For nearly a century, Elvira’s has been synonymous with rich Mexican culinary traditions mixed with innovative flair. What began as a humble restaurant in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico in 1927, founded by Ruben Monroy’s grandmother, has now blossomed into a multi-location dining destination. Under the leadership of Chef Ruben Monroy, Elvira’s continues to honor its roots while also embracing contemporary twists.
“I always knew how to cook – I was always helping when I was a kid there in the kitchen,” Monroy recalls, reflecting on his early immersion in the family business. After relocating Elvira’s to Tubac in the early 2000s, Monroy transformed the restaurant into a beloved destination known not just for its flavorful dishes but also for its eclectic interior design.

Now, Monroy has brought Elvira’s to Scottsdale, opening its doors in DC Ranch on January 3, 2025. This upscale venture is a collaboration between Monroy and seasoned restaurateur Tom Kaufman, known for his successful Southwest establishments, including The Living Room. Kaufman saw DC Ranch as the perfect locale to marry Elvira’s storied past with a fresh, modern dining experience.
“In the business, it’s location, location, location,” Monroy explains. “You can have a great product in a bad location, and it’s very difficult. So when I came to DC Ranch and saw the area, I was like, ‘wow, this is more or less the area where I’d like to bring all these ideas and more inventive cuisine.’”
Elvira’s Scottsdale features a two-story, 3,600-square-foot space adorned with private velvet seating areas, limewashed walls, antique mirrors, and a walk-in wine cellar. Meanwhile, soulful music enhances the ambiance.
The menu celebrates Elvira’s heritage while embracing new culinary adventures. It features fan favorites like chile rellenos and an array of moles, including mole negro, made with chile mulato, sesame, cacao, and plantains, and mole poblano, crafted with Mexican chocolate, a variety of chiles, and cinnamon.

The restaurant prides itself on the authenticity of its ingredients. Essential elements for its moles are sourced directly from Oaxaca, Puebla, and Mexico City. Monroy even plans to take his Scottsdale team to Mexico City soon for firsthand culinary inspiration. “It’s one thing to explain the recipes to them, but it’s another to go to the source and taste it there,” Monroy says. “Then they’re like, ‘Oh, wow, now I get it—I understand the flavor.'”
Since its opening, the Scottsdale location has exceeded expectations. “[It’s been] amazing—we sold out; there are no open tables,” Monroy says. “It’s been a lot of work, but very rewarding.”
As for the future, Monroy isn’t ruling out further expansion. “If it happens, I’ll be mentally ready,” he laughs.

Stay up-to-date on the latest menu offerings, special events, and more on Elvira’s Instagram page or visit their website for details.
Location:
20825 N Pima Rd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
