Distrito, Iron Chef Jose Garces's funky eatery at The Saguaro, in Scottsdale, looks as vibrant as it tastes.

Distrito, Iron Chef Jose Garces’s funky eatery at The Saguaro, in Scottsdale, looks as vibrant as it tastes.

There are probably some people in your wedding party who will look at the wall of Day of the Dead masks hanging at the entrance to Distrito, the main restaurant at Scottsdale’s Saguaro hotel, and think you’ve lost your marbles. They’re fun and and colorful, for sure, but is this the kind of decor you want for the happiest day of your lives?

Why not? Iron Chef Jose Garces’s homage to Mexico City street food is a joyful, in-your-face food experience: divine guac with cotija cheese, pork posole with clams, addictively spicy fries served with a cilantro lime aioli. The design elements suit it to a T, with clothespin chandeliers and a whole wall made of felt pompoms.

The Saguaro Hotel has a handful of mod, stylish spaces for receptions—there’s even a genuine ballroom—but for our money the Picante pool is the place to be. With four private cabanas and chef Garces’ team flipping mahi-mahi tacos in a poolside kitchen, this is what Arizona weddings are about. If you’re approaching your celebration with a modern spirit and thing for Mexican food, it would be hard to find a better way to celebrate.

In case you’re in the area and want to check it out, stop by for the two-course $15 lunch, which has got to be the best deal in the Valley. Or if you’re there for cocktail hour, try a margarita with blood orange juice and agave nectar, served with a side of Mexican street peanuts. You’ll be sold.

The Saguaro Pool, for an outdoor Iron Chef wedding

The Saguaro pool, for an outdoor Iron Chef wedding

 


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