Once considered the “Wild West,” Phoenix has swiftly become a cultural and culinary hotspot, rivaling the likes of Los Angeles, New York City, Austin and San Francisco. Within the past few years, Phoenix has seen a notable increase in members-only dining clubs that cater to affluent locals and tourists alike who seek exclusivity and elevated experiences. This trend, already well underway nationwide, is now picking up momentum in the Valley.
The number of high-end private dining and social clubs in the U.S. has grown by more than 66% over the past decade, raising from just 90 nationwide in 2023 to more than 150 today. From Soho House expansions to private speakeasies tucked inside luxury hotels and high-rises across the nation’s leading cities, these clubs offer more than just a table — they offer a curated lifestyle. Membership often includes access to exclusive events, private lounges and networking opportunities with like-minded individuals.
In Phoenix, the movement began with the debut of The Ra Ra Room last November. Co-created by Mario Carbone and the renowned Major Food Group team, alongside Phoenix Suns and Mercury owner Mat Ishbia, the downtown destination also makes waves as a first-of-its-kind combination of dining and entertainment due to its hidden location in the PHX Arena. While its glamorous Art-Deco design and signature Carbone dishes are conversation-worthy, The Ra Ra Room’s deeper appeal lies in what it represents: Phoenix’s growing appetite for memorable dining and entertainment experiences.
One defining element is the return of white-glove hospitality, an often-overlooked luxury in today’s fast-casual, tech-driven dining landscape. For many members, it’s not just about exclusivity; it’s about impeccable service, which reinforces a sense of value, comfort and prestige that’s hard to replicate. From door-to-door valet services to seamless personalized check-in, members can slow down, be present and truly savor the experience. In an era of automation and self-service, these thoughtful human touches feel refreshingly rare.
Phoenix’s influx of new residents and flourishing downtown scene create the perfect space for these new venues. The Ra Ra Room is one of only two private dining concepts in the Valley today, but, as Phoenix continues to level up, members-only dining may become less of a novelty and more of a normalcy. With a rising demand for elevated, intimate experiences, these clubs are poised to redefine how locals and visitors engage with the city’s culinary and social offerings.
Born and raised in New York, Jared LoPriore brings over a decade of experience with Major Food Group to his role as general manager of The Ra Ra Room. From his early days in service, he quickly rose through the ranks into management, eventually joining the team at the original Carbone in New York and the intimate ZZ’s Clam Bar.
LoPriore’s expertise and leadership have been instrumental in opening and operating several of MFG’s marquee destinations, including Carbone Miami (2020) and Carbone Dallas.
Hand-selected by Mario Carbone himself, LoPriore now leads The Ra Ra Room in Phoenix — the first-ever private dining club inside a major sports and entertainment venue — where he brings MFG’s signature blend of elegance, energy, and impeccable service to a one-of-a-kind experience in the Southwest.
Headshot photo courtesy of Barry Gossage Photography
Photo courtesy of Major Food Group
