Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Phoenix / Arizona

Cafe Monarch in Scottsdale provides an unforgettable dining experience, even though we had a small hiccup at the start. We arrived for our reservation and had to wait about 20 minutes to be seated, which was a bit frustrating given that I was dressed in “dinner” heels. IYKYK. However, once we were seated, everything more than made up for the delay. We opted for the prix fixe menu, which was an absolute delight. The blood orange salmon aguachile, braised lamb, venison, shrimp, and ahi tuna were all bursting with flavor. I had the filet mignon, while my boyfriend enjoyed the Japanese Wagyu, which was truly exceptional—unbelievably tender and flavorful, cooked to absolute perfection. The sauces and sides were perfectly balanced, and my picky eater boyfriend couldn’t get enough of everything! We also added oysters and caviar to start, which were so fresh and crisp, and charred octopus, which was cooked to perfection with a lovely char but still wonderfully tender. For dessert, the chocolate strawberry cake was a showstopper—beautifully presented and delicious, with the Valentine's theme executed flawlessly. The cocktails were beautifully crafted, each with a perfect balance of flavors and a nice kick. If you enjoy wine, the pairings were spot on, and I was also impressed by their unique selection of zero-proof drinks, which my boyfriend really enjoyed. The service was impeccable throughout the meal. Even with the minor seating delay at the beginning, the staff’s attention to detail and hospitality made the experience one to remember. Highly recommend Cafe Monarch for a special evening out—it’s truly a Scottsdale gem!

My wife and I can’t remember the last time we enjoyed every aspect of our night out to eat. Grassroots Kitchen & Tap Scottsdale is the real deal! The Brisket plate and the Braised short ribs were to die for. Thank you so much!

Second time here, once again a winner. We even ended up with the same server, Torrey, and she also was once again fantastic! We were there for the Valentine's Day pre-fixe menu and enjoyed it immensely. We had the chopped salad, clam chowder, meatloaf (amazing!!) and bananas foster bread pudding. Walked out pleasantly full, not grossly overstuffed, with some leftover meatloaf for a weekend lunch -and it is excellent as leftovers. We will keep coming back!

We went to dinner for Valentine’s Day and we had the best time. Starting with our server, Chris, he was amazing and so much fun. We had the salt and pepper shrimp appetizer, maybe the best cocktail sauce ever, teriyaki salmon, and the short ribs. The salmon was amazing, and I’m not a salmon fan. I think if I was to order that for myself, I would ask for little or no sauce. Salmon was so good it doesn’t need to taste like anything else! Ow the short ribs we heavenly. With horseradish cream and mashed potatoes. So good I want more now!! And finally, the warm butter cake. Holy helicopter there are no words for how good that was. I cannot wait to go back. Do yourself a favor, ask to be seated in Chris’s section. You won’t be sorry!!

Always treated warmly and graciously like a guest at someone's home. The food is beyond compare and Arcadia Farms remains one of our special day treats!