When you’re ahead 40-love in tennis, it likely means you’re about to crush your opponent and win a game in your match. When you’re at 40 Love in Scottsdale, it means you’re about to crush some cocktails and elevated cuisine in a cozy, country–club-like atmosphere.
Billed as a new Old Town Scottsdale hot spot, the Los Angeles import takes over the space previously occupied by Kelly’s at SouthBridge on 6th Avenue and Stetson Drive. Celebrity investors include singer-songwriter Niall Horan and former Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Deandre Hopkins.
No, there’s no tennis court, in the current pickleball-lounge style, but the patio is still one of the better outdoor spaces in town, and the interiors were elevated to be more posh and luxurious like you’d expect from a high-end country club. Vintage tennis racquets hang on the walls for added décor and the wait staff hustles like ballboys at Wimbledon. Toss in a talented bartending crew and creative cocktails, and 40 Love may be a serious contender on the Scottsdale nightlife scene.
Initially set to debut in spring 2024, the club opened earlier this month – finally achieving launch after a series of construction delays.
We volleyed questions with co-owners Sean Mulholland and Avery Johnson Jr. (son of the former NBA point guard) on the restaurant’s Valley debut, celebrity sightings and why they chose Scottdale after the closure of their L.A. location. They answered collectively through a representative.
What sort of response has 40 Love received since opening?
The response has been incredibly strong and very validating. From day one, we’ve seen consistent reservations, strong walk-in demand, and a real buzz around the concept. What’s been most exciting is that guests aren’t just coming once – they’re coming back, bringing friends, and staying longer than they planned. That tells us we’ve created something that resonates beyond just opening-week hype.
The food and beverage industry is very competitive in this town – how does your program stand out?
Scottsdale has no shortage of great restaurants and nightlife, but there’s a real gap when it comes to places that seamlessly blend elevated dining, serious cocktails and a social lounge atmosphere under one roof. Our food program is chef-driven but approachable, our beverage program is built with intention – not just flash –and the energy evolves throughout the night. You don’t have to choose between dinner or a vibe; you get both in one experience.
What’s the menu like for dinner and for late night?
Dinner focuses on elevated, shareable dishes alongside refined entrées – food that feels indulgent but still social. As the night transitions, the menu shifts to more late-night-friendly options: craveable plates that pair perfectly with cocktails and champagne. The idea is that whether you’re sitting down for a full meal or stopping in late, the food always matches the moment.
Is 40 Love more about the dining experience or the nightlife?
It’s intentionally both. Early in the evening, it’s very much about the dining experience – conversation, atmosphere, and service. As the night progresses, the energy builds and the lounge side really comes alive. We designed it so guests don’t feel like they have to leave to “go somewhere else.” The night naturally unfolds around you.
Tell me about the interiors and the design inspiration behind it.
The design was inspired by a modern country-club aesthetic with European influences – warm textures, layered lighting, custom finishes, and intimate seating. We wanted it to feel luxurious but not pretentious, stylish but comfortable. Every detail was considered to encourage people to settle in, socialize, and feel like they’repart of something special rather than just passing through.
You already had Devin Booker and rapper Gunna on opening night, and you’re partnered with DeAndre Hopkins and Niall Horan. Is this the new celebrity sighting place in Scottsdale – and how do you keep them coming back?
We don’t chase celebrity for the sake of it — we focus on creating an environment people genuinely want to return to. Privacy, consistency, great service, and a welcoming atmosphere matter just as much as the energy. Scottsdale attracts an incredible mix of athletes, entertainers, and creatives, and 40 Love naturally fits into that lifestyle. When people feel comfortable, respected, and taken care of, they come back – whether they’re well-known or not.
The Los Angeles location was known for celeb sightings but is now closed. What lessons were learned, and how are they applied here?
Los Angeles taught us invaluable lessons about scale, focus, and operational discipline. With Scottsdale, we were very intentional about right-sizing the concept, refining the experience, and building strong local roots. This location is about longevity – creating something that’s sustainable, consistent, and deeply connected to the community, not just moment-driven buzz.
What was it about Scottsdale that appealed to you to open 40 Love here?
Scottsdale has a unique balance of luxury, leisure, and social culture. People here appreciate quality – whether it’s food, design, service, or experiences – and they also know how to enjoy themselves. There was a clear opportunity to introduce something elevated but fun, refined yet approachable, that felt tailored to the city rather than copied from somewhere else.
Event season is here in the Valley – car shows, golf tournaments, spring training. How do you capitalize on that?
Those moments are a huge part of Scottsdale’s rhythm. We build curated programming, private events, and elevated experiences around major weekends and tournaments. Whether it’s pre-event dinners, late-night celebrations, or brand partnerships, 40 Love is designed to be a natural gathering place during peak moments in the Valley.
If You Go:
40 Love
7117 E. 6th Ave., Scottsdale
40lovegroup.com
Open Tuesday-Thursday 4pm-10pm; Friday-Saturday 4pm-2am; Sunday 4pm-10pm; closed on Mondays
Menu Highlights
- Start with the delicate presentation and perfect pinch of salt on the Seasonal Crudo ($26).
- American Wagyu is shipped in from Snake River Farms in Idaho ($75-95).
- Brown Butter Pommes Puree ($13) is delicious but make sure you’re playing doubles because this side is enough for two or more.
- If your cocktail of choice is an Old Fashioned, the restaurant’s version is called Chemistry Set ($19) and is stellar. For the non-drinker, The Pompelmo Sparkler N/A cocktail ($11) is a refreshing pairing for any meal.
- Finish off the match with a Tiramisu S’more ($15) for dessert.
