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| - I haven't spent much time in Downtown Mesa, but this place catches my eye every time. It's caddy-corner to the Mesa Arts Center, with a lively, inviting patio out front. The inside is artistically decorated with some exposed brick and large paitings on one wall. The other wall is a bar, serving a sizable wine list and bottles from several local breweries. (No draft beers.) There's also a small stage for live music. It's a nice atmosphere for a date.
Unfortunately, the food was lacking. A crusty baguette was served before our meals with a homemade butter concotion that had way too many onions. I ordered the fish of the day, escolar, served over vegetable risotto ($29). The fish was cooked moist and succulent, but it was very buttery and carried some unrecognizable smoky flavor. The risotto had a nice cheesy taste, but I didn't see many vegetables in it, and it was also very heavy and oily. In between these layers were some tasty, vinegary wilted greens, but I could barely distinguish them sandwiched between the super rich fish and risotto.
On the plus side, my wife's salmon salad was a nice offering and good value ($11). With asparagus, roasted red peppers, and multi-colored grape tomatoes, it was pleasing to the eye. The piece of salmon on top was surprisingly large, and cooked perfectly medium rare.
I'd definitely stop in for a drink or to relax on the patio, but I doubt I'll grab dinner again here any time soon.
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