As a general rule I try to avoid Olive & Ivy on weekend nights, not that the ambiance isn't great or there is a food or service problem it's just BUSY! If you don't have reservations popping in for a cocktail during peak times in the bar can be challenging, on the one hand you get to get a good look at "The Real Housewives" of Scottsdale in their natural habitat and many variations there of. So I went with two friends and I was so happy we got a small comfortable cocktail table next to the bar which can be like hitting the lottery on a busy night. Service is always good I feel even on a busy night my water was always replaced. Cocktails always good they can take a while but you will understand looking at the packed bar so you have to give them a break. In previous visits I usually get the Chefs seasonal board, Italian meats and fresh cheeses and roasted vegetables this visit we got the Hummus it was fine I mean Hummus is hummus. Two flat breads the braised short rib with Gorgonzola and arugula, I'm the only human I think that does not like short rib, I've had it before in other establishments but it's not my go to. My choice was the pesto chicken with pine nuts and I asked if we could leave the caramelized onions off half of it since I was in a picky mood and do not like onions, they were so nice about it and despite the busy kitchen it came out perfect. Service + food + ambiance +