I finally decided to give Menchie's a try. Situated on a highly trafficked area in Scottsdale Quarter, they've somewhat mastered the art of getting people in and out in a timely fashion.
One walks in and circles around the cash register, beginning with grabbing a cup, trying the flavors, loading up on toppings and then paying. It's a small space but it seems to work.
It's one if those where they don't trust the customers to get samples themselves; I find this counter-productive to the fact that it's "self-serve" once you settle on a flavor.
There's a good selection of flavors but very few non-fat options. On the plus side, the flavors are rich and most of them spot-on; a little bit goes a long way.
I chose dulce de leche with a little milk chocolate. Both were rich, creamy (but not over the top creamy) and packed with flavor.
Next come the toppings, which are organized in neat little compartments, each with its own spoon. I liked the inclusion of non-fat granola in addition to the "old fashioned" form.
The containers of fruit toppings were filled to the brim, and there are hot toppings in addition to the standard Ghirardelli ones in pump bottles. Marshmallow cream? Hot fudge? Oh my!
This particular Saturday night there was live music--a teenaged boy with an amazing voice playing an electric keyboard--a unique touch to get people through the doors.
It's best to park in the garage just south of the building; finding a spot on the street can be a nightmare, especially with the congestion from the surrounding restaurants and nightlife.