Celebrity Chef Richard Blais Brings Global Fusion Cuisine to Scottsdale with Tiki Taka Restaurant

Celebrated chef Richard Blais has opened a new restaurant, Tiki Taka, in the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort in Arizona. Known for his innovative culinary approach and TV appearances, Blais's latest venture features shared plates that blend Japanese and Spanish flavors with Southwest local ingredients. His cocktail menu also incorporates these global influences.

Blais built his reputation working under renowned chefs like Thomas Keller, Daniel Boulud, and Ferran Adria. He gained public recognition as the winner of the first Top Chef All-Stars series on Bravo. He has also authored three cookbooks and co-stars on FOX's Next Level Chef.

Tiki Taka's menu is designed around small plates that are ideal for sharing. Cold offerings include Hamachi Pizza with pickled daikon and bonito flakes, Crispy Soft Shell Crab Escabeche with black garlic yuzu, and Tartina featuring Korean cucumber, iberico ham, and uni. Hot dishes such as pan-fried Chorizo Gyoza and Spot Prawns A La Plancha are also available.

The menu further provides Pintxos & Yakitori options including Beef Bacon-Wrapped Dates with valdeon cheese and Octopus with crispy potato and parsley aioli. A full sushi bar offers specialty rolls like the Tiki Taka Roll and the Crujiente Doble. Sweet Tapas options, such as Basque Cheesecake and Kakigori, complete the dining line-up.

The cocktail program at Tiki Taka mirrors the global influences of the food menu. Signature drinks like the Osaka Sour and Ube Espresso Martini, which incorporate Spanish and Japanese ingredients, are featured. Tableside Sangria, available in both Tinto and Blanco varieties, is unique. The restaurant also offers wines, sake, and an extensive selection of Japanese whisky.

Tiki Taka's interior, designed by Wimberly Interiors, draws inspiration from Spanish landmarks and Japanese izakayas. The 30-seat interior features a communal table, a sushi and tapas display counter, and lounge-style booths. Neon accents and digital art displays add a modern touch. The outdoor seating area can accommodate 108 additional guests and offers a view of the surrounding natural landscape.

Tiki Taka is open daily from 5pm-10pm. Reservations can be made on OpenTable.