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Culinary Dropout

4.1 (2.8k reviews)
ModerateNew American
Closed 11:00 am - 10:00 pm
Updated 3 weeks ago

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CULINARY DROPOUT ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Trendy
Moderate noise
Outdoor seating
Good for groups

Recommended Reviews - Culinary Dropout

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The fries were so overcooked they were just a hard hollow shell.
Donata N.

Out of state relative was staying at the Phoenician and Culinary Dropout was a easy dinner. Party of six, no reservation. Hostess, great. We were sat immediately and approached by our waiter for drinks. Service is really the only reason for more than one star. Ordered the pretzels to share with non-alcoholic drinks all around. They do have great pretzels. Recommend. Entrees ordered. Two short ribs, one chicken katsu, one burger, one 36 hr pork ribs, a turkey Pastrami. Food took about 15 minutes. Average wait time. They were busy. The food fell short on all levels. Katsu had way to much hoisin sauce, it was sickly sweet and couldn't be scraped off because the slaw had mixed in. Only positive was the bread was grilled perfectly and the thin chicken breast crispy. Pork ribs void of any flavor other then the sauce. They were very tender. Another positive. Burger, average, short ribs, again way to sweet and bok choy very hard to chew. Pastrami was good. The fries on all entrees so over cooked they were hollow on the inside and basically shattered when bitten. Culinary Dropout used to be a great affordable dining option. It now just feels like an overpriced, hyped up chain experience. Which I guess it is since Fox Restaurants sold to Cheesecake Factory. So many other dining options in the area. If you are looking for drinks and starters with good service, this is the spot. Pass on the entrees.

Shaved Prime Rib Dip* in half
Brooke B.

Culinary dropout did not disappoint and was very busy even for a weekday. They had live music and a fun crowd. We were able to get a seat at the bar. I recommend the pretzels and fondue. We also shared the prime rib dip and they even gave us separate plates with everything split in half.

Drinks
Kezia J.

Such a great vibe in Scottsdale! I love the indoor/outdoor bar vibe and we hit it when there was live music which made it even better. The drinks were great and servers were awesome.

Caesar salad with $7 worth of chicken
Todd P.

This is generally okay food but at ridiculous prices. Let's assume that there's a premium for location but this is well above that premium. Ellen was our server and she was fantastic, in fact the best part of our experience. We ordered the Caesar salad with chicken ($7 up charge) and the turkey pastrami sandwich with fries and two waters. A glass of cola was more than $5. The portions weren't generous (see the pictures) and each was just okay. The pastrami was mostly flavorless and the main flavor came from the slaw. The Caesar was nicely garlicky with a rather small amount of chicken. Our bill with tip was over $55. Yeow! One other thing worth mentioning is that as you'd expect , parking can be a challenge.

Western Spirit Museum
aa W.

Love the name. Love the vibe. Enjoy cocktails on the patio! Good rocks too. Take your visitors. Right across from Fashion Square.

Whipped Feta & Tahini Dip
Bekah C.

Our group really enjoyed our first visit to Culinary Dropout. We tried a variety of dishes and everything was truly delicious. The kitchen clearly knows what they're doing, and the "fashionably grunge" vibe of the place makes for a fun, energetic atmosphere. However, it is definitely on the more expensive side. For our small group of friends, the bill came to $300 before tip. While the quality of the food and the cool Scottsdale Quarter environment are top-notch, it's certainly a "splurge" spot rather than a casual weekly hangout. Great for a celebration or a fancy night out, just be prepared for the price tag!

The Brussels Sprouts were delicious !!
Antonio H.

The service was great ! CJ was attentive and suggestions were on point ! The ambience was great as well ! The food was really good and flavorful ! Definitely will return again !

Brunch and life music
Jyrki P.

Relaxed, slightly upscale restaurant near Scottsdale Old Town presenting also live music, for example, during Saturday brunch at 11am-2pm. I ordered a brunch item with slow cooked pork, fried potatos, and sunny side up egg. It came with a grill-warmed flour tortilla, and it was all good, as was the coffee. Although there was no specialty coffees such as cappuccino, nor hot chocolate, we enjoyed throughout listening to a great, small band playing country rock. Noting that this place can be rather crowded, we agreed that our prior table reservation was a very good idea. Friendly service and decent prices. We will be back soon.

