Cafe Monarch

Fine dining restaurant · Scottsdale

Cafe Monarch

Fine dining restaurant · Scottsdale

5

6939 E 1st Ave, Scottsdale, AZ 85251

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Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by Monarch Cafe
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null
Cafe Monarch by null

Highlights

Cafe Monarch blends sophisticated New American prix-fixe dining with romantic vibes, impeccable service, and artful seasonal dishes in an elegant, chandelier-lit space.  

Featured in Eater
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6939 E 1st Ave, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 Get directions

cafemonarch.com

$100+ · Menu

Reserve

Information

Static Map

6939 E 1st Ave, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 Get directions

+1 480 970 7682
cafemonarch.com

$100+ · Menu

Reserve

Features

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reservations
reservations required
outdoor seating

Last updated

Jul 30, 2025

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@eater

The Best Romantic Restaurants in Phoenix for Date Night

"Many high-end Scottsdale restaurants flirt with over-the-top opulence, but Cafe Monarch sets a standard for refined romance. Regularly garnering local and national awards, the restaurant remains a benchmark for its impeccable service and tasting menus; its stonework courtyards, draped in vines, feel like an escape to an Italian or Mexican villa. The four-course prix fixe menu changes seasonally, with prices ranging from $145 to $270 depending on the final course. Upgrades like seared Hudson Valley foie gras or Osetra caviar are also available. Children under 10 aren’t permitted, and formal or business casual attire is required — think jackets, collared shirts, and no casual wear. For a more relaxed experience, the bar offers an à la carte menu." - Mcconnell Quinn

https://phoenix.eater.com/maps/best-romantic-restaurants-date-night-phoenix-arizona
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@eater

9 Phoenix Restaurants Serving Splurge-Worthy Meals

"Housed in a former designer showroom, chef Christian Lewkowicz’s elegant New American restaurant in Old Town is completely over-the-top, featuring crystal chandeliers, tufted chairs, and Roman-style pillars in a setting that oozes romance. The price of the four-course tasting menu depends on the entree selection, which might offer a $150 herb-crusted rack of lamb or a $275 A5 wagyu. Caviar service ranges from $125 for Siberian Osetra to $700 for a four-ounce elite Osetra tasting. Another option is simply going with the eight-course chef’s tasting menu at $270 per person. Wine pairings are an additional $175 per person, so either way, breathtaking amounts of money will be spent. For a different and perhaps more intimate experience, try Monarch’s sister restaurant Reserve, which sits across the street. Here, the edgier eight-course prix fixe menu costs $285 per person." - Nikki Buchanan

https://phoenix.eater.com/maps/best-phoenix-splurge-special-occasion-restaurants-tasting-menu-omakase-meals
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@afar

"A One-Man Show Café Monarch is to dining what the monologue is to theater, meaning a one-man show. Chef Chris is the guy who will cook your food. He’s also the guy who will take your reservation, field your order, and, quite possibly, bus your table. It’s a small and intimate place that’s been compared to the Secret Garden. I get that. The entire spot measures only 500 square feet and it’s some serious face time with one of Scottsdale’s best chefs. It’s a labor of love where the menu changes daily."

The Perfect Weekend in Scottsdale
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@afar

"A One-Man Show Café Monarch is to dining what the monologue is to theater, meaning a one-man show. Chef Chris is the guy who will cook your food. He’s also the guy who will take your reservation, field your order, and, quite possibly, bus your table. It’s a small and intimate place that’s been compared to the Secret Garden. I get that. The entire spot measures only 500 square feet and it’s some serious face time with one of Scottsdale’s best chefs. It’s a labor of love where the menu changes daily."

The Best Restaurants in Scottsdale
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@postcardnews

Hidden behind Cafe Monarch, Reserve is an exclusive tasting-menu-only experience helmed by Chef Gus Lewkowicz. This intimate, chef-driven spot offers multi-course meals that showcase global flavors, artistic plating, and rare ingredients. Its ever-changing menu and immersive service have caught the attention of OpenTable and Arizona Foothills Magazine, positioning it as a sought-after destination for adventurous diners seeking something truly special.

Michelin-Star Dining in Scottsdale: A Curated Guide to Excellence and Local Flavor
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AJ

Google
A darling choice for celebrating my mother’s birthday. The atmosphere is refined yet warm, with soft, whimsical touches that elevate the experience without ever feeling forced. I was especially pleased that the flowers I had delivered were thoughtfully displayed at our table - it added such a personal, celebratory note to the evening. The food was lovely throughout, and as an oyster enthusiast, I was delighted by their freshness and presentation. Service was attentive and polished, enhancing the overall charm of the evening. My only note is that the dress code appears more flexible in practice than their website suggests, which slightly detracted from the otherwise curated ambiance. Still, Café Monarch remains a standout in Scottsdale. Elegant, inviting, and worth the visit!

T Y

Google
Cafe Monarch is an upscale restaurant offering a set-course menu, and it’s clear that many guests come here for special occasions—I was no exception. We visited for my birthday, and they printed my name on the menu, which was such a thoughtful and personal touch. The menu is definitely on the expensive side, but the food was absolutely lovely, and the portions were generous—unlike some fine dining experiences where you leave still feeling hungry. For the first course, we both chose the tuna. If I’m being picky, the tuna itself wasn’t seasoned much, so without the accompanying condiments, it was a bit plain. That said, it might have been intentional to keep it light and not overwhelm the palate right from the start. For the second course, I opted for the pork belly while my partner chose the shrimp. The pork belly was deliciously tender, though the portion was quite small and left me wanting more. Meanwhile, the shrimp was impressively large and tasted fresh, though slightly too salty for my taste. For the third course, we both went with the veal, which was cooked perfectly with a beautiful pink center. Surprisingly, the standout for me was the carrot served alongside it—it was incredibly flavorful, possibly the best carrot I’ve tasted in a long time. For the final course, I had the fritti di mare, a seafood pasta dish that I absolutely loved and still think about today. It was packed with seafood and had a creamy, slightly tangy tomato-based sauce. My partner ordered the lamb, which was also lovely, although like the shrimp, it leaned a bit too salty. The restaurant also offered a complimentary bubbly drink to start and a dessert with a small fireworks display to celebrate my birthday, which made the evening even more special. All in all, the service was excellent and the experience was memorable, though the bill—including a $90 tip—was definitely a reminder that special occasions come with a price!

