Eat
Laura Eckstein Jones for Modern Luxury Scottsdale recently interviewed Nick Hogan, Flagship Restaurant Group CEO and co-founder of Pyro, about his newest hot spot in Scottsdale.
What inspired you to open Pyro?
In the area where Pyro is now based, I saw a lot of classic American steakhouses. I wanted to appeal to that audience but create something with a Japanese spin.
How would you describe the restaurant?
It is a Japanese American bistro—an open-flame concept with the restaurant’s custom-made hearth serving as the culinary centerpiece. Our team manipulates fire with wood and charcoal to roast, sear, grill and smoke, enhancing the natural flavors of ingredients throughout the menu, which consists of responsibly sourced prime meats and seafood. We offer a standout beverage program with a highly allocated whisky collection and globally diverse sake and wine labels.
How do the menu items stand out?
All seafood and meats available at Pyro are meticulously sourced, and animal welfare plays a defining role in what translates to each guest’s plate. The Flagship Restaurant Group team, including veteran chef and a James Beard Foundation 2020 nominee Benjamin Maides, spent years sourcing the most premium products possible for the concept. Examples are all-natural prime ribeye, housemade noodles, unique spins on traditional sashimi and crudo, and branzino raised indoors in a recirculation aquaculture system.
Does the menu change throughout the year?
The plan is to evolve the menu over time, with slight changes throughout the year. However, the menu will not change dramatically from season to season.
How would you describe the atmosphere and design of the restaurant?
We collaborated with award-winning firm AvroKO to design Pyro. The restaurant is 4,200 square feet and features an expansive dining room, a lush outdoor patio with an open hearth and a bespoke cocktail bar. The design is a throwback inspired by Japanese supper clubs from the mid-1900s. It has a classic and timeless feel that’s elegant and dramatic and offers an elevated dining experience. The design takes on a maximalist sensibility with a variety of patterns and textures throughout the space, including era-inspired fixtures and furnishings, luxurious velvets, floral fabrics, traditional geisha patterns, textiles and accessories that all come together, embracing a space that is decidedly dense and rich.
And what are some of your favorite cocktails and dishes?
My personal favorite cocktail is the matcha espresso martini, and some of my favorite dishes are yellowtail sashimi, pork belly skewers, crab pasta and the lamb rack. I love getting to experience a different menu item every time I come in to dine.
What’s an ideal order?
Start with one cold and one hot sharable dish, then move on to a noodle dish before a hearth item. One or two sides complete the experience. However, there are many variations depending on preferences. And—always make room for dessert!
How do you see the restaurant evolving?
Are there any plans for expansion in other markets? As part of our Flagship Restaurant Group portfolio, more restaurants are opening in the Phoenix market this year. We’re also starting to scout out opportunities to duplicate Pyro in other markets, but we don’t have anything firm at this point.
Modern Luxury Scottsdale Article
Stay up to date on the latest real estate trends.
2024 Fall | Winter Collection of Prestigious Properties
88 Luxury Residences at Scottsdale Rd and Loop 101
Classic American Steakhouse with a Japanese Spin
Sellers Get Off the Fence as Mortgage Rates Continue to Drop
The first thing that comes to mind is the choice between renting and buying.
Survey respondents say they realize they likely made less money on their home sale.
Last month the Federal Reserve gave the housing industry a much-needed gift.
With over 25 years of experience in real estate, master planned community development, sales, marketing, and VIP customer care, Anne is known for her exceptional service and integrity. Her Arizona family roots trace back to the territorial days, providing her with a unique perspective on the local real estate market. With a "can-do" attitude and unwavering commitment to excellence, Anne goes above and beyond to protect her clients' interests and provide them with an outstanding experience.