Steak frites
Vanessa G.

This is a fun and lively restaurant. Its great for groups. The steak frites is phenomenal. It was cooked a perfect medium rare and the black truffle butter was a nice touch. Id definitely order that again. The fries were crunchy and flavorful. The Brussels sprouts were fantastic. Service was great, even with it being a large group. Can't wait to enjoy that steak again.

The Fish & Chips
Barbara L. A.

As some of you already know I'm deadly allergic to all peppers, especially chiles. We got seared outside at a high top, such a lovely day for it. My friends ordered the Salmon ( nothing left over !), the other person ordered the Mongolian beef, which I couldn't taste. I ordered the fish & chips, feeling safe with my choice. Sadly for me, the batter had...yep, red pepper in the batter. First bite I knew the fish had chili of some type. Service from Abby was really good, nice personality, and attentive. Great combo and high ten to her! So I couldn't eat my fish & chips because the first bite set my mouth on fire. I asked Abby if there was any chili peppers in the batter: yes, there were red peppers. Ok so I didn't complain but did explain my allergy and why I carry either a necklace or a wrist band with my conditions. Abby was understanding, and then Kyle, the general manager, came out to our table. I explained my allergy and he was very pleasant and understanding too: I was going to order the meatloaf but was warned it had peppers.. I never want to be a problem but with an allergy as severe as mine is, I have to be extra careful here in AZ. Kyle was really nice, coming out to talk with me and understood my situation; so we went through some dishes and in the end I ordered fries with only salt. (Very good fries! ) Both dishes ordered by my friends looked amazing, I wish I could've tasted both :) It was a nice satisfying lunch, we were all satiated and happy with the orders and the cocktails we all had. I can't thank Kyle enough for taking the time to come over and discuss my food options. Abby was so nice and friendly too: great combo in service! I know we'll be back

Tracy Y.

I ordered the wings, and the server mentioned there would be 10, but only 7 came. I thought they were a bit undercooked and politely asked if they could be cooked a little more--not asking for anything free or a replacement--but was told, "they're like this because of the blood vein; it's normal to see a little pink." It made me feel a bit silly, like I didn't know what I was talking about. He didn't offer to replace them or do anything until I was left sitting there awkwardly, and then asked if he could "do anything," which I had literally just told him. The steak and frites were okay, and the beers weren't bad, but the whole interaction left a sour taste in my mouth. Atmosphere-wise, it's lively and fun--lots of groups hanging out, and the outdoor mist fans are a nice touch for cooling down.

Monkey Bread thanks to CJ.
Kevin L.

Great meal before heading back to California. So glad we decided to come to this location. CJ made our dining journey even better. From his perfect recommendations to his pleasant smile and attentiveness to us. My kids can be a mess and a little needy and CJ took care of them before I had to hear them whine. Much appreciated To Culinary Dropout and CJ. The setting is great for families. A date night or a group of friends looking for a great meal. Ask for CJ and enjoy the meal.

The store front at Scottsdale Quarter!

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4 months ago

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Kyle K.

Than you for the great review Ronald!

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3 months ago

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Kyle K.

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8 months ago

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Kyle K.

Thank you for the great review Samantha!

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1 year ago

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Kyle K.

Thank you for the review, Brian!

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7 months ago

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Kyle K.

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4 months ago

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Kyle K.

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2 months ago

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Mark M.

Thank you so much for the great review Scott!

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2 years ago

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Kyle K.

Thank you for an amazing review Paul!

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9 months ago

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Kyle K.

Thank you for the great review Shawn!

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4 months ago

Great time and great drinks. Definitely a must go in old town. Dorian, Lexi, Olivia, and Tristan took care of all of out needs!

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Kyle K.

Thank you for the great review!

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8 months ago

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Kyle K.

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4 months ago

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Kyle K.

Thank you for the wonderful review!

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2 months ago

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4 months ago

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5 months ago

CJ was amazing. The food was amazing. The music was amazing. I had such a great time with me and my girls at Brunch!

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Kyle K.

Thank you for the great review!

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5 months ago

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Kyle K.

Thank you for the great review!

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4 months ago

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Kyle K.

Thank you for the 5-star review! We hope to see you again soon!