Karissa M

Google
This isn’t just a restaurant, or just a meal, this place is an experience! My husband and I have dined here twice and both experiences were top notch, like no other restaurant we’ve ever been to. It’s incredibly beautiful inside, soft lighting and so romantic. We’ve dined both inside and out and I think the outside experience was better, more private. Our inside table was in sort of a high traffic area so a lot of activity and difficult to hear each other at times, but didn’t take away from our evening. Every dish is so thoughtfully prepared, beautiful presentation and so delicious, every bite bursting with flavor and perfect balance. Every dish is thoroughly explained with so much love and detail from the staff. The service is out of this world. I’m so sorry I can’t remember our servers name because he was truly a master in his craft, he took such good care of us and made our evening very special. But really every person in this restaurant goes out of their way to make sure your experience is perfect. This is a perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. They even print a special personalized menu for you if you tell them ahead of time and make you a special dessert. It’s definitely a splurge. Our total for 2 after tip was $800+. But it’s totally worth every penny. I would not recommend bringing children younger than teens. They would not enjoy it and it’s not the environment to bring young kids.

Madhan M

Google
This is the ultimate dining experience. All of the staff is perfect and perfectly prepared. Everyone knows where and how to take your picture at Cafe Monarch. All I am saying - these guys are professionals. The best staff in any restaurant I have ever been to. The food is magnificent. The cuisine is unique. Each series you order (we ordered four) is completely different and exceptionally prepared. What a treat. What fun. What flavor! You need to reserve your spot in Cafe Monarch in advance. It’s tough to get in. Worth the effort and definitely worth the wait.

Tony

Google
We went here for valentines day and it was absolutely incredible. Every course was expertly prepared and beautifully presented. Easily the best pork and venison we've ever had and the rest of the menu wasn't far behind. The wine pairing was perfectly matched, the service was phenomenal, the atmosphere was unique and welcoming, and overall it was a lovely memory for each of us. The price point is not for the faint of heart, but it's absolutely worth it for the right occasion. Highly recommended.

Michael Platon

Google
Cafe Monarch was absolutely impeccable. The service was top notch, the food was absolutely delectable, and the atmosphere was extremely quaint and romantic. Our server Jospeh was very knowledgeable and very attentive to what we were looking for in our dinner experience. We did the four course option with the monarch wine pairing and were both blown away at the execution and taste of the wines and food. Very nice touches for my girlfriends birthday and we will be back for sure!

Govind V

Google
I was looking for the perfect place to surprise my fiancée with a romantic date night in Scottsdale, and Cafe Monarch was the first suggestion that came up. I’m so glad I followed that instinct, this place did not disappoint. While the à la carte menu is available at the bar, we opted for the four-course dining experience. I chose the standard menu, and my fiancée went with the vegetarian four-course option. Each course felt like it was carefully designed to build anticipation for the main dish and it absolutely delivered. The highlight of the night was the New Zealand lamb chops. They were juicy, tender, and cooked to perfection, the meat practically melted off the bone. Every bite felt like it was crafted with care. Cafe Monarch is truly a gem. If you’re celebrating someone special or looking for a night to remember, I highly recommend this place.

Allison Bush

Google
This place is a magical oasis in the desert of lackluster food, service, and atmosphere of today’s culture. We have been to Cafe Monarch no less than a dozen times…and for good reason. The delicious and visually stunning food in an elegant and quaint atmosphere would stand on its own, but add in exceptional, professional, and friendly service, and you have a place that you dream about having an excuse to go to again soon!! The courses may appear small, but make no mistake, you will NOT leave hungry or anywhere near it. Also, your goal at Cafe Monarch is not to inhale your meal, but savor every creative and delicious bite. Every person there treats you in a way as to make you feel special, accommodating your every need and request. They take their dress code seriously, and we’re grateful for that. This is not a place to show up to on your way home from the gym. Put some effort into planning a special evening with people you love spending time with, and make reservations at Cafe Monarch. You will not regret it, I promise.
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Sarah R.

Yelp
I wish I could give 4.5 stars. Everything was delicious. Truly delicious. This is clearly a fine dining experience and they fit that to a tee with professional staff, synchronized service, and attention to detail. The space is much larger but they were very well organized. We made the mistake of going to Reserve a few nights before and I felt Reserve had better dish execution and more inventive dishes. Every dish was excellent but nothing surprised me like it did across the street. 10/10 would recommend. Just don't go to both restaurants in a week!
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Elicia N.

