Arizona food lovers have something big to celebrate this spring: Din Tai Fung, the internationally acclaimed Taiwanese restaurant famous for its soup dumplings, is finally opening its first location in the Grand Canyon State. The much-anticipated debut will take place at Scottsdale Fashion Square, with a grand opening set for April 20, 2026. Enthusiasts will be able to snag reservations for the soft opening phase starting February 26 at 9 a.m. Mountain Time, according to multiple sources including ABC15, azcentral, and the restaurant’s official announcements.
For those eager to be among the first to experience the restaurant’s legendary hospitality, the soft opening begins March 12 and runs through April 19 on a reservation-only basis. Din Tai Fung representatives told ABC15, “For our soft opening from March 12 to April 19, Din Tai Fung Scottsdale will open at limited capacity to ensure our team delivers the thoughtful hospitality and excellence to every guest during our first month of operations. We will be releasing new reservations on a rolling basis and look forward to welcoming the community soon.” After the grand opening on April 20, diners can enjoy walk-in service, takeout, and delivery options, making it easier than ever for Arizonans to get their dumpling fix.
The new restaurant occupies a sprawling 10,000 square feet on the lower level of Scottsdale Fashion Square, perfectly positioned alongside other popular dining spots like Catcha and Élephante. With seating for approximately 340 guests and a full bar, the location aims to deliver the upscale-casual atmosphere that Din Tai Fung fans have come to expect. The design, crafted in collaboration with the renowned Rockwell Group, features a grand, curved façade adorned with glowing red signage—a beacon for hungry shoppers and foodies alike. Inside, guests will find a main dining area anchored by a striking central tree installation, as well as a bar area for those looking to unwind with a drink.
But perhaps the most unique feature of the Scottsdale location is the dumpling expo kitchen, a glass-walled culinary stage where diners can watch the meticulous preparation of Din Tai Fung’s signature dishes. This isn’t just dinner—it’s dinner and a show. The open kitchen concept transforms each visit into an immersive cultural experience, allowing guests to witness firsthand the artistry that has made the brand famous around the world. As a brand representative told ABC15, “Our signature dumpling show kitchen immerses guests in a cultural journey from kitchen to table, showcasing the meticulous craft behind folding our delicate Xiao Long Bao. Above all, this space honors our heritage while embracing the beauty and spirit of Arizona, and we’re excited to open our doors to the Scottsdale community.”
Din Tai Fung’s reputation precedes it. The original location in Taiwan has earned multiple Michelin stars and holds the Bib Gourmand designation, an honor reserved for restaurants offering exceptional food at accessible prices, as reported by azcentral. The restaurant’s North American journey began in 2000 with the opening of its Arcadia, California, outpost. Since then, Din Tai Fung has built a devoted following across the United States, thanks to its holistic approach to dining. North America CEO Aaron Yang summed it up: “The combination of delicious and high-quality dishes, friendly service, and a beautiful restaurant environment is the key differentiator for Din Tai Fung.”
At the heart of Din Tai Fung’s menu is the xiao long bao—broth-filled soup dumplings steamed in bamboo baskets. These delicate morsels are a marvel of culinary engineering, each one handcrafted with exactly 18 folds. According to Yang, this precise number isn’t just for looks: “The careful folding technique allows the filling and soup to expand properly during steaming, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.” The meticulous approach doesn’t stop at dumplings; it extends to other menu favorites like wontons, noodle soups, and a variety of Taiwanese specialties, all prepared with the same commitment to quality.
For those who appreciate the finer details, the Scottsdale restaurant’s design bridges Din Tai Fung’s Taiwanese heritage with the unique spirit of Arizona. The Rockwell Group’s vision incorporates elements that pay homage to both the company’s roots and its new desert home. The result is a space that feels both authentic and locally resonant, inviting guests to enjoy a memorable meal in a setting that celebrates tradition and innovation.
The buzz around the opening is palpable, and it’s easy to understand why. Din Tai Fung’s arrival in Arizona has been eagerly awaited by locals and transplants alike, many of whom have fond memories of dining at the chain’s other locations in California, New York, and beyond. The restaurant’s commitment to consistency—whether in the folding of a soup dumpling or the warmth of its hospitality—has earned it a loyal global following.
But Scottsdale isn’t the only Arizona city getting in on the action. Din Tai Fung has already confirmed plans for a second location at Chandler Fashion Center, slated to open in 2027. According to the mall’s online directory and corroborated by ABC15, the Chandler restaurant will be located on the first level next to Harkins Theatres. While details about the Chandler outpost remain under wraps, the announcement signals Din Tai Fung’s confidence in the Arizona market and its intention to become a staple in the state’s dining landscape.
As the grand opening approaches, excitement is reaching a fever pitch. Subscribers to Din Tai Fung’s newsletter have already received confirmation of the soft opening dates, and the restaurant’s social media channels are abuzz with anticipation. The Scottsdale location at 7014 E. Camelback Road is poised to become a new culinary landmark, drawing in diners from across the Valley and beyond.
For now, the countdown is on. Reservations open February 26, the soft opening kicks off March 12, and the doors officially swing wide on April 20. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, one thing’s for sure: Arizona’s dumpling scene will never be the same.