We’re excited to share that COURSE Restaurant was recently featured by Scottsdale.com following our recognition from The Pinnacle Guide, one of the world’s most respected cocktail ranking systems.

The article highlights COURSE’s recent award of an Excellent Pin, placing our beverage program among just 30 venues recognized globally this year. The distinction places COURSE alongside acclaimed destinations in cities including Paris, London, Hong Kong, Rome, Chicago, Toronto, Vancouver, Washington, D.C., and New York City.

While COURSE is widely known for Executive Chef Cory Oppold’s tasting menus and innovative approach to fine dining, Scottsdale.com explores what makes this recognition especially meaningful: COURSE is not a cocktail bar first. It is a fine dining restaurant whose beverage program has evolved into an essential part of the overall guest experience.

Led by Beverage Director Justin Chard, the cocktail program at COURSE is built around the same creativity, storytelling, and technical precision that define the culinary experience. Rather than functioning solely as pairings, the cocktails are designed to contribute to the narrative of the evening, creating a seamless dialogue between the kitchen and bar.

The feature also highlights the current Tropic Thunder cocktail menu, including favorites such as Just ‘Cause It’s the Theme Song Don’t Make It Not True and More Shredded Than a Julienne Salad, both examples of the playful yet highly intentional approach that has become a signature of the beverage program.

In addition to recognizing the cocktail program, Scottsdale.com also showcases several dishes from the current SPRING Menu, including Radish and Toast, Fried Pickle, Peas & Carrots, and Dirt Dessert. Together, the food and beverage programs reflect the collaborative vision that continues to shape the COURSE experience.

We’re incredibly proud of Justin Chard, Chef Cory Oppold, and the entire COURSE team for helping elevate what hospitality, food, and beverage can look like when creativity and execution come together at the highest level.

Thank you to Michelle Glicksman and Scottsdale.com for sharing our story and helping spotlight the incredible work happening both in the kitchen and behind the bar.