Yelp
My mother took me to Cafe Monarch for my birthday dinner tonight and had a great experience overall! The walk up to the building was exquisite. Bartenders Sasha and Geronimo were fantastic--attentive, friendly, and made the evening even more enjoyable. Service all around was impeccable and really stood out. We ordered the tartar, duck, sea bass, and fois gras. The food was beautifully presented and had a unique flair, though it was missing just a touch of that "wow" factor in flavor to match the glamour of the presentation. The duck and sea bass were perfectly prepared and loved the accompaniments with the duck. The birthday dessert was a standout--absolutely awesome! It was the perfect way to end the meal. I had wanted to try this restaurant for years, so I am happy to have had the experience, though to be honest the price point was significantly more than I would expect given the overall flavor, profiles and portions. Not likely a dinner I would return for given the $250 bill and having split everything but still a beautiful evening and unforgettable service. The nonalcoholic wine by the way was spectacular. --- The next day I downgraded the rating to 3 stars from 4. I received a follow-up call by a manager I assume. She wanted to know of my experience. I called back and shared kindly though honestly what I shared above, impeccable service, flavors that were underwhelming and an overpriced experience. She said she'd "note" my account so they are aware when I return. I kindly let her know I don't plan on returning especially given the price for a less than exceptional meal. She simply replied that she'd note that as well. That was a very disappointing call and response that I would never expect from a restaurant of this caliber.
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Dave W.

Yelp
This is probably the most elaborate and delicious dining experience I've ever had. We had the 9 course dinner with wine pairing, and added a couple courses. You don't often find a place where literally everything is perfect but Cafe Monarch checks every box. Each course is meticulously plated and delicious. The service is as good as it gets as well. Attentive, professional, and everything you expect from fine dining. Great ambiance as well. Highly recommend
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A L.

Yelp
One of the most romantic restaurant anywhere. Great special occasion restaurant. The food is delicious. There are 4 or 8 course choices. It's customizable with vegetarian options. The wine list is impressive. Whatever meal you order, make sure you add the oysters with caviar and pineapple minuets. OMG. The flavors are amazing. Best oysters I've ever had. Cafe Monarch should be a Michelin star restaurant. I would definitely come back next time I'm in Scottsdale, AZ. Our server, Todd, was on point and they had an impressive staff to cater to you. Everyone seemed to enjoy working there.
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Lynn N.

Yelp
Fabulous! So perfect. Every one of the 8 tastings was delicious, beautifully plated and served. Gorgeous setting. Wonderful Staff. Very special!
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John C.

Yelp
I've never had a better dining experience. It's one of the most beautiful restaurants I've ever seen. The atmosphere with all the candles lit creates the perfect ambiance. The service is second to nobody. We had the pork chop and a steak for dinner and they were just incredible. Can't wait to get back to AZ and dine here again!
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Leslie R.

Yelp
I'm behind in writing my reviews, but Café Monarch has been on my restaurant bucket list for a couple of years now and I was finally able to cross it off in April! My husband and I were able to combine a long weekend in Phoenix with a work trip for me, and as soon as I knew the dates of the trip, I made reservations at Monarch. Here are some logistical details: You do have to place a $50 "deposit" when making the reservation - it will be applied toward your meal when you actually come to eat. Also, there is complimentary valet service right across the street from the restaurant. There were a few very nice cars parked directly in front of the restaurant, but I'm sure you have to be a regular or your car has to qualify you to get those spaces. Our company vehicle wasn't going to make that cut! :-) Lastly, if you looked at the online menu, you may realize that unless you are rolling in the dough, this is a place that you only visit for very special occasions. THE EXPERIENCE: Where do I begin? We arrived a few minutes prior to our reservation time and were invited to have drinks at an outdoor table out front by the fountain. The hubs ordered the Old Fashioned and I ordered the "Te-quil-a" Mockingbird. He said the OF was the best he has ever had (and he has ordered from many great restaurants & bourbon/cocktail bars) and my drink was so whimsical, fun, and delicious! We had not finished our drinks before we were escorted to our table. We had asked for a table on the "patio" and were not disappointed. You don't even realize you are outside. It's so beautiful that it literally took my breath away as we entered the dining area. We also saw the indoor dining room and it is beautiful as well. You literally can't go wrong. Our server(s) (we had several people tend to us throughout the evening) were wonderful - so knowledgeable and patient and subtle. We were expertly guided through the menu and recommendations were made when we asked. We opted for the standard 4-course meal, but we did also select the Oysters & Caviar add on, and did NOT regret it!! This is what I ordered for my four courses: Tuna Crudo Argentinian Shrimp Salmon Surf & Turf: Filet & Halibut My husband got the same first two courses, but his third and fourth were Veal & Sweetbread and the Wagyu Filet The Oysters & Caviar, Tuna, and Shrimp were my absolute faves. I can't even tell you. The plating and flavors and balance and everything was just spot on. The salmon was good as was the sea bass and filet - I have no complaints. I just think by that time between the wine and the food I was getting full! Did I mention we also got the wine pairing? We did. That was a lot of fun but I probably wouldn't do it next time. It was a pretty hefty price tag and I'm pretty certain that the Riesling that they brought out is one that I have bought at the local grocery store before for around $12 a bottle. I would have been just as happy getting a bottle of one wine that I really like. With that being said: Awesome atmosphere, outstanding food, extraordinary service. If you get the opportunity, go!! I hope to go again someday.
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Ryan I.

Yelp
Caviar! Where should I first try Caviar! Here of course. The place was so romantic with a candle lit dinner. We had excellent service and tried the five course meal that was just mouth watering goodness. Our favorite was the mini waygu tacos. Absolutely nailed this date night with my beautiful wife!
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Jordan H.

Yelp
The service was spectacular, we were seated immediately and constantly attended to. The ambiance was fine, it was pretty quiet but I also couldn't hear any of the other diners. The food was expertly prepared and the flavors were new and exciting for me. I've never had a fine dining experience, and it exceeded my expectations. I found that some of the smaller items in the plate stood out the most - the green sauce in the gazpacho was so bright, the mushrooms that came with the lamb were delicious. The only rub for me is that I don't think I'm enough of a foodie to fully appreciate this sort of experience. I could tell it was tiers above the usual fare but at the end of the day, this is a novelty for me, and I don't think I'll be paying the price again for a good while.
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Nina W.

