mortadella, capocollo, and provolone cheese, is a testament to simple ingredients prepared with care. Served on fresh-baked bread with sliced tomatoes, white onions, and pickles on the side, it’s a satisfying and flavorful choice. Another standout is the Tuna Salad Sub. For a truly elevated experience, ask for the bread to be lightly toasted, reminiscent of classic delis. Guido’s tuna salad is rich and flavorful, a step above homemade versions, likely due to the deli secret of allowing the flavors to meld overnight, creating a cohesive and delicious filling.
Pasta lovers will find themselves spoiled for choice at Guido’s Scottsdale. The Mostaccioli is a comforting and flavorful dish, topped with seasoned ricotta and melted mozzarella. The smooth texture of mostaccioli pasta, as opposed to ridged penne, creates a delightful eating experience. The Gnocchi Pomodoro is another pasta highlight, featuring soft, chewy dumplings in a rich red and white cream sauce, enhanced with pine nuts and fresh basil garlic. Adding meatballs and Italian sausage creates a hearty and satisfying meal. For a taste of classic Italian comfort food, the Pasta Fagioli soup is a must. This homemade soup is generously portioned and brimming with cannellini beans, celery, tomato, carrots, and pasta in a flavorful reddish broth. It’s the perfect warm and comforting dish, especially on a cooler Arizona evening.
Beyond the Italian specialties, Guido’s Scottsdale also offers some unexpected delights, such as their Broasted Chicken. This menu item, quietly available for over thirty years, rivals the best fried chicken. The broasting process creates chicken that is both crispy and incredibly moist, especially the white meat, which remains juicy and flavorful. The broasted chicken meals come with your choice of sides, including the nicely seasoned broasted potatoes. For sandwich aficionados seeking something beyond Italian flavors, the Hot Pastrami Sandwich is an excellent choice. Served on lightly toasted bread with mustard, provolone, and onions, the pastrami is flavorful and satisfying, offering a delightful balance of lean and fat.
No visit to Guido’s Scottsdale is complete without indulging in their desserts. While the cannoli is highly praised, the New York Cheesecake is a standout. Thick, dense, and incredibly rich, it rivals even the best Chicago cheesecakes, making it a must-try for dessert lovers. However, the true star of the dessert menu might be the Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake. Made in-house from a family recipe by Guido’s wife, this cheesecake is exceptional. The unique bottom crust, the rich and decadent cheesecake itself, and the perfect balance of tart and tangy lemon flavor create a truly unforgettable dessert experience.
Guido’s Chicago Meat & Deli in Scottsdale is more than just a place to eat; it’s a destination. It’s a place where you can find authentic Italian ingredients, savor delicious Chicago-style Italian dishes, and experience the warm hospitality of a family-run business. Whether you’re a Chicago transplant longing for a taste of home or a local seeking exceptional Italian food, Guido’s Scottsdale is a culinary gem worth discovering.
Guido’s Chicago Meat & Deli
10893 North Scottsdale Road
Scottsdale, Arizona
(480) 951-0636
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