(480) 949-8454
4341 N 75th St
Scottsdale,
AZ
85251
33.4996
-111.9199
Neighborhoods: Indian Plaza Properties, South Scottsdale, Downtown Scottsdale
What People Are Saying About Drift
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short – It's a Scottsdale spin on the classic island bar Trader Vic's, complete with a 7-foot-tall tiki idol and umbrella-topped drinks. The bamboo and wooden interior is dotted with ultramodern furniture to create the lounge effect while a giant tropical fish tank hooks people to crowd around the bar. Outside, a small torch-lit patio abuzz with singles is warmed by a fireplace. At about 10pm, the music picks up and the island-resort attitude flips into a hot spot for 20- and 30-somethings on the prowl.
New food, new staff, whole new experience
by lita123
After a mediocre experience in the beginning of the year, my friends and I decided to start our night off with some Tiki drinks and food at Drift. As soon as I walked in, it felt like a totally different restaurant from the last time we were there. There was a chill vibe, friendly staff, great music and the menu looked like it had also been re-vamped, which was a great move on their part. My party and I each ordered something different because we wanted to order everything on the menu and we figured it was the best way to get a taste of the improved food. We started with the Pupu platter, calamari, and spinach /artichoke dip while we sipped on our Evil Bastards and mojitos and were nothing less than happy with everything. For entrees we ordered the steak sandwich, the fresh fish of the day and a chicken noodle bowl and let's just say, we didn't need any boxes for leftovers! Everything was delicious and tasted better than before. Our server was super cute, super friendly and prompt. They have even re-vamped the patio with lounge-like couches in one part and tables for dining in the other. Although it was about 60 degrees outside they had a fireplace burning and what looked like a state-of-the-art heating system that made us forget it was even cold outside. Needless to say we had planned on heading elsewhere after dinner but ended up staying all night to mingle and lounge with the rest of the Friday night crowd. If you have ever had a bad experience, I suggest giving Drift another try because I did and it is one of my favorite places to be.
- Pros: Great music, chill vibe, great food, great tiki drinks
- Cons: Off the beaten path of other bars and restaurants
Nice Day or Early Eve Drink Spot
by tbaxter2006
Drift offers decent beer and wine selections in a pleasant atmosphere. Inside decor is a bit like being at Disneyland, but it works well. The food is interesting and enjoyable. Food and drinks can get pricey, but they have to pay for the atmosphere in one way or another.
As others before me have pointed out, the service at this place stinks more often than not. They also have a tendency to turn off the misting system on the patio and crank up the fire-spewing tiki torches too early, leaving you in a puddle of sweat during the hot months. They will turn them back on, though, with a request.
Drift is looking to expand its patio into the parking lot and add a waterfall. The designs look pretty cool and seem to include cabana-like havens for more private enjoyment.
Bottom line: If you have patience for poor service, Drift offers plenty of enjoyment.
- Pros: Atmosphere, Concept and Design
- Cons: Poor Wait Service
Don't Bother...
by jempa
Great Concept....Terrible Staff...Stopped in with friends. Took 30 minutes to get drinks. Never offered a menu had to ask. Waitress had to be flagged for refills. We weren't brave enough to try and order food.
- Pros: Looks like Trader Vics
- Cons: Isn't
The Details on Drift
Know Before You Go:
Reservations are accepted for parties of eight or more. Ask for a table on the patio--it's best for groups.
Save Money:
Happy hour is Monday through Friday, 4pm-7pm, with great deals on specialty martinis and $2 Red Stripe and Corona.
Parking:
There's a small lot on the north side of the building, but plenty of street parking is also available.
Category:
Smoking Permitted:
Yes







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