After long zoning approval delays followed by a ramped-up construction schedule, the new Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill finally opened its doors last month at the southwest corner of 16th Street and Bethany Home Road.

This Z’Tejas location was one of the first “ground-up” construction projects in the neighborhood, with the restaurant modeled after famed architect Ralph Haver, to blend in with the surrounding homes.

“This location is a sign of perseverance and support from the neighborhood,” says Z’Tejas CEO Steven Micheletti. “We are excited to open our doors in the heart of central Phoenix.”

Z’Tejas offers Southwestern fare with seasonal menu items and specialty cocktails, including the award-winning Chambord margarita. The new location features five uniquely designed dining rooms each with a different feel, side panels that open to the outside, a greenhouse room with a retractable roof and “living wall” inset with live plants and greenery. The restaurant seats roughly 290 guests.

Z’Tejas Southwestern Grill, based in Scottsdale, hired more than 100 people for its newest location in North Central Phoenix. This is the restaurant group’s fifth Valley location. Visit www.ztejas.com for more information and follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ztejassouthwesterngrill.