Yelp
If you are looking for a restaurant for a special occasion, this is a wonderful selection. It has a romantic vibe and gorgeously decorated. There's various rooms that you could be seated in and all are lovely. I have not sat in their patio, but I can imagine it's very nice as well. The front of the restaurant is beautiful. The service is exceptional. The staff is extremely attentive. They truly think about all the details. They even give bag hooks for the ladies. Your water will constantly be filled and if you use the restroom the napkin will be folded upon your return. The food is outstanding. You can choose between a 4 or 8 course menu. The 4 course menu allows you to select the entree, which determines the price of the tasting menu. I am a huge seafood fan and their frute di mare is delicious. I have had 2 versions of this meal and it's magnificent. There's lots of pieces of lobster, scallops, shrimp, etc. My husband ordered the lamb and it was cooked to perfection. All the prior courses are delicious as well. I have gone to this restaurant 3 times and the menu varies, but every bite is well crafted and always delicious. The chefs think about the presentation and flavor. Everything marries together well. There's crunch and unexpected ingredients that are wonderful additions. They have a nice selection of cocktails and wines. When my husband and I celebrated our engagement here, they provided us a celebratory glass of champagne too!
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Jaslean A.

Yelp
BEST MEAL OF MY LIFE!!! If I could give this place 10 STARS I would!!!! The service, ambiance, and food were EXCELLENT. The kindness and atmosphere was perfection. I felt like I was in a movie! Kyle was incredible not to mention the entire staff who made this experience perfect! The Argentinian shrimp, scallops, wagyu were some of our favorites! I HIGHLY recommend the chefs 8 course tasting menu!! We came here to celebrate my 30th and it was an experience I'll never forget.You better believe I will come back to celebrate more special occasions!! This place deserves all the credit it gets. Absolutely FABULOUS!!! A stunning fine dining experience every dish was simply perfect. Compliments to the chef!!
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Arlene L.

Yelp
Everything from the service to the food to the ambiance was bar none and the overall experience was exceptional. If you get Chris as your server, you're lucky! He explained the whole menu, was so approachable, and was insanely knowledgeable about all of the dishes, the wine (he's also a sommelier) without the tiniest drop of pretentiousness. We never tried caviar before and he explained it in the best way and even gave us some history about it. We now have a new favorite. He also made me feel so celebrated for my birthday bringing out complimentary Prosecco and had some of the staff sign our menu with my name pre printed on it, which was so thoughtful and added a nice touch. The rest of the staff was so friendly and polite. Our water was nearly always full and they folded our napkins when we left the table for the restroom. Food was cooked to perfection, diverse flavors, each had its own unique feel and all felt intentional. We started with the caviar and bubbles, which was an experience by itself. They had so many options and we can't wait to come back and broaden our horizons. The chef provided an amuse bouche afterwards, before our 4 course started. That was the salmon cucumber gazpacho. So refreshing and a little citrusy. The main courses were unreal. I have never had gooseberries in a meal before and with the pork belly was so good. The bone marrow semifreddo was another highlight. It was in the peaches and cream dish with peaches and wagyu and was a sweet and savory dish and was interesting to start with but very surprising in a good way. The duck with the foie Gras was also unbelievable. You can get foie Gras as a side if you don't get the duck, highly recommend. They had an extensive wine menu and extremely knowledgeable sommeliers. The pairing would be so fun for next time. They also mentioned events for specific winemakers where they host intimate tastings. Can learn more by signing up to their mailing list, they promised no spam lol The atmosphere was classic and elegant, very romantic. There is a dress code and everyone adhered, some going above and beyond. Music was mostly classical piano and at a good volume. We cannot WAIT to go back!
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Jeff V.

Yelp
The perfect blend of ambiance, amazing food, and impeccable service. My wife and I went for the first time for our 30th anniversary and this place did not miss. Could not recommend them more.
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Michelle N.

Yelp
THIS PLACE... 5 STAR 100%. Cafe Monarch is heaven. From the second we walked in, we were absolutely taken care of by the staff!! The service is over the top, absolutely perfect! The food is INCREDIBLE. It is gorgeous inside, the bar area is beautiful. If you sit at the bar it's the only place that you can order a la carte. Otherwise it's a fixed menu. We were told that the chef is in his late 20s ((insanely talented)) and everynight there is a fixed menu. Everything we ordered was delicious and truly perfect. I could not tell you what my favorite dish was, except all of them. Yes, it is pricey, but you are getting the very best of the best. If you are on a budget maybe this isn't the spot for you, this is definitely a place where you treat yourself ((or in my case my bestie brought me here for my birthday)). If you are looking for a 5 star meal AND experience I promise you, this place knows what they are doing which is taking care of their guests! I will not be back soon BUT I cannot wait for that day to come!

Christine K.

Yelp
Food was creative and spectacular. Second best steak of my life here. Cocktails were also imaginative. Wonderfully attentive service in an extremely romantic environment. Perfect spot for a special date night.
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Benjamin F.

Yelp
Cafe monarch was such an amazing experience. Being someone who has traveled the world specifically to dine at different restaurants and Michelin star chefs , this place gave a full vibe! The service was impeccable, and the servers knew everything on the menu. They had great wine pairing recommendations. We did the larger tasting menu which I would highly recommend. You can to taste some of the best dishes the chef has to offer. The patio was perfect in November, not too hot and had perfect shade. The quality of food and presentation deserves 5 star. Around Scottsdale you unfortunately find a lot of overpriced restaurants with OK service, really cool atmosphere, but subpar food. This is not the case here. You get the full package which you def pay for. I will definitely be going back as the chef told us that the menus constantly change.
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Christina D.

