Carlsbad Tavern

Carlsbad Tavern & Restaurant is a well-established eatery in Scottsdale, AZ, founded with the mission of introducing unique New Mexican cuisine to the local dining scene. The restaurant was created by Michael P. Capriola and named after Carlsbad Caverns National Park in southern New Mexico, reflecting its Southwestern inspiration. The tavern first opened its doors in 1995 at Scottsdale Road and Earll Drive, featuring an eclectic New Mexican theme with decor elements such as bats, Mexican movie posters, Roswell memorabilia, and a distinctive newspaper menu called “The Daily Guano.”

In 1998, the restaurant moved to its current location on Hayden Road, just south of Osborn. This new location further developed the bat cave theme, taking advantage of the water feature “The Guano Canal” on the patio and offering a cave-like interior in the dining room and bar.

Carlsbad Tavern’s philosophy focuses on providing guests with an entertaining environment, top-notch kitchen offerings, and friendly service. The establishment offers a variety of dishes that emphasize quality and attention to detail in their preparation. Many original dishes remain popular favorites among regular patrons or “bat fans.” Their menu has consistently garnered local and national accolades from reputable sources such as Arizona Republic, Phoenix New Times, Phoenix Magazine, Travel + Leisure Magazine, and Food Network Magazine. Some notable awards include:

• 20 Places for Hispanic Dishes (Enchantment Platter) – Arizona Republic (September 2011)
• 10 Favorite Spicy Dishes (Habanero Cheeseburger) – Phoenix New Times (September 2011)
• Top 100 Dishes in the Valley (New Mexican Potstickers) – Phoenix New Times (August 2011)
• One of 51 Ways to Beat the Heat – Phoenix Magazine (July 2011)
• Best Burger in Phoenix/Scottsdale – Travel + Leisure Magazine (May 2011)
• One of the Top 85 Restaurants – Phoenix Magazine (January 2011)
• Habanero Cheeseburger – Best Burger in Arizona – Food Network Magazine (2009)
• Best Restaurant – Food Lover’s Guide to the Valley; Phoenix Magazine (2007)
• Best Pork Dish for Carne Adovada – 50 Best Dishes in the Valley; Phoenix New Times (January 2009)
• Best Patio Dining – Best of Phoenix; Phoenix New Times (2001)

In addition to their acclaimed food offerings, Carlsbad Tavern provides locally-brewed and micro-brewed beers on draft along with a comprehensive wine list that includes wine pairings for all entrees. Happy hours offer discounted menus while reverse happy hours cater to industry workers seeking a welcoming atmosphere with quality fare and company. Andrew Capriola and Judith Merritt now own the family-run restaurant which continues to be a popular destination for casual dining experiences, special occasions, group events, or simply relaxing at the “bat cave” with a draft beer.