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2 years ago

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Jaime A.

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2 years ago

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Kyle K.

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1 year ago

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Kyle K.

Thank you for the wonderful review!

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1 year ago

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Kyle K.

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5 months ago

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Kyle K.

Thank you for the great review!

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1 year ago

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Kyle K.

Thank you for the amazing review!

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1 year ago

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Kyle K.

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2 years ago

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2 months ago

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Mark M.

Thank you for the great review!!

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2 months ago

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Mark M.

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1 year ago

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2 years ago

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Kyle K.

Thanks for an awesome review Kamron!

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5 months ago

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10 months ago

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2 months ago

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Kyle K.

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5 months ago

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Kyle K.

Thank you for the great review!

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2 years ago

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11 months ago

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Kyle K.

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5 months ago

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Kyle K.

Thank you for the great review Aaron! We hope to see you again soon!

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11 months ago

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Kyle K.

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1 year ago

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Kyle K.

Thank you for the 5-star review Amanda! We hope to see you again soon!

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3 months ago

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2 years ago

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Thanks for the great review Heather!

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Page 3 of 71

Culinary Dropout Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Culinary Dropout

What size can you accommodate for a private party, gathering space with food and drink service?

Hello, We can accommodate multiple different party sizes with different food and beverage packages/options. Our special events team has more details and would be happy to walk… Read more

I have a party of 10-12 people but we just want to come in for some drinks and hang out/listen to music. Can we just order drinks at the bar if there is no seating available?

Yes of course!

Are there any gluten free options?

Hi Tori, We do have some gluten free options. The ribs, skirt steak, and vegan curry are a few of the entree options we have, as well as a majority of the salads and… Read more

Can you accommodate 15 people for dining? Specifically on 10/19/24 at 6pm?

Yes we accommodate for parties of 15. Please feel free to give us a call for more information. If you are wanting to come in tonight please feel free to walk in!

Is there outside seating?

Here's what "Google" of the website says... "With a mini stage, our outdoor patio is perfect for… Read more

Is this place good to go out alone?

Hi Bridget, Culinary Dropout is great for any occasion! Getting a table for one or a seat at the bar… Read more

Does this location have foosball?

Not to my knowledge

Is this location dog friendly?

Hi! Our patio is absolutely dog friendly so long as your friends are well behaved and are respectful of other guests who may be dining with us. We only ask they they remain off the furniture, and we’d be happy to provide a bowl of water for them!… Read more

Is it ok for 10 year old?

Yes, this place is generally family friendly

Is it noisy?

it can be very noisy, especially saturdays not a good date spot if you would like to talk to each other with out shouting

View All 11 Questions

Citizen Public House - Crispy Branzino

Citizen Public House

4.4(2.6k reviews)
0.2 mi
$$$

Ducked into this gorgeous gastropub one night when the temperature dipped suddenly. It was only…read more5pm, but with the time difference for us, it worked out beautifully for Happy Hour! The popcorn looks ordinary, but made with bacon it is outstanding. We split an amazing chopped salad and I had a Happy Hour sized serving (1/2) of the meatloaf which was great. Beautiful, spotless, excellent service and terrific food.

I had very high expectations for this establishment since our friend had rated his meal a10/10,…read moreprompting him to invite us with him two days after his first experience. We were lucky enough that it happened to be restaurant week (1 appetizer, 1 entree, & 1 dessert for the price of $55!) I decided to get their infamous original chopped salad, fair trade short ribs, & blueberry pudding cake. My partner opted for the burrata paired with their noble bread, crispy salmon, & midnight brownie. Our favorites were their burrata & crispy salmon, with our not so favorites being the rest. The chopped salad was mediocre at best, nothing worth coming back for. The short ribs were overcooked, making it extremely dry. The blueberry pudding cake was incredibly dense and dry. The brownie was as hard as a rock, making it difficult to pick up a piece without breaking the plate while at it. Overall, my partner and I were quite disappointed with our meals. The only silver lining was that our server, Nicholas, was phenomenal!

