Hero, the Italian restaurant from Vivili Hospitality Group, will debut Oct. 30, marking the first of three concepts from the Prescott-based group to open near Roosevelt Row.
Located at 1030 N. 1st St., the 2,800-square-foot restaurant, with a 2,500-square-foot patio to follow, introduces a vibrant, design-forward take on the modern Italian neighborhood restaurant, centered around handmade pasta, timeless cocktails, and genuine hospitality.
The opening of Hero represents Vivili Hospitality Group’s first project in the Phoenix market and sets the stage for two additional concepts, PIZZANISTA! and Bar Saint Bruno, to follow nearby, establishing a multi-concept destination in one of the city’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
“Hero is the first expression of what we’re building in Phoenix,” said Skyler Reeves, founder of Vivili Hospitality Group. “We wanted to create a place that is completely focused on hospitality and connection, not just with each of our guests, but with the neighborhood that we already love so much. The icing on the cake is the creative design, energetic atmosphere, and unforgettable food. It will feel transportive, but still grounded in hospitality, somewhere people can come often and feel connected to.”
At its core, Hero is a celebration of Italian cooking, anchored by a menu centered on handmade pastas, seasonal ingredients, and approachable, craveable dishes. Culinary director Yuji Iwasa leads the kitchen, bringing a Japanese accent to Italian classics: Charred Octopus with ceci bean salad and romesco; Tuna Crudo with yuzu kosho, pistachio, extra virgin olive oil and Maldon salt; Black Spaghetti Vongole with clams; Agnolotti Di Plin with ricotta, lemon and brown butter miso; Branzino Alla Piccata with vine ripe tomato, caper and lemon; and a Chicken “Katsu” Parmigiana finished with vodka sauce and melted mozzarella. Dessert keeps the crossover going with Black Sesame Panna Cotta and a Matcha Tea-Ra-Misu.
The beverage program was developed in collaboration with Vincenzo Marianella, widely regarded as the “Godfather of the LA cocktail scene,” bringing a refined yet approachable perspective rooted in classic cocktail culture. Like the dishes on the menu, the cocktails mix influences, with Italian amari, Japanese whisky and Southwest heat showing up across the list: the Arizona Spritz with Aperol, St.-Germain, watermelon juice, prosecco, soda and thyme; the Mayan Bliss with tequila, lychee liqueur, fresh lime and habanero, finished with a tahini rim; the Sicario with mezcal, Cynar, apricot liqueur and Peychaud’s bitters; and the Dunhill Smoke, which pairs Japanese whisky with Amaro Montenegro, Amaro Lucano and Jerry Thomas bitters.
To bring Hero to life, Vivili partnered with award-winning Built Inc. to lead design. The space is designed to unfold as a series of distinct yet connected environments. Inside, the bar anchors the room with a sculptural, curved form and softly arched, backlit backdrop that casts a warm glow across the space, creating a cinematic focal point upon entry.
The main dining room is layered with rich materials and saturated color, pairing terrazzo surfaces, patterned textiles, and dramatic drapery with custom lighting and acoustic ceiling installations that create movement and intimacy throughout.
Hero’s 2,500-square-foot patio is set to debut soon, extending the experience outdoors with a lush, garden-like setting. Overhead wood trellising, integrated greenery and vibrant seating will invite guests to gather and linger.
As the first concept to open, Hero will anchor Vivili’s broader Phoenix footprint, with PIZZANISTA!, a fast-casual pizza concept developed in collaboration with Los Angeles-based founder Salman Agah, and Bar Saint Bruno, an intimate cocktail bar inspired by one of Reeves’ mentors, set to follow.
To learn more, visit PhxHero.com.
