Valentine

- 4130 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85013

Introduction / Overview

Valentine, nestled in Phoenix’s vibrant Melrose District at 4130 N 7th Ave, is far more than a typical restaurant; it is a multi-faceted culinary experience that seamlessly transitions from an airy coffee shop and bakery by day to a stylish, romantic dinner and cocktail bar by night. This venue has quickly established itself as one of the most ambitious and critically acclaimed dining destinations in the Valley, recognized nationally by publications like Esquire and The New York Times.

The core philosophy of Valentine, under the guidance of Chef Donald Hawk, is rooted in a concept described as "New Arizona Cuisine." This approach celebrates the rich, unique flavors and agricultural history of the Sonoran region, consciously incorporating indigenous and heritage ingredients like tepary beans, white Sonoran wheat, and mesquite. The result is a menu of inventive and playful Modern American dishes that still offer a comforting familiarity to the local palate. Pastry Chef Crystal Kass, a James Beard Award nominee, further elevates the experience with her exceptional, Arizona-centric baked goods, like the Mesquite Miso Chocolate Chip Cookie and the Piñon Croissant.

Valentine’s atmosphere is a captivating blend of casual, cozy, romantic, trendy, and even upscale, making it versatile for any occasion—from a solo dining coffee break to a memorable group dinner. The space also features an on-site bar and is popular for its exceptional cocktail program and natural wine selection, cementing its status as a sophisticated all-day hub in Central Phoenix.

Location and Accessibility

Valentine is conveniently situated at 4130 N 7th Ave in Phoenix, AZ 85013. This prime address places it squarely within the heart of the Melrose District, an area known for its vintage shops, lively energy, and easy access from other parts of Central Phoenix.

The restaurant occupies a distinctive mid-century modern space, making it a recognizable landmark. Accessibility is a key feature, ensuring that a wide range of patrons can enjoy the experience:

• Full Accessibility: The venue is fully equipped with a Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating.
• Parking: Guests benefit from both a Free parking lot and readily available Free street parking in the surrounding neighborhood.
• Outdoor Seating: Valentine features delightful Outdoor seating, which also permits Dogs allowed outside, adding to the relaxed, community-focused vibe.
• Operating Schedule: The restaurant operates Wednesday through Sunday, allowing it to serve a comprehensive schedule of dining options:
  • Wednesday & Thursday: 8 am – 10 pm
  • Friday & Saturday: 8 am – 11 pm
  • Sunday: 8 am – 10 pm

The flow of service transitions throughout the day, starting with coffee and pastries, moving into a popular Brunch and Lunch service, and culminating in a full Dinner experience. Given its popularity and acclaim, Dinner reservations are recommended, and the establishment accepts reservations to help patrons secure a table during peak hours.

Services Offered

Valentine’s diverse offerings reflect its role as a versatile, all-day dining and social destination in the Melrose community.

• All-Day Dining: Serving Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert, accommodating every mealtime need.
• Full Bar Service: Features an excellent selection of Alcohol, including a Bar onsite, Beer, Hard liquor, and is renowned for its selection of Cocktails and Wine, including a notable natural wine program.
• Coffee and Tea Program: Functions as a dedicated Coffee shop with Great coffee and a Great tea selection, perfect for morning visits or after-meal enjoyment.
• Multiple Service Options: Guests can enjoy the experience via Dine-in, Outdoor seating, Takeout, or Delivery, as well as Onsite services for events.
• Reservations: Accepts reservations, which are highly recommended for dinner to ensure seating.
• Menu Flexibility: Offers an extensive range of Offerings, including Healthy options, Organic dishes, Vegan options, and Vegetarian options, alongside Comfort food and Small plates.
• Payment Options: Accepts convenient modern payment methods including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
• Amenities: Provides comfortable Seating, a Restroom, and complimentary Wi-Fi for guests.
• Children and Pets: Recognized as Good for kids and offers High chairs, with Dogs allowed outside in the patio area.

Features / Highlights

The acclaim Valentine has received is built on a series of distinct features that set it apart in the Phoenix restaurant scene.

• New Arizona Cuisine: The food is a major highlight, celebrated for its innovative use of local and heritage Arizona ingredients, giving the menu a true sense of place and supporting local producers. This commitment is evident in dishes like the Green Chili Cheddar and Chorizo Scone and the Mesquite Miso Chocolate Chip Cookie.
• Award-Winning Pastry Program: Pastry Chef Crystal Kass's creations are a must-try, holding a James Beard Award nomination for Outstanding Pastry Chef. Her Piñon Croissant and White Sonoran Wheat Pretzel are regional favorites.
• Exceptional Beverage Program: The venue functions as a high-end Cocktail bar and Wine bar. It is noted for Great cocktails, including inventive, Arizona-themed drinks, and offers natural wine options at 50% off before 5 pm.
• Unique Dinner Offerings: Dinner plates showcase culinary artistry, featuring sophisticated items like the Bison Tartar Tostada, Smoked Two Wash Ranch Chicken, and the acclaimed Elote Pasta made with house-made tagliarini and local Crows Dairy Goatija cheese.
• Inviting Atmosphere: The ambiance is versatile, characterized by a Casual, Cozy, Romantic, and Upscale feel, complete with a charming Fireplace that enhances the dining experience, especially during cooler Arizona evenings.
• Speed and Service: Despite the upscale menu and focus on detailed preparation, the venue is noted for Fast service, especially for the coffee and brunch crowd, making it practical for a quick stop.
• Community Inclusivity: Recognized as Family-friendly, Groups-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, and a Transgender safespace, creating a truly welcoming dining environment for all local residents and Tourists.

Contact Information

To plan a visit or make an inquiry, please use the following contact details for Valentine in Phoenix, AZ.

Address: 4130 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA

Phone Number: (602) 612-2961

Mobile Phone: +1 602-612-2961

What is Worth Choosing

For Arizona diners, Valentine is worth choosing for its uncompromising commitment to culinary innovation, local sourcing, and a versatile all-day experience. It offers a sophisticated, yet grounded, celebration of Southwestern gastronomy that has garnered national attention and is deeply relevant to the local community.

Experiencing "New Arizona Cuisine": The menu is not just food; it is a culinary map of the state. Opting for a dish that features locally-sourced ingredients, such as the NY Strip with green-chili pork tepary beans or the Crispy Cauliflower with native seed tahini, allows you to taste the unique terroir and agricultural history of the Southwest, which is a rare and special find in modern dining. The dedication to ingredients like white Sonoran wheat and tepary beans, combined with techniques like wood-fired cooking, makes for a distinctly Arizonan experience.

The All-Day Transition: What truly makes Valentine unique is its successful transformation across day parts. It’s worth visiting in the morning just for a Piñon Croissant and an artisanal coffee, and returning in the evening for the trendy cocktail scene and an adventurous dinner. The seamless blend of a casual coffee shop with a highly conceptual dinner menu means Valentine provides a solution for almost any need, from a quick solo visit to a significant, reservation-worthy night out.

Culinary and Ambiance Highlights: While some reviews mention inconsistencies in service (an understandable challenge in a busy, highly-rated spot) or find the prices high for the portion sizes, the consensus on the overall quality and creativity is strong. The presentation of the food is consistently praised, and the Elote Pasta is frequently highlighted as a brilliant, must-try fusion dish. Furthermore, the environment—romantic, cozy, and trendy, with the option for dog-friendly outdoor seating—is an attraction in itself, making Valentine a complete and captivating dining destination that truly elevates the Phoenix food scene.

Valentine

4130 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85013, USA