As a food critic and expert on the dining scene in Maricopa County, Arizona, I have had the pleasure of exploring the many options this county has to offer. From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, there is something for every palate. But for those looking for a truly luxurious and indulgent dining experience, there are a few standout dining establishments in Maricopa County Arizona that are worth checking out.
The Boulders Resort & Spa
Nestled in the foothills of the Sonoran Desert, The Boulders Resort & Spa offers a stunning backdrop for a fine dining experience. The resort's signature restaurant, The Latilla, features a menu that highlights locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes.The restaurant's elegant atmosphere and impeccable service make it a top choice for special occasions or romantic dinners. One of the standout dishes at The Latilla is the Grilled Sonoran Spiced Quail, which features tender quail marinated in a blend of spices and served with a sweet corn puree and roasted vegetables. For dessert, be sure to try the Chocolate Decadence, a rich and indulgent flourless chocolate cake served with raspberry coulis and vanilla bean ice cream.
Kai Restaurant
Located at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass, Kai Restaurant is the only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star restaurant in Arizona. This upscale restaurant offers a unique dining experience that combines Native American ingredients and cooking techniques with modern culinary techniques. The menu at Kai changes seasonally to showcase the freshest ingredients available. Some of the standout dishes include the Braised Buffalo Short Rib, which is slow-cooked in a red wine reduction and served with a creamy polenta and roasted root vegetables.For dessert, try the Chocolate and Peanut Butter Bar, a decadent combination of chocolate mousse, peanut butter cream, and caramelized bananas.
Talavera
Located at the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, Talavera offers a sophisticated dining experience with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The restaurant's menu features a mix of traditional and modern dishes, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. One of the standout dishes at Talavera is the Grilled Colorado Lamb Chops, which are marinated in a blend of spices and served with a mint chimichurri sauce and roasted fingerling potatoes. For dessert, try the Warm Chocolate Cake, a rich and gooey cake served with vanilla bean ice cream and raspberry coulis.Kai Restaurant
If you're looking for a truly unique dining experience, head to Kai Restaurant at The Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass. This upscale restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind menu that combines Native American ingredients and cooking techniques with modern culinary techniques. The menu at Kai changes seasonally to showcase the freshest ingredients available.For dessert, try the Chocolate and Peanut Butter Bar, a decadent combination of chocolate mousse, peanut butter cream, and caramelized bananas.
The Mission
If you're in the mood for upscale Mexican cuisine, look no further than The Mission in Old Town Scottsdale. This restaurant offers a modern twist on traditional Mexican dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. One of the standout dishes at The Mission is the Short Rib Barbacoa, which features tender short ribs slow-cooked in a blend of spices and served with a creamy corn puree and roasted vegetables. For dessert, try the Churros, which are served with a rich chocolate dipping sauce and a side of house-made ice cream.Elements
Located at the Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa, Elements offers a fine dining experience with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The restaurant's menu features a mix of American and Asian-inspired dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. One of the standout dishes at Elements is the Miso Glazed Sea Bass, which is served with a ginger-scented rice cake and a soy-ginger broth.For dessert, try the Banana Bread Pudding, a decadent combination of warm bread pudding, caramelized bananas, and vanilla bean ice cream.