Yelp
This past Thursday was our third time cel eating our anniversary with Cafe Monarch. The service - impeccable. The food - quite literally the best food we've ever eaten. The atmosphere - romantic, ambient and timeless. From the time you walk in to the time you leave, you are treated like royalty. We both had the four course menu and quite literally licked our plates clean through each course. We technically were treated to 6 courses because the chef gifted an amazing gazpacho course of cucumber and avocado, which was so refreshing on the hot day as well as an anniversary dessert of ube pudding with mango gel which was out of this world. We will be back for many more anniversary memories!
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Mary D.

Yelp
I had one of the best meals of my life, 4 course meal with surf and turf. We celebrated my sister and brother-in-law's birthday. Excellent service and decadent food
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Chris N.

Yelp
Absolutely recommend this place as 5 stars! Amazing experience, absolutely stunning venue, service and food. Welcoming place And super fancy which I enjoy. I came here for my wife's birthday and start to finish the service was on top notch point. Micheal our main servicer was knowledgeable, funny, and very accommodating. While yes it is pricey, the food and drinks were on point. You can't go wrong with any of the choices here. So highly recommend anything! We did the 4 course tasting menu and also two different drinks. Literally cannot find a fault with this place. As long as they keep everything the same and provide the same 5 star service each and every time, we will be sure to come back again and again.
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Jeannine S.

Yelp
*This review is from 4/2023 from another profile I accidentally had setup and has since been deleted. Very nice experience! The best items were definitely the seafood dishes. We did the 8-course. Two reasons for 4 stars: the pastry chef did not do a good job on the couple of desserts we had. Also, the price is exorbitant. I'm willing to pay for great food and service; however, I think the pricing here should be lower. For a little less money, I went to a one Michelin Star and an AAA Five-Diamond rating restaurant in Vegas that I enjoyed a lot more.
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Ann N.

Yelp
I do not give 5 stars too often but Cafe Monarch is so deserving of this. We were in town celebrating our anniversary and wanted a very nice dinner to celebrate. We had a notation that it was our anniversary on the reservation and each worker who we came in contact with congratulated us. They really took note and we appreciate that. We arrived about 20mins earlier so we sat at the bar for a cocktail. A cocktail / wine menu was provided but we asked them for their recommendations with a whiskey and a vodka and the bartenders did not disappoint they made us delicious cocktails for the wait. Our table was ready but I really wanted a picture outside as it was not completely dark yet and the hostess did not disappoint. She said sure, walked us out front and even brought out a camera light so that our picture would not be dark. Where I wanted us to have our pictures taken, she took 6 to make sure one works and 4 worked! Love it already. We re-entered the restaurant and was lead to the table. After the hostess' stand, you turn the corner to the dining area and it was just gorgeous. Real candles were flickering everywhere, such a nice and warm ambiance in the whole restaurant and all the diners look like their were glowing. Such a special place to have a special dinner. Our waiter and waitress staff were amazing. Plates were taken away as soon as they see we finish the item. Very attentive. Wine recommendation were just perfect for our 4 course meal. We were there for about 3 hrs and enjoyed every minute of it. Food was amazingly prepared, presentation of the food was above par, flavorful and actually portions were larger than I expected. I was full that I could not finish the 4th course. As it was our anniversary, they brought out a sparkler plus a dessert, compliments of the restaurant. It was big enough that we did not have to order another dessert. Their cappuccino was the perfect compliment to the dessert. Cannot rave about this restaurant enough. I'm already talking about it with ppl I know and plan to come back again when we visit for another 4 course. And we got a sneak peak of the outside seating and I want to sit there next time, warm outside ambiance with patio lighting and plenty of heat lamp. We will definitely be back.

Trevor R.

Yelp
Cafe Monarch redefines fine dining, crafting an extraordinary experience that left me absolutely speechless. My girlfriend and I went for our anniversary last night and every detail of the experience was above and beyond. Todd was our server and honestly, he and the rest of our staff took service to a level I've never seen. Every detail was immaculately executed. The food was the best I've ever had. We did the eight course tasting and every course was beautifully plated, delectable and creative. These chefs are artists. It's amazing to experience greatness. People executing at a level we don't expect in this world. I hope their entire team knows they're giving this gift. I'm not being hyperbolic. This restaurant is where I would dine if it was my last meal on this earth. Thank you Cafe Monarch.
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Alyson S.

Yelp
No words can prepare you for the wonder that is Cafe Monarch. Just spend the money and go. You won't regret it! Service, food and ambience are all exquisite!
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Jason C.

Yelp
Truth be told I'm late posting this review but I want to honor the dinner Cafe Monarch provided. It was a great menu (we did the 4 course option) and thoroughly enjoyed the entirety of it.
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Laurie V.

Yelp
Cafe Monarch is the ultimate in fine dining! Every bite (literally) was astonishing, and it was a Michelin-level experience. The word "elevated" has been so overused that it has lost its meaning, but this is honestly elevated food with exquisite presentation. Every ingredient is combined in such a brilliant way, with such advanced techniques & meticulous execution that you truly "savor each bite." The Amuse Bouche (Chef's complimentary pre-starter bite) will give you a "taste" of the 4-course meal ahead. For example, my choice for the first course was "Wagyu Empanada," and it should've been called Wagyu Wonder in Puff Pastry. I thought that I'd died and gone to heaven! (I had to take a photo of how gorgeous the presentation was on the Red Pepper Coulis with all of the magnificent garnishes.) Definitely get the cocktail "The Sebastian!" It's served in an ice cream cone-shaped glass, suspended in a gold stand. It tastes like a "lemon drop" martini (but with Passion Fruit Purée, Liquor 43, fresh lime juice & award-winning vodka)! Your server (table-side) uses a Flavour Blaster to put an "ice cream scoop-shaped" bubble on top. Have your camera ready for the bubble to burst & "dry-ice smoke" to waft out. Because of the CO2, your martini will be so cold that it's even slushy for the first few sips! The service was impeccable from every individual, and Michael was the epitome of a very knowledgeable & naturally friendly waiter. I would always request him! We went for our anniversary, and our name was printed at the top of the menu. (I know from friends that they will print whatever you request for any occasion). They brought us complimentary Prosecco, and the dessert was seriously the best dessert we have ever had anywhere. In fact, one can only get it for a special anniversary. There was also a sparkler, not in the dessert, but in a special table-top stand. Obviously, we cannot wait to go back, & it will be the quintessential place to take guests.
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Hang T.

