I’m into this one. La La Land Kind Cafe opening a new Scottsdale location feels like a smart, natural move — the kind of expansion that makes sense before you even get into the details. According to What Now Phoenix, the cafe is headed to The Lakefront at Scottsdale, and that alone tells me this isn’t some random pin-drop on a map. It’s a waterfront redevelopment, and those spots tend to have a little extra pull.

What stands out to me is the setting. The Lakefront at Scottsdale sits at 7501 E. McCormick Parkway, and What Now Phoenix says the roughly 100,000-square-foot property dates to 1978 and is being renovated for restaurants, shops, offices, and outdoor gathering spaces. That’s a real mix, and it gives the whole project a built-in reason to exist beyond just one storefront. Add in the lake views and Camelback Mountain views mentioned in the report, and yeah, this has the bones of a place people will actually want to linger.

The timing is still a little open-ended, though. What Now Phoenix says the opening date has not been announced, but a groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for September 24. So this is not a “see you next week” situation. It’s more of a watch-this-space moment. Still, I’d call it encouraging. A brand like La La Land Kind Cafe usually benefits from being somewhere with foot traffic, a little buzz, and a setting that matches the vibe. This checks those boxes.

And if you’re already a La La Land regular, the Arizona footprint is getting more interesting. The cafe’s location directory currently lists two Arizona spots, according to What Now Phoenix: Kierland Commons in Scottsdale and 5039 N. 44th St. in Phoenix. The same report also notes earlier plans for a cafe at Biltmore Fashion Park and a possible location near SanTan Village in Gilbert. That tells me the brand is still actively testing where it fits best in the Valley, and Scottsdale is clearly still in the conversation.

For me, the menu angle just adds to the appeal. What Now Phoenix says La La Land serves espresso and matcha drinks, signature lattes, fruit coolers, and sweet and savory toasts, with items like the La La Latte, Banana Cloud Latte, French Toast Latte, truffle burrata toast, and avo… listed among the featured choices. That’s very much the kind of lineup that works when the setting is part of the draw.

So yeah, I’m calling this a good fit. Not flashy for the sake of being flashy. Just a brand landing in a place that seems built to support it. That’s the kind of Valley development I can get behind.

— Fat Jimmy