Holy Guacamole – Best Guac in the World at the Camelback Inn

The Dish: Guacamole
The Place: Rita’s Kitchen at the JW Marriott Camelback Inn
The Location: 5402 East Lincoln Drive · Scottsdale, Arizona 85253 USA  480-948-1700

By: Patti O’Brien
Full disclosure – I love all guacamole. I’ve had guacamole all over the country, made using all sorts of recipes. Those were all good. But, it was in the shadows of Mummy Mountain, under the desert moon, where I had the best guacamole of my life. I know how this sounds, but there’s this secret ingredient … The secret ingredient at Rita’s Kitchen is exactly what all of the other “best guacamole you’ve ever had” was missing. Rita’s Kitchen is located at the JW Marriott Camelback Inn. It is casual, yet elegant, contemporary, yet classic Southwest. From the moment you arrive, it is all about the experience as you’re greeted warmly by the valet and then directed toward the beautiful indoor-outdoor dining room. The patio seating offers the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind after a long week. I’d recommend the Blackberry Mojito to start. Blackberries are exceptionally high in antioxidants, and Mojitos, especially when paired with simple string lights, are exceptionally helpful during the relaxation process. Next, order the table side guacamole. It goes well – very, very well with Rita’s Red Sangria. Out of respect for the chef, I won’t share the recipe, but I’m sure you can find it online. This isn’t your typical Hass Avocado. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for. It is that moment when you realize that you are already planning your next trip to Rita’s … and you haven’t even ordered your entree. Speaking of entrees, there are several wonderful options to choose from.

It is a great place to host a group dinner, celebrate your birthday, special occasions or to spend a random Tuesday. It is also the perfect spot for happy hour, with delicious HH offerings, where no one would judge you for ordering two table side guacs.