Evan D
Google
For my dad Ken’s 71st birthday, we booked a dinner at Course, a modern tasting-menu restaurant in Scottsdale that brings serious fine dining energy without feeling stuffy. The sleek patio dining area is shaded, surrounded by greenery, and has overhead misters that kept the Arizona heat totally manageable. We were comfortable the whole night, even as the sun set and the multi-course magic began.
Now, before we get into the food, let’s clear something up. Yes, my dad and I get mistaken for twins. He’s 71 and somehow still aging in reverse. No complaints though, we’ll take it.
The $175 tasting menu was flawless. Every plate was beautifully presented and came with a clear, thoughtful explanation from the staff. They handled dietary preferences without a hitch. My mom skipped the raw oyster, and I passed on the strawberry and rhubarb dessert. The kitchen adjusted everything perfectly.
Oyster with caviar, crème fraîche, and grape was a briny, silky opener with pops of acidity and richness. The swordfish with guacamole and aguachile came next, smoky and citrusy with guac foam for a fun twist. The manicotti with sea asparagus and lemon-garlic cream was rich but bright. The pasta was delicate, and the lemon cut through just right.
English pea risotto with chicken oyster and hen of the woods mushroom was creamy, savory, and earthy with crispy mushroom for contrast. The white sea bass with yellow tomato and squash was perfectly seared with sweet tomato and subtle squash flavor. Lamb loin with fava bean and mint was juicy and paired with a crispy tart filled with mushroom duxelle and greens. The striploin with foie gras demi and baby vegetables had deep, beefy flavor with a velvety sauce that was bold without overpowering.
Strawberry, rhubarb, hibiscus, pink pepper, and amaranth arrived as a sculptural dish that looked like it belonged in a modern art museum. Tart, floral, and just a bit spicy from the pink pepper. Not my preferred flavor combo, but it was beautifully done. Walnut with toast and honey cream was earthy, nutty, and warm with a cozy contrast of crunchy and smooth textures. The Pocky-inspired finale with chocolate, malt, vanilla, and cotton candy was playful and nostalgic. The kitchen also surprised my dad with a warm fig cake and candle. Thoughtful and subtly sweet. It was the perfect bite to end the night.
Every drink, from creative mocktails to classic cocktails, was clean and beautifully presented. The pacing was spot-on. Just as we finished one dish, the next was explained and served without a long wait.
Course is polished without being pretentious. It’s a place where details matter, but the vibe is relaxed. Whether you’re celebrating something big or just want an unforgettable dinner in Scottsdale, this spot gets it right.
Just be ready. If your dad looks anything like mine, you might get called twins