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Citizen Public House - Fried Shishitos

Fried Shishitos

Citizen Public House - Burrata

Burrata

Citizen Public House - Chia Seed Yellowfin Tuna

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Chia Seed Yellowfin Tuna

The Ends Restaurant - Bone Marrow & Tartare

The Ends Restaurant

4.3(323 reviews)
0.2 mi
$$$

This place needs to be recognized more... or maybe not and I can keep it to myself haha…read more I love how the restaurant is 'hidden' but also in plain site. Inside, the restaurant is covered with plants, arts, and has that dark, sexy vibe. We came here for a double date for restaurant week but opted for the main menu. Our server was Shreese and she made the entire experience top notch. We got the crispy rice egg yolk nigiri and hamachi crudo. Per Shereese's rec, smear the cured egg yolk on the hamachi and it's so good! Shereese also brought us ravioli to try with fried sage which was decadent and exploded with flavor. For entrees, I got the wagyu NY strip with bone marrow butter and a pommes puree. My boyfriend got the bison ribeye. Both were delicious and had a nice crust on the outside. Didn't have room for dessert but you only live once so make room. The banana bread banana split was to die for. If you go here for one thing, it has to be that. But you should go anyways to try the great dishes this spot has to offer.

Appetizers were okay. I'm a sucker for beef carpaccio, but this is the only time I ever didn't like…read moreit. I love beef, and I love arugula, but it tasted like the arugula was sitting in lemon juice for so long before plating that the bitterness of it bled into the beef, so the beef itself was strangely bitter. Sides and entrees were fantastic except for pommes puree. Well made, but it was extremely salty and almost inedible. The scallops were well cooked and the pasta was very good and cooked perfectly tender. Some of the best pappardelle I've had. We sat at the bar and service was great. The bartender was very friendly. Ambiance inside is cute and cozy.

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The Ends Restaurant - Amazing artist

Amazing artist

The Ends Restaurant - Bone Marrow & Tartare

Bone Marrow & Tartare

The Ends Restaurant - Traditional margarita

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Traditional margarita

etta

etta

3.8(1k reviews)
8.5 mi
$$$

We had a great night at Etta overall. The restaurant itself is beautifully decorated and has such a…read morewarm, inviting vibe. We were seated in the back since we were a larger party, which was a little disappointing - the front area felt much more lively. We didn't realize we could request seating closer to the front, but to their credit, they did turn the music up a bit, which helped the atmosphere. The service was okay - not bad, but a little on the mediocre side. That said, the food definitely made up for it. The Wagyu steak was absolutely delicious, and the appetizers were solid as well. Even with a few small hiccups, it was still a great experience and a fun night out. We would definitely go back and would just ask to sit closer to the front next time.

We have been coming here for a long time, but unfortunately, this will be our last visit. Many…read morepeople have advised me to stay away, claiming the place is overhyped and that there are better options available. However, every time we visited in the past, we had a great experience--until this last visit. We made a reservation for 7:45 PM but didn't get seated until 8:30 PM. While this isn't terrible, it can be challenging when you have a little one with you, but it's to be expected as a parent. Once we were at our table, we ordered drinks and food for the kids. My wife ordered a cocktail, and I opted for an Old Fashioned. The kids ordered pasta and a cheese pizza. This is when things started to go downhill. The pasta was okay, but the pizza had a few hairs on it--more than one, in fact. This made us uncomfortable, so we informed the waiter, and they addressed the issue promptly. As we waited for the new pizza, our drinks arrived, and they were nicely presented. However, while sipping my Old Fashioned, I noticed something unusual in my drink--Tajin. Curious, I asked the waiter if this was a special variation of the Old Fashioned. She replied no, so I pointed out the issue in my glass, and she confirmed she saw the Tajin as well. I felt she was treating it as if it was acceptable, which it clearly wasn't, so I looked at her, signaling that I would like a new drink. (I wish I had taken pictures.) Following that, our main dishes started to arrive. My wife ordered a wagyu steak, and I had the pork loin. Unfortunately, we began to analyze everything after the earlier mishaps, and the vibe of the experience was completely lost. To make matters worse, we were still charged for the pizza that had hair on it and the drink that had the issue. With all that being said, I've decided I will no longer be dining here.

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etta - Fire-baked focaccia

Fire-baked focaccia

etta - Keeper of the hearth

Keeper of the hearth

etta - Bubbling shrimp

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Bubbling shrimp

Culinary Dropout - newamerican - Updated May 2026

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