We went here for a special Valentines day dinner and it was PERFECT!
About 3 weeks before we started brainstorming ideas for a romantic and delicious spot and came across Quiessence as one of Phoenix's top 5 romantic restaurants so we thought we would look into it. They set up 3 seating tines 5, 7, and 9pm. Both the 7:00 and 9:00 times were full when we called (3 weeks prior) so we figured it would be amazing and took the 5:00 reservation.
What I love about Quiessence is that you totally feel like you have left Phoenix/Scottsdale. This is NOT in a strip mall and it does NOT have vallet. We parked and had to walk pretty far to reach the restaurant and actually walked through a wedding reception. When we sat down, we also noticed that the people dining around us all looked like they had real parts (unlike many Scottsdale restaurants) and seemed to be having just as great of a time as we were.
Our table was fantastic-nestled in the back corner with a perfect view of the back yard complete with fire places. Our meal was unreal. The Valentine menu included 4 courses all of which were decedent. We went with the wine pairing for each course and couldn't have made a better choice. I had an unbelievable salad with blood oranges and pistachio nuts dressed with a light vinaigrette. The combination of flavors and textures was so well thought, I could have had another serving and been happy forever. For my entree I enjoyed scallops served with pearl onions served over risotto. Once again the flavors were surreal. Our dessert was adorable and served on a large wooden block. We each had mini cups of hot chocolate with chocolate chip cookies, lemon bars and a variety of truffles.
I couldn't have picked a better place to enjoy a romantic meal with my special valentine. Great job Quiessence! I cannot wait to return