



Staff Reports | Business & Commerce
Starfish Hospitality Group, a restaurant and catering company based in Orange County, is hiring 117 positions for its first Arizona location at Hayden Road and Via de Ventura.
Starfish Scottsdale, found at 8390 E. Vía de Ventura, is scheduled to open in spring 2026. Hiring will take place during an onsite expo from Monday, From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 23 through Friday, March 27, according to a press release.
“At Starfish, we believe great restaurants are built by great people,” said Ric Gordon, operating partner of Starfish Hospitality Group. “Our focus has always been on creating a workplace where our staff feels supported, challenged, and proud of what they do every day. As we bring Starfish to Scottsdale, we’re excited to build a STAR team that values quality, hospitality, and a genuine sense of community.”
The restaurant is hiring more than 60 front-of-house roles, including servers, bartenders, barbacks, lead coordinator hosts, hosts, takeout specialists and support staff positions such as bussers, expos and runners. Directly tipped positions, including servers and bartenders, will start at $12.15 per hour, while support roles will pay $15.15 per hour.
Host-team positions, including hosts, takeout specialists and lead coordinators, will earn between $15.15 and $20 per hour depending on role and experience.
Starfish Scottsdale is also hiring more than 50 back-of-house positions. Open roles include dishwashers, prep cooks, wok cooks, grill cooks, sushi team members, pantry staff and drahma roles. Back-of-house pay ranges from $19 to $29 per hour, depending on position and cross-training.
Both full-time and part-time positions are available.
The company says employees will receive competitive wages, flexible scheduling and access to a 401(k) program. Previous industry experience is preferred but not required, with training available for qualified candidates. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States, be at least 18 years old for most positions and 21 or older for bartender roles.
Candidates may apply online through the Starfish Hospitality Group website or via Indeed. Applicants may submit applications for multiple roles depending on experience and interest.
Founded in 2011 by Gretchen McConnell and her husband, Archie, Starfish Hospitality Group includes Starfish Laguna Beach, Starfish Newport Beach, Starfish Coastal Catering and The Cove by Starfish, a concessions concept at the Sawdust Art Festival.
The Scottsdale restaurant will span 5,200 square feet, including 3,800 square feet indoors and a 1,400-square-foot patio. The space will offer dine-in service, takeout, private dining and catering options.


















