Pink Pony is a legendary fixture of Old Town Scottsdale, drawing visitors to its bright pink facade for more than 60 years. Now, after a temporary absence, the venue is re-opening its doors and showing off a modern new look and menu.
The restaurant and bar has been extensively remodeled, leaving behind only the natural wood bowstring trusses and concrete floors and walls from the original structure. The designers of the new Pink Pony have paid homage to the venue's long history by re-using some elements of the old structure.
The familiar front doors with the bubble gum pink insets, for example, were integrated into a collapsible wall that surrounds the new open patio.
There's also a new front porch that opens into a horseshoe-shaped bar. The bar, which has been outfitted with a sleek zinc and marble top, gives patrons a view of two flat-screen TVs. Just off the bar, there's a new intimate lounge area that's ideal for small groups.
Scottsdale's legendary Pink Pony has a whole new look. — Photo courtesy of Pink Pony
The old Pink Pony was known for its baseball-themed memorabilia and playful display of caricature drawings, and the new Pink Pony continues that tradition. The restaurant and bar, a favorite local haunt for out-of-town spring training fans, gives baseball lovers a close-up look at the original home plate from Scottsdale Municipal Stadium. Look for it on display near the front entrance.
The bar menu has been completely updated, with a new selection of cocktails, mules and house-infused spirits. One house specialty is the Pony Club, made with gin, Peychaud's, lemon, apricot and cointreau.
The wine list includes a good selection of Arizona wines, including the Page Springs Mules Mistake Red, which is available by the glass. Most drinks are priced under $10, although there is also a selection of triple-digit wine bottles for patrons looking to splurge.
On the food side of the menu, the kitchen now specializes in gourmet New American cuisine. Most dishes incorporate locally sourced ingredients. The open kitchen has a new wood-fired oven that will be turning out handmade Neapolitan-style pies. But fans of the old Pink Pony menu will be glad to hear that the menu has kept house favorites like the housemade pretzels with fondue, tenderloin filet and slow-roasted pork belly.
Cushy, tufted booths invite patrons to sit back and relax for a night of eating and drinking. And a comfortable outdoor patio is perfect for soaking in the sights and sounds of late night in Old Town Scottsdale.
