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| - While I loved CG, this bistro/band hall is brand spankin' new, and, consequently, has a number of kinks to be ironed out. Most notably, food service was like old Stu Miller's fastball: "slow, slower and slowest". But speed was the only downside of service, which, otherwise, was solicitous, eager to please, uber-friendly and downright huggable.
Not being a foodie, I escaped the culinary indignity of a fellow reviewer. That said, my hummus appetizer was absolutely the most scrumptuous this east coaster has ever tasted. Better yet, I was not mocked with derision for pronouncing this pulverized plate of chick-peas with the guttural "ch" instead of "hum" which I always thought had something to do with tunes.
Food, however, is only a fraction of CG's equation. Tunes are just as important, and play a pivotal role in the success of this "more-than just an eatery". Granted, I was there the night of Jean-Luc Ponty and group, whose musicianship, daring and excellence proved a good deal more provocative than the government's stimulus package. But take a gander at future events, and you'll be convinced about the appeal and permanence of The Compound Grill.
The setting is huge, barn-like, and almost cavernous, but far from cold and unreceptive. To the contrary, subtle lighting and the lack of ostentatious trappings give GC -- well not the intimatcy of a Village cabaret -- an inviting and pleasing ambiance. OK, there is a music charge, sometimes pricey depending upon who's performing -- but you get what ypf.
All of the above are an annoyingly long way of getting to the point: I loved The Compound Grill. The combination of fabulous music (the booked list of performers is extremely diverse and exciting ), nice setting, superb h(ch)ummus, excellent acoustics, and genuinely friendly service will make this a Scottsdale landmark, once the growing pains are eased. I'll be back many times.
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