Yelp
I've had a few Michelin star experiences in my life. Eleven Madison Park in NYC. Alinea in Chicago. Daniel in NYC. Most have been a pleasant experience, but the eight course tasting menu here has been the tastiest I've ever had in my life, and it was unanimous amongst my gfs and I. The six of us came here for a nice dinner to celebrate our upcoming 40th birthdays this year. They sat us across the street at the Reserve and exclusively at the Chef's table. It was indoor and intimate. Very nice for private conversation and bonding over delicious food. The service was amazing and shall I say, pleasing to the eye as well. Every course that was brought out was beautifully plated and the men who served them weren't so bad themselves. lol. The chef did come out to serve us with each and every course. It was the VIP treatment. Every single course I kid you not was AHHHHMMMMAAZZZZIIIINNNGGGG! Bursting with flavors at every bite. I couldn't pick a favorite dish if I tried. Everything on the plate was eaten even if I wasn't fond of that specific ingredient. For example, I'm not a fan of lamb, but you can bet I finished it all. It really was that delicious. Cafe Monarch and Scottsdale, you've surprised me with your delicious food and local flavor. I've never been more impressed. *Chef's Kiss*
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Elizabeth N.

Yelp
Really spoiled myself for my birthday by coming here. Overall this was such an extravagant and amazing experience. We were welcomed with infused water service and the waiters were knowledgeable in their menu. We had an appetizer of oysters with caviar and proceeded to a 4 course meal. Every dish was delicious and you cannot go wrong. The ambiance was elegant and timeless. We topped off the birthday meal with a sparkler show and a lovely budino. Highly recommend overall and cannot wait to do this again
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Jonathan D.

Yelp
Cafe Monarch takes fine dining to a point where it becomes a work of art. From the moment we arrived for our party of three, we were treated with the utmost courtesy and professionalism. We opted for the 4 course menu and each selected our preferred dishes. Each course is professionally announced and all servers can answer any questions or such. Try their "Monarch" cocktail-it's pure bliss. I must also say that the Petit Filet Mignon was on par with some of the finest steak houses I've ever eaten in. Whatever elegant occasion you're celebrating, this is the place. Such attention to detail in every aspect of the dining experience!
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Leah H.

Yelp
If you haven't been to cafe monarch yet...OH MY GOSH, GO RIGHT NOW. I'm not even kidding!!! First, I have to say this place was absolutely beautifullllllllllll!!!!! The decor and atmosphere when you walk in is breathtaking. Every detail is well thought out. Second, the food is phenomenal!!!!!! Every single dish was so good, I regret not doing the 8 course! I love how the menu changes offering new dishes that I have never tried before. Also, wine pairings were great with the help of the server's and sommelier's wine knowledge. Service timing was spot on not making us feel rushed at all which is a very important to my husband and me. Every staff member felt professional and extremely knowledgeable!
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Ashley D.

Yelp
Cafe Monarch has been on my 'must' list for a few years! My fiancé surprised me for a special date night for my first Mothers Day weekend and I must say that it was a great experience. The ambience on its own is super romantic.. from the dim lighting candlelit tables to the French style frames artwork adorning the walls to the damask patterned wallpaper... Cafe Monarch oozes romance!! Our waiter was very kind and helpful to navigate the menu as it was our first time at Cafe Monarch and we wanted to try a bit of everything. We ended up choosing the 4 course experience for the night and ordered one of everything so that we could split it all. That is absolute the way to go. All of the dishes were interesting, presented beautifully & some even had a neat 'twist' to them. For example, the salad had a small scoop of ice cream! That took us completely by surprise! Every interaction with staff was very pleasant, our table was ready when we walked in, and the timing on everything was perfection! It was surprising how quickly we went from ordering the 4 course tasting to the first being delivered gracefully to our table. I appreciated that they had waited for me to return to the table after visiting the ladies room to deliver one of the courses while I was present. Top notch!! The scallop and the Chilean Sea Bass were my fiancé's favorites. They were both cooked to delicate perfection in the center and the outer portions were wonderfully seasoned and cooked to add a light, contrasting crunch. The lamb loin was my favorite thing as it was perfectly salted, cooked and it was so soft... until the surf and turf filet came out - this was the best filet I have ever eaten in my life! It is done sous vide style and then seared for the perfect temperature and a delicious outer crust. I am telling you... the flavor, the texture we will most definitely be going back. The waiter was so sweet and helped us to celebrate my first Mothers Day, he surprised us with a complementary dessert of beautiful presentation - banana creme with pineapple sorbet!
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Vince C.

Yelp
One of the best fine dining experiences in all of Arizona! Service is top notch and the courses were amazing. My party and I went on a Monday out of all days and noticed few guests, but that was as expected. We chose the Chef's Tasting Menu which included: Tuna Crudo, Argentinian Shift, Peaches & Cream, Maine Diver Scallop, Pork Belly, Japanese A5 Wagu Filet Mignon, New Zeland Rack of Land, and Chocolate Marroc for dessert. This is a 10/10 must-experience while in Scottsdale, Arizona!
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Veeral S.

