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| - I had never heard of Clever Koi, until a week or so ago when I saw an ad on facebook. There are two locations, in Gilbert and Phoenix. We decided to check out the Phoenix location. My boyfriend had called ahead for a reservation, but unfortunately, they only take reservations on weekends for parties of 6 or more. We arrived around 7:45-8 and was told there would be about an hour wait. We were going to look for another restaurant, but while we were doing that, we scooped up one last spot at the bar to have a drink. While I was seated at the last available bar stool, my boyfriend had to stand. As we checked out the drink menu, one of the bartenders let us know there were a few people seated at the middle of the bar, and that he would hold 2 seats for us to move down. (By this time, several other small groups had arrived after us.) A few minutes later, the bartender had us moved down, and my boyfriend and I decided to stay and order our drinks and dinner there-and I'm SO glad we did!
The atmosphere was very cool - an open style kitchen, 2 bars, and a little outdoor patio area. I actually preferred sitting at the bar and watching the amazing bartenders making their creative concoctions! All of the drinks looked amazing (I can't wait to go back and try more!)
For our first cocktail, my boyfriend and I shared the "Scorpion", which is a huge drink for 2, in a bowl, with several liqours (I believe brandy, rum, and gin), oranges, and cinnamon, and it is served flaming. It was DELICIOUS and pretty strong!
For our dinner, I had the lemongrass chicken ramen. The noodles were perfectly cooked and the chicken had great flavor. My boyfriend had the duck wings. I was a little hesitant to try the wings, because I'm SUPER picky, but OMG they were amazing! The meat was so tender, it fell right off of the bone.
After dinner, we got another round of drinks. I ordered a drink that was called "You better call Tyrone" (or something like that) which has made with chocolate liquers. This was yummy, but a little bit too strong for me, so we ended up switching drinks. The other one we had ordered was called "Almost always bad news", made with rums and citrus flavors, and served in a cool tiki cup. This one was also fruity, delicious and strong!
The wait staff was attentive and friendly, and even took several pictures for us. We can't wait to go back soon!
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