TASTE • DINE
Detroit Proud David Najor brings the flavors of Michigan to Scottsdale
David Najor says his faith in God assures he’ll be successful— and he has with Detroit Coney Grill, which recently opened in Scottsdale. (Photo by Pablo Robles)
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
W
hen David Najor moved to Arizona, he brought the feelings, the work ethic and the love he has for Michigan. His new Detroit Coney Grill restaurant in Scottsdale is peppered with Great Lakes State freeway signs and photos of famous
Detroit Coney Grill recently opened in North Scottsdale with a cadre of Michigan products. (Photo by Pablo Robles)
Michiganders, but more importantly there’s the food. The Detroit native lines his shelves with Sanders hot fudge, Better Made chips, Sanders trail mix and Vernors and Faygo pop—not soda here—everything Michiganders have
come to love. Coneys are the top dog here, with chili, mustard and onions piled high. “I noticed the Coneys out here were garbage and a lot of the restaurants out here were not mom-and-pop establishments,” Najor says in between guests’ hugs. “It was all chain after chain after chain. Everyone thought I was going to fail because it’s a new business, new state, new industry, but I just kept it simple.” Najor and his family are in the grocery store business, but by keeping it simple, he has found success with food. “I just treat people the way I would want to be treated,” Najor says. “I offer good food at a fair price. I have God on my side, so I can’t lose—ever.” The extensive menu includes a Detroit Coney ($4.85); the Detroit loose burger ($5.45), seasoned ground beef with chili, mustard and onions; and a “plain” Coney dog NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM JUNE 2020 | JULY 2020
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