Although today’s spring training season opener between the Dodgers and Diamondbacks at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick has Dodger fans buzzing with excitement, there is another annual ritual that has ThinkBlueLA forum regulars buzzing with excitement – their annual group trip to Don & Charlie’s Restaurant in Scottsdale.

Owned and operated by Don Carson since 1981, Don & Charlie’s is not only one of the most popular restaurants in Scottsdale, it is one of the best restaurants in all of Arizona. Their house specialties are their barbecued baby back ribs, their great steaks and a prime rib that is to die for. But in addition to their great menu is their absolutely unbelievable sports memorabilia collection that makes Don & Charlie’s a sports fan’s paradise.

The baby back ribs at Don & Charlie’s are outstanding.

The entire establishment is chock full of sports memorabilia including hundreds (or maybe thousands) of autographed baseballs, bats, jerseys, and photographs of athletes from every professional sport.

Don & Charlie’s has one of the best sports memorabilia collections on the planet.

Among Don’s personal favorites are his Babe Ruth signed baseball and jerseys signed by Willie Mays, Michael Jordan and Larry Bird.

During spring training it is not uncommon to see MLB players, coaches, managers, broadcasters and other celebrities enjoying their off-time at Don & Charlie’s with family and friends. As such, fans should be respectful of their privacy and not hound them for autographs. That being said, if you happen to observe them signing for others, politely asking for an autograph would not be out of line; but here again, if they decline please respect their wishes and their privacy.

In addition to the restaurant itself, Don & Charlie’s also has a Burger Bar and, of course, a great sports bar. Both of these are first come-first served and are frequently packed, so plan accordingly.

The bar at Don & Charlie’s is the very definition of a sports bar.

Don & Charlie’s is located at 7501 East Camelback Rd. in Scottsdale, AZ (480-990-0900) and is open Monday-Saturday from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM and Sunday from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Although reservations are not mandatory, be prepared to wait for up to an hour if you choose not to make them.

Play ball and bon appétit!

(Photos courtesy of donandcharlies.com)