Best Restaurants for Creative Cuisine in Central Phoenix

I have to say, I have no words!!! Growing up I have been taken too many many beautiful restaurants that have had outstanding food, and my husband and I have gone to many places as well, but none compare to the amazing ambiance, staff, and food that we had! The flavors were so outstanding that I literally got home and wished I had brought some with me. We did the eight course Valentines dinner and it was well worth it. We have spent quite a bit of money on steaks and caviar, but the freshness, flavors, different textures, were the most outstanding I have ever had in my entire almost 50 years. I can’t wait to go back and the different activities that you do each night lures me and makes me want to go every day. Some people have complained about the price, but I’m here to tell you. It is so well worth it. I’m looking forward to going back and meeting more of this family that owns this restaurant. I truly wish I had known prior to getting married, I would have most definitely paid what it would cost so I could have my rehearsal dinner here. Also, for one of the chefs to come out and talk to us really wrapped up the evening that this restaurant cares about each customer and the chefs have this in their blood and you can tell. Thank you again for a wonderful evening!

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!

It was definitely one of the best experiences when it came to fine dining, the staff and chefs have it down to a T , they were all very attentive and provided great conversation to roll with as well. Definitely would come back.

Yet another outstanding menu from Chef Oppold. Corey's service for us was also excellent. He saw to every need we had, and the courses were arriving at a steady and good pace. The oysters had a nice brine with grill flavor and nicely paired with cream cheese and bacon. We enjoyed the whimsical Kettle corn and Winter spice cocktail. The avocado with cucumber sunomono was the show-stealer. Perfect acid and freshness with the masago arare, yuzu aoili and shiso. We could 3 more of this dish! The Lobster agnolotti was perfectly cooked. We loved the leek purée that went with it. The crispy maitake was the show-stopper for the mushroom course, outshining the Parisienne gnocchi. The seabass was a tad overcooked, but salvaged by the corn, polenta and yellow bell pepper purée. As usual the K4 Copper State ranch ribeye from Prescott was very good, perfectly paired with an onion jam and a demi glace. The chocolate ganache dessert was perhaps the least successful. It needed the date jam, coffee and hazelnut for balance. It tasted a bit one-note after a few bites. We have had more interesting desserts from Course. But the final strawberries and cream with a strawberry foam, white chocolate Bavarian and champagne was a wonderful, refreshing finish to the meal. The restaurant was filled over into the courtyard. So the kitchen and front-of-house were pretty busy. But the team managed to hold it all together, working efficiently, and didn't miss a beat. Best of all, Chef Oppold found time to come say hello! So that definitely made the evening.