It’s time to make reservations for Arizona Restaurant Week, back in September, and we’re delighted to discover there are a few surprises this year. For 2010, the event is expanding to encompass not only venues in the Phoenix metro area, but also to the Tucson city limits. Also, those with special dietary restrictions or preferences will be happy to hear that this year there will be gluten-free menu options at select restaurants.

Each year, Arizona Restaurant Week provides attendees with the opportunity to enjoy sumptuous, multi-course dinners at high-end restaurants for a special fixed rate. For 2010, those rates will be $19, $29 or $39 per person, depending on which of the more than 150 participating restaurants you select. A few of the venues we’ll be making reservations with include Chandler’s Cork restaurant, serving small-plated American and French cuisine; Scottsdale’s Roka Akor, serving fine sushi and Robata grill menu items; Talavera restaurant at Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, serving some of the very best contemporary American cuisine in the state; and Old Town’s The Mission, where chef Aaron May showcases superb modern Latin fare.

Other Phoenix hotspots that will be participating include such favorites as Lon’s at The Hermosa, Eddie V’s, Fleming’s, Blanco Tacos + Tequila, Atlas Bistro, House of Tricks, Morton’s The Steakhouse, St. Francis, Sassi, Ocean Prime, Roaring Fork and many more.

Some restaurants will be including a drink, such as a glass of wine, as part of their Arizona Restaurant Week meal; visit the site for a list of participating venues and to learn which restaurants will be including drinks and serving gluten-free dishes.

Learn more about Arizona Restaurant Week here.