The restaurant serves lunch and dinner daily, with a menu rooted in Italian inspiration rather than strict tradition. Housemade pastas, fresh breads, seafood and prime meats butchered in-house form the backbone of the offerings, with standouts like meatballs made with beef, lamb and pork, crispy artichokes with olive aioli, bolognese with mafaldine noodles, and gemelli pasta with spicy vodka sauce. The menu also offers salads like the Plaza, with roasted chicken, golden beets, pancetta, goat cheese and a vinaigrette made with Crockett Honey from Tempe. Sandwiches include the Combo, layered with thinly sliced Italian charcuterie, fresh mozzarella and cherry pepper spread. For dessert, the Italian Sundae, finished with pistachios and a drizzle of olive oil from Queen Creek Olive Mill, is emblematic of the kitchen’s restrained, balanced approach to richness. Il Bracco’s beverage program features a curated wine list with a focus on Italian wines, as well as a selection of local and imported beers and craft cocktails, including the Bracco, a frozen riff on a Greyhound with Aperol and fresh grapefruit. The restaurant also offers a selection of martinis, including the popular espresso martini, crafted with imported Italian coffee liqueur and a freshly brewed shot of Cartel Roasting Co. espresso. “We focus on doing simple things exceptionally well — fresh pastas made daily, a wine program full of incredible wines at accessible prices and service that feels warm and polished without ever feeling formal,” Quick said. “Il Bracco is a restaurant that can meet you wherever you are, whether that’s a casual lunch on the patio with friends, a family weeknight dinner or a more elevated celebration.” Design plays a central role. A patio anchored by a stone fireplace gives way to interiors layered in leather, wood and cork, with commissioned artwork adding a residential warmth. The effect is transportive without feeling contrived — less theme, more mood. “Ultimately, it feels like an extension of your dining experience — elevated, but easy and a place you’d like to linger,” Quick said. For more information, visit ilbraccorestaurant.com . 58 | FRONTDOORS MAGAZINE 58 | FRONTDOORS MAGAZINE KITCHEN DOORS
On Saturday, March 21, the Valley’s most influential philanthropists and medical pioneers gathered for Gateway Celebrity Fight Night . Hosted by Dr. Stacie J. and Mr. Richard J Stephenson , the evening was more than a gala; it was a spectacular celebration of the “healing power of HOPE.” A NIGHT TO REMEMBER The ballroom at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess was electrified by world-class entertainment that mirrored the evening’s urgent mission and vibrant energy. • Brya n Adams: The global rock icon headlined the night with a dynamic private concert, bringing his signature sound to the fight against cancer. • Davi d Foster: The 16-time GRAMMY Award winner continued his tenure as Musical Director, shaping an unforgettable experience. • A Stage of Stars: The night featured powerhouse performances from R&B vocalist Sheléa and jazz singer Brenna Whitaker , all masterfully emceed by actor and cancer survivor Erich Bergen . Beyo nd the stage, the evening featured a cocktail reception, elegant dinner and a spirited live auction — including a 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser — to raise critical funds. THE MISSION: 100% IMPACT At the heart of the evening is a mission that resonates deeply: accelerating breakthroughs in cancer treatment. Gateway for Cancer Research focuses exclusively on funding Phase I and Phase II clinical trials — the essential step in bringing new therapies from the lab to patients. What sets Gateway apart is a powerful promise: 100 percent of every donation directly funds cancer research . This commitment is made possible through the generous underwriting of Dr. Stacie J. and Mr. Richard J Stephenson, ensuring every dollar fuels innovation and HOPE. STORIES OF HOPE Guests were introduced to the powerful story of James “Chris” Kirk , a stage four pancreatic cancer patient. Through a Gateway-funded telemedicine trial, Chris received groundbreaking treatment from the comfort of his home. His story is a testament to what early-phase research can achieve: not just extending life, but restoring possibility. A LEGACY OF HEALING Since 1991, Gateway has invested over $126 million in 255 clinical trials , impacting more than 10,000 patients and contributing to the development of new FDA-approved treatments. By supporting Gateway, you aren’t just funding a study; you are accelerating HOPE. WHERE HOPE TAKES CENTER STAGE An unforgettable evening fueling the future of medicine – A DV E RT I S E M E NT – BE A GATEWAY: Join the movement to end cancer as we know it. Learn more or donate at GatewayCR.org .