Yelp
I had the privilege of dining at this extraordinary restaurant, and it was nothing short of a culinary masterpiece. From the moment I entered, I was immersed in an ambiance of elegance and sophistication. The cocktail menu was a work of art in itself, with an array of inventive concoctions that delighted the palate. The mixologists showcased their expertise, and every sip was a revelation. But the true star of the evening was the eight-course meal. Each course was a journey through flavors, meticulously crafted and beautifully presented. From delicate amuse-bouches to the grand finale, every dish was a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, a testament to the chef's creativity and culinary skill. The service was impeccable, with a knowledgeable and attentive staff ensuring every need was met. Their passion for the food and drink only elevated the overall experience. In a world where dining has become more casual, this restaurant stood out as a beacon of refined gastronomy. It was an unforgettable evening, an exploration of the senses, and a reminder of the artistry that can be found in the culinary world. If you seek an extraordinary dining experience, look no further.
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Sarah O.

Yelp
Cafe Monarch is one of my favorite restaurants in the world and I've been to 11 different countries. You can't beat the service, food and ambiance. Definitely worth the price tag for a special dinner out! I highly recommend!

Matt G.

Yelp
Lame, passive aggressive staff. Pretentious wannabe vibes. Average food. Go somewhere else
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Kelly V.

Yelp
We came here the other night to celebrate a special occasion and it was fantastic. (The only other vegetarian tasting menu I've had or been offered was at Robichon in Las Vegas.) We both did the eight course vegetarian tasting menu and wow! We were impressed. They even accommodated a request to skip one of the courses because we didn't care for the main ingredient (beets... I just can't get onboard with beets). We sat inside but noticed the gorgeous patio outside. Complimentary valet is just across the street. This is a wonderful spot for a romantic evening.

Jashyard J.

Yelp
Thank you so much for the amazing service! Made our special moment perfect. The food was fantastic. Delicious! Great ambiance! Ricky and Angelo made the night wonderful. Highly recommend.
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Lawrence C.

Yelp
Dined here March 2022 Fine service and exquisitely prepared food. Outrageously expensive. Dinner before tip +$472.
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Katie M.

Yelp
Had the absolute best experience here and I cannot wait to come back soon. The service was excellent even before we sat down the at our table as the wait staff was super friendly and offered to take a photo for our party at the front of the restaurant. We were greeted by the server assistant as soon as we sat down. We ordered the 4 course menu and we enjoyed every single dish throughout the night. The highlight of the night was the additional foie gras as it is served on a cinnamon bun which was quite unique. The foie gras and the cinnamon flavor compliment each other that you won't feel the foie gras being too greasy nor the cinnamon bun being overly sweet. We also enjoyed their scallops as every single one is well seared, tender and flavorful. The duck breast from the main course was cooked perfectly, it is tender with great texture and flavor. We were also impressed by the pace of the food served - we don't have to wait for a long time between each dish unlike a traditional french meal. Our four course meal without wine pairing was done in less than two hours. The ambience of the restaurant is romantic and cozy. There are roses and candles all over - I can see why they don't allow kids to dine here. Highly recommend this restaurant - it was such a memorable meal.

Ryan A.

Yelp
One of the most beautiful restaurants in the US. Great food, service and wine list (expensive but extensive). A must go when in AZ. So beautiful.
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Robyn V.

Yelp
If you are looking for a truly special very memorable place to celebrate someone or something special with- you have found the right place at Cafe Monarch! From the quaint darling exterior hidden in old town Scottsdale to the royal treatment by every person you come in contact with to the unbelievably delicious creative menu - they go above and beyond your expectations. They even have a wonderful vegetarian menu if someone in your group isn't feeling up to meat and seafood. One of my top 5 best meals in my life, and I am a big foodie who adores mixology as well and have eaten at many fine dining venues all over the world. Treat yourself- this place is amazing.
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Kate J.

Yelp
The food, ambiance and service were extraordinary! Each food selection was perfectly cooked and the portions were just right!
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Noah S.

Yelp
Went here for my anniversary and off the bat the atmosphere was wonderful. The location and scenery inside and around the building gave off high end, cozy vibes. I was entranced by the decor. Next, I want to talk about the service, it was by far the most attentive staff I have ever experienced. The wait staff were constantly checking on us and making sure we had all our needs taken care of, to the point where our waters were never below half empty. We got the chefs tasting menu and the staff were very clear on each course and made every flavor we experienced make sense. Finally, the main event of the night was of course the food. The chef's tasting menu consisted of 8 courses including dessert. Each course had unique flavors and high quality ingredients. There wasn't a single course that missed the mark. My fiance and I were beyond satisfied with our meal. They even prepared an extra dessert to celebrate our anniversary. Also, I'm not a big drinker, but I did have the best espresso martini of my life here. I would recommend anyone that wants to impress their partner or just eat exquisite food to dine here.
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Kambiz K.

Yelp
I'm gonna go against the grain and say my experience at Cafe Monarch was "meh." For the price and hype and how they sell their image, I was disappointed with two of the four dishes I got in the four course meal. Of course the menu rotates but the branzino that was my third course was borderline putrid. I had to send it back. The main course; the rack of lamb wasn't cooked as I asked. At this point won't all the pomp and pretense; I just didn't get why they didn't cook my meal the way I asked and wanted. They nailed the ambiance and experience but... This is an extremely expensive restaurant and I was let down that half of my meals weren't prepared properly. There's plenty of places to dine in the valley for far less than this place. Maybe you'll have a better experience than me but I'll be taking my money and time elsewhere in the future.

Simon G.

