The other night, before going to a show in downtown Phoenix, we had dinner at (Tarbell's) The Tavern on Camelback Road. We were referred there by a local ... and it turned out to be a marvelous experience.
This place offers a casual, upscale atmosphere with both bar and table seating. The wine store next-door was totally visible via a low wall opening on one side of the establishment.
We started with wine, snacking on deviled eggs with a whipped Dijon aioli mousse. We share everything (except our wine). Next we sampled Tuna tartare with a miso aioli, house-made ponzu along with soy beans and carrots.
After ordering another glass of wine, we each consumed a bowel of wild mushroom soup. Rich and complex .... I could have made a meal of this treat. Finally we had the shellfish paella. It consisted on chorizo, saffron, a variety of fresh seafood including clams, mussels and shrimp. The grilled bread that came with it was a perfect compliment.
The wait-staff was knowledgeable and professional. Our server was the best. While not the least expensive, prices were competitive for what you get.