Set to officially open at the end of October, Zen Culinary is a brand new Asian fusion restaurant concept coming to Scottsdale, AZ. Owner Rachel McAuley, a brand new restaurateur coming from humble beginnings, born and raised in Thailand, is looking forward to sharing her family’s culture through cuisines with the local community. In order to best realize her vision, McAuley has hired executive chef, Kelly Fletcher, an Arizona native and nationally acclaimed chef to lead the kitchen.
Fletcher is best known for his decade long tenure at Tempe based House of Tricks. Having spent time at the James Beard House and with exceptional French training, Fletcher’s creativity and passion for food will be a huge asset to Zen Culinary. Growing up, his early influencer was his mother, who encouraged him to explore his knack for cuisine from a very early age. Fletcher describes himself as being drawn to culture and diversity. He brings many wonderful experiences from his travels to Mexico, Korea and other Asian countries to the table as he prepares a stunning menu for Zen.
The rest of the Zen team includes:
Bob Tam of Phoenix Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour serving as a menu and business advisor
Michael Liberatore, previously with Citizen Public House as beverage director
Cristina Serrano will serve as general manager
Zen Culinary will offer affordable lunch specials by day and elegant fine dining by night. A fresh new restaurant concept crafting authentic Asian cuisine made with predominantly locally sourced organic ingredients. Specializing in Thai, Chinese, Japanese, American and Fusion cuisine, the Zen team will strive to achieve complete balance in flavors, spice and texture.
Two serene garden patios will offer a perfectly relaxing spot to unwind, sip, savor and enjoy. Indoors, Zen features two main dining rooms and one room for private events or parties. Complete with contemporary features, soft flowing waterfalls, open air kitchen and an electric grand piano, Zen Culinary will embrace the classic four elements – earth, wind, water and fire – to create an inviting and harmonious dining experience.
Located at 15544 N Pima Road, Scottsdale, AZ, Zen Culinary will be open Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. For more information about Zen Culinary, please visit www.ZenCulinary.com.