Yelp
My 30th anniversary and the choice of restaurant was crucial. Chose Cafe Monarch and very rarely in life do establishments excell in all three areas of food, ambience and service. The sommelier (Chris)picked the perfect wine The server (Joseph) had the exact balance of professionalism and warmth. There wasn't one area that was below par. Feel confident that the next 30 years will be have Café Monarch as part of its journey

Pamela B.

Yelp
What a fabulous dining experience. The moment you walk in the door you are great by men dressed perfectly in a suit and tie with a warm welcome. We escorted to the outside seating which reminds me of a lovely terrace in France . They offer you Champagne as soon as we sat down . We ordered cocktails and that was the best dirty martini . Then comes the complimentary appetizer which just melted in your mouth . It is a four or seven course menu which will not disappoint. We did the four course which each dish was perfect and enough for me . I got the leek soup.Argentinian shrimp , branzino and chilean sea bass . If I am ever back in Scotsdale , I will definitely retur
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Lam B.

Yelp
Yes there's a dress code. Refer to the website for more details. A pricier date experience with impeccable service and ambiance but hit or miss food. We made a reservation a week prior and they were packed the entire night. They had complimentary valet parking but we opted for the spacious and free street parking out front. We checked in at the front table and waited a few minutes before being seated. The tables were set close together so everything felt close and intimate. Add the subtle, yellow lighting and candles and the whole experience was very romantic. Those with purses could use a table rack and we got to choose between dark or light linen. Sparkling or iced water infused with mint and cucumber were offered. =FOOD= There were four courses offered in the set meal, not including dessert. We got to decide from two dishes each course, while the fourth entree had multiple meat and seafood options. As a party of 2, our server recommended picking both dishes and sharing everything to get a variety. *Shrimp Tostada: a complimentary sampler from the chef. Although it was an excellent choice as a light starter, I preferred the robust flavors from tostadas back from San Diego. Personally I would have chosen a brighter, acidic sauce as opposed to the chipotle crema to improve this dish. The cucumber, tomato, and onion were warm which took away from the refreshing aspect of tostadas. *Watermelon Gazpacho: my favorite dish of the night, being incredibly vibrant and robust with flavors and temperature. The watermelon hemispheres were sweet which complimented the herby gazpacho. The big eye tuna was mild and fatty without the usual fishiness. Personally I couldn't taste the shallot jam but that would have rounded the dish with some viscosity and saltiness. *Tomato Pannacotta: heavily skewed towards the goat cheese component. The tomato had almost a hardened jello texture and had hints of basil. The crab was nonexistent and overall, a peculiar appetizer. *Peaches & Cream: a square of pork belly paired with honey semifreddo, arugula and blue cheese. The slices of peaches were slightly charred yet served cold. The dribble of peach sauce was my favorite element, with the mild fruitiness going well with the tender pork belly. The salad was underwhelming and would have benefitted from a nuttier or herbier dressing as the pistachio contributed little. *King Salmon Crudo: had plenty of potential as I love apples with salmon but the dish was overwhelmed by the amount of sherry and evoo. I would have enjoyed the salmon's natural oiliness but it was swimming in oil. The membrillo offered acidity but the other toppings of puffed rice and feulletine had minimal flavor. Since the textures were very soft overall, the apple slices being served cold would have given the dish some much needed contrast and crunch. *Scallop: singular scallop with pearl onion, squash purée, hollandaise and nori dust. The simplest and smallest dish. The scallop itself was cooked nicely with a great sear. The squash was sweet and creamy but the holladaise wasn't memorable. Wished there was an extra component to make this dish shine as nori dust has minimal flavor in small quantities. As opposed to nori, an umami crisp would have been a better alternative. *Lamb Shoulder: wasn't incredibly tender and the lamb was gamey. The pistou and squash were my favorites as it cut through the meatiness of the lamb. The fried merguez and cheese was disappointingly soggy. *Maple Leaf Farms Duck Breast: came with rapini, parsnips and pearl onions. The mentioned amarena cherry wine jus was delicious and sweet, but there was very little sauce in comparison to the duck. The duck was juicy, tender and perfectly cooked but the crust was too salty. Perhaps some addition jus and rapini would have offset the duck but I found myself quite thirsty after the meal. *Monarch: the raspberries weren't prominent as the mint and gin. Was very fragrant and strong, although I wouldn't compare it to being Tiki inspired as the description mentioned. *Sebastian: my preferred cocktail as it was fruity and refreshing. The vanilla wasn't apparent but the passionfruit was. Definitely not a weekly spot to visit but a pleasant date night for special occasions. Always felt welcomed and taken care of so the service element was memorable. As for the food, some dishes were better than others but I felt content with the price we paid for given the originality and creativity. Left full and a bit poorer, but the memories were worthwhile.

Casey J.

Yelp
Romantic and elegant. Dishes were cooked to perfection. Service is also perfect. Will definitely come back again for more.
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Sean S.

Yelp
As a vegetarian, I walked into Cafe Monarch ready to defend my leafy lifestyle in a sea of meat lovers. But let me tell you, their four-course veggie menu had me questioning if I'd been doing vegetarianism wrong all along. The ambiance is so classy, I almost wore a tux. And the service? Top-notch - they treated me like a king (and my veggies like royalty). If you want to feel fancy and well-fed, this is the spot.
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Melissa D.

Yelp
I visited last Friday for a solo birthday dinner. I'm not one for eating alone so it is slightly awkward but having 4 little kids i just wanted me time. I made the booking late so outdoor was the only option It is Beautiful outside and perfect for alone and with a book. But the only thing is that the mosquitoes started getting me so I couldn't relax after eating. No fault of the restaurant. The service was excellent and everything I ate was great. I stuck to the 4 course menu with the lamb option. I would eat here again in a moment. And I would even sit outside but this time